cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and experimental investigation of the VASO contrast mechanism

Vascular space occupancy (VASO)-dependent functional MRI (fMRI) is a blood-nulling technique capable of generating microvascular cerebral blood volume (CBV)-weighted images. It is shown that at high magnetic field (3.0T) and high spatial resolution (1.89 × 1.89 × 3 mm3), the VASO signal changes are too large (6–7%) to originate from CBV effects alone. Additional contributions are investigated theoretically and experimentally as a function of MRI parameters (TR and TE), as well as the signal-to-noise ratio, (SNR) and spatial resolution. First, it is found that an arterial spin labeling (ASL) contribution causes large negative VASO signal changes at short TR. Second, even at high fMRI spatial resolution, CSF volume contributions (7–13%) cause VASO signal changes to become more negative, most noticeably at long TR and TE. Third, white matter (WM) effects reduce signal changes at lower spatial resolution. The VASO technique has been tested using different stimulus paradigms and field strengths (1–3), giving results consistent with comparable tasks investigated using BOLD and cerebral blood flow (CBF)-based techniques. Finally, simulations show that a mixture of fresh and steady-state blood may significantly alter signal changes at short TR (≤3 s), permitting larger VASO signal changes than expected under pure steady-state conditions. Thus, many competing effects contribute to VASO contrast and care should be taken during interpretation. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An Application of Herd Theory to Interest Group Behavior

Herd theory may be useful for understanding the activities of interest groups in the American states. If interest groups are as powerful as most of the literature claims, it should become increasingly easy to statistically explain certain public policy outcomes. The analysis shows this is not the case, and therefore a reexamination of interest group behaviors may be in order. To a large extent, the hiring of lobbyists by interest groups does not seem to result in a greater level of explained variance. If the number of interest groups in a category pressures administrators, such a reaction may be misplaced.
Changing the nature of physician referral relationships in the US: the impact of managed care.

Prior to the era of managed care in the US, health care delivery was managed by the professional activities of physicians. Managed care replaces management by profession with bureaucratic management structures and oversight, such as utilization review and gatekeeping (required referrals to specialty care). Practically, this means that physicians cannot use the professional relationships that typified practice under fee-for-service medicine, potentially changing not only what physicians do (e.g., order test or not, refer or not), but also how they do what they do. In this paper I look at just one of the changes brought about by managed care: contractual arrangements that require primary care providers to refer patients to a closed panel of specialist physicians. Through an in-depth case study of 45 primary care providers' in the USA who face restricted specialist panels for their managed care patients, but not for their fee-for-service patients, I investigate how the practice of referring is changed by this requirement. First, I use interview data to describe primary care providers general preferences for referral consultants, as well as their views of the referral process and potential barriers in it. Next I present data from all referrals over a four-week period to analyze the extent of referral relationships in actual referrals. Finally, I conclude by discussing some ways that managed care entities can facilitate rather than diminish referral relationships among physicians.
Oppurtunities and pitfalls for multinational corporations in a changed political environment

Abstract A new era of conflict surrounds MNC operations, especially as they pertain to the Third World countries. This era is accompanied by a rather significant change in the socio-political global environment that makes the direction of future conflict qualitatively different. Historical stereotypes are likely to be irrelevant and may actually lead to erroneous strategies with unfortunate consequences for all concerned. The author looks at some of the more important changes that have recently been taking place in the global economic and political environment.
EFFECTS OF LOW UNIFORM RELATIVE ROUGHNESS ON SINGLE-PHASE FRICTION FACTORS IN MICROCHANNELS AND MINICHANNELS

Nikuradse’s [1] work on friction factors focused on the turbulent flow regime in addition to being performed in large diameter pipes. Laminar data was collected by Nikuradse, however only low relative roughness values were examined. A recent review by Kandlikar [2] showed that the uncertainties in the laminar region of Nikuradse’s experiments were very high, and his conclusion regarding no roughness effects in the laminar region is open to question. In order to conclusively resolve this discrepancy, we have experimentally determined the effects of relative roughness ranging from 0-5.18% in micro and minichannels on friction factor and critical Reynolds numbers. Reynolds numbers were varied from 30 to 7000 and hydraulic diameters ranged from 198µm to 1084µm. There is indeed a roughness effect seen in the laminar region, contrary to what is reported by Nikuradse. The resulting friction factors are well predicted using a set of constricted flow parameters. In addition to higher friction factors, transition to turbulence was observed at decreasing Reynolds numbers as relative roughness increased. NOMENCLATURE � Aspect ratio
New modes and techniques of the RADARSAT-2 SAR

The RADARSAT-2 system currently under development is required to generate a much wider range of data products than any other preceding civilian satellite SAR. In addition to the single polarization Standard, Fine Resolution, Wide Swath, ScanSAR and Extended Coverage Beams of RADARSAT-1, the new mission requirements include Quad-Polarization and UltraFine Resolution modes, and selectable single and dual-polarization options for the heritage beams. The radar is also required to operate in experimental modes to provide data for detection of moving objects. To support this mission, a significantly more technologically advanced instrument has been designed, with a number of extra degrees of freedom in its operation. This paper describes some key features in the design of the instrument, and explains how they will be used in generating the new types of data.
Stochastic Linear Hybrid Systems: Modeling, Estimation, and Application in Air Traffic Control

