cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Implementation of a Novel Remote Physician Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Coverage Process during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

Abstract Purpose During the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) pandemic, alternative methods of care are needed to reduce the relative risk of transmission in departments. Also needed is the ability to provide vital radiation oncological care if radiation oncologists (RO) are reallocated to other departments. We implemented a novel remote RO stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) coverage practice, requiring it to be reliable, of high audio and visual quality, timely, and the same level of specialty care as our current in-person treatment coverage practice. Methods and Materials All observed failure modes were recorded during implementation over the first 15 sequential fractions. The time from cone beam computed tomography to treatment was calculated before and after implementation to determine timeliness of remote coverage. Image quality metrics were calculated between the imaging console screen and the RO’s shared screen. Comfort levels with audio and visual communication as well as overall comfort in comparison to in-person RO coverage was evaluated using Likert scale surveys after treatment. Results Remote RO SBRT coverage was successfully implemented in 14 of 15 fractions with 3 observed process failures that were all corrected before treatment. Average times of pretreatment coverage before and after implementation were 8.74 and 8.51 minutes, respectively. The cross correlation between the imaging console screen and RO’s shared screen was r = 0.96 and lag was 0.05 seconds. The average value for all survey questions was more than 4.5, approaching in-person RO coverage comfort levels. Conclusion Our novel method of remote RO SBRT coverage permits reduced personnel and patient interactions surrounding radiation therapy procedures. This may help to reduce transmission of COVID-19 in our department and provides a means for SBRT coverage if ROs are reallocated to other areas of the hospital for COVID-19 support.
Variation in COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Deaths Across New York City Boroughs.

This study describes demographic characteristics and hospital bed capacities of the 5 New York City boroughs, and evaluates whether differences in testing for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), hospitalizations, and deaths have emerged as a signal of racial, ethnic, and financial disparities.
Chapter 3 – Dimension Theory

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of dimension theory. It presents the concept of dimension of a topological space (X, T). As dimension theory is a branch of topology and a vast topic, the chapter discusses only the most basic and most important issues. It focuses on topological, metric, and measure-theoretic and probabilistic dimensions. A topological space (X, T) satisfies the separation axiom T1 if two distinct points in X have neighborhoods that do not contain the other point. The chapter also presents an example of a metric dimension, namely, the Hausdorff dimension. Hausdorff dimension can be defined in a more general setting and in more general terms. The chapter also discusses other metric dimensions related to Hausdorff dimension. It also shows the calculation of the Hausdorff and box dimension of self-affine fractal sets generated by ordinary and recurrent iterated function systems (IFSs).
Specificity of the lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme index as a preoperative screen for uterine sarcoma before myomectomy

Objective To evaluate the applicability of the Uterine mass Magna Graecia (UMG) risk index (elevation defined by a lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme index >29) in women undergoing surgery for benign fibroids and to determine whether other factors were associated with an elevated index. An elevated UMG index has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of uterine sarcoma in Italian women. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting University fibroid center. Patients All women presenting from July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2019, with fibroids who had lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes collected and surgery performed. Interventions Calculation of UMG index. Main Outcome Measure Applicability of UMG index. Results Of 272 patients initially identified, 179 met inclusion criteria, 163 with UMG index ≤29 and 16 with UMG index >29. There were no cases of uterine sarcoma. Race, age, and presence of endometriosis, adenomyosis, or degenerating fibroids were not predictors of elevated UMG index. Body mass index (BMI) was positively associated with elevated UMG index. Specificity of UMG index to exclude uterine sarcoma was 91.1% (163/179) and higher in non-obese (BMI Conclusion A previously reported UMG index cutoff of 29 had a specificity of 91.1% (higher with normal BMI and lower when obese) in our patient population. Although lower than previously reported, the index could be a useful initial method of preoperative screening of women with symptomatic fibroids. Higher BMI appears to be associated with elevated UMG indices, increasing the false-positive rate in obese women.
Stroke-Like Migraine Attacks After Radiation Therapy (SMART) Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

SMART syndrome is a delayed complication of cranial irradiation that can be misconstrued as tumor recurrence or some other intracranial neurological disease. Recognition of this clinical syndrome is imperative as it can obviate the need for invasive diagnostic testing and can provide reassurance to both the patient and their loved ones. SMART syndrome is generally considered a reversible clinical syndrome; however, neurological deficits may become permanent. Pathophysiology of SMART syndrome may involve cerebrovascular autoregulation impairment, neuronal dysfunction leading to trigeminovascular system impairment and/or cortical spreading depression, and seizures. In addition to MRI brain with gadolinium, other imaging modalities, such as CT perfusion, MR perfusion, MR spectroscopy, and FDG PET/CT, aid in arriving to the diagnosis sooner. Patients should also undergo electroencephalogram in order to promptly identify and treat seizures. There are currently no clear guidelines on how to effectively treat SMART syndrome, but treatment may involve anti-seizure medication, anti-hypertensives, anti-platelet, and steroid therapy. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the clinical characteristics of SMART syndrome from presentation to diagnostic evaluation. We also discuss radiographic features and treatment strategies for this rare disease. With increased radiotherapy utilization, prompt clinical recognition of SMART syndrome and further development of a comprehensive diagnostic approach to SMART syndrome utilizing newer radiographic modalities as well as treatment algorithms to effectively treat this clinical condition will be imperative.
Critical junctures in terrorism studies: the Arab Spring and the new twenty-first century security environment

