cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Networking Tips for Social Scientists and Ecologists

It may not seem at first glance that social scientists and ecologists have much in common. [McMahon and colleagues][1], however, set the record straight in their Perspective. They discuss an unusual conference on applying network theory to biocomplexity, which makes it clear that social scientists and ecologists share a passion for unraveling the myriad connections in complex systems whether they be society balls or swamps. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/293/5535/1604
A treatment of interfacial cracks in the presence of friction

Frictional sliding on interface crack surfaces results in weak crack tip stress singularity and zero strain energy release rate. A fracture criterion based on finite extension strain energy release rate, is proposed to capture the intrinsic fracture toughness. The finite extension strain energy release rate is shown to represent the magnitude of the singular stress field. Numerical simulations of a center crack in a bimaterial infinite medium under remote shear as well as fiber pull-out and push-out in composite materials are presented to illustrate the frictional effect in both small and large scale contacts near the crack tip.
The effect of macropores on bi-directional hydrologic exchange between a stream channel and riparian groundwater

Summary Macropores and soil pipes in stream banks are common geomorphic features. Macropores and soil pipes that are open to the channel (i.e. “bank face-connected” macropores) are inundated when channel stage is elevated (e.g., from precipitation, snowmelt, dam release). However, previous studies have not investigated macropore impact on bi-directional water exchange between the channel and bank/riparian groundwater under variable hydrologic conditions. We monitored two transects of riparian groundwater wells perpendicular to the bank of a 2nd order stream for a year: one with bank face-connected macropores (M transect) and one without bank face-connected macropores (NM transect). Fluctuations in water level and temperature during storms in those wells closest to the channel were on average 139% and 29% higher, respectively, in the presence of macropores. Rising head tests in the same wells indicated that hydraulic conductivity was 61–140 times higher in the presence of macropores. Bank storage, indicated by gradient reversals between channel and riparian zone, occurred on two temporal scales. Bank storage during storms was more frequent in the M transect (occurred all year) than in the NM transect (occurred just in winter and spring). Smaller magnitude gradient reversals at the M transect are consistent with faster head equilibration and greater exchange volume. Bank storage also occurred on an annual basis, with channel water entering storage during summer and fall and returning to the channel during winter and spring. Taken together, these results suggest that macropores act as preferential flow paths that enhance the connectivity between channels and riparian groundwater that influences bank storage. Where bank macropores are present, conceptual models of hyporheic and groundwater flow should account for their effects.
Damage Detection of Thermal Barrier Coatings by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), consisting of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) on NiCoCrAlY or aluminide bond coats, protect hot-section components, such as blades and vanes of advanced gas turbine engines. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) is being developed as a non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technique for TBCs. For better understanding of electrochemical impedance response of TBCs and their damage after high temperature exposure (isothermal/cyclic), monolithic YSZ with open pores and alumina-forming NiAl specimens were independently examined by EIS as a function of isothermal oxidation. Impedance of the YSZ and oxidized NiAl increased with high temperature sintering and oxide-scale growth, respectively. However, the electrochemical impedance was significantly reduced when quench-cracks in sintered YSZ or spallation of oxide-scale from the NiAl were observed. These observations are correlated to the electrochemical impedance response of a TBC system consisting of electron beam physical vapor deposited (EB-PVD) YSZ and (Ni,Pt)Al bond coats as a function of isothermal oxidation.
Formal Modeling and Analysis of a Flash Filesystem in Alloy

This paper describes the formal modeling and analysis of a design for a flash-based filesystem in Alloy. We model the basic operations of a filesystem as well as features that are crucial to NAND flash hardware, such as wear-leveling and erase-unit reclamation. In addition, we address the issue of fault tolerance by modeling a mechanism for recovery from interrupted filesystem operations due to unexpected power loss. We analyze the correctness of our flash filesystem model by checking trace inclusion against a POSIX-compliant abstract filesystem, in which a file is modeled simply as an array of data elements. The analysis is fully automatic and complete within a finite scope.
Obstetrics and gynaecology chief resident attitudes toward teaching junior residents under normal working conditions.

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to identify factors that chief residents believe impact the teaching of junior residents under normal working conditions and the areas in which they believe education on the role of resident as teacher would be beneficial. METHODS Obstetrics and gynaecology (OG an additional 26-28% reported that these situations occurred six or more times. Residents felt it would be helpful to extremely helpful to have training in resolving conflicts that involved patient care (48-59%), as well as in resolving conflict among junior residents, communicating effectively with them and becoming an effective leader (65-78%). CONCLUSIONS The skills that chief residents considered most important to teach junior residents involved direct patient care. Chief residents would like training in how to resolve conflict with, and among, junior residents, and in how to become an effective leader.
Placental progonadotropin-releasing hormone (Pro-GnRH) in the rhesus monkey