We propose a discrete-time model for a stochastic hybrid system (SHS) in which the continuous state evolution is described by stochastic difference equations and the discrete state evolution is governed by stochastic guards (or conditions that contain random parameters). The stochastic guards model system's uncertainties that directly affect the discrete state evolution and thus incorporate uncertainties that are different from those due to the stochastic evolution of the continuous state. A special class of the SHS family, called stochastic linear hybrid system (SLHS), is then presented. In the SLHS, the continuous state evolution is described by a set of stochastic linear difference equations, and the stochastic guards are a set of polyhedral partitions of a real vector space (which is a union of the continuous state space and the random parameter space). Some examples of practical systems that can be modeled as the SLHS are presented. Utilizing the properties of the SLHS, we propose a corresponding hybrid estimation algorithm. The algorithm approximates the conditional probability density functions (pdfs) of the continuous state by Gaussian pdfs. Both the conditional continuous state pdf and the discrete state pdf are then propagated analytically using a Bayesian approach. The SLHS model and the proposed hybrid estimation algorithm are used in an aircraft tracking application in air traffic control. It is illustrated that, in this application, a more accurate modeling of the discrete state transitions with the stochastic guards results in better hybrid estimation accuracy compared with other models/algorithms that assume deterministic guards or constant transition probabilities.
High-Temperature Metal Oxide Spectral Emissivities for Pyrometry Applications

P YROMETRIC measurements are often used to determine the temperature of the condensed phases (e.g., metal oxide particles) produced by burning energetic materials. A large source of the thermal radiation produced during these events is from the metal oxide particles produced by burning metal particles. It has been shown that the correct functional wavelength dependence of emissivity is crucial to obtaining accurate temperature measurements [1]. The spectral emissivity at elevated combustion temperatures of many of these particles is unknown. This lack of information has led researchers to use one of three different assumptions on the spectral dependence of the emissivity: gray body, λ−1, or λ−2 [1]. Metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, and iron are common ingredients in energetic formulations. The high-temperature emissivity spectral dependencies of many of the oxides of those metals [magnesia, titania, zirconia, and iron (IV) oxide] are unknown despite their importance. Radiative properties of magnesium oxide have been studied in the past but in limited detail. Shoshin andAltman [2] determined the total radiative loss from a magnesium particle during combustion. The band emissivity from 750 to 1000 nm was observed to be relatively constant from 2000 to 2800 K. Spectral radiative characteristics of magnesia have also been calculated [3] and measured. Bakhir et al. [4] determined the absorptive index from the molten magnesia at 3200 K. This work focuses on determining the functional wavelength dependence of the emissivities of magnesium oxide, titanium dioxide, zirconium dioxide, and iron (III) oxide at elevated temperatureswithin the visible and near-infrared regions of the spectrum. Additionally, the effect of particle size has on the emissive properties is included (i.e., Rayleigh regime vs full Mie solution). A highly controlled, optically thin, inert environment created in a shock tube is used for these measurements to limit contributions from impurities and other effects, such as multiple scattering. A discussion on the optical depth effects for the materials reported here is provided based upon the findings reported in a previous paper by Kalman et al. [5].
The Business Man in American Folklore

Perhaps the most significant thing about the business man in folklore is that he is far from an important figure in it. From this we may deduce that among those people who have created what we call folklore the business man has either not played an important role or his function and contribution have not been understood. He is not, however, altogether missing; we might not recognize him, since he is a remote and shadowy figure compared with the business man as we think of him today. But he is there, and the very form and circumstances in which he appears have meaning.
The Neurofibromatosis 2 Protein, Merlin, Regulates Glial Cell Growth in an ErbB2- and Src-Dependent Manner

Individuals with the inherited cancer predisposition syndrome neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) develop several central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, including glial cell neoplasms (ependymomas). Recent studies have suggested that the NF2 protein, merlin (or schwannomin), may regulate receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, intracellular mitogenic growth control pathways, or adherens junction organization in non-nervous-system cell types. For this report, we used glial fibrillary acidic protein conditional knockout mice and derivative glia to determine how merlin regulates CNS glial cell proliferation. We show that the loss of merlin in glial cells results in increased proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Merlin regulation of glial cell growth reflects deregulated Src activity, such that pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of Src activation reduces Nf2(-/-) glial cell growth to wild-type levels. We further show that Src regulates Nf2(-/-) glial cell growth by sequentially regulating FAK and paxillin phosphorylation/activity. Next, we demonstrate that Src activation results from merlin regulation of ErbB2 activation and that genetic or pharmacologic ErbB2 inhibition reduces Nf2(-/-) glial cell Src/Src effector activation and proliferation to wild-type levels. Lastly, we show that merlin competes with Src for direct binding to ErbB2 and present a novel molecular mechanism for merlin regulation of ErbB2-dependent Src signaling and growth control.
Elevated light and nutrients alter the nutritional quality of stream periphyton