Mohamed Bouazizi’s self-immolation on 10 December 2010 in front of the Governor’s mansion in Ben Arous, Tunisia, is considered the triggering event that started the Arab Spring. Within a month, pro...
Clinically relevant SMAC mimetics do not enhance human T cell proliferation or cytokine production

Secondary mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC) mimetics are being tested in dozens of clinical trials to treat cancer. These targeted therapies mimic endogenous molecules that promote apoptosis by antagonizing inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs), which are commonly overexpressed in cancer cells. In T cells, IAPs function to restrain non-canonical NF-kB signaling. Thus, it has been suggested that in addition to their direct anti-cancer mechanism of action, SMAC mimetics may activate T cells, thereby promoting anti-tumor immunity. Here, we tested the effect of three clinically relevant SMAC mimetics on the proliferation and activation of primary human T cells. As previously reported, SMAC mimetics killed tumor cells and activated non-canonical NF-kB in T cells at clinically relevant doses. Surprisingly, none of the SMAC mimetics augmented T cell proliferation or effector function. These results question the assumption that SMAC mimetics are likely to boost anti-tumor immunity in cancer patients.
Prevalence, Diagnosis and Management of Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms: Current Status and Future Directions

Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are found with increasing prevalence, especially in elderly asymptomatic individuals. Although the overall risk of malignancy is very low, the presence of these pancreatic cysts is associated with a large degree of anxiety and further medical investigation due to concerns about malignancy. This review discusses the different cystic neoplasms of the pancreas and reports diagnostic strategies based on clinical features and imaging data. Surgical and nonsurgical management of the most common cystic neoplasms, based on the recently revised Sendai guidelines, is also discussed, with special reference to intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN; particularly the branch duct variant), which is the lesion most frequently identified incidentally. IPMN pathology, its risk for development into pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the pros and cons of current guidelines for management, and the potential role of endoscopic ultrasound in determining cancer risk are discussed. Finally, surgical treatment, strategies for surveillance of pancreatic cysts, and possible future directions are discussed.
Chapter 10 The Staebler-Wronski Effect

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the joint discovery of the Staebler–Wronski effect wherein the dark conductivity of a-Si:H can drop by orders of magnitude after prolonged exposure to visible light. The lowered value of dark conductivity persists until the material is heated above 150°C. Evidence is presented that the Fermi level moves close to midgap, which leads to the conclusion that light creates 10l6–1017 new states near the middle of the energy gap. It is demonstrated that the effect is a bulk phenomenon. Extensive measurements lead to the conclusion that, in the temperature dependence of conductivity, the preexponential factor and the activation energy are related by the Meyer–Neldel rule. The Meyer–Neldel rule is also obeyed if the conductivity changes are induced by doping rather than by light. Wronski examines the consequences of light-induced centers on the performance of solar cells.
The Energy-Water Nexus: Spatially-Resolved Analysis of the Potential for Desalinating Brackish Groundwater by Use of Solar Energy

This research looks at coupling desalination with renewable energy sources to create a high-value product (treated water) from two low value resources (brackish groundwater and intermittent solar energy). Desalination of brackish groundwater is already being considered as a potential new water supply in Texas. This research uses Texas as a testbed for spatially-resolved analysis techniques while considering depth to brackish groundwater, water quality, and solar radiation across Texas to determine the locations with the best potential for integrating solar energy with brackish groundwater desalination. The framework presented herein can be useful for policymakers, regional planners, and project developers as they consider where to site desalination facilities coupled with solar photovoltaics. Results suggest that the northwestern region of Texas—with abundant sunshine and groundwater at relatively shallow depths and low salinity in areas with freshwater scarcity—has the highest potential for solar powered desalination. The range in capacity for solar photovoltaic powered reverse osmosis desalination was found to be 1.56 × 10—6 to 2.93 × 10—5 cubic meters of water per second per square meter of solar panel (m3/s/m2).
Congenital nevi versus metastatic melanoma in a newborn to a mother with malignant melanoma - diagnosis supported by sex chromosome analysis and Imaging Mass Spectrometry.

