cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Invasive nodal evaluation prior to stereotactic ablative radiation for non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract Introduction Invasive nodal evaluation (INE) is used to improve staging for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including when stereotactic ablative radiation (SABR) is used. Consensus guidelines from the NCCN recommend performing INE for patients with T2N0 tumors and considering INE for those with T1N0 tumors. We reasoned that if INE results in significant stage migration in the form of substantially fewer patients with occult nodal involvement, then patients treated with SABR who do not undergo INE should have worse overall survival (OS). Methods Patients diagnosed 2004–2014 with stage T1–2N0M0 NSCLC and treated with SABR were identified from the National Cancer Database. Factors associated with INE were determined using mixed effects logistic regression. We tested for an association between INE and OS for patients diagnosed 2004–2013 using mixed effects proportional hazards regression methods. Results 24,603 SABR patients were identified. 6% of the 19,322 patients with T1 tumors and 9% of the 5281 patients with T2 tumors had INE. Median OS was 2.8 years for the no-INE group and 2.7 years for the INE group (log-rank P = 0.69). No significant association was observed between the use of INE and OS in the univariate analysis (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.94–1.11) or the multivariate analysis (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.86–1.02). These findings were confirmed using propensity score matched and instrumental variable analysis. On subgroup analysis, INE was associated with a non-significant trend for improved OS in patients with T2 tumors (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.76–1.00) but not T1 tumors (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.88–1.09). Conclusions Despite current NCCN recommendations, the rate of INE was low for patients with stage T1 or T2 tumors. While omitting INE represents a compromise in the completeness of nodal evaluation, we found that it was not associated with a detriment in overall survival.
Quantification of degraded constitutive coefficients of composites in the presence of distributed defects

Effect of distributed defects on effective material properties of composites is required for the progressive failure models. Although the degradation of the effective material properties due to the...
Topological orders of monopoles and hedgehogs: From electronic and magnetic spin-orbit coupling to quarks

Topological states of matter are, generally, quantum liquids of conserved topological defects. We establish this by constructing and analyzing topological field theories which introduce gauge fields to describe the dynamics of singularities in the original field configurations. Homotopy groups are utilized to identify topologically protected singularities, and the conservation of their protected number is captured by a topological action term that unambiguously obtains from the given set of symmetries. Stable phases of these theories include quantum liquids with emergent massless Abelian and non-Abelian gauge fields, as well as topological orders with long-range quantum entanglement, fractional excitations, boundary modes, and unconventional responses to external perturbations. This paper focuses on the derivation of topological field theories and basic phenomenological characterization of topological orders associated with homotopy groups ${\ensuremath{\pi}}_{n}({S}^{n}), n\ensuremath{\ge}1$. These homotopies govern monopole and hedgehog topological defects in $d=n+1$ dimensions, and enable the generalization of both weakly interacting and fractional quantum Hall liquids of vortices to $dg2$. Hedgehogs have not been in the spotlight so far, but they are particularly important defects of magnetic moments because they can be stimulated in realistic systems with spin-orbit coupling, such as chiral magnets and $d=3$ topological materials. We predict topological orders in systems with $\mathrm{U}(1)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\mathrm{Spin}(d)$ symmetry in which fractional electric charge attaches to hedgehogs. Monopoles, the analogous defects of charge or generic U(1) currents, may bind to hedgehogs via Zeeman effect, or effectively emerge in purely magnetic systems. The latter can lead to spin liquids with different topological orders than that of the resonant valence bond spin liquid. Charge fractionalization of quarks in atomic nuclei is also seen as possibly arising from the charge-hedgehog attachment.
High-Throughput Screening and Hazard Testing Prioritization

Tox21 is a collaborative effort among the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Toxicology Program, and the Food and Drug Administration to elucidate the toxic effects of compounds found in the environment and/or created by humans. Since 2008, this program has screened many different pathways, targets, or phenotypes (more than 70 assays) using an in vitro quantitative high-throughput screening approach. Endocrine disruption and stress-related signaling pathways have been the main focus of the Tox21 screening program. Nuclear receptors play an important role in endocrine disruption, modulating many different biological processes and metabolism. It is therefore important to classify endogenous and exogenous compounds for their ability to alter the function or quantity of these nuclear receptors. Stress-related signaling pathways are necessary for body homeostasis and are involved in many disease states as well. Identifying compounds which induce stress signaling pathways in the body is prudent to fully determine the safety of an environmental chemical. This book chapter describes an in-depth analysis of Tox21, a summary of select examples of their assays, and the future plan for the screening program.
Microglia Adopt Longitudinal Transcriptional Changes After Traumatic Brain Injury.