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has been shown to play a role in the regulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secretion by the human placenta. Molecular studies have demonstrated that human placental trophoblast cells synthesize a progonadotropin-releasing hormone (pro-GnRH) identical to its human hypothalamic counterpart. However, far less is known about nonhuman primates. To determine whether pro-GnRH exists in the rhesus placenta, pro-GnRH mRNA was cloned, sequenced, and shown to be 97.6% homologous to its human placental counterpart. A single base difference (base 1167) in the domain encoding GnRH results in the same amino acid, arginine, in position 8, whereas four base differences (bases 1200, 1253, 1268, 1292) in the domain encoding GnRH-associated peptide (GAP) result in four different amino acids in positions 19, 37, 42, and 50. The absence of a basic amino acid in position 50 suggests the rhesus sequence may be cleaved to yield GAP peptides different from the human placenta. Thus, these data justify the use of mammalian GnRH in studies of rhesus placental function, but indicate the need to investigate the roles unique GAP peptides may play in placental/uterine function.
Abstract 1903: Up-regulation of vitamin B1 homeostasis genes in breast cancer.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Malignant cells exhibit alterations in metabolic enzymes requiring an adequate supply of cofactors to support enzymatic activity. In particular, Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is an important component of cellular growth and metabolism within all cells, functioning as an essential enzyme cofactor in key metabolic pathways within in the glycolytic network. Intracellular availability of thiamine is facilitated by the activity of thiamine transporters and the conversion of thiamine to the active coenzyme, thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) by thiamine pyrophosphokinase (TPK1). Therefore, the objective was to establish if the cellular determinants regulating thiamine homeostasis differ between breast cancer and normal breast epithelia. This work will aid in linking the metabolic phenotype of cancer cells with the adaptive regulation of thiamine homeostasis. This may provide a molecular basis for dietary interventions and new therapeutic targets directed towards cancer cell metabolism. Methods: cDNA arrays of breast cancer and normal breast tissues were employed to determine expression of SLC19A2, SLC19A3, SLC25A19 and TPK-1. Western blotting was used to determine whole cell protein expression. To test the extent of cell surface localization of the transporters, cell surface proteins were biotinylated and run on Western Blot. Transport assays were used to quantify thiamine transport and free thiamine levels in breast cancer cell lines compared to human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC). Results: SLC19A2, SLC25A19 and TPK-1were found to be significantly up-regulated in clinical tissues and breast cancer cell lines 6.48 (P=0.0013), 5.97 (P=0.0003), and 2.33 (P=0.0063) folds, respectively. Additionally, thiamine transporters THTR1 and THTR2 exhibited different cellular localization and expression depending on the ER status of the cancer cell. The increase in thiamine homeostasis genes correlated with an increase in intracellular free thiamine levels but not with the coenzyme TPP. Conclusions: Overall, these findings demonstrate an adaptive response by breast cancer cells to bolster an increase in the cellular availability of thiamine. Citation Format: Jason Zastre, Brad Hanberry, Rebecca Sweet, Cary McGinnis, Kristen Venuti, Michael Bartlett, Raj Govindarajan. Up-regulation of vitamin B1 homeostasis genes in breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1903. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1903
Collective labor supply with many consumption goods

We extend Chiappori’s (J Polit Econ 100:437–467, 1992) standard, ’collective’ model of labor supply to the case of several consumption goods. We show that more robust estimates obtain. Moreover, individual demands for each commodity, although unobservable, can be recovered up to an additive constant. In particular, the impact of changes in wages, non labor income or distribution factors on individual consumption patterns can be identified even though no individual consumption is observed.
Spanish Vocabulary: An Etymological Approach by BRODSKY, DAVID

The article reviews the book "Spanish Vocabulary: An Etymological Approach," by David Brodsky.
Visualizing Syllables: Real-Time Computerized Feedback Within a Speech–Language Intervention

Computerized technologies now offer unprecedented opportunities to provide real-time visual feedback to facilitate children’s speech–language development. We employed a mixed-method design to examine the effectiveness of two speech–language interventions aimed at facilitating children’s multisyllabic productions: one incorporated a novel computerized feedback system, VocSyl, while the other used a traditional noncomputerized pacing board. Eighteen children with a variety of diagnoses, all of whom were at the single word stage of development, enrolled in either one of the two explicit speech–language interventions (VocSyl or Pacing Board) or an active control group. Convergent findings between and within groups supported the effectiveness of the VocSyl condition. For the children with a clinical diagnosis of autism in particular, visual inspection of individual data on treatment versus control targets indicated positive treatment effects for both of the two children enrolled in the VocSyl condition and one of the two children enrolled in the Pacing Board condition. Although the study does not permit definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of any particular treatment tool or strategy in isolation, it offers preliminary support for the integration of real-time computerized feedback within speech–language intervention.
The Future of Community Corrections Is Now: Stop Dreaming and Take Action

The political, economic, and social context in which community corrections functions makes it extremely difficult to achieve successful outcomes. The current fiscal crisis, however, is forcing chan...
Infectivity of Bacteriophage R17 RNA after Sequential Removal of 3′ Terminal Nucleotides