A 37-year-old pregnant woman presented with a 2-cm irregular reddish nodule on her left upper arm during pregnancy. A biopsy from the lesion showed a 2.2-mm thick malignant melanoma with intravascular invasion, 25 mitosis/mm(2) and no ulceration. Following induction of labor, the patient underwent re-excision with sentinel lymph node biopsy. This showed no residual melanoma and no lymph node metastasis. The newborn boy had multiple pigmented lesions on the trunk, some of which were large and irregular. Two were biopsied and histologic examination showed dense dermal proliferation of medium sized melanocytes with multiple mitotic figures and no maturation with their descent into the dermis, raising suspicion of transplacental metastases. Examination of the placenta failed to show metastatic lesions. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based genotyping, including testing for amelogenin locus for sex chromosome determination, demonstrated the presence of Y chromosome material in the melanocytes of the newborn's lesions excluding maternal origin. A diagnosis of congenital nevi was rendered. Subsequently, Imaging Mass Spectrometric analysis of the mother's lesion showed proteomic signature expression indicative of malignant melanoma, whereas the two lesions in the newborn showed changes indicative of nevi. This case demonstrates the utility of genotyping and Mass Spectrometry analysis in this challenging clinical scenario.
MODEL SELECTION FOR NONPARAMETRIC REGRESSION

Risk bounds are derived for regression estimation based on model selec- tion over an unrestricted number of models. While a large list of models provides more flexibility, significant selection bias may occur with model selection criteria like AIC. We incorporate a model complexity penalty term in AIC to handle selec- tion bias. Resulting estimators are shown to achieve a trade-off among approxima- tion error, estimation error and model complexity without prior knowledge about the true regression function. We demonstrate the adaptability of these estimators over full and sparse approximation function classes with different smoothness. For high-dimensional function estimation by tensor product splines we show that with number of knots and spline order adaptively selected, the least squares estima- tor converges at anticipated rates simultaneously for Sobolev classes with different interaction orders and smoothness parameters.
ETA II experiments for determining advanced radiographic capabilities of induction linacs

LLNL has proposed a multi-pulsed, multi-line of sight radiographic machine based on induction linac technology to be the core of the advanced hydrotest facility (AHF) being considered by the Department of Energy. In order to test the new technologies being developed for AHF we have recommissioned the Experimental Test Accelerator (ETA II). We will conduct our initial experiments using kickers and large angle bending optics at the ETA II facility. Our current status and our proposed experimental schedule are presented.
Recursive Estimation in Armax Models

Herein we first review some important algorithms and their statistical properties in the literature on recursive estimation of the parameters of an ARMAX model. We then describe some recent developments of efficient procedures for recursive estimation and their statistical theory. These developments not only extend important statistical properties such as consistency, asymptotic normality, asymptotic efficiency, that have been established for certain classes of offline estimators to their recursive counterparts, but are also applicable to on-line adaptive prediction and adaptive control of ARMAX systems.
Sinonasal outcomes in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Objectives/Hypothesis Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common adult and pediatric sleep disorder, which, if left untreated, is associated with severe medical consequences. Otolaryngologists are often challenged by the impact of OSAS on sinonasal symptoms, as well as by the contribution of primary nasal disorders to exacerbation of OSAS. The objectives of this study are to explore the relationship between patients with known OSAS and quality-of-life outcomes as measured by 22-iem Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) questionnaire scores. Study Design Retrospective chart review. Methods Patients with a polysomnographic diagnosis of OSAS completed SNOT-22 questionnaires. SNOT-22 questionnaire items were subcategorized into rhinologic, nonrhinologic otolaryngic, sleep, and psychological symptoms. Total, individual, and subcategorized SNOT-22 scores were correlated with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), body mass index (BMI), lowest oxygen desaturation, and sleep efficiency using Spearman rank correlation. Results A total of 30 consecutive OSAS patients were included in the analysis. BMI was positively correlated with nonrhinologic otolaryngic symptoms (P = .03), specifically ear fullness (P = .02) and facial pain/pressure (P = .04). AHI was negatively correlated with postnasal drip (P = .02). Lowest oxygen saturation was correlated with reduced productivity (P = .03). Sleep efficiency was negatively correlated with difficulty falling asleep (P = .03) and feelings of frustration (P = .01), with a trend toward significant correlation with overall sleep symptoms (P = .08). Conclusions Several sinonasal complaints appear to be correlated with OSAS severity. As such, otolaryngologists should utilize a comprehensive approach to the care of the OSAS patient, with special attention to sinonasal factors. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope, 2015
A novel configuration of a traditional rapid response team decreases non-intensive care unit arrests and overall hospital mortality.