SUMMARY 1. The biochemical composition of primary food resources may affect secondary production, growth, reproduction and other physiological responses in consumers and may be an important driver of food-web dynamics. Changes in land use, riparian clearing and non-point nutrient inputs to streams have the potential to alter the biochemical composition of periphyton, and characterising this relationship may be critical to understand the processes by which environmental change can affect food webs and ecosystem function. 2. We conducted a manipulative, in situ experiment to examine the effect of light and nutrient availability on stream periphyton biomass, nutrient content, stoichiometry and fatty acid composition. Greater light increased periphyton biomass [chl-a, ash-free dry mass (AFDM)], periphyton carbon concentrations and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), but decreased saturated fatty acids (SAFAs). Greater light availability also increased levels of <20C polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), but decreased quantities of several long-chain (20–22 C), highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs). 3. Nutrient (+N, +P) addition had no significant effect on periphyton biomass in the study streams, but did increase periphyton carbon content. For fatty acids, despite non-significant effects on periphyton biomass, nutrient additions resulted in an increased ratio of SAFA to PUFA, greater concentrations of stearidonic acid (18:4x3) and near-significant increases in a-linolenic acid (18:3x3). Nutrient additions also resulted in decreased quantities of the physiologically important docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6x3) and increased the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. An interaction between nutrient addition and greater light also resulted in decreased percentages of another physiologically important fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5x3). 4. Results from this study suggest that increased light and nutrients, a condition common in urban and agricultural catchments, would increase 18C PUFA intermediates that would be available in periphyton food sources, but decrease the availability of essential 20-22C HUFAs. If stream consumers are unable to elongate PUFAs into essential HUFAs, there may be important effects on food webs, including shifts by invertebrate consumers from herbivory to omnivory or carnivory, or changes in the species composition of aquatic consumers. 5. Our results demonstrate that fatty acid measures were more sensitive to changes in light and nutrient conditions than more traditional measures of biomass, nutrient content and stoichiometry. We recommend routine measurement of fatty acid content in monitoring the effect of changing environmental conditions in rivers and streams, particularly studies on food quality and ecosystem health.
The Role of Tidal-Velocity Asymmetries in the Deposition of Silty Tidal Rhythmites (Carboniferous, Eastern Interior Coal Basin, U.S.A.)

ABSTRACT Laminated to thin-bedded siltstones directly overlie Carboniferous coals at several localities in the Eastern Interior Coal Basin. Because lamina thicknesses show cyclical variations, the siltstones have been termed "tidal rhythmites". The rhythmites commonly show a repetitive thick-thin pairing of the laminae, and these two-lamina rhythmites have been interpreted as the result of the asymmetry of flood and ebb velocities that affected sedimentation in a diurnal paleotidal system. Alternatively, the pairing has been interpreted to be related to a pronounced difference in height between successive high tides in a semidiurnal system. This explanation suggests deposition in a mixed, predominately semidiurnal system with a marked diurnal inequality. In addition to the two-lamina rhythmite described originally, subsequent examination of drill cores indicates the occurrence of relatively rare, more complex three- and four-lamina rhythmites. A variety of mathematical techniques are used herein to analyze lamina thickness data extracted from these rhythmites. Processing techniques include: (1) comparing the linear relationship between the thicknesses of the thinner and thicker laminae and comparing these relationships to modern tidal systems; (2) analyses of thickness periodicities and comparison with modern neap-spring tidal cycles; and (3) extraction of lamina thickness inequalities and comparison to the diurnal inequalities that occur in semidiurnal tidal systems. These tests indicate that reasonable conclusions can be made for the type of originating paleotidal system. For the cases analyzed herein, the paleotidal signature suggests a mixed, predominantly semidiurnal system with a marked diurnal inequality.
Remote sensing techniques to assess active fire characteristics and post-fire effects

Space and airborne sensors have been used to map area burned, assess characteristics of active fires, and characterize post-fire ecological effects. Confusion about fire intensity, fire severity, burn severity, and related terms can result in the potential misuse of the inferred information by land managers and remote sensing practitioners who require unambiguous remote sensing products for fire management. The objective of the present paper is to provide a comprehensive review of current and potential remote sensing methods used to assess fire behavior and effects and ecological responses to fire. We clarify the terminology to facilitate development and interpretation of comprehensible and defensible remote sensing products, present the potential and limitations of a variety of approaches for remotely measuring active fires and their post-fire ecological effects, and discuss challenges and future directions of fire-related remote sensing research.
Application of quantitative feedback theory (QFT) to flight control problems