The 3′ terminal adenylate of R17 RNA can be removed without destroying the infectivity of the RNA. The penultimate cytidylate, however, is required. Progeny molecules from spheroplasts infected with RNA missing the terminal A have the normal 3′ end restored.
PREDICTION OF PREDICTABILITY IN THE MULTIVARIATE CASE

110 Ss who completed Dunnette's Adjective Check List were randomly divided into a developmental sample (N = 58) and a cross-validation sample (N = 52). Ss in the developmental sample were divided into two subgroups by means of Ghiselli's d score technique (difference between standard predictor and criterion scores). Three separate item analyses of the responses of Ss in three separate sets of high d score and low d score subgroups yielded three scales: (a) a univariate predictability scale for assessing predictive accuracy from one variable; (b) a moderator scale for determining which of two predictors would be more accurate for an S; (c) a multivariate predictability scale for assessing predictive accuracy from two predictor variables. The results seem to support the general hypothesis that it is possible to use a performance on a moderator or predictability scale to select a subgroup of Ss for whom correspondence between the predictor(s) and criterion is much greater than that of a subgroup whose scores on the moderator indicate a lesser degree of correspondence. All three scales held up in cross-validation.
Increased revascularization efficacy after administration of an adenovirus encoding VEGF 121

Increased revascularization efficacy after administration of an adenovirus encoding VEGF 121
President Carter's Comprehensive National Urban Policy: Achievements and Lessons Learned

In 1978, President Carter promulgated the first ‘comprehensive’ national urban policy for the USA. The major thrust of the policy was to ameliorate economic and fiscal problems of distressed cities. The policy achieved only modest success, and was quickly swept away by the Reagan Administration. In this paper, the policy is reviewed, and the major factors which limited its success are identified. It is concluded that the major problems were inherent political and substantive barriers to effective urban policy, not fortuitous events or mistakes of the Carter Administration. These inherent problems will likely forestall future US efforts to implement an urban policy. An understanding of the problems is important for policymakers in other nations, particularly European nations which are now facing urban problems similar to those which generated the US effort.
Lexical Composition in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

For sixty-seven children with ASD (age 1;6 to 5;11), mean Total Vocabulary score on the Language Development Survey (LDS) was 65·3 words; twenty-two children had no reported words; and twenty-one children had 1-49 words. When matched for vocabulary size, children with ASD and children in the LDS normative sample did not differ in semantic category or word-class scores. Q correlations were large when percentage use scores for the ASD sample were compared with those for samples of typically developing children as well as children with vocabularies <50 words. The 57 words with the highest percentage use scores for the ASD children were primarily nouns, represented a variety of semantic categories, and overlapped substantially with the words having highest percentage use scores in samples of typically developing children as well as children with lexicons of <50 words. Results indicated that the children with ASD were acquiring essentially the same words as typically developing children, suggesting delayed but not deviant lexical composition.
THE REQUIREMENT FOR DNA SYNTHESIS IN THE GROWTH OF ROUS SARCOMA AND ROUS-ASSOCIATED VIRUSES.

Abstract Antagonists of DNA inhibited the growth of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) and Rous-associated virus (RAV). Actinomycin D and mitomycin D inhibited the growth of both viruses and demonstrated a general involvement of DNA in virus synthesis. A specific requirement for DNA synthesis in virus growth was demonstrated using 5-iododeoxyuridine and cytosine arabinoside. Inhibition of virus growth by 5-iododeoxyuridine was reduced by the presence of thymidine in the medium, and deoxycytidine prevented inhibition by cytosine arabinoside. The requirement for DNA synthesis in the growth of RSV was transitory, which suggests that a viral DNA “primer” is synthesized in infected cells during the growth cycle of RSV.
Testing the Planet Hypothesis: A Search for Variability in the Spectral-Line Shapes of 51 Pegasi

A search for variability in the spectral-line shapes of 51 Pegasi is performed by using high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N > 500), high-resolution (0.035 A) data covering one "orbital" period. We find no evidence for variability in the velocity span of the spectral-line bisectors greater than the error of the measurement (σ ≈ 20 m s-1). It is demonstrated that the lack of strong variations in the bisector velocity span can be used to exclude the presence of nonradial sectoral modes with l ≥ 4. The expected change in the bisector velocity span from low-order (l = 1-3) modes is about 10 m s-1, or one-half the error measurement. Consequently, low-order nonradial pulsations can still account for the observed radial velocity (RV) amplitude and the lack of observed line shape variability. There are also no apparent variations in the equivalent width of a low-excitation V I line measured on three consecutive nights. These measurements place a limit of ΔT = 4 K for any disk-integrated temperature variations of the stellar surface. The projected rotational velocity was also measured using nine spectral lines and assuming a solar-like macroturbulent velocity, yielding a mean value of v sin i = 2.35 ± 0.1 km s-1. This, along with the published rotation period of 37 days, yields a minimum stellar radius of 1.7 R☉. Although the planet hypothesis is still the most likely explanation for the RV variations, this is still not definite. Precise photometric measurements and spectral observations at higher spectral resolution are needed to exclude with certainty the presence of low-order nonradial pulsations in 51 Pegasi.
Rodriguez syndrome with SF3B4 mutation: A severe form of Nager syndrome?