BACKGROUND In-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) accounts for substantial morbidity and mortality. Rapid response teams (RRTs) are designed to prevent non–intensive care unit (ICU) CPA through early detection and intervention. However, existing evidence has not consistently demonstrated a clear benefit. OBJECTIVE To explore the effectiveness of a novel RRT program design to decrease non-ICU CPA and overall hospital mortality. METHODS This study was conducted from the start of fiscal year 2005 to 2011. In November 2007, our hospitals implemented RRTs as part of a novel resuscitation program. Charge nurses from each inpatient unit underwent training as unit-specific RRT members. Additionally, all inpatient staff received annual training in RRT concepts including surveillance and recognition of deterioration. We compared the incidence of ICU and non-ICU CPA from first complete preimplementation year 2006 to postimplementation years 2007 to 2011. Overall hospital mortality was also reported. RESULTS The incidence of non-ICU CPA decreased, whereas the incidence of ICU CPA remained unchanged. Overall hospital mortality also decreased (2.12% to 1.74%, P < 0.001). The year-over-year change in RRT activations was inversely related to the change in Code Blue activations for each inpatient unit (r = −0.68, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our novel RRT program was associated with a decreased incidence of non-ICU CPA and improved hospital mortality. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:352–357. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Acylated Plasminogen‐Streptokinase Activator Complex: A New Approach to Thrombolytic Therapy

Acylated plasminogen-streptokinase activator complex (APSAC; antistreplase) is an inactive complex of human plasminogen and streptokinase. When it is injected, a controlled deacylation of the catalytic center occurs, activating the complex so that thrombolysis may begin. This process extends the half-life of streptokinase, allowing for 4-6 hours of fibrinolytic activity. Anistreplase has demonstrated equivalent efficacy to intracoronary streptokinase with regard to reperfusion rates in acute myocardial infarction. In addition, patients have shown a 56% reduction in mortality at 28 days with anistreplase compared to heparin. The adverse effect profile of anistreplase includes minor bleeding and hematoma formation at the site of venipuncture, hypotensive and bradycardic episodes, arrhythmias, facial flushing, fever, and rarely, allergic reactions. Serious bleeding reactions are uncommon, with the frequency of cerebrovascular accident reported at 0.4-0.6%. The special advantage of anistreplase is its administration as a 30-U intravenous bolus injected over 5 minutes, eliminating the need for long infusions and increasing the ease of administration. Based on its efficacy and ease of administration, anistreplase may become the drug of choice in the emergency treatment of acute myocardial infarction.
Alfred P. Sloan Jr. Award. The epidermal growth factor (EGF)

This review summarizes briefly some of the historical aspects of the discovery, isolation, and mode of action of epidermal growth factor (EGF). Also considered are some of the key experiments which relate the biochemical mechanisms of EGF action to the mechanism involved in oncogenic transformation by the retroviruses.
Outcomes of a systems-level intervention offering breast cancer risk assessments to low-income underserved women

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk assessments (CRAs) are underutilized by low-income and racial/ethnic minority women, potentially exacerbating cancer-related disparities observed within these populations. We deployed and evaluated a systems-level intervention designed to identify patients potentially at-risk for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer, refer them for CRAs, and facilitate CRA utilization at an urban community-based breast health care center. Cancer family history forms were completed by patients seen at the center during an 18-month period and reviewed by staff for CRA eligibility against published referral criteria. A patient navigator educated eligible patients about the benefits of CRA, navigating interested patients to this service. CRA-specific patient interest and utilization outcomes are reported. In total, 94.7 % of all patients (n = 2,436) completed forms and 65 patients (2.7 %) met CRA eligibility criteria. Most eligible patients (72.3 %) were interested in CRA. Interested patients had a greater risk for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer (i.e., more affected relatives, greater objective risk scores) than uninterested patients: 57.4 % scheduled a CRA appointment and 51.9 % of scheduled patients utilized CRAs. Patients scheduling a CRA were contacted in less time and required fewer follow-up contacts by the patient navigator, and were more likely to be African American, than those who declined a CRA or were lost to follow-up (all p’s ≤ .05). The systems-level intervention successfully identified patients eligible for CRA and linked interested and at-risk patients with CRA resources. More intensive patient navigation addressing the unique barriers encountered within this population may be required to enhance utilization.
Reassessing “Dental Evulsion” in Neolithic Plastered Skulls From the Levant Through the Use of Computed Tomography, Direct Observation, and Photographs

Neolithic plastered skulls from the Levant were initially interpreted as deriving from elderly men who were selected for modelling in plaster as part of an ancestor cult veneration of male elders and leaders. It was further suggested that these skulls were modified by the evulsion of all teeth to produce facial features found in the elderly. Seven plastered skulls were re-examined using computed tomography (CT), direct observation, and photographs to test the claim of intentional post-mortem dental evulsion. Six of the seven plastered skulls examined retain their dentition. This falsifies the intentional use of post-mortem dental evulsion in plastered skulls.
Low incidence of colds in deteriorated patients