Abstract Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an under-recognized public health threat. Even mild brain injuries can lead to long-term neurologic impairment. Microglia play a fundamental role in the development and progression of this ensuing neurologic impairment. Despite this, a microglia-specific injury signature has yet to be identified. We hypothesized that TBI would lead to long-term changes in the transcriptional profile of microglial pathways associated with the development of subsequent neurologic impairment. Materials and methods Male C57BL/6 mice underwent TBI via a controlled cortical impact and were followed longitudinally. FACSorted microglia from TBI mice were subjected to Quantiseq 3′-biased RNA sequencing at 7, 30, and 90 d after TBI. K-means clustering on 396 differentially expressed genes was performed, and gene ontology enrichment analysis was used to determine corresponding enriched processes. Results Differentially expressed genes in microglia exhibited four main patterns of expression over the course of TBI. In particular, we identified four gene clusters which corresponded to the host defense response, synaptic plasticity, lipid remodeling, and membrane polarization. Conclusions Transcriptional profiling within individual populations of microglia after TBI remains a critical unmet research need within the field of TBI. This focused study identified several physiologic processes within microglia that may be associated with development of long-term neurologic impairment after TBI. These data demonstrate the capability of longitudinal transcriptional profiling to uncover potential cell-specific targets for the treatment of TBI.
Site Quality, Disturbance, and Vegetation Effects on Carbon Storage and Accumulation in Old, Mixed-Species Stands in Central Maine, USA

Carbon (C) storage and accumulation in forests is of growing importance as climate change focuses our attention on rising greenhouse gas emissions. In 2012, we measured total ecosystem C pools (including live vegetation, dead wood, and soils) in two unmanaged, mixed-species stands in central Maine, USA. The stands are adjacent to one another and serve as references against which silvicultural treatments can be compared. The soil parent material of the stands was different (marine sediments versus glacial till), which provided an ideal opportunity to compare C stocks between these stands. We used tree ring analysis and repeated forest inventories to estimate tree and dead wood recruitment patterns and past disturbance severity. Site quality influenced C trajectories through its influence on tree species composition, which in turn strongly determined stand susceptibility to insect outbreaks. In 2012, total ecosystem C stocks were 196.3 ± 9.6 Mg ha–1 (mean ± SD) in the stand on soils derived from marine sediments and 247.0 ± 17.7 Mg ha–1 in the stand on soils derived from glacial till. Differences in average total ecosystem C stocks were primarily driven by the live tree C pool. Despite the occurrence of several partial disturbance events from 1954 to 2012, live tree C stocks increased over time in both stands. Average C accumulation in recruited dead wood was also positive, indicating that aboveground biomass served as a C sink. Our results can be used to inform decisions related to C objectives in unmanaged stands of similar species composition and soils.
Prospective Validation of a Predictive Model for Early Anemia in Patients Receiving Cancer Chemotherapy.

Anemia represents the most common hematological toxicity in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and is associated with considerable morbidity and cost. ASH/ASCO guidelines call for intervention at a hemoglobin (hgb) 1 (1.70); CHF (1.54); history of vascular disease (2.66); ulcer disease (2.58); COPD (1.29); connective tissue disease (1.84); advanced cancer stage (1.19); cancer type and chemotherapy based on anthracyclines (2.15), carboplatin (2.40), gemcitabine (2.48), cyclophosphamide (1.60), etoposide (2.84), topotecan (4.21), or trastuzumab (1.43), planned cycle length >1 week (2.0), while normal baseline hemoglobin, platelet count and GFR were associated with a reduced risk. Model fit was good (P 2 = 0.35 and c-statistic = 0.81 [.79–.83, P 2 =.40 and a c-statistic of 0.83 [.81–.86; P
Association Study of Over 200,000 Subjects Detects Novel Rare Variants, Functional Elements, and Polygenic Architecture of Prostate Cancer Susceptibility

The potential association between rare germline genetic variants and prostate cancer (PrCa) susceptibility has been understudied due to challenges with assessing rare variation. Furthermore, although common risk variants for PrCa have shown limited individual effect sizes, their cumulative effect may be of similar magnitude as high penetrance mutations. To identify rare variants associated with PrCa susceptibility, and better characterize the mechanisms and cumulative disease risk associated with common risk variants, we analyzed large population-based cohorts, custom genotyping microarrays, and imputation reference panels in an integrative study of PrCa genetic etiology. In particular, 11,649 men (6,196 PrCa cases, 5,453 controls) of European ancestry from the Kaiser Permanente Research Program on Genes, Environment and Health, ProHealth Study, and California Men9s Health Study were genotyped and meta-analyzed with 196,269 European-ancestry male subjects (7,917 PrCa cases, 188,352 controls) from the UK Biobank. Six novel loci were genome-wide significant in our meta-analysis, including two rare variants (minor allele frequency
Flickering Red-Light Stimulus for Promoting Coherent 40 Hz Neural Oscillation: A Feasibility Study.