We report on the findings of a novel heterozygous de novo SF3B4 mutation in a long-surviving patient with clinical features of Rodriguez syndrome including severe acrofacial dysostosis, phocomelia with pre- and post-axial limb defects, fibular agenesis, rib, and shoulder girdle anomalies. Since SF3B4 mutations have been recently associated with Nager syndrome, this suggests that at least some cases of Rodriguez syndrome are either allelic to or represent unusually severe manifestations of Nager syndrome. Although clinical overlap is obvious, this is somewhat surprising given the presumed autosomal recessive inheritance of Rodriguez syndrome. Investigation of other Rodriguez syndrome patients is needed to clarify the genetic mechanism and possible heterogeneity in patients with clinical features of Rodriguez syndrome.
Chirped-pulse amplification in XeCl.

By using a 0.25-ps nearly transform-limited pulse and both 16- and 75-ps strongly chirped pulses of the same bandwidth, measurements of the effective saturation fluence (Esat) of a XeCl discharge amplifier have been performed. We find that while Esat for the 16-ps pulse is comparable with that of the 0.25-ps pulse, pulse stretching to a width of 75 ps increases the effective Esat by 35%. However, the measured values of Esat for the 16- and 75-ps pulses are significantly less than would be expected for transform-limited pulses of the same pulse widths. A simple rate-equation model, which takes into account variation of the small-signal gain across the gain bandpass and which assumes that Esat is enhanced for the longer pulse widths only by population decay of the lower electronic state, predicts the measured values of Esat to within the experimental error.
Metamodels for Planar 3R Workspace Optimization

Robotic workspace optimization is a central element of robot system design. To formulate the optimization problem, the complex relationships between design variables, tuning parameters, and performance indices need to be accurately and efficiently represented. The nature of the relationships suggests that metamodels, or models of the models, should be used to derive suitable objective functions. A comparison of two metamodeling techniques for robotic workspace optimization problems for several trial cases suggests that non-uniform rational B-spline models, derived from computer graphics and computer-aided design techniques, are as suitable as response surface models to solve planar 3R workspace optimization problems. Promising nonlinear modeling results with B-spline models suggest future work is justified and performance gains can be realized.
An investigation of radiation from extremely thin planar antennas using characteristic mode analysis

Microstrip antennas are one of the most widely used antennas in wireless applications. Increasing demand for miniaturization means that microstrip antennas not only scale in area but also in thickness. When the microstrip patch is placed in close proximity of the ground plane, most of the energy is stored in the form of parallel plate modes between the two conducting regions. Parallel plate modes store energy between the antenna and the ground plane and lead to the decrease in gain and an increase in cross-polarization levels. Parallel plate modes are thus considered to have a detrimental effect on the radiation characteristics of microstrip antennas. However, if used intelligently, radiation can be encouraged from the parallel plate modes.
Reconsidering the effectiveness and safety of carotid sinus massage as a therapeutic intervention in patients with supraventricular tachycardia.

Abstract Objective The objectives of our investigation were to review the evidence for the efficacy and safety of carotid sinus massage in terminating supraventricular tachycardia and to determine if other potentially less harmful interventions have been established to be safer and more effective. Methods A search using PubMed, Ovid, and COCHRANE databases was performed using the terms supraventricular tachycardia , carotid sinus massage , SVT , and CSM . Articles not written in English were excluded. There was a paucity of randomized controlled trials comparing various supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) interventions. However, articles of highest quality were selected for review and inclusion. In addition, articles examining potential hazards of carotid sinus massage in case report format were reviewed, even when performed for other indications other than SVT, as the maneuver is identically performed. Selected articles were reviewed by both authors for relevance to the topic. Results Summarizing the findings of this review leads to these 3 fundamental conclusions. First, a therapeutic intervention should only be performed when the benefit of the procedure outweighs its risk. Carotid sinus massage exposes the patient to rare but potentially devastating iatrogenic harm. Second, a therapeutic intervention should be efficacious. The efficacy of carotid sinus massage in terminating supraventricular tachycardia appears to be modest at best. Third, other readily available, easily mastered, and potentially safer and more efficacious alternative interventions are available such as Valsalva maneuver and pharmacologic therapy. Conclusion Based on the limited evidence available, we believe that carotid sinus massage should be reconsidered as a first-line therapeutic intervention in the termination of SVT.
Considerations for the Ambulatory Cardiopulmonary Patient as Concerned with Commercial Supersonic Transportation