In 100 deteriorated dementia praecox patients, only three colds occurred from October to April, during the past winter. These were of short duration and uncomplicated. No special prophylactic measures were used, such as vaccines or vitamins. Isolation from the outside world and good hygiene, with freedom from care and responsibility, appear to be the important factors in prevention.
Comparison of Kalman and finite memory filtering for gun fire control applications

A finite memory filter is developed for gun fire control and compared to a Kalman filter. As opposed to the Kalman filter, the finite memory filter does not require a priori information concerning measurement or target noise statistics. In addition, the finite memory filter was implemented using a new recursive algorithm which dramatically reduces its computational burden. It is shown for gun fire control applications, the Kalman filter requires at least an order of magnitude more computation to achieve the same performance as a finite memory filter.
Error Correction and Power Calibration of Active Load Pull Measurement Systems

A 26.5 to 40 GHz active load pull measurement system has been developed using a commercially available test fixture and bias tees. At 27 GHz, the system is capable of reflection coefficient magnitude accuracy better than 0.007, phase error less than 4 degrees, and gain uncertainty less than 0.15 dB. Reflection coefficient measurements are corrected by flrst using a standard network analyzer TRL calibration routine and then converting it to two one port calibrations. Correction of the power measurements is not as straight forward. Sources of error in the power measurements and methods to reduce this error are discussed.
Isolation and characterization of precursors in T4 baseplate assembly the complex of gene 10 and gene 11 products

Abstract The first multi-protein precursor in the assembly of the radial arms of the T4 baseplate has been purified to homogeneity. The complex was isolated from cells infected with a mutant blocked in the subsequent step in baseplate arm assembly. The assay for this precursor exploited the fact that the complex contains the target antigen of the neutralizing antibodies found in antibaseplate serum (Berget & King, 1978) . The complex is composed of gene 10 protein ( M r , 88,000) and gene 11 protein ( M r , 24,000). Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments revealed a molecular weight of 258,000 and a sedimentation coefficient of 9.3 S for the complex. The overall and single polypeptide chain molecular weights are consistent with the complex containing two gene 10 polypeptides and four gene 11 polypeptides. Visualization of the complex in the electron microscope revealed an asymmetric angular structure. The shape, together with the previous identification of gene 11 product as the tail-spike protein (Crowther et al. , 1977) , indicates that the complex forms the body of the spikes and vertices of the hexagonal baseplate. Using an in vitro baseplate assembly assay, it was possible to demonstrate that the complex contains both the assembly-active gene 10 and gene 11 products. Gene 11 product (from 10 − extracts) can convert 11 − particles to viable phage. However, the complex lacked this activity, indicating that it does not readily dissociate. The precursor complex could be dissociated with denaturing solvents. Upon returning to physiological conditions, both the antigenic and biological activities of the gene 11 product could be recovered. The biological activity of the gene 10 product was not regained.
Context and Charisma: A "Meso" Level Examination of the Relationship of Organic Structure, Collectivism, and Crisis to Charismatic Leadership

This research presents a "meso" level approach that models char ismatic leadership in organizations as a function of contextual factors (such as work unit structure, work group collectivism, and crisis), an issue that has rarely been explored in charismatic leadership research. Data were collected from 596 managers and subordinates embedded in 101 work units in a large, complex organization and were analyzed at the individual, group, and cross-levels of analysis. Results indicate that organic structure and collectivistic cultural orientation were positively associated with the emergence of charismatic leadership, whereas perceptions of crisis were negatively related to charismatic leadership. Further, subordinates' ratings of leader charisma were related to leader ratings of work unit performance. The implications of these results for research and practice are discussed.
Exploring information with Visage

The Visage prototype responds to data-intensive work environments where users, exploring and analyzing data, struggle to make useful multiple applications with disparate visualizations of potentially related information. Visage seeks to coordinate the exploration, analyses, and visualizations of information regardless of their source or type. This coordination is accomplished by using an information-centric approach to user interface design to eliminate impediments to direct user access to information objects across applications and visualizations. Visage consists of a set of data manipulation operations, an intelligent system for generating data visualizations and a briefing tool that supports the conversion of visual displays used into interactive presentation slides.
Underwire Brassieres Are a Source of Nickel Exposure

Underwire brassieres with metal rim supports are a potential source of nickel exposure to consider. Awareness and avoidance of such may also help prevent nickel sensitization.
How Does It Kill?: Understanding the Candidacidal Mechanism of Salivary Histatin 5