Background Coherent 40 Hz (gamma) neural oscillation indicates healthy brain activity and is known to be disrupted in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. 40 Hz entrainment by flickering light is known to significantly attenuate AD pathology in mice. Objective To demonstrate the feasibility of using a lighting intervention to promote coherent 40 Hz neural oscillation, improved working memory performance, and reduced subjective sleepiness among a population of healthy young adults. If successful, the intervention could be extended to address cognitive impairment associated with mild cognitive impairment and AD. Methods Nine healthy participants (median age 22 years, five females) were exposed to one of two lighting conditions per session in a within-subjects counterbalanced manner. The study's two sessions were separated by 1 week. Custom-built light masks provided either a 40 Hz flickering red light (FRL) intervention or a dark control condition (i.e., total darkness, light mask not energized) at participants' eyes. Data were collected four times per session: pre-exposure, after 25-min exposure, after 50-min exposure, and post-exposure. Each data collection period included a Karolinska Sleepiness Scale report, an electroencephalogram, and working memory (n-back) auditory performance testing. Results The FRL intervention induced a significant increase in 40 Hz power and a modest increase in low gamma power. The intervention had no significant impact on working memory performance and subjective sleepiness compared to the control. However, increases in 40 Hz power were significantly correlated with reduced subjective sleepiness. Conclusion The results clearly demonstrate the feasibility of using a flickering light to increase 40 Hz power.
Point-of-care ultrasound is an accurate, time-saving, and cost-effective modality for post-operative imaging after pyeloplasty.

Summary Background Dismembered pyeloplasty is considered the gold standard treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Although the frequency and timing of follow up imaging after pyeloplasty is variable, renal ultrasound (RUS) is commonly utilized. With minimal training, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can be easily performed by a urologist during a post-operative visit. Objective Our hypothesis is that POCUS is an accurate, time-saving, and cost-effective alternative to a complete retroperitoneal ultrasound (CRUS) performed by the Radiology Department after pyeloplasty. Study design The clinical records of all children who underwent pyeloplasty (by any method) over a 12 month period at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. The exact timing and method (POCUS vs. CRUS) of follow up imaging was surgeon-dependent. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the time and cost of POCUS vs. CRUS. The clinical course of each patient who had each type of imaging was assessed. Results A total 45 patients were included in this analysis. Over a mean follow up period of 29 months, a total of 73 CRUS and 67 POCUS were performed. Each CRUS on average added 2 h to each patient's healthcare encounter. Had the 73 CRUS been performed as POCUS instead, this would have corresponded to $83,751 less charges to payers. There was no difference in the rate of the detection of worsening, stable, or improved hydronephrosis (HN) between either modality (p > 0.05). The recommended follow up time for observed HN was no different between CRUS and POCUS (p > 0.05). Children with worsening HN on POCUS underwent functional studies without confirmatory CRUS. Interestingly, two patients had metachronous, contralateral UPJO discovered during post-operative imaging. These were both discovered by POCUS. Nineteen (42%) patients who had attended at least one post-operative visit were eventually loss to follow-up. This occurred exclusively in those who did not have worsening ultrasound (p 0.05). Conclusions POCUS performed by a urologist is an accurate assessment of HN after pyeloplasty with time and cost savings to compared to a CRUS performed by a radiologist. POCUS is not associated with any difference in rate of detection of worsening HN or rate of loss to follow up. Summary Table Clinical characteristics based on type of follow up renal ultrasound after pyeloplasty Point-of-care ultrasound Complete retroperitoneal ultrasound Cohort descriptive Statistics n (% or SD) n (% or SD) Total ultrasounds Performed 67 (48) 73 (52) Public insurance 25 (34) 22 (33) Age (mos) 72 (65)∗ 107 (76)∗ Mean time (min) attributable to the Radiology Department 0∗ 122 (101)∗ 2018 hospital charge ($) 273 1639 Interval result in hydronephrosis Worsened 5 (7.5) 6 (8.2) No change 11 (16.4) 11 (15.1) Improved 51 (76.1) 56 (76.7) Preceded an unplanned procedure 5 (10) 1 (1) Follow-up nuclear medicine study performed 6 (9) 5 (7) Legend ∗p
Dancing with Two Cork Legs: The American Post Office’s Stumbling Surveillance of the Foreign-Language Press during World War I

Relying extensively on the sprawling and infrequently examined Records of the Post Office Department within the National Archives, this article examines the service’s efforts during World War I to ...
Introducing counterexamples to a robotic agent using clicker training

Clicker training is an interactive approach commonly used by animal trainers to shape an animal's behavior by teaching it sub-tasks over time, gradually teaching the animal a new complex, behavior. Clicker training works by rewarding the animal's behavior based on interactions between the animal and trainer called clicks. This paper adapts clicker training for use in an online, evolutionary robotic system, allowing novices to train a robot by rewarding it for exhibiting correct behaviors without the need to understand the robot's capabilities. Although clicker training traditionally relies on rewarding good behaviors, this paper introduces counterexamples as a way to encourage behavior exploration, by guiding the robot away from incorrect actions. This allows trainers to provide more feedback in less time, and allows the evolutionary system to learn from incorrect behaviors as well as correct behaviors. In this paper, we compare the performance of robots which have been trained with and without counterexamples in a real-world, noisy, environment. Results show two major developments: significant improvement in the behavior accuracy of robots trained with counterexamples compared to those trained with only positive examples and reduced average training times with counterexamples. This represents an important advance because accuracy and training time are two of the most important factors in online learning.
An Enhanced Kaizen Event in a sterile processing department of a rural hospital: a case study.