QFT has been applied to numerous analog and digital flight control design problems. These include linear time invariant (LTI) fixed compensation m output, n input (n>or=m) over a wide variety of flight conditions (FCs) with effector failures. Quantitative performance specifications are satisfied despite the failures, with no failure detection and identification. Rigorous nonlinear QFT design theory has been applied to large alpha problems for which LTI modeling is incorrect. QFT has been successfully applied to an X29 problem with varying numbers of right half plane poles and zeros (due to different FCs) close together. >
A wavelet-based method to exploit epigenomic language in the regulatory region

Motivation: Epigenetic landscapes in the regulatory regions reflect binding condition of transcription factors and their co-factors. Identifying epigenetic condition and its variation is important in understanding condition-specific gene regulation. Computational approaches to explore complex multi-dimensional landscapes are needed. Results: To study epigenomic condition for gene regulation, we developed a method, AWNFR, to classify epigenomic landscapes based on the detected epigenomic landscapes. Assuming mixture of Gaussians for a nucleosome, the proposed method captures the shape of histone modification and identifies potential regulatory regions in the wavelet domain. For accuracy estimation as well as enhanced computational speed, we developed a novel algorithm based on downsampling operation and footprint in wavelet. We showed the algorithmic advantages of AWNFR using the simulated data. AWNFR identified regulatory regions more effectively and accurately than the previous approaches with the epigenome data in mouse embryonic stem cells and human lung fibroblast cells (IMR90). Based on the detected epigenomic landscapes, AWNFR classified epigenomic status and studied epigenomic codes. We studied co-occurring histone marks and showed that AWNFR captures the epigenomic variation across time. Availability and implementation: The source code and supplemental document of AWNFR are available at http://wonk.med.upenn.edu/ AWNFR.
Sensory control of hypothalamic attack

Summary The role of several senses in hypothalamic attack were reviewed with regard to two aspects of attack: location of the target and biting. Vision and tactile cues from the forepaws and the anterior portion of the snout play the major role in location of the target rat. Loss of vision severely impedes location in a large space but has only slight effects in a small enclosure where contact with forepaw or snout is highly probable. Olfaction appears to have no significant role in the cat's location of a target rat during hypothalamic arousal. Sensory denervation of the anterior region of the snout dramatically reduces the incidence of biting attack and alters the quality of those biting attacks which do develop. These changes are attributed to the loss of the afferent limb of trigeminal reflexes critical to biting during hypothalamic arousal. Vision also functions in the development of the biting attack: loss of vision in addition to sensory denervation of the snout reduced biting attack to zero in those cases in which trigeminal section had not already done so.
OPTIMAL ALLOCATION OF RECOVERABLE ITEMS

Allocation of at most n recoverable items among m demand locations is considered. Items are assumed to be demanded singly and independently and are eventually returned to the demand location. If a stockout occurs, the demand is lost and a penalty corresponding to lost profit is assessed. The allocation that minimizes the sum of expected stockout costs plus holding costs is readily obtained. An example involving allocation of rental cars among outlets is solved in detail.
Bamboo and Wood in Musical Instruments

Over centuries and millennia, our ancestors worldwide found the most appropriate materials for increasingly complex acoustical applications. In the temperate climate of Europe, where the instruments of the Western symphony orchestra were developed and perfected, instrument makers still primarily take advantage of the unique property combination and the aesthetic appeal of wood. In all other continents, one material dominates and is frequently chosen for the manufacture of wind, string, and percussion instruments: the grass bamboo. Here, we review from a materials science perspective bamboo's and wood's unique and highly optimized structure and properties. Using material property charts plotting acoustic properties such as the speed of sound, the characteristic impedance, the sound radiation coefficient, and the loss coefficient against one another, we analyze and explain why bamboo and specific wood species are ideally suited for the manufacture of xylophone bars and chimes, flutes and organs, violins and...
The Ferrite Permanent Magnet AC Motor---A Technical and Economical Assessment

The design and analysis study for the conceptual design of an economical high-efficiency ac motor based on permanent magnets is summarized. Material considerations, design trade-off options as well as transient and steady-state performance under normal and abnormal conditions have been considered. The baseline comparison is the high-efficiency induction motor. The permanent magnet (PM) motor must fit into the same frame size and surpass the induction motor on a life cost basis that includes 2.5 years of operation at a 50 percent duty cycle. The study results indicate that a motor with ferrite magnets meets the objectives of the program in ratings of up to 25 hp. A 7.5-hp motor design is carried through the conceptual design stage.
Differential antiplatelet efficacy for various GPIIb/IIIa antagonists: role of plasma calcium levels.