Histatins are salivary cationic peptides that provide the first line of defense against oral candidiasis caused by Candida albicans. This minireview presents a critical evaluation of our knowledge of the candidacidal mechanism of histatin 5 (Hst 5). Hst 5 is the most potent among all histatin family members with regard to its antifungal activity. The mode of action of Hst 5 has been a subject of intense debate. Unlike other classical host innate immune proteins, pore formation or membrane lysis by Hst 5 has largely been disproven, and it is now known that all targets of Hst 5 are intracellular. Hst 5 binds C. albicans cell wall proteins (Ssa1/2) and glycans and is taken up by the cells through fungal polyamine transporters in an energy-dependent manner. Once inside the fungal cells, Hst 5 may affect mitochondrial functions and cause oxidative stress; however, the ultimate cause of cell death is by volume dysregulation and ion imbalance triggered by osmotic stress. Besides these diverse targets, a novel mechanism based on the metal binding abilities of Hst 5 is discussed. Finally, translational approaches for Hst 5, based on peptide design and synergy with other known drugs, are considered a step forward for bench-to-bed application of Hst 5.
A Note on Wiedman's (1999) Instructional Case: Detecting Earnings Manipulation

I used leverage in the prior year as a proxy for incentives to manipulate earnings that could arise because the firm needs to raise funds or seeks to avoid violating covenants. With the Leverage variable as described above, the model yields an estimated probability of manipulation of approximately three percent. This is three to four times larger that the corresponding probabilities for the median firm in the population and suggests the firm is worthy of further investigation.
Urinary symptoms as a prodrome of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis.

Objective To test the hypothesis that more bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) cases than controls report pre-onset urinary symptoms. Methods In a risk factor study, the date of BPS/IC onset (index date) was systematically determined in 312 female incident cases; the mean age at onset was 42.3 years. Frequency-matched controls were compared on pre–index date medical history. Results Three pre–index date symptoms were more common in BPS/IC cases: pelvic pain with urinary features, frequency, and bladder pain; 178 cases (57%) vs 56 controls (18%) had at least 1 symptom ( P Conclusion Before the onset of BPS/IC, pelvic pain with urinary features, frequency, and/or bladder pain were reported by more than half the cases. Prodromal women recalled abnormal urinary symptoms decades before the onset of BPS/IC. The prodrome was associated with prior NBSs and predicted not only BPS/IC but also its poor prognosis. These data generated 2 hypotheses: that (1) prodromal symptoms are different from BPS/IC symptoms and (2) pain amplification links NBSs, the prodrome, the appearance of BPS/IC, and its poor prognosis. Recognition of the prodrome might provide opportunities for prevention of fully developed BPS/IC.
Steady state thermal stresses in an elastic solid bounded by two cones

Es wird fur das Problem der Warmespannungen in einem kegelformig begrenzten elastischen Korper eine Ahnlichkeitstransformation entwickelt. Ist die Temperatur an der freien Oberflache als Potenz des Abstandes von der Spitze vorgeschrieben, so lasst sich ein Satz von Ahnlichkeitsvariablen angeben, welcher die thermoelastischen Beziehungen auf Legendre-Gleichungen reduziert und damit der Losung leicht zuganglich macht. Die Rechnung ist fur den Sonderfall konstant gehaltener Oberflachentemperatur im einzelnen durchgefuhrt.
Dispersive elastodynamics of 1D banded materials and structures: Design

Within periodic materials and structures, wave scattering and dispersion occur across constituent material interfaces leading to a banded frequency response. In an earlier paper, the elastodynamics of one-dimensional periodic materials and finite structures comprising these materials were examined with an emphasis on their frequency-dependent characteristics. In this work, a novel design paradigm is presented whereby periodic unit cells are designed for desired frequency band properties, and with appropriate scaling, these cells are used as building blocks for forming fully periodic or partially periodic structures with related dynamical characteristics. Through this multiscale dispersive design methodology, which is hierarchical and integrated, structures can be devised for effective vibration or shock isolation without needing to employ dissipative damping mechanisms. The speed of energy propagation in a designed structure can also be dictated through synthesis of the unit cells. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology for several applications. Results are given from sensitivity analyses that indicate a high level of robustness to geometric variation.
Nitric oxide synthases in motion

To determine a dynamic functional model of full-length nitric oxide synthase (NOS), we are coupling Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) with our crystal structures of individual NOS components. SAXS is a solution scattering method that is well suited to capturing protein conformational changes. Our lab has solved crystal structures of all three parts of NOS enzymes: NOS oxygenase, NOS reductase and NOS calmodulin (CaM) peptide with CaM bound. Based on our crystal structures and biochemical data, we propose that the NOS FMN domain swings from the electron-accepting “IN” to an electron-donating “OUT” conformation. In the electron-accepting conformation observed in our crystal structure, the FMN is buried and positioned to accept an electron from redox partner FAD. We propose that the entire FMN domain swings “OUT” from the remainder of the reductase domain to transfer electrons to the active site heme. We are combining scattering data with atomic resolution crystal structures and molecular dynamics simulations to identify snapshots of NOS in solution. We analyze and compare FMN domain movement in different isozymes, making use of overlapping truncated constructs and post-translationally modified proteins. Our SAXS results are consistent with a large swinging movement in the FMN domain that could enable electron transfer from FMN to heme.
Automatic registration of multiple projectors on swept surfaces