1. The special characteristics anticipated for SST travel will have little effect on the ability of most stable ambulatory, cardiopulmonary patients to use this type of transportation. 2. Severely impaired patients with obstructive lung disease, such as emphysema, who suffer from reduction in blood oxygenation, respiratory acidosis and/or cor pulmonale, cannot use supplemental oxygen with safety and should be restricted from this means of air travel. 3. Patients with dynamic and changing respiratory functions, such as those with pneumonia or acute asthma, would do best to postpone all travel including use of SST's. 4. Most cardiac patients will have little difficulty traveling on the SST because of the 6,000 feet maximum cabin altitude that is anticipated. 5. Cardiac patients with recent myocardial infarctions, status angina pectoris, or any degree of heart failure also are not candidates for travel of this type. 6. Whereas the flight pattern of these transports probably will require longer “seat belt time” (during which there will be less attendance from the cabin crew) and will have less availability for emergency landing facilities for hospitalization, the flights will be shorter, smoother and, in general, less exhausting to the ambulatory patient. 7. The possible passage over many time zones probably will require the patient to adjust his metabolic (circadian) cycle at his destination and produce some requirement for aid in readjusting his sleeping cycle. 8. In general, therefore, very little readjustment in the physician's approach to the travel of the ambulatory patient is expected with the advent of the SST.
Nanotopographic Biomaterials for Isolation of Circulating Tumor Cells

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) shed from the primary tumor mass and circulating in the bloodstream of patients are believed to be vital to understand of cancer metastasis and progression. Capture and release of CTCs for further enumeration and molecular characterization holds the key for early cancer diagnosis, prognosis and therapy evaluation. However, detection of CTCs is challenging due to their rarity, heterogeneity and the increasing demand of viable CTCs for downstream biological analysis. Nanotopographic biomaterial-based microfluidic systems are emerging as promising tools for CTC capture with improved capture efficiency, purity, throughput and retrieval of viable CTCs. This review offers a brief overview of the recent advances in this field, including CTC detection technologies based on nanotopographic biomaterials and relevant nanofabrication methods. Additionally, the possible intracellular mechanisms of the intrinsic nanotopography sensitive responses that lead to the enhanced CTC capture are explored.
COMMENTS ON DISSERTATIONS SELECTED AS FINALISTS FOR THE GERSCHENKRON PRIZE

I feel especially honored to be handling the Gerschenkron prize for these meetings on the American Century because I have concluded that the Gerschenkron prize is a quintessentially American beast. This may seem an odd statement; the prize is named for a man who was bron in Russia, trained in Austria, and spoke more than a dozen languages. None of these traits sound quintessentially American. But the prize we have named for him reveals some profound national characteristics. To see my point you have to recall that a dissertation is eligible for the Gerschenkron prize only if it is not eligible for the Nevins prize. We often say that the Nevins prize is for North American economic history, but if you check the precise definition it is really for the economic history of the United States and Canada, thus illustrating our characteristically weak grasp of geography. North America, my encyclopedia tells me, includes all the lands north of the Isthmus of Panama. There is a very large country well to the north of Panama and just to the south of the United States, but for some reason dissertations on this country do not qualify for our prize in North American economic history. But the most revealingly American feature of the Gerschenkron prize is the way it is defined as â€œnot American.â€ The prize is not for European, or Latin American, or Asian economic history; it is for the rest of the world, or as one of my uncles would put it, â€œthem foreigners over there.â€
The roles of contour and luminance distribution in determining perceived centers within shapes.

Two sources of visual information that likely could be employed by the perceptual system in locating the centers of bounded shapes—boundary configuration and luminance distribution—have been perfectly confounded in every study thus far aimed at investigating perceived centters. Observers, using either a revolving or stationary x-y plotter, made judgments on the location of centers within either revolving or stationary shapes of both uniform and varied luminance distributions. Results indicate that the location of perceived centers depended predominantly upon boundary contour and was affected by the distribution of luminance within these edges to a much lesser degree.
Glomerular permeability to neutral and anionic dextrans in experimental diabetes

The glomerular filtration of macromolecules such as proteins is dependent upon their size, charge and structure, as well as the pore size and electrostatic properties of the glomerular filtration barrier [1–4]. In addition, renal hemodynamic factors may influence the clearance of macromolecules [5–9]. In patients with recent onset insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), an increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is well documented [10–13]. At this time, urinary excretion of albumin is sometimes greater than normal [14–16] and precedes the appearance of nonselective proteinuria and glomerular sclerosis by many years. In experimental diabetes mellitus, an increase in urinary albumin excretion has also been demonstrated [17–19]. In both human IDDM and experimental diabetes mellitus it is possible that this increased urinary albumin excretion is a result of hemodynamic alterations and/or changes in the functional characteristics of the filtration barrier. The clearance of a polydispersed population of neutral and anionic dextrans was measured to evaluate the influence that experimental diabetes mellitus may have on the hemodynamic and structural determinants of the glomerular filtration of macromolecules. Two variations of alloxan-induced diabetes in the rat were evaluated: untreated diabetes and insulin-supplemented diabetes mellitus. Depressed renal function was observed after 3 months of untreated diabetes and included decreases in both superficial nephron GFR and plasma flow without evidence of intravascular volume depletion [20]. In contrast, after 3 months of insulin-supplemented diabetes, superficial nephron GFR and plasma flow were increased. These two diabetic models were used to evaluate the permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier to neutral and anionic dextrans.
WE‐C‐204B‐05: Real‐Time Volumetric Image Reconstruction and 3D Tumor Localization Based on a Single X‐Ray Projection Image during Lung Cancer Radiotherapy