Objectives: The present study was undertaken to determine the effects of free ionized calcium influenced by either the anticoagulant used (citrate vs. heparin) or directly varying the calcium levels after treatment of blood with citrate on the antiplatelet efficacy of two classes of GPIIb/IIIa antagonists. Methods: The platelet effects of changes in plasma [Ca++] with the different GPIIb/IIIa antagonists were determined using light transmittance aggregometry, direct binding kinetics, and 125I-fibrinogen binding to activated human platelets. Results: A significantly higher IC50s was shown with heparin (free ionized calcium=1.1 mM) as compared to that with citrate (free ionized calcium=0.12 mM) with class II GPIIb/IIIa antagonists ( P <0.01) such as Orbofiban, and Integrilin. In contrast, class I GPIIb/IIIa antagonists such as Roxifiban and Abciximab showed no significant changes in their IC50s in either citrate or heparin. Similar data were shown with other non-calcium chelating anticoagulant such as PPACK as compared to that with heparin. Additionally, similar data were shown with regard to the [Ca++] sensitivity for GPIIb/IIIa antagonists from Class II but not Class I in the changes in IC50 values required for the inhibition of 125I-fibrinogen binding to activated human gel filtered platelets. Additionally, examples from Class I GPIIb/IIIa antagonists such as 3H-active form of Roxifiban showed no significant changes in its platelet binding affinity in response to change in [Ca++]. In contrast, GPIIb/IIIa antagonists from class II such as 3H-active form of Orbofiban demonstrated significant changes ( P <0.01) in its platelet binding kinetics and antiplatelet efficacy in response to changes in Ca++ concentrations. Conclusions: These data suggest the impact of the method of blood collection or changes in plasma calcium levels on the antiplatelet efficacy for class II but not class I GPIIb/IIIa antagonists depending on their platelet binding kinetics.
Paleoindian Adaptations on the Great Plains

This study emphasizes the relationship between the availability of animals on the Plains under different environmental conditions and the adaptations of the human beings preying on those animals. Such an emphasis presupposes a diet dominated by meat, and the specific hypothesis linking animal ecology and human adaptations proposed here presupposes a seasonal pattern of communal hunting. Considering the implications of this hypothesis for prehistoric societies requires evidence that these suppositions hold for the societies at issue. This chapter summarizes the chronological sequence of occupations on the Southern High Plains to provide a basic framework for a general discussion of Paleoindian adaptations on the Great Plains in this chapter and for the specific discussion of Paleoindian adaptations on the Southern High Plains in the chapter that follows. It then summarizes the evidence for Paleoindian subsistence, hunting, and aggregation patterns on the Great Plains.
Perinatal effects of prenatal drug exposure. Neonatal aspects.

Drug use in our society is pervasive. Pregnancy is not excluded. The effects of exposure to the illegal and legal recreational drugs are confounded by many variables that constitute the substance abuser's lifestyle. Associations with growth restriction, physical teratogenicity, medical risk, cognitive detriment, and behavior dysfunction have all been reported. Although drug abuse is one of the most frequent causes of infant morbidity, it is also a preventable cause. Education is essential.
The Effect of Selection Errors in Cost Estimation1

Abstract This article quantifies the error induced by selecting the most desirable alternative from several under consideration. This selection effect was demonstrated under two different definitions of error. Model A error was associated with the difference in actual and estimated outcomes of an alternative. Model B error was associated with regret for not selecting the best alternative. The model A error was shown to be at a maximum when the proposed alternatives were nearly equal. This error also decreased as the coefficient of separation increased, and therefore shows that the effect of selection cannot be used to explain estimation deviations in many situations.
Renal vasoconstriction by vasopressin V1a receptors is modulated by nitric oxide, prostanoids, and superoxide but not the ADP ribosyl cyclase CD38.

Renal blood flow (RBF) responses to arginine vasopressin (AVP) were tested in anesthetized wild-type (WT) and CD38−/− mice that lack the major calcium-mobilizing second messenger cyclic ADP ribose....
An Empirical Model for Environmental Damage at the Crack Tip

An experimental method that is able to verify and to characterize the damage zone developed in front of crack tip under time-dependent fatigue crack propagation has been established. The crack growth rate was found to decrease exponentially in the damaged zone. Such a crack growth behavior can be described by a mathematical model which only requires three parameters: initial crack growth rate, (da/dN) q ; normal crack growth rate (da/dN) o ; and damaged zone size, D. An analyticat relationship has been developed to correlate the temperature and the time of sustained loading to the size of the induced damaged zone.
Toxicogenomics-Based Assessment of Xenobiotic-Induced Oxidative Stress

Stress response pathways such as the Nrf2 oxidative stress response have been identified as toxicity pathways (National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on Applications of Toxicogenomic Technologies to Predictive Toxicology (2007) Applications of toxicogenomic technologies to predictive toxicology and risk assessment. Washington, DC). Toxicogenomics-based analyses have been successfully used to causally link activation of this pathway to drug-induced hepatotoxicity. This is a simplistic view and does not take into account the implicit protective nature of this pathway. A clear understanding of the translation of Nrf2 activation to hepatotoxicity is lacking, in part due to the biased selection of known hepatotoxicants in published studies. In drug development in particular, the relevant question is whether or not there will be an adverse cellular outcome. Toxicogenomic monitoring of Nrf2 activation continues to hold great potential to answer this question. However, in addition to assessing the cellular response, identification of gene expression changes indicative of the cellular outcome are necessary in order to truly understand whether or not toxicity will occur. Future studies on gene expression changes following treatment with compounds that demonstrate a chronic vs. transient Nrf2 activation along with phenotypic anchoring could provide useful information regarding restorative or pathological mechanisms following oxidative insult.
Summarization of International Guidelines on RTPS Quality Control