In this paper, we present the first method to geometrically register multiple projectors on a swept surface (e.g. a truncated dome) using a single uncalibrated camera without using any physical markers on the surface. Our method can even handle non-linear distortion in projectors common in compact setups where a short throw lens is mounted on each projector. Further, when the whole swept surface is not visible from a single camera view, we can register the projectors using multiple pan and tilted views of the same camera. Thus, our method scales well with different size and resolution of the display. Since we recover the 3D shape of the display, we can achieve registration that is correct from any arbitrary viewpoint appropriate for head-tracked single-user virtual reality systems. We can also achieve wallpapered registration more appropriate for multi-user collaborative explorations. Our method achieves sub-pixel accuracy and the image correction required to achieve the registration runs in real-time on the GPU.Swept surfaces are much more immersive than popular display shapes like planes, cylinders and CAVES. Our method opens up the possibility of using such immersive swept surfaces to create more immersive VR systems without compromising the simplicity of having a completely automated registration technique.
An outline of the plate tectonics of China: Discussion and reply

No Abstract Available. The article discussed appeared in the Bulletin , v. 95, p. 295-312.
Characterization of 10 microsatellite markers for the southern torrent salamander ( Rhyacotriton variegatus )

Rhyacotriton variegatus is an endemic salamander species with specific habitat requirements and a restricted geographic range in the northwestern United States. Although not currently listed at the state or federal level, R. variegatus is vulnerable to habitat loss from timber harvest. We isolated and characterized 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci among 367 individuals from across the species’ range. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 7 to 16, observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.16 to 0.58, and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.53 to 0.87. These new loci will assist in examining the genetic diversity and structure of R. variegatus and potentially related species.
Integrating the Fields of Diversity and Culture: A Focus on Social Identity

In the focal article, Ferdman and Sagiv (2012) provide a thoughtful review of the fields of diversity and cross-cultural work psychology (CCWP). More importantly, they look for similarities and differences across these fields in order to find the overlap that can connect them. As cochairs of the SIOP panel they refer to in their discussion, we are pleased to see that a dialogue towards the integration of diversity and CCWP research and practice was successfully initiated. We agree with many of the fruitful ideas put forth by Ferdman and Sagiv and believe that further exploration of them is needed if the fields of diversity and CCWP are to be successfully integrated. In an attempt to further this effort, we expand on the focal article’s argument that social identity can be used as the integration point between the two fields. Specifically, we propose that to fully understand the impact of both diversity and culture in team contexts, we must consider
Evaluating elements of trust: Race and class in risk communication in post-Katrina New Orleans.

This study seeks to determine the relative influence of race and class on trust in sources of messages of environmental risk in post-Katrina New Orleans. It poses two hypotheses to test that influence: H1-African-Americans ("Blacks") trust risk message sources less than European American ("Whites") do and H2-The higher the socioeconomic class, the lower the trust in risk message sources. A 37-question telephone survey (landlines and cellphones) was conducted in Orleans Parish in 2012 (n = 414). The overall margin of error was ±4.8% at a 95% confidence interval. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that the first hypothesis was rejected, while the second was supported. Additional data analysis revealed that frequency of use of sources of risk information appears to be a positive factor in building trust. Language: en
Adsorption of endogenous polyphenols relieves the inhibition by fruit juices and fresh produce of immuno-PCR detection of Escherichia coli 0157:H7

The immuno-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) approaches facilitate rapid (8 h) detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in contaminated dairy products and ground beef samples with detection sensitivities approaching 1 colony forming unit (cfu) g−1 ml−1. However, no PCR products were obtained when the method was applied to identify E. coli O157:H7 in tainted apple juice. Enzyme-linked immuno-assay (ELISA) results suggested non-specific binding of endogenous polyphenols (ubiquitous in plant products) to antibodies present on the surface of the immunobeads, making the latter unavailable for capturing the target bacteria. Treatment of the test sample, prior to IMS, with a synthetic fining agent, polyvinylpyrrolidone, restored the full function and sensitivity of the immuno-PCR. The study demonstrates the suitability of the improved method as a generic strategy for rapid screening of fruit juices and plant produce for E. coli O157:H7.
A characterization of the Dirichlet process

Ferguson (1973), studying Bayesian nonparametric statistical problems, showed the following conjugate property of the Dirichlet random probability : if P is a Dirichlet random probability with shape measure α and X 1 ,..., X n given P is a (i.i.d.) sample from P, then P given X 1 ,..., X n is a Dirichlet random probability with shape (measure) α+Σδ Xi where δ x is a point mass at x; a consequence of this result, also obtained by Ferguson (1973, p. 217), is that the posterior mean of P given X 1 ,..., X n is linear in the sample empirical distribution function
Edward Hitchcock's promising astronomical career