Purpose: To develop an algorithm for real‐time volumetric image reconstruction and 3D tumor localization based on a single x‐ray projection image in a non‐invasive, accurate, and efficient way for lungcancerradiotherapy.Method and Materials: Given a 4DCT or 4DCBCT as the training data, we perform deformable image registration between a reference phase and all the other phases. The deformation vector fields (DVF) are parameterized efficiently by principal component analysis (PCA). Then we optimize the DVF applied to the reference image by adapting the PCA coefficients such that the DRR of the deformed image matches the acquired x‐ray projection. The inherent regularization of PCA model allows us to reconstruct the volumetric image and localize the tumor in 3D space with a single projection. A realistic and dynamic mathematical phantom was used to validate the algorithm. Results: We generated a dynamic phantom consisting of 60 phases with a 50% increase in breathing amplitude compared with training data. We simulated cone beam projections at all angles with spacing of 1° resulting in 360 projections. The average relative 3D image reconstruction error is 7.5% ± 2.4%. The average 3D tumor localization error is 0.9 mm ± 0.5 mm. We implemented our algorithm on an NVIDIA C1060 GPU. The computation time for each projection is achieved in less than 0.6 seconds (between 0.32 and 0.55 seconds depending on the extent of deformation). Conclusion: We have shown the feasibility of reconstructing volumetric image and localizing tumor in 3D in near real‐time using a single x‐ray image. Further speedup may be achieved by better parameter initialization (e.g., using the previous frame in fluoroscopy) and GPU code optimization. Validation on patient data is under way. Clinical application can potentially lead to accurate 3D tumor tracking from a single imager.
Understanding the richness of brand relationships: Research dialogue on brands as intentional agents

Abstract This essay offers some perspectives on Kervyn et al.'s insightful research on brand relationships and the role of perceived intentions and ability. After briefly discussing the importance of brand knowledge and functionality in understanding the diversity of brand relationships, some other antecedents and consequences of brand relationships are reviewed. Three antecedents of corporate credibility — expertise, trust, and likability — are suggested as another means to differentiate how consumers view different brands. Brand resonance — an intense, active loyalty relationship — is also suggested as an important outcome of brand relationships. The essay concludes by noting that any concept as complex as brand relationships lends itself to multiple concepts, perspectives, and analysis.
Sosa on knowledge, justification, and aptness

L'A. examine la position epistemologique de Sosa en ce qui concerne ses rapports avec le fiabilisme. Il discute certaines de ses conclusions
Transneuronal changes in the gracile nucleus.

The gracile nucleus was studied in the monkey and man with light microscopic methods after lesions to the posterior columns. The medullas from six autopsy cases were studied; four of these were from patients who had survived spinal cord transections for periods of 2, 22, 41 days, and 22 years. The deafferented gracile neurons did not show changes in Nissl substance, in neurofibrillar patterns, or in nuclear structure that could be directly related to posterior column denervation. Neuron counts of the gracile nucleus were made in one case of a T9 spinal transection of 22 years standing and yielded figures not significantly different from those established by systematic counts in other human autopsy material in which CNS lesions were not present. In the monkey, the neuronal population of the gracile nucleus did not change as a result of posterior column transection. In cases of six months standing, the denervated neurons showed a 25% decrease in mean cell body area and about a 20% decrease in mean nuclear area. About 1% of the neurons on the operated side appeared darker in reduced silver preparations than any of the gracile neurons from the unoperated side.
Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with patellar tendon

Abstract Patellar tendon has been widely used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate deficient knee. The technique involvesharvesting the central third of the patellar tendon, or using a patellar tendon allograft. Attention to detail regarding appropriate tunnel placement is essential. Interference screw fixation provides an immediately stable and rigidly fixed graft. It is necessary to avoid lateral wall or roof encroachment on the patellar tendon graft and to avoid the pitfalls of excessive anterior placement of the femoral and tibial tunnels in order to achieve an optimum result. Rigid fixation of the graft allows immediate aggressive rehabilitation.
Sickle cell disease: old discoveries, new concepts, and future promise