Objective: In order to develop our guidelines for RTPS, related international guidelines were studied. Methods: Several reports and guideline documents developed by different organizations addressing issues related to the quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) of RTPSs were studied. The reports and guideline documents are developed by international organizations such as AAPM, IAEA, and IEC etc. Results: These documents are introduced focusing on quality control procedure before clinical use of RTPS. Conclusions: Methods can be drawn from these guidelines to develop type and acceptance test procedure.
Association of herd composition, stocking rate, and duration of calving season with fecal shedding of Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts in beef herds.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association of herd demographics, parturition variables, stocking rate, and rotational grazing practices with the probability of fecal shedding of Cryptosporidium parvum from beef cow-calf herds in California. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SAMPLE POPULATION 38 beef cow-calf operations. PROCEDURE Fecal specimens were collected and examined for C parvum oocysts, using immunofluorescent microscopy. Association between various demographic and management factors and the probability of shedding C parvum were statistically evaluated. RESULTS Adjusted for age and month of collection of a fecal sample, cattle from herds with a high number of young calves ( 2 months old) on the day of sample collection were less likely to shed C parvum oocysts, compared with cattle from herds with fewer older calves. Using our multivariate model, rotational grazing systems or season of onset of calving were not associated with shedding status for C parvum oocysts. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Reproductive management that would result in a shorter calving season and use of a lower stocking rate for cattle may be associated with reduced risk of C parvum shedding. Intensive rotational grazing systems and time of year for onset of calving season apparently have little effect on reducing prevalence of oocyst shedding.
Citation Generators, OWL, and the Persistence of Error-Ridden References: An Assessment for Learning Approach to Citation Errors

Abstract Despite the pervasive use of citation generators and other online citation resources like Purdue's Online Writing Lab (OWL), undergraduate students' bibliographies are still often riddled with errors. This article explores the possibility that these errors are the product of more than just carelessness. After reviewing the literature on students' citation practices and instructional approaches to citation errors, the paper examines the underlying assumptions governing the instructor's unsuccessful error correction practices in a credit-bearing information literacy course. Next, an assessment for learning in-class activity is described that helped uncover some of the obstacles students face that prevent them from using resources like OWL effectively when constructing or correcting their citations. The article ends with an assessment of the activity and students' citations in their final research project.
Conclusion; Further Research; Development of Personality and World View in the Child

Our studies were always conducted along an analytical path. We tried to isolate and trace the line of cultural development of separate mental functions, separate forms of behavior connected, on the one hand, with mastery of external means (speech, arithmetic, writing) and on the other, with internal changes in memory, attention, abstract thinking, formation of concepts.
Evolutionary Biology of Intelligence: The Nature of the Problem

If our topic presents a problem, it is one of the good ones: like working a puzzle with a known solution. Most of us enjoy a tough puzzle, especially when we finally solve it. The challenge of the game of solving (or resolving) the “problem” of the evolution of intelligence has the added attraction that success will deepen our understanding of ourselves and of our world. We know enough about both intelligence and evolutionary biology to think sensibly about the intersection of these topics. Our problem is really our opportunity to enjoy the problem.
Improving home appliance energy use scheduling: Insights from a remodeled, energy efficient home

The intelligent and optimal scheduling of home appliance loads to decrease cost and make the overall electrical power demand more uniform is not a new concept. However, this optimization problem is generally approached from the perspective of a utility or user group that schedules appliance operation in one hour time slots. Appliances are considered as simple units that demand a constant level of power during operation and must be started on the hour. Moving towards smaller scheduling slots could allow for better optimization, power use coordination, and consideration of realistic appliance loads. This paper promotes the reduction in scheduling slot size to one minute intervals through examination of real appliance power profiles using the ReNEWW House, a retrofitted, energy efficient home near the campus of Purdue University, as a case study.
Properties of Epithelial Cells and Vaginal Secretions in Pregnant Women When Lactobacillus crispatus or Lactobacillus iners Dominate the Vaginal Microbiome