Operating Rooms (ORs) generate the largest revenues and losses in a hospital. Without the prompt supply of sterile surgical trays from the Sterile Processing Department (SPD), the OR would not be able to perform surgeries to its busy schedule. Nevertheless, little emphasis has been brought in the medical literature to research on surgical instrument processing in the medical literature. The present study was done applies an Enhanced Kaizen Event (EKE) in the SPD of a rural hospital to identify sources of waste and minimize non-value-added steps in the SPD processes. The EKE consisted of three successive Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycles, which focused on improvements at the departmental level first, then at an area level, and finally at the station level. The EKE yielded an improved streamlined workflow and a new design for the SPD layout, one of its areas, and a workstation. This paper aims at building a methodology, including identified steps. Results exhibited a 35% reduction in travel distance by the staff, eliminating non-value-added processes, reducing errors in the sterilization process, and eliminating cross-contamination for sterilized materials.
Correction to: Structural similarity, synthesis, and adsorption properties of aluminum-based metal-organic frameworks

It has come to our attention that the following sentence contains an error: “However, while the octahedra in MIL-53 are cis-connected, the octahedra in CAU-10 are trans-connected.” The words “cis” and “trans” should be swapped to read “However, while the octahedra in MIL-53 are trans-connected, the octahedra in CAU-10 are cis-connected.”
Comparative efficacy and safety of the Captus device for inferior vena cava filter retrieval.

Abstract Purpose Retrievable inferior vena cava filters (IVCF) have been increasingly used for mechanical pulmonary embolism prophylaxis since their development. The Captus Vascular Retrieval System (Avantec Vascular, Sunnyvale, California) is a new device developed for retrieval of IVCF. This study compared the safety and efficacy of the new Captus device against the existing EnSnare Endovascular Snare System (Merit Medical, South Jordan, Utah) for IVCF retrieval. Methods Patients undergoing IVCF retrieval at a single institution between July 2015 and July 2020 were retrospectively identified. All adult patients (>18 years) undergoing filter retrieval with either Captus or Ensnare were included. Technical success and complications were compared by device. A complexity score was assigned to each case to adjust for selection bias. Logistic regression was used to model the association between device type and primary technical success. Results 99 IVCF retrievals met inclusion criteria, 59 with Captus and 40 with Ensnare. The majority of the cohort consisted of low complexity cases (n = 51, 86% Captus versus n = 31, 78% Ensnare; p = 0.28). Technical success for low and medium complexity retrievals was 88% and 62% with Captus and 96% and 33% with Ensnare. There was no significant association between device type and technical success, adjusting for case complexity (Captus OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.08–2.72, p = 0.49). There were no device-related complications. Conclusion No statistically significant difference in device technical success or complications between the Ensnare and Captus devices for uncomplicated IVCF retrieval. Precis The Captus Vascular Retrieval System is a new device for IVC filter retrieval which has similar technical success to the existing EnSnare.
Photogrammetric self-calibration of a scanning electron microscope /

There is a demand from throughout the scientific community for extremely accurate three-dimensional (3D) angle and distance measurements from SEM micrographs. Photogrammetric self-calibration can be used to mathematically model systematic SEM distortions, which amount to many hundreds of micrometers at photo scale, so that a 10- to 100-times improvement over conventional methods can be realized in the accuracy of SEM 3D measurements. Photogrammetric self-calibration also provides the microscopist with his first means for determining the true accuracy of his 3D measurements. The highly significant spiral distortion, resulting from nonlinear electron scanning, is believed to apply as well to airborne sensors which rely upon scanning techniques.
Talking about a Revolution: The Impact of Site-Specific Recombinases on Genetic Analyses in Mice

Abstract Site-specific recombinase systems (Cre- loxP , Flp- FRT , and φC31- att ) are transforming both forward and reverse genetics in mice. By enabling high-fidelity DNA modifications to be induced in vitro or in vivo, these systems have incited a wave of new biology, advancing our understanding of gene function, genetic relationships, development, and disease.
Approximation Techniques in Multiagent Learning