The discovery of the molecular basis of sickle cell disease was an important landmark in molecular medicine. The modern tools of molecular and cellular biology have refined our understanding of its pathophysiology and facilitated the development of new therapies. In this review, we discuss some of the important advances in this field and the impediments that limit the impact of these advances.
Improving physical activity in arthritis clinical trial (IMPAACT): Study design, rationale, recruitment, and baseline data

Over 21 million Americans report an arthritis-attributable activity limitation. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are two of the most common/disabling forms of arthritis. Various forms of physical activity (PA) can improve a variety of health outcomes and reduce health care costs, but the proportion of the US population engaging in the recommended amount of PA is low and even lower among those with arthritis. The Improving Motivation for Physical Activity in Arthritis Clinical Trial (IMPAACT) is a randomized clinical trial that studied the effects of a lifestyle PA promotion intervention on pain and physical function outcomes. The IMPAACT intervention was based on a chronic care/disease management model in which allied health professionals promote patient self-management activities outside of traditional physician office encounters. The program was a motivational interviewing-based, individualized counseling and referral intervention, directed by a comprehensive assessment of individual patient barriers and strengths related to PA performance. The specific aims of IMPAACT were to test the efficacy of the IMPAACT intervention for persons with arthritis (N=185 persons with RA and 155 persons with knee OA) in improving arthritis-specific and generic self-reported pain and Physical Function outcomes, observed measures of function, and objectively measured and self-reported PA levels. Details of the stratified-randomized study design, subject recruitment, and data collection are described. The results from IMPAACT will generate empiric evidence pertaining to increasing PA levels in persons with arthritis and result in widely applicable strategies for health behavior change.
Cryptogenic cirrhosis and posttransplantation nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Some patients diagnosed with cryptogenic cirrhosis may have "burned-out" nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFL). To test this hypothesis, we used our liver transplant database (November 1984 to November 1998) to assess the incidence of NAFL in patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). We also examined the clinicodemographic features associated with post-OLT NAFL, obtained by chart review and telephone interviews. When available, post-OLT liver biopsy specimens were reviewed blindly by a hepatopathologist according to the NAFL pathology protocol. We identified 51 patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis (mean age, 51 +/- 12 years); 60% were women, 94% were white, and 34% had type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Mean pre-OLT body mass index (BMI) was 27.33 +/- 5.54 kg/m(2). Twenty-five patients underwent at least 1 post-OLT liver biopsy. Post-OLT NAFL was identified in 13 patients (25.4%), whereas post-OLT nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was seen in 8 patients (15.7%). Features associated with post-OLT NASH were pre- and post-OLT type 2 DM (P < or =.05) and an elevated fasting triglyceride level (P <.05). BMI tended to be greater in patients with post-OLT NAFL or NASH. Those who did not develop post-OLT NAFL showed a decrease in BMI. Patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis undergoing OLT resemble patients with NAFL. Post-OLT NAFL and NASH can be seen in a number of patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis. This supports the notion that some cases of cryptogenic cirrhosis represent burned-out NAFL.
Mycotoxin immunoassays (with special reference to elisas)

Abstract Immunoassays are now in routine use for analysis of mycotoxins. This paper presents background information on antibody production and on immunoassay formats, particularly the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Applications of immunoassay technology to determination of aflatoxins, trichothecenes, ochratoxin A and others are reviewed and their performance discussed.
Genetic evidence for a phosphorylation-independent signal transduction mechanism within the Bacillus subtilis stressosome

The stressosome is a 1.8 MDa cytoplasmic complex that controls diverse bacterial signaling pathways. Its role is best understood in Bacillus subtilis, where it activates the σB transcription factor in response to a variety of sharp environmental challenges, including acid, ethanol, heat or salt stress. However, details of the signaling mechanism within the stressosome remain uncertain. The core of the complex comprises one or more members of the RsbR co-antagonist family together with the RsbS antagonist protein, which binds the RsbT kinase in the absence of stress. As part of the response, RsbT first phosphorylates the RsbRA co-antagonist on T171 and then RsbS on S59; this latter event correlates with the stress-induced release of RsbT to activate downstream signaling. Here we examine the in vivo consequence of S59 phosphorylation in a model strain whose stressosome core is formed solely with the RsbRA co-antagonist and RsbS. A phosphorylation-deficient S59A substitution in RsbS blocked response to mild stress but had declining impact as stress increased: with strong ethanol challenge response with S59A was 60% as robust as with wild type RsbS. Genetic analysis narrowed this S59-independent activation to the stressosome and established that significant signaling still occurred in a strain bearing both the T171A and S59A substitutions. We infer that S59 phosphorylation increases signaling efficiency but is not essential, and that a second (or underlying) mechanism of signal transduction prevails in its absence. This interpretation nullifies models in which stressosome signaling is solely mediated by control of RsbT kinase activity toward S59.
Hyperbranched aryl polycarbonates derived from A2B monomers versus AB2 monomers