Our objective was to determine differences in properties of vaginal epithelial cells and the composition of vaginal secretions when Lactobacillus crispatus or Lactobacillus iners are numerically dominant in the vaginal microenvironment of pregnant women. The vaginal microbiomes of 157 first-trimester pregnant women were identified by classifying partial 16S gene sequences amplified from the V1 to V3 region of bacterial ribosomal 16S RNA genes. The extent of autophagy and cell stress in vaginal epithelial cells was determined by measuring the intracellular levels of p62 and the inducible 70-kDa heat shock protein (hsp70). Vaginal secretions were analyzed using a colorimetric assay for D- and L-lactic acid and by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for matrix metalloproteinase 8, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, α-amylase, hyaluronan, calprotectin, S100A8, and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN). L. crispatus was dominant in 69 (43.9%) women, while L iners dominated in 23 (14.6%) women. The median epithelial p62 levels were 0.41 and 4.26 ng/mL in women with L crispatus or L iners dominance, respectively (P =.0035). The corresponding median hsp70 levels were 4.24 and 14.50 ng/mL, respectively (P <.0001). The D-lactic acid concentration in vaginal fluid was highest in association with L crispatus dominance, while all other vaginal fluid compounds except for EMMPRIN were highest when L iners was dominant (P <.03). Epithelial cells exhibit a higher level of autophagy, lower induction of stress-related hsp70, and release lower level of mediators when L crispatus is most abundant as compared to when L iners dominates the vaginal microbiota.
Abstract 640: RGS2 Deficiency Impairs Renal Hemodynamics and Function

Regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2) regulates signaling by acting as a GTPase-activating protein for Gq/11α and Gi/oα subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins. Certain single nucleotide polymorphisms and loss-of-function mutations of RGS2 have been linked to human hypertension. RGS2 deficiency in the kidney is sufficient to cause hypertension in mice; however, the renal pathophysiological mechanisms are unknown. Here, we assessed renal hemodynamics and function using renal blood flow (RBF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measurements, and assessment of pressure natriuresis in wild type (WT) and RGS2 null (RGS2-/-) mice. GFR was measured by plasma clearance of FITC-inulin. Pressure natriuresis was determined by increasing renal perfusion pressure (RPP) stepwise by clamping the superior mesenteric and celiac arteries, and abdominal aorta, while total RBF was simultaneously recorded with flow probe. Baseline GFR was markedly decreased in RGS2-/- mice compared to WT controls (1.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.1 ± 0.1 ml/min/g kidney weight, p=0.004). Renal conductance was reduced (70 ± 9 vs. 51 ± 3 μl/min/g kidney weight, p=0.006) while renal vascular resistance (RVR; 14.9 ± 2.2 vs. 20.2 ± 1.3 mmHg/ml/min/g kidney weight, p=0.002) was elevated in RGS2-/- compared to WT mice. The absence of RGS2 resulted in decreased sensitivity and magnitude of change in RVR (WT: 11.17 ± 1.94 vs. RGS2-/-: 6.87 ± 0.90 mmHg/ml/min/g) and conductance (WT: -25.69 ± 3.22 vs. RGS2-/-: -13.87 ± 2.40 ml/min/mmHg/g) after a step increase in RPP. The acute pressure-natriuresis curve shifted rightward in RGS2-/- relative to WT, with no change in the slope. Fractional sodium excretion was unaffected by RGS2 deficiency. We conclude that RGS2 deficiency impairs renal function and autoregulation by increasing renal vascular resistance and reducing effective renal blood flow. The findings provide a new line of evidence for renal vascular dysfunction as a primary cause of hypertension. Mutations or downregulation of RGS2 in the kidney may contribute to human hypertension by causing renal hypoperfusion and decreased GFR. Signaling pathways regulated by RGS2 may provide therapeutic targets in hypertension patients harboring mutations that potentially decrease expression and/or function of RGS2.
Studies on the Behaviors of Impurities on the Crystallization of L-Glutamie Acid: Part III. Influences of Some Factors on the Solubility

The influences of some factors at the both sides of the solid and liquid phases on the solubilities of L-glutamic acid in α and β-forms in water were examined.As differences in the conditions of the liquid phase, the effects of co-existing inorganic neutral salts and amino acids on the solubilities were investigated; and as for the inorganic neutral salts applied here, salting-in effects were recognized, the degrees of which were in the following order, i.e., NH4Cl, (NH4)2SO4>KCl>NaCl. The effect in the β-form was larger than that of in the α-form. The influence of co-existing amino acids was very little if the amount was not so much, but the tendency to increase the solubility could be recognized.As a difference in the condition of the solid phase, the purity of the crystals was picked up, and it was clarified that the crude crystal of L-glutamic acid in α-form gave a larger value of the solubility than the purified one.
A Microfiber Half Coupler for Refractive Index Sensing

We report a reflection mode based microfiber half coupler probe for refractive index (RI) sensing. The probe was made by cleaving a fused 2 $\times$ 2 optical fiber coupler at the center of the tapered region. When used for RI sensing, the reflection spectrum blueshifted as the surrounding RI increased. The sensing capability of the probe was tested using sucrose solutions with different concentrations. The relations between the RI sensitivity and the taper waist diameter as well as the RI range were investigated. The RI sensitivity increased quickly as the taper diameter decreased.
Spectrum of Off-Label Nitric Oxide Utilization After Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Among Centers of Varying Surgical Volume.