Research in multiagent systems includes the investigation of algorithms that select actions for multiple agents coexisting in the same environment. Multiagent systems are becoming increasingly relevant within artificial intelligence, as software and robotic agents become more prevalent. Robotic soccer, disaster mitigation and rescue, automated driving, and information and e-commerce agents are examples of challenging multiagent domains. As the automation trend continues, we need robust algorithms for coordinating multiple agents, and for effectively responding to other external agents.
Characterization of Cell-Associated Dextransucrase Activity from Glucose-Grown Cells of Streptococcus mutans

Two distinct forms of cell-associated dextransucrase activity have been extracted from glucose-grown cells of Streptococcus mutans GS-5. One form can be washed from cells by treatment with hypertonic salt solutions. This activity is located on the exterior of the cell since it is susceptible to inactivation by proteolytic enzymes. Gel filtration of the extracted enzyme indicates that the enzyme exists as a highly aggregated complex which dissociates into a smaller soluble species in the presence of hypertonic salt solutions. This form of the enzyme also plays a role in sucrose-dependent adherence of whole cells to smooth surfaces. Hypertonic salt solutions also elute most of the cell-associated dextransucrase activity from strain FA-1 but not from strain HS-6. The second cell-associated activity of strain GS-5 is released after disruption of washed cells, is not susceptible to proteolytic enzyme treatment of whole cells, and represents the intracellular form of the enzyme. A comparison of the gel filtration properties. pH and temperature optima, kinetic constants, and insoluble dextran-synthesizing activities of the two cell-associated forms of the enzyme with the extracellular enzyme did not reveal any major differences.
Electron Beam Processing

The sections in this article are 1 Theory 2 Equipment 3 Applications 4 Evaluation
Relationship of cerebral blood flow to aortic-to-pulmonary collateral/shunt flow in single ventricles

Objective Patients with single ventricle can develop aortic-to-pulmonary collaterals (APCs). Along with systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunts, these structures represent a direct pathway from systemic to pulmonary circulations, and may limit cerebral blood flow (CBF). This study investigated the relationship between CBF and APC flow on room air and in hypercarbia, which increases CBF in patients with single ventricle. Methods 106 consecutive patients with single ventricle underwent 118 cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) scans in this cross-sectional study; 34 prior to bidirectional Glenn (BDG) (0.50±0.30 years old), 50 prior to Fontan (3.19±1.03 years old) and 34 3–9 months after Fontan (3.98±1.39 years old). Velocity mapping measured flows in the aorta, cavae and jugular veins. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple linear regression were used. Significance was p Results A strong inverse correlation was noted between CBF and APC/shunt both on room air and with hypercarbia whether CBF was indexed to aortic flow or body surface area, independent of age, cardiopulmonary bypass time, Po 2 and Pco 2 (R=−0.67–−0.70 for all patients on room air, p Conclusions There is a strong inverse relationship between CBF and APC/shunt flow in patients with single ventricle throughout surgical reconstruction on room air and in hypercarbia independent of other factors. We speculate that APC/shunt flow may have a negative impact on cerebral development and neurodevelopmental outcome. Interventions on APC may modify CBF, holding out the prospect for improving neurodevelopmental trajectory. Trial Registration Number NCT02135081.
Petrology of Anacacho Limestone of Southwest Texas: ABSTRACT

The Anacacho limestone, noted for its high asphalt content, is exposed in scattered outcrops west of San Antonio, from western Bexar County to eastern Kinney County. It occupies the stratigraphic position of the Taylor group in the Upper Cretaceous. The formation consists predominantly of organic fragmental limestone, containing only traces of terrigenous material. The Anacacho is locally abundant in asphalt. A previous investigator concluded that this was deposited with the limestone, and argued from this example that liquid petroleum generally originated in the reservoirs where it now is found. However, the present writer's petrographic study shows that the bituminous material invaded the limestone, then shrank by loss of volatile constituents. This is based especially on the following evidence. 1. The pore space in the limestone is overwhelmingly of secondary origin; no truly primary porosity could be demonstrated. 2. The contact of asphaltic with asphalt-free rock cuts across the bedding. 3. The asphalt does not completely fill the pore space of the rock but forms a coating on the limestone particles. End_of_Article - Last_Page 2521------------
Autonomic dysfunction syndrome.

In 1949, Riley, Day, Greeley, and Langford reported five cases of central auto­ nomie dysfunction characterized by a defi­ ciency of lacrimation and an abnormal reac­ tion to mild anxiety, manifested by elevation of blood pressure, excessive sweating, saliva­ tion to the point of drooling, and peculiar erythematous blotches on the skin resulting from emotional stress. Because of the auto­ nomie system dysfunction, this syndrome was called familial dysautonomia (or the Riley-Day syndrome). Over 130 cases of the Riley-Day syndrome have been reported." Other characteristics have been added to the original description of the syndrome, and complex diagnostic tests are available to aid in diagnosis."
Rapid Acceleration of a Coronal Mass Ejection in the Low Corona and Implications for Propagation

