cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coast Guard applications of NEC

Over the past thirty some years, computational electromagnetics has grown from an infant to a mature disciple. The Numerical Electromagnetics Code (NEC) has played a significant role in providing antenna engineers with a capability unimagined just forty years ago. Within the US Coast Guard, the use of computational electromagnetics has paralleled this same development. The growth of computational electromagnetics applications in the Coast Guard community is presented chronologically.
Seasonal variations along auroral field lines: Measurements from the Polar spacecraft

[1] Measurements from the Polar electric field instrument are used to study large electric fields and the ambient plasma density as a function of altitude (1.8–6.0 RE geocentric). Results from the premidnight sector (1800–2400 MLT) along auroral field lines show roughly a fourfold increase in the occurrence of small scale size, large amplitude electric fields (>100 mV m−1) at altitudes from 1.9 to 2.5 RE for dark compared to sunlit ionospheric conditions. Density values inferred from spacecraft potential measurements show these electric fields to be correlated with low plasma densities (0.2 to 3.0 cm−3). An increase in the average plasma density from 10 to 60 cm−3 is also observed for sunlit compared to dark conditions for the same altitude range. In addition, the distribution of density measurements from 1.9 to 2.2 RE also show evidence for an increase in cold ionospheric plasma (from ∼30 to 60 cm−3) for sunlit compared to dark ionospheric conditions.
Analysis and Suppression of Base Separation in the Casting of a Cylindrical Ingot

This paper presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of the influence of cooling conditions on base separation, void formation, and thermally induced stresses during the solidification of a high Prandtl number energetic melt in a cylindrical enclosure. Numerical models have been developed to simulate the heat and mass transfer processes in melt casting as well as analyze the base separation and thermal stresses induced during solidification. Two models are dynamically coupled, and the numerical predictions are validated against experiments. Based on the numerical analysis, modified cooling conditions are suggested that are shown to reduce base separation.
The nature of nature: Rethinking naturalistic theories of intentionality

Abstract While there is controversy over which of several naturalistic theories of the mental is most plausible, there is consensus regarding the desideratum of a naturalistically respectable theory. A naturalistic theory of the mental, it is agreed, must explicate representation in nonintentional terms. I argue that this constraint does not get at the heart of what it is to be natural. On the one hand, it fails to provide us with a meaningful distinction between the natural and the unnatural. On the other hand, it unfairly suggests that we withhold judgment on those successes our sciences of the mind have already achieved until a convincing decomposition of the mental is available. I urge a new conception of naturalism that focuses less upon ontological considerations and more upon methodological ones.
Katalytische enantioselektive vinyloge Aldolreaktionen

Im Jahre 1935 formulierte R. C. Fuson das Prinzip der Vinylogie, um zu erklaren, wie sich der Einfluss einer funktionellen Gruppe an einer entfernten Position im Molekul bemerkbar macht, wenn diese uber konjugierte Doppelbindungen mit der Gruppe verbunden ist. In polaren Reaktionen ermoglicht dieses Konzept die Erweiterung des elektrophilen oder nucleophilen Charakters einer funktionellen Gruppe uber das π-System einer Kohlenstoff-Kohlenstoff-Doppelbindung. Diese vinyloge Erweiterung fuhrt im Fall der Aldolreaktion zum Einsatz “erweiterter” Dienolether, die von γ-enolisierbaren α,β-ungesattigten Carbonylverbindungen abgeleitet sind. Seit 1994 sind einige Methoden fur die katalytische enantioselektive vinyloge Aldolreaktion beschrieben worden, mit denen man unterschiedliche Regio- (Orts-), Enantio- und Diastereoselektivitaten erzielen kann. In diesem Aufsatz werden die Bandbreite und die Einschrankungen dieser Transformation sowie ihre Anwendung in der Naturstoffsynthese diskutiert.
Some algebraic aspects of decomposed non-coherent structure functions

Non-coherent structure functions can be decomposed into coherent structure functions. The algebra necessary to manipulate a mixture of special coherent structure functions consists both of the underlying Boolean algebra of structure functions and the Abelian structure group that we introduce.
The importance of early morning local overpass times for BRDF retrieval, modeling of spectral reflectance and fAPAR estimation

Blueprints for near-future moderate resolution satellite-borne sensor systems such as the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) sensor on the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) do not include plans to ensure that land surface observations are made from an early morning (AM) orbit (07:30-08:30 local time) as well as in the afternoon (PM), and current spaceborne sensors designed to sample the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) achieve this by off-nadir viewing with a small range of solar zenith angles (SZA). This may limit the utility of current and future systems in important Earth observation applications such as estimating the fraction of absorbed photosynthetically-active radiation (fAPAR). The lack of observations at 50/spl deg/ < SZA < 70/spl deg/ may only be partly offset by the 09:30 orbit foreseen for EUMETSAT's METOP satellite, to carry a third generation Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR). Here existing AVHRR data are used to examine the likely impact of inverting models with observations at a small range of Sun angles.
EFFECTIVE COMPUTATIONAL REUSE FOR ENERGY EVALUATIONS IN PROTEIN FOLDING

Predicting native conformations using computational protein models requires a large number of energy evaluations even with simplified models such as hydrophobic-hydrophilic (HP) models. Clearly, energy evaluations constitute a significant portion of computational time. We hypothesize that given the structured nature of algorithms that search for candidate conformations such as stochastic methods, energy evaluation computations can be cached and reused, thus saving computational time and effort. In this paper, we present a caching approach and apply it to 2D triangular HP lattice model. We provide theoretical analysis and prediction of the expected savings from caching as applied this model. We conduct experiments using a sophisticated evolutionary algorithm that contains elements of local search, memetic algorithms, diversity replacement, etc. in order to verify our hypothesis and demonstrate a significant level of savings in computational effort and time that caching can provide.
Accountability and Abuses of Power in World Politics

Debates about globalization have centered on calls to improve accountability to limit abuses of power in world politics. How should we think about global accountability in the absence of global democracy? Who should hold whom to account and according to what standards? Thinking clearly about these questions requires recognizing a distinction, evident in theories of accountability at the nation-state level, between “participation” and “delegation” models of accountability. The distinction helps to explain why accountability is so problematic at the global level and to clarify alternative possibilities for pragmatic improvements in accountability mechanisms globally. We identify seven types of accountability mechanisms and consider their applicability to states, NGOs, multilateral organizations, multinational corporations, and transgovernmental networks. By disaggregating the problem in this way, we hope to identify opportunities for improving protections against abuses of power at the global level.
Application of quantitative estimates of fecal hemoglobin concentration for risk prediction of colorectal neoplasia.

AIM: To determine the role of the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), used to evaluate fecal hemoglobin concentration, in the prediction of histological grade and risk of colorectal tumors. METHODS: We enrolled 17881 individuals who attended the two-step colorectal cancer screening program in a single hospital between January 2010 and October 2011. Colonoscopy was recommended to the participants with an FIT of ≥ 12 ngHb/mL buffer. We classified colorectal lesions as cancer (C), advanced adenoma (AA), adenoma (A), and others (O) by their colonoscopic and histological findings. Multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for age and gender was used to determine the association between the FIT results and colorectal tumor grade. The risk of adenomatous neoplasia was estimated by calculating the positive predictive values for different FIT concentrations. RESULTS: The positive rate of the FIT was 10.9% (1948/17881). The attendance rate for colonoscopy was 63.1% (1229/1948). The number of false positive results was 23. Of these 1229 cases, the numbers of O, A, AA, and C were 759, 221, 201, and 48, respectively. Regression analysis revealed a positive association between histological grade and FIT concentration (β = 0.088, P 0.95, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Higher FIT concentrations are associated with more advanced histological grades. Risk prediction for colorectal neoplasia based on individual FIT concentrations is significant and may help to improve the performance of screening programs.
Analysis of CA-CFAR processors for linear-law detection

A method for evaluating the performance of cell-averaging constant false alarm rate (CA-CFAR) processors which use the amplitude of echo signals rather than their squared amplitude is presented. Results for the case of Rayleigh clutter/noise statistics are given. Detection probabilities are evaluated for the case of a Rayleigh fluctuating target embedded in Rayleigh clutter/noise for linear-law CA-CFAR processors. These results are observed to be practically identical to those of square-law CA-CFAR processors for which analytical expressions are readily available. These observations are verified using Monte Carlo simulations. The same conclusion is reached in the case of a nonfluctuating target embedded in Rayleigh clutter/noise for which only simulation results are presented. >
Dynamic selection of models under time constraints

The creation of an appropriate model to use for a specific task involves determining the appropriate assumptions to simplify a more complex base model. The author presents a conceptual framework for organizing a series of models that are derived with simplifying assumptions, and a decision-theoretic model-based method to determine the optimal model to select under a time constraint. He then discusses a heuristic approach to the dynamic selection of models under time constraints. He illustrates this approach by describing how it can be applied to an application to reason about physiologic abnormalities of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) who are being treated with a mechanical breathing device (ventilator). >
The effectiveness of manual and mechanical instrumentation for the retreatment of three different root canal filling materials.