Hyperbranched aryl polycarbonates were prepared via the polymerizations of A2B and AB2 monomers, which involved the condensation of chloroformate (A) functionalities with tert-butyldimethylsilyl-protected phenols (B), facilitated by reactions with silver fluoride. The polymerization of the A2B monomer gave hyperbranched polycarbonates bearing fluoroformate chain ends, which were hydrolyzed to phenolic chain-end moieties and further elaborated to tert-butyldimethylsilyl ether groups. The polymerization of the AB2 monomer gave tert-butyldimethylsilyl ether-terminated hyperbranched polycarbonates. The polymerizations were conducted at 23–70 °C in 20% acetonitrile/tetrahydrofuran in the presence of a stoichiometric excess of silver fluoride for 20–40 h to afford hyperbranched polycarbonates with weight-average molecular weights exceeding 100,000 Da and polydispersity indices of typically 2–3. The degrees of branching were determined by a reductive degradation procedure followed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Alternatively, the degrees of branching were measurable by solution-state 1H NMR analyses and agreed with the statistical 50% branching expected for the polymerization of A2B and AB2 monomers not experiencing constructive or destructive electronic effects on the reactivity of the multiple functional groups. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 823–835, 2002; DOI 10.1002/pola.10167
Evaporation of a liquid droplet on a hot plate

Abstract The evaporation of a small liquid droplet impinging on a hot stainless steel plate is investigated. The liquids include water, various pure and mixed hydrocarbon fuels with drop sizes ranging from 0.07 to 1.8 mm. The wall temperatures varying from 63 to 605°C cover the entire spectrum of heat transfer characteristics from film evaporation (below boiling temperature) to spheroidal vaporization (above Leidenfrost temperature). A strobe-video visual system is used to record the transient process and to measure the droplet lifetime. Qualitatively, the droplet lifetime curve as a function of wall temperature is similar for all liquids and all drop sizes. The maximum heat transfer rate occurs at 50–60°C above the boiling temperature for all pure liquids and the Leidenfrost heat transfer rate occurs at about 120°C for pure fuels and 180°C for water above the boiling temperature. The maximum evaporation rate can significantly exceed the burning rate of fuel droplets. Visual observations show that beyond the maximum heat transfer point, larger droplets levitate above the surface whereas smaller droplets bounce up and down to many diameters above the surface. Thus for the smallest droplets beyond the Leidenfrost temperature, the droplet lifetime actually increases with wall temperature which is in contrast to the larger droplets. The maximum heat transfer rate is independent of drop sizes for all fuels and shows a small decrease with increasing drop sizes in the case of water. At the Leidenfrost temperature, the data show that the heat transfer rate is maximum at a droplet diameter of approximately 0.5 mm.
Polymorphism in the structure of the yeast mitochondrial tRNA synthesis locus

Yeast mitochondrial DNA contains a genetic locus, called the tRNA synthesis locus, which codes for information necessary for mitochondrial tRNA biosynthesis. A 9S RNA molecule coded by this locus is thought to be the trans-acting element required for the removal of 5' extensions from tRNA precursors. The DNA coding for this RNA maps to a region of mitochondrial DNA known to contain strain specific restriction site polymorphisms. Comparison of the tRNA synthesis locus in two such strains by sequence analysis demonstrates that the restriction enzyme polymorphisms are due to the deletion/insertion of a 50 base pair GC-rich element in the 5' flanking sequence of the 9S RNA coding region. There are also several differences between the 9S RNA coding region of these two strains which do not interfere with the tRNA synthesis function.
Integrating Six Sigma Concepts in an MBA Quality Management Class.

Instructors face enormous challenges in presenting effective instruction on concepts and tools of quality management. Most textbooks focus on presenting individual concepts or tools and fail to address complex issues confronted in real-world problem-solving situations. The supplementary use of cases does not help students to understand the dynamic challenges that professionals encounter in organizational settings. In this article, the authors describe an approach used to direct students through Six Sigma process improvement projects at local companies to reinforce the students' classroom experience. These projects provide excellent tools for enhancing learning and strengthening the bonds between universities and business communities.
Interacting dark resonances with metallic nano-antennas

We theoretically investigate interacting dark resonances in a plasmonic meta-molecule comprising a bright nano-antenna coupled to cascaded dark elements. This structure enables efficient energy transfer and exhibits sub-natural spectral response analogous to the atomic counterpart.
Who Evaluates and Counsels Related Donors

When a related family member donor is seen at your institution for assessment and counseling prior to allogeneic transplantation, who evaluates and counsels the donor? (If a nurse or physician's assistant does the primary evaluation and counseling, please indicate the physician overseeing the evaluation.)
Canonical representation of certain optimal control problems

Abstract Certain nonlinear optimal control problems on a manifold can be represented in terms of a switchable family of regulated paths in the space of continuously differentiable vector fields. The methods also yield a theorem on the Dieudonne-Albrecht integrability conditions for non-autonomous first order differential equations on a Banach space.