Edward Hitchcock's observations of the Great Comet of 1811, the partial solar eclipse of 17 September 1811, and others for determining his latitude and longitude, marked the development of a mature research program in theoretical and practical astronomy which he pursued vigorously for more than two years until his health failed. Hitchcock's results were communicated to astronomer John Farrar of Harvard College and extracts were published in the Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. This paper compares Hitchcock's comet sightings with those of Farrar himself. Although astronomy did not become Hitchcock's final career choice, the mental skills which he perfected through instrumental observation and mathematical reduction were to be of service throughout his later professional life as an earth scientist.
Swelling of nerve fibers associated with action potentials

Swelling of nerve fibers during the action potential was demonstrated by three different methods. Generation of a propagated nerve impulse in a crab nerve produced an outward movement of 50 to 100 angstroms of the nerve surfce and a rise in swelling pressure on the order of 5 dynes per square centimeter. In squid giant axons, the amplitude of the observed outward movement of the surface was small.
Integrity Index and Integrity-based Optimal Design of structural systems

Abstract The reliability of a system is a function of the reliability of each of its components. This paper develops the concept of integrity of a system as a measure of the balance between the reliability of the system components and puts forward the definition of Integrity Index as well as a method to maximize this index in a structural system. The integrity is quantified using the conditional probabilities of failure of the components given that the system has failed to assess the importance of the individual components in system reliability. The Integrity Index is defined as 1 minus the difference between the maximum and minimum conditional probabilities of failure of the system components. Therefore, this index can quantify the integrity of any structural system as long as the conditional probabilities of failure of its components can be calculated. Integrity Index is equal to 1 when all of the system components have the same contribution to the system reliability and it is 0 when there is the maximum imbalance between the contributions of the components to the system reliability. Using the conditional probabilities of failure of the components, a new method is then developed for Integrity-based Optimal Design that maximizes the system integrity giving the maximum Reliability Return on Investment (RROI). This method is first discussed for various systems (series, parallel and general). Then, as an example, the Integrity Index and Integrity-based Optimal Design are presented for an offshore mooring system.
Support of sustainable management of nitrogen contamination due to septic systems using numerical modeling methods

Nitrogen contamination is a serious concern to sustainable environmental management, and one important source of nitrogen contaminant is due to wastewater treatment using onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS, a.k.a., septic systems). This paper presents a study in which numerical modeling is used to support sustainable decision-making and management of nitrogen contamination by utilizing a recently developed GIS-based software, VZMOD, a Vadose Zone MODel for simulating nitrogen transformation and transport in vadose zone between drainfield of septic systems and water table. VZMOD is based on a physical model of unsaturated flow and nitrogen transformation and transport, and the model is solved numerically using the finite element methods. This is the major difference between VZMOD and other GIS-based software of nitrogen modeling. Using GIS techniques, VZMOD considers spatial variability of a number of hydrogeologic parameters such as hydraulic conductivity and porosity. A unique feature of VZMOD is that VZMOD addresses spatial variability of water table by using VZMOD together with ArcNLET, an ArcGIS-based software developed to simulate groundwater flow and nitrate load from septic systems to surface water bodies. VZMOD is designed to execute in different modes to be compatible with different levels of data availability in various management projects of nitrogen contamination. This paper presents an application of VZMOD at a neighborhood with hundreds of septic systems and heterogeneous hydraulic conductivity, porosity, and water table depth. The modeling results indicate that using septic systems at the considered neighborhood is unsustainable and more management means are necessary.
Multipotent and restricted precursors in the central nervous system.

Acquisition of cell type-specific properties in the nervous system is likely a process of sequential restriction in developmental potential. At least two classes of pluripotent stem cells, neuroepithelial (NEP) stem cells and EGF-dependent neurosphere stem cells, have been identified in distinct spatial and temporal domains. Pluripotent stem cells likely generate central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) derivatives via the generation of intermediate lineage-restricted precursors that differ from each other and from multipotent stem cells. Neuronal precursors termed neuronal-restricted precursors (NRPs), multiple classes of glial precursors termed glial-restricted precursors (GRPs), oligodendrocyte-type 2 astrocytes (O2As), astrocyte precursor cells (APCs), and PNS precursors termed neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) have been identified. Multipotent stem cells and restricted precursor cells can be isolated from embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures providing a non-fetal source of such cells. Analysis in multiple species illustrates similarities between rat, mouse, and human cell differentiation raising the possibility that similar factors and markers may be used to isolate precursor cells from human tissue or ES cells. Anat Rec (New Anat): 257:137‐143, 1999.