A high-velocity Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) associated with the 2002 April 21 X1.5 flare is studied using a unique set of observations from the Transition Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE), the Ultraviolet Coronagraph Spectrometer (UVCS), and the Large-Angle Spectrometric Coronagraph (LASCO). The event is first observed as a rapid rise in GOES X-rays, followed by simultaneous conjugate footpoint brightenings connected by an ascending loop or flux-rope feature. While expanding, the appearance of the feature remains remarkably constant as it passes through the TRACE 195 A passband and LASCO fields-of-view, allowing its height-time behavior to be accurately determined. An analytic function, having exponential and linear components, is found to represent the height-time evolution of the CME in the range 1.05-26 R. The CME acceleration rises exponentially to approx. 900 km/sq s within approximately 20-min, peaking at approx.1400 m/sq s when the leading edge is at approx. 1.7 R. The acceleration subsequently falls off as a slowly varying exponential for approx.,90-min. At distances beyond approx. 3.4 R, the height-time profile is approximately linear with a constant velocity of approx. 2400 km/s. These results are briefly discussed in light of recent kinematic models of CMEs.
A class of asymmetric mixed boundary value problems in thermoelasticity

Abstract Some thermoelastic stress distributions in a heat conducting elastic medium are investigated within the scope of classical theory of thermoelasticity. Boundary conditions are prescribed interior and exterior to three coplanar bounding circles. The method of integral representation of the displacement potential is used and the solution of the problem is shown to be governed by sets of infinite simultaneous linear algebraic equations. The indentation of an elastic half-space by a heated tripod is worked in detail. Contact pressure due to a prescribed constant heat flux through the punches is presented for the case where the spacing between the circular regions of contact are large as compared to their radii.
On Reentrant Phenomena in Noise Induced Transitions

It was shown that a reentrance zone exist, wherein the succession of phases F1 ! F2 ! F1 as the correlation time is increased in keeping D fixed (see Fig. 1 and ref. 1). In this paper we show that there is a most efficient and easy method which can be used in obtaining these results. In addition our approach gives a clear interpretation of the mechanism behind reentrant phenomena as will be shown below. Now consider the SDE (1) with Gaussian colored noise (2). The exponentially correlated noise is equivalent to _ 1⁄4 ð1= Þ þ FðtÞ, where FðtÞ is Gaussian white noise with zero mean; hFðtÞi 1⁄4 0 and hFðtÞFðt0Þi 1⁄4 Q ðt t0Þ. By introducing a nonlinear transformation y 1⁄4 logðx=ð1 xÞÞ, one obtains € yþ 1 þ coshðyÞ _ yþ 1 sinhðyÞ 1⁄4 FðtÞ: ð5Þ
Climate change and urban development in Africa

This paper analyses the relationship between climate change and urban development in Africa, especially in sub‐Saharan Africa, and discusses potential adaptation policies for moderating the consequences of climatic changes on urban development in the region.
Characterization of a Clipped Gaussian Beam

We calculated irradiance distributions resulting from clipping a Gaussian beam with hard- edged slits transmitting 99 or 95 percent of the incident power. We determined the widths -- second moment (with 8- and 12-bit resolution), scanning slit, and knife-edge -- of these profiles at several distances from the source, both with and without a focusing lens. When using a lens, we had the option of determining the characterization parameters from two beam width measurements and one axial distance, or from a least-squares fit of several beam width measurements and axial distances. Characterization parameters determined by these two options can differ significantly, and under the conditions of this study, beam divergence is more accurately determined from a single beam width measurement than from a least-squares fit of several measurements. Finite resolution of irradiance, inherent in any measurement device, truncates integrals necessary for calculation of the second moment of irradiance distributions.
Interruption of T‐cell signal transduction by lentivirus lytic peptides from HIV‐1 transmembrane protein

Two peptide segments designated LLP1 (residues 828-855) and LLP2 (residues 768-788) of the HIV-1 transmembrane (TM) envelope protein display structural and functional properties of calmodulin (CaM) binding. These LLP segments may contribute to cytopathogenesis by binding cellular CaM and inhibiting normal CaM-regulated signal transduction pathways. To determine whether these peptides could interrupt signal transduction in vivo, a cellular assay which uses a reporter gene linked to the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT) was used. Signal transduction perturbation was tested by exogenous addition of LLPs, W-7 or ionomycin; the LLPs inhibited NF-AT-mediated signal transduction as measured by reduced reporter activity. The LLP inhibition profile of NF-AT-driven luciferase activity was similar to the CaM inhibitor W-7. This was in direct contrast to ionomycin, a mobile calcium ion carrier which caused a significant increase in luciferase activity. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the CaM-binding properties of TM may contribute to defects in signal transduction leading to the T-cell anergy observed in patients infected with HIV-1.
Instrument Selection and Gender Stereotypes: A Review of Recent Literature