Objective:Nitric oxide is utilized after pediatric cardiac surgery as an off-label medication without much evidence, is expensive, and varies among centers of varying surgical volume. The objective...
Abstract B12: Analysis of Lipid Metabolism and Gene Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Reveals Mitochondrial Function as a Potential Target for Combinatorial Treatment

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common malignant liver tumor, is a heterogeneous disease with little efficacious chemotherapy. Lipid metabolic dysfunction is integral to the pathogenesis of HCC, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. HCC cell lines and patient tumors can be classified into hepatocyte and hepatoblast subtypes based on gene expression patterns, with the hepatoblast type being more aggressive. Methods: We characterized the RNA expression profiles of 20 HCC cell lines (13 hepatoblast and 7 hepatocyte type) and 1 normal immortalized liver cell line. We also characterized the steady state concentrations of hundred of metabolites of these cells lines. In addition, to find the specific small molecules to inhibit their growth we tested a panel of metabolic pathway inhibitors for activity against these cell lines. Results: There are significant differences between the transcriptional profiles of the two subtypes of HCC, as well as between HCC cell lines and the normal liver cell line. The most important determinants of these differences are in lipid metabolic pathways. Analysis of the microarray data, corroborated by real time quantitative PCR analysis showed significant difference between transcript levels of ACOX1, ACOX2, FASN, SCD1, and SCAP, as well as in fatty acid transport proteins (FATPs, SLC27As) and elongation enzymes (ELOVL). Metabolomic studies show that not only are there differences between the steady state amounts of long chain and very long chain fatty acids among the groups, but there are also differences in the levels of acyl-carnitines. These differences indicate that there is variability in their reliance on mitochondrial oxidative respiration. Accordingly, there are significant differences between the sensitivity of the HCC cell lines to oligomycin compared with a normal liver cell line. Conclusion: These data point to the importance of lipid metabolic and mitochondrial oxidative dysfunction in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. We anticipate combining the inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation with the standard of care treatment consisting of sorafenib to allow for a much lower and better tolerated dose of both drugs while maintaining anti-tumor efficacy. Citation Format: Ali Zarrinpar, Tiziana Palumbo, Dinesh Barupal. Analysis of Lipid Metabolism and Gene Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Reveals Mitochondrial Function as a Potential Target for Combinatorial Treatment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Opportunities and Challenges of Exploiting Synthetic Lethality in Cancer; Jan 4-7, 2017; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2017;16(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B12.
Modulation of Cytochrome P450, P-glycoprotein and Pregnane X Receptor by Selected Antimalarial Herbs—Implication for Herb-Drug Interaction

Seven medicinal plants popularly used for treating malaria in West Africa were selected to assess herb-drug interaction potential through a series of in vitro methods. Fluorescent cytochrome P450 (CYP) assays were conducted using the recombinant CYP enzymes for CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 to assess the effect of the methanolic extracts on the metabolic activity of CYPs. Secondly, the inhibitory effect of the extracts was evaluated on P-glycoproteins (P-gp) using calcein-AM, a fluorescent substrate, in MDCK-II and hMDR1-MDCK-II cells. The inhibition of P-gp activity was determined as a reflection of increase in calcein-AM uptake. Additionally, the enzyme induction potential of the extracts was assessed through the modulation of PXR activity in HepG2 cells transiently transfected with pSG5-PXR and PCR5 plasmid DNA. Significant inhibition of CYP activity (IC50 two-fold increase in induction in PXR activity. These findings suggest that these herbs may be capable of eliciting herb-drug interactions if consumed in high quantities with concomitant use of conventional therapies.
Long-term cosmesis following a novel schedule of accelerated partial breast radiation in selected early stage breast cancer: result of a prospective clinical trial.

PURPOSE There is controversy regarding the cosmetic outcome after accelerated partial breast radiation (APBR). We report the cosmetic outcome from a single-arm prospective clinical trial of APBR delivered using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in elderly patients with stage I breast cancer (BC), using a novel fractionation schedule. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-two patients aged ≥65, with Stage I BC who underwent breast-conserving surgery were enrolled in a phase I/II study evaluating a 2-week course of APBR. Thirty eligible patients received 40 Gy in 4 Gy daily fractions. Cosmetic outcome was assessed subjectively by physician/patient and objectively by using a computer program (BCCT.core) before APBR, during, and after completion of the treatment. RESULTS The median age was 72 years, the median tumor size was 0.8 cm, and the median follow-up was 50.5 months. The 5-year locoregional control in this cohort was 97% and overall survival 87%. At the last follow-up, patients and physicians rated cosmesis as 'excellent' or 'good' in 100% and 91 %, respectively. The BCCT.core program scored the cosmesis as 'excellent' or 'good' in 87% of the patients at baseline and 81% at the last follow-up. The median V50 (20 Gy) of the whole breast volume (WBV) was 37.2%, with the median WBV V100 (40 Gy) of 10.9%. CONCLUSION An excellent rate of tumor control was observed in this prospective trial. By using multiple assessment techniques, we are showing acceptable cosmesis, supporting the use of IMRT planned APBR with daily schedule in elderly patients with early stage BC.