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the Mtwo R (Sweden & Martina, Padova, Italy), ProTaper retreatment files (Dentsply-Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), and a Hedstrom manual technique in the removal of three different filling materials (gutta-percha, Resilon [Resilon Research LLC, Madison, CT], and EndoRez [Ultradent Products Inc, South Jordan, UT]) during retreatment. Ninety single-rooted straight premolars were instrumented and randomly divided into 9 groups of 10 teeth each (n = 10) with regards to filling material and instrument used. For all roots, the following data were recorded: procedural errors, time of retreatment, apically extruded material, canal wall cleanliness through optical stereomicroscopy (OSM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A linear regression analysis and three logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the level of significance set at p = 0.05. The results indicated that the overall regression models were statistically significant. The Mtwo R, ProTaper retreatment files, and Resilon filling material had a positive impact in reducing the time for retreatment. Both ProTaper retreatment files and Mtwo R showed a greater extrusion of debris. For both OSM and SEM logistic regression models, the root canal apical third had the greatest impact on the score values. EndoRez filling material resulted in cleaner root canal walls using OSM analysis, whereas Resilon filling material and both engine-driven NiTi rotary techniques resulted in less clean root canal walls according to SEM analysis. In conclusion, all instruments left remnants of filling material and debris on the root canal walls irrespective of the root filling material used. Both the engine-driven NiTi rotary systems proved to be safe and fast devices for the removal of endodontic filling material.
Defining association between sleep apnea syndrome and erectile dysfunction.

Abstract Objectives To conduct a study using validated sexual function and sleepiness inventories to define whether sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is associated with erectile dysfunction and whether any correlation exists between the severity of SAS and the severity of erectile dysfunction. Previous work has suggested that sleep disorders are associated with erectile dysfunction. Methods Men presenting to a sleep clinic with symptoms consistent with SAS were given the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and an erectile dysfunction risk factor inventory, the International Index of Erectile Function. A database was constructed and statistical analysis conducted to define the correlation between the two entities. Results A total of 50 men met the criteria for inclusion. Of the 50 men, 60% had abnormal Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores and 80% of these patients had erectile dysfunction as determined by inventory scores compared with 20% of the men with normal Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores. There were statistically significant differences between men with normal and abnormal sleepiness scores for the total and erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function. The correlation between the severity of the sleepiness and the severity of erectile dysfunction was good ( r = −0.80, P = 0.012). Conclusions Men presenting with symptoms consistent with SAS have a significant risk of erectile dysfunction, and the correlation between the severity of sleep apnea and the severity of erectile dysfunction is strong.
Paleocene faulting within the Beaufort Group, Atlantic Coastal Plain, North Carolina

Postrift faulting in the Atlantic Coastal Plain of the eastern United States is a focus of several recent studies, particularly because of seismic activity associated with areas such as Charleston, South Carolina (earthquake of 1886). Understanding the ancient behavior of fault systems can contribute to increased awareness of earthquake potential where traditional mechanisms of earthquake activity are poorly understood. In the coastal plain of eastern North Carolina, the Graingers wrench zone, a more recently active northeast- southwest–trending fault system, overprints a Paleocene east-west fault trend and preserves evidence of episodic activity during Mesozoic and Cenozoic time. The western border of the Graingers basin is coincident with a northeast-southwest–oriented feature delineated on aeromagnetic and gravity maps. This northeast-southwest–trending western border fault records movement that initially occurred during the Paleozoic, was reactivated during the Triassic–Jurassic and the Cretaceous (Cenomanian and Maastrichtian), and has been active into the Holocene. Paleocene deformation records a shift in motion from the northeast-southwest trend to the east-west. This shift in direction controls the present-day distribution of early to late Paleocene strata of the Beaufort Group. Stratigraphic relationships between the Paleocene and underlying Cretaceous units suggest that the fault zone propagated to the southwest during the late Danian–Selandian and into the Selandian–Thanetian. Post-Paleocene activity of the northeast-southwest–trending faults exhibited a down-to-the-east displacement pattern and appears to have a minor component of strike slip, which may offset the older east-west–trending structures. Preservation of topographic features, such as a fault-line scarp with as much as 13 m of relief, triangular facets, and extensive ravinement normal to the scarp orientation, suggest Holocene movement on the faults. Historical records indicate seismicity in the area during the latter part of the nineteenth century. The combined northeast-southwest and east-west fabric has geometry similar to those of fault zones in Georgia and seismically active areas of South Carolina. The faults that affect the area were probably formed by interaction of the Neuse hinge and the Roanoke Island–Goldsboro fault, which border the Graingers basin to the south and north, respectively. Differential movement on these larger structures may be the result of compression caused by changes in direction of motion of the North American plate.
Laser-Induced Unimolecular Reactions

The vibrational energy levels of a diatomic molecule are schematically shown in Fig.l. Due to anharmonicity they are not evenly spaced as they would be for a strictly harmonic oscillator. It is clear that the nearly even spacing is advantageous in reaching high vibrational excitation. For monochromatic excitation below the resonant frequency for the fundamental vibrational transition, the energy mismatch from real intermediate states is much smaller than in the electronic case. Nevertheless, the power level required for monochromatic radiation to excite a diatomic molecule, such as HF, to a level with fourteen vibrational quanta close to the dissociation limit is very high. It would be difficult to avoid dielectric breakdown of the gas. In fact, dissociation of a diatomic molecule by monochromatic infrared radiation has not been convincingly demonstrated. Perhaps some emphasis is needed to say that the interest is here focused on collisionless mechanisms. One can, of course, heat a molecular vapor to sufficiently high temperature so that collisionally induced dissociation sets in. It is possible to reach such temperatures by one-photon absorption processes in a c.w. laser beam, if the frequency corresponds to a strong absorption line of the molecular species.
Detecting epistatic genetic variance with a clonally replicated design: models for low- vs high-order nonallelic interaction

A quantitative genetic model, that uses known family structure with clonal replicates to separate genetic variance into its additive, dominance and epistatic components, is available in the current literature. Making use of offspring testing, this model is based on the theory that components of variance from the linear model of an experimental design may be expressed in terms of expected covariances among relatives. However, if interactions between a pair of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) explain a large proportion of the total epistasis, it will seriously overestimate the additive and dominance variances but underestimate the epistatic variance. In the present paper, a new model is developed to manipulate this problem by combining parental and offspring material into the same test. Under the condition described above, the new model can provide an accurate estimate for additive x additive variances. Also, its accuracy in estimating dominance and total epistatic variances is much greater than the accuracy of the previous model. However, if there is obvious evidence showing the major contribution of high-order interactions, especially among ≥ 4QTLs, to the total epistasis, the previous model is more appropriate to partition the genetic variance for a quantitative trait. The re-analysis of an example from a factorial mating design in poplar shows large differences in estimating variance components between the new and previous models when two different assumptions (lowvs high-order epistatic interactions) are used. The new model will be an alternative to estimating the mode of quantitative inheritance for species, especially for longlived, predominantly outcrossing forest trees, that can be clonally replicated.
Analysis of the joint probability density function of the inventory in a two machine two buffer transfer line with unreliable machines

The behavior of the inventory for a transfer line with more than one production stage and with failure prone machines is analyzed. The general results are applied to a transfer line with two unreliable machines and two buffers. In this situation, the first machine is never starved but the second machine can be blocked. First, the partial differential equations that describe the evolution of the joint probability density functions of the inventory in each buffer of the transfer line operating under a buffer hedging point policy are derived. Then the problem is classified according to different assumptions on the way the machines fail and their relative maximum production rates. Finally, the partial differential equations are solved using a spatial approximation of the state space that preserves the characteristic lines of the inventory evolution. The numerical solution is then used to derive an estimation for the size of the buffer of finished parts that minimizes an objective function that penalizes part surplus and backlogs. >
The Next Upsurge: Labor and the New Social Movements

A review is presented of the book “The Next Upsurge: Labor and the New Social Movements,” by Dan Clawson.
An Exploration of the Use of Occupational Language in School-Based Occupational Therapy Documentation.

The purpose of this study was to explore the use of occupation-based terminology in the documentation of school-based occupational therapists. A retrospective qualitative analysis of school-based documents using a priori codes was completed. Analysis included 33 Individual Educational Program (IEP) documents and 118 OT goals. Analyses showed that school-based practitioners are using occupation-based terminology to guide assessment, intervention processes, and goals 53.6% of the time. The findings suggest that occupational therapists are conforming to the educational environment and underutilizing the construct of occupation in school-based documentation.
Tumor-directed PET imaging of metastases in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) using Zr-89 labeled antiprostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) antibody J591.

25 Background: There is no standard imaging modality that specifically and accurately images prostate cancer metastases, hampering assessments of tumor distribution, prognostication, and response. J591 is a humanized antibody that targets the external domain of PSMA, which is copiously expressed in metastatic disease and upregulated in mCRPC. We have previously reported on the feasibility, and PK and biodistribution properties of Zr-89-J591 in 10 patients (Morris et al, GU ASCO 2013). We now report on the targeting/accuracy in 49 patients with mCRPC. Methods: Following standard CT/MRI, bone scintigraphy, and FDG PET imaging, 5 mCi of Zr-89-J591 was administered intravenously. Zr-89-J591 was imaged 6-8 days after injection. Positive scan findings were confirmed, where possible, with biopsies in the following preference: Zr-89-J591 and FDG positivity, then Zr-89-J591 and FDG mismatch, and lastly standard imaging and any PET mismatch. Results: A total of 535 unique bone lesions in 49 patients were identified...
Accuracy and Validity of Goniometer and Visual Assessments of Angular Joint Positions of the Hand and Wrist

Purpose To compare goniometric and visual assessments of angular hand joint and wrist joint positions measured by board-certified hand surgeons and certified hand therapists. We hypothesized that visual estimation would be similar to the goniometric measurement accuracy of digital and wrist joint positions. Methods The wrist, index finger metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, and index finger proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint were evaluated in different positions by 40 observers: 20 board-certified hand surgeons and 20 certified hand therapists. Each observer estimated the position of the wrist, index MCP joint, and index PIP joint of the same volunteer, who was positioned in low-profile orthoses to reproduce predetermined positions. Following visual estimation, the participants measured the same joint positions using a goniometer. The control measurement was digitally determined by a radiologist who obtained radiographs of the hand and wrist positions in each orthosis. Observers were blinded to the results of control measurements. Results When considering all joints at all positions, neither visual assessments nor goniometer assessments were consistently within ± 5° of the measurements obtained on control radiographs. When considering individual joints, goniometer measurements were significantly closer to control radiograph measurements than the visual assessments for all 3 PIP joint positions. There was no difference for the measurements at the wrist or for 2 of the 3 MCP joint positions. Significant differences between surgeon and therapist joint angle measurements were not observed when comparing visual and goniometer assessments to radiograph controls. Conclusions Compared with radiograph measurements, neither visual nor goniometer assessment displayed high levels of accuracy. On average, visual assessment of the angular positions of the index MCP and wrist joint were as accurate as the goniometer assessment, whereas goniometer assessment of the angular position of the PIP joint was more accurate than visual assessment. There was a relatively high degree of between-observer variability in measurements, and therefore, no one person's measurements could be consistently relied upon to be accurate. Type of study/level of evidence Diagnostic II.
Partnering to Build a Pantry: A University Campus Responds to Student Food Insecurity

ABSTRACTThe current economic climate negatively affects college students’ ability to pay higher education costs. Rising costs, including tuition and living expenses, coupled with the decreased buying power of federal aid, may create financial difficulty for students. One consequence may be food insecurity. This article details the cross-campus partnership efforts of one university to establish a campus food pantry to serve students. The process of establishing a pantry including assessing food insecurity on campus, fund-raising, creating pantry policies, and recruiting and training volunteers are discussed. Lessons learned about pantry usage, and ways to improve operations are also presented.
Amorphous-crystalline mineral changes during endochondral and periosteal bone formation.

SummaryQuantitative x-ray diffraction analyses of histological tissue zones representing progressive stages of endochondral and periosteal bone formation reveal that both amorphous and apatitic calcium phosphate salts appear throughout the entire mineralization process. The amorphous-crystalline mineral sequence exhibited by these tissue zones suggests that calcification in both cartilage and bone may entail an initial deposition of amorphous calcium phosphate followed by the conversion of this kinetically metastable, non-crystalline mineral phase to crystalline apatite.