Choice of instrument is among the most important factors in determining the course of a student's music education. Instrument selection can be a lengthy process accomplished through a variety of factors. The stereotyping of instruments by gender can, unfortunately, be one of those factors. The association of gender with particular instruments can significantly influence a student in choosing an instrument, thereby resulting in numerous negative consequences— including fewer instrument choices, limited ensemble participation, and peer disapproval. The purpose of this literature review is to examine recent scholarship on this issue and make recommendations for future investigation and possible interventions. By examining post-1996 literature, this article demonstrates that this issue still affects music education; it discusses recent aspects of the issue; and it proposes areas for further inquiry.
CELLULAR MECHANISM OF PULSATILE LHRH RELEASE

One of the most intriguing characteristics of the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) neuronal system in mammalian species is the pulsatile release pattern of the peptide from the hypothalamus into the portal circulation, which is essential for the maintenance of normal reproductive function. In this review article the new concept that LHRH neurons possess an endogenous pulse-generating mechanism, but this is modified by other neuronal and nonneuronal inputs is discussed.
Synchronous sampling demodulation scheme for nonlinear fiber-optic sensors

A new demodulation scheme for nonlinear fiber-optic sensors that uses a synchronous sampling technique is proposed and demonstrated. By using this scheme in a fiber-optic magnetometer, a sensitivity of <4 × 10−5 Oe of minimum detectable magnetic field has been obtained.
Perceptual equivalence of acoustic cues in speech and nonspeech perception

Trading relations show that diverse acoustic consequences of minimal contrasts in speech are equivalent in perception of phonetic categories. This perceptual equivalence received stronger support from a recent finding that discrimination was differentially affected by the phonetic cooperation or conflict between two cues for the /slIt/-/splIt/contrast. Experiment 1 extended the trading relations and perceptual equivalence findings to the /sei/-/stei/contrast. With a more sensitive discrimination test, Experiment 2 found that cue equivalence is a characteristic of perceptual sensitivity to phonetic information. Using “sine-wave analogues” of the /sei/-/stei/stimuli, Experiment 3 showed that perceptual integration of the cues was phonetic, not psychoacoustic, in origin. Only subjects who perceived the sine-wave stimuli as “say” and “stay” showed a trading relation and perceptual equivalence; subjects who perceived them as nonspeech failed to integrate the two dimensions perceptually. Moreover, the pattern of differences between obtained and predicted discrimination was quite similar across the first two experiments and the “say”-“stay” group of Experiment 3, and suggested that phonetic perception was responsible even for better-than-predicted performance by these groups. Trading relations between speech cues, and the perceptual equivalence that underlies them, thus appear to derive specifically from perception of phonetic information.
Contributions of active site residues to the partial and overall catalytic activities of human S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase.

Residues glutamate 156 (E156), aspartate 190 (D190), asparagine 181 (N181), lysine 186 (K186), and asparagine 191 (N191) in the active site of S-adenosylhomocysteine (AdoHcy) hydrolase have been mutated to alanine (A). AdoHcy hydrolase achieves catalysis of AdoHcy hydrolysis to adenosine (Ado) and homocysteine (Hcy) by means of a redox partial reaction (3'-oxidation of AdoHcy at the beginning and 3'-reduction of Ado at the end of the catalytic cycle) spanning an elimination/addition partial reaction (elimination of Hcy from the oxidized substrate and addition of water to generate the oxidized product), with the enzyme in an open NAD + form in the ligand-free state and in a closed NADH form during the elimination/addition partial reaction. Mutation K186A reduces the rate of a model enzymatic reaction for the redox partial reaction by a factor of 280000 and the rate of a model reaction for the elimination/addition partial reaction by a factor of 24000, consistent with a primary catalytic role in both partial reactions as a proton donor/acceptor at the 3'-OH/3'-keto center. Secondary roles for N181 and N191 in localizing the flexible side chain of K186 in a catalytically effective position are supported by rate reduction factors for N181A of 2500 (redox) and 240 (elimination/addition) and for N191A of 730 (redox) and 340 (elimination/addition). A role of D190 in orienting the substrate for effective transition-state stabilization is consistent with rate reduction factors of 1300 (redox) and 30 (elimination/addition) for D190A. Residue E156 may act to maintain K186 in the desired protonation state: rate deduction factors are 1100 (redox) and 70 (elimination/addition). The mutational increases in free energy barriers for k c a t /K M are described by a linear combination of the effects for the partial reactions with the coefficients equal to the fractional degree that each partial reaction determines the rate for k c a t /K M . A similar linear equation for k c a t overestimates the barrier increase by a uniform 5 kJ/mol, probably reflecting reactant-state stabilization by the wild-type enzyme that is abolished by the mutations.
iPolicy: Exploring and Evaluating the use of iPads in a Social Welfare Policy Course

Social work education has been transformed with the advent of modern digital technologies such as social media. A focus on using new technology to create engaging and creative educational opportunities for modern students comes with benefits and challenges. The following provides an exploration and evaluation of how iPads were used in a Social Welfare Policy course. Students report positive results using the iPad to engage in the course content and assignments. Results also demonstrate that mobile devices can be both distracting and helpful in completing coursework. A description of a Policy Advocacy assignment using the iPad is also provided.
Edifoligide: A Transcription Factor Decoy to Modulate Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation in Vein Bypass

The era of genomics and recombinant DNA technology has ushered in an entirely new class of therapeutic agents designed to influence disease progression at a genetic level. The scope and utility of this technology is not fully realized. However, multiple trials of therapeutic agents have been completed and many more are ongoing. Here we report on edifoligide, a double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) that competitively inhibits the transcription factor E2F, a critical regulator of the cell cycle. Edifoligide has undergone extensive clinical testing for the treatment of intimal hyperplasia following vascular bypass procedures. In this review we address the rationale for targeting E2F in vascular disease, the pharmacology of edifoligide, and the results of preclinical and clinical studies using this novel compound.
Design and demonstration of a quasi-monoenergetic neutron source

Abstract The design of a neutron source capable of producing 24 and 70 keV neutron beams with narrow energy spread is presented. The source exploits near-threshold kinematics of the 7 Li (p,n) 7 Be reaction while taking advantage of the interference ‘notches’ found in the scattering cross-sections of iron. The design was implemented and characterized at the Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Alternative filters such as vanadium and manganese are also explored and the possibility of studying the response of different materials to low-energy nuclear recoils using the resultant neutron beams is discussed.
Normative Comparison of the Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test: Los Angeles vs. Syracuse Data

A normative comparison was carried out on the Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test. Two hundred and twenty two (222) children, ages five to nine, from Syracuse, New York, were compared with the original Los Angeles sample of 226. In analyzing the Syracuse data, no significant differences were found in duration of postrotary nystagmus by age, sex, or age/sex interaction. Comparison of the Syracuse with the Los Angeles data revealed significantly different means and standard deviations, with the effect that the cut-off point for diagnosing prolonged nystagmus shifted upward. It was concluded that postrotary nystagmus is a consistent measure unaffected by age or six in normal five- to nine-year-olds, but that in view of the differences between the Syracuse and Los Angeles data, care should be taken in diagnosing prolonged postrotary nystagmus.
Induction linac drivers: prospects for the future

This review is intended to place in perspective our current view of the parameter ranges for induction linac drivers that lead to attractive scenarios for civilian electrical power plants; there is a surprising degree of choice (a factor of two or so in most parameters) before any significant impact on the cost of energy results. The progress and goals of the US Heavy Ion Accelerator Research (HIFAR) program are reviewed. The step between the realization of the HIFAR goals and a full-scale driver is seen to be very large indeed and will require one or more significant intermediate steps which can be justified only by a commitment to advance the HIF method towards a true fusion goal. Historical anomalies in the way that fusion programs for both military and civilian applications are administered will need to be resolved; the absence of any presently perceived energy crisis results in little current sense of urgency to develop vigorous long-term energy solutions. 12 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.
Are Molecular Orbitals Delocalized

In contrast to statements in a recent article in this Journal, the bonding electrons in methane can be properly described in terms of localized electrons, and photoelectron spectroscopy does not indicate otherwise. There is no good reason to abandon the description of the chemical bonds of methane in terms of localized bonds formed by covalent linking of hybrid orbitals.
Ensemble forecasting of high-impact stratospheric optical turbulence

High Resolution WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting)/microscale code simulations are carried to predict and characterize stratospheric Optical Turbulence (OT) layers induced by jet streams and gravity waves under various local atmospheric conditions. This information in turn is used to improve prognostic parameterizations of eddy mixing coefficients and diagnostic parameterizations of optical turbulence for the tropopause and the lower stratosphere regions. Non-homogeneous, anisotropic, non-Kolmogorov patchy shear-stratified stratospheric turbulence requires that a fine mesh be used to resolve stiff velocity and temperature gradient profiles. Our approach is based on vertical nesting and adaptive vertical gridding in nested WRF/microscale codes. We perform effective ensemble forecasting by using initial and boundary conditions from both GFS and high resolution T799L91 ECMWF datasets. This methodology is applied to the analysis of field data from the Hawaii 2002 campaign and TREX Campaign (Terrain-induced Rotor Experiment), Owens Valley, CA, 2006. We obtain local distributions of simulated optical turbulence (C2n ) in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere using explicit simulations and parametrization formula that show strongly laminated structures with thin layers of high values of refractive index. These layers are characterized by steep vertical gradients of potential temperature and are located at the edges of relatively well mixed regions produced by shear instabilities and wave breaking.
Training Primary Care Psychologists

Primary care psychology is a new area that provides exciting opportunities for the field. This paper discusses the definition of primary care and the role of psychologists in primary health care. Educational programs developed by the author for pre- and postdoctoral training in primary care psychology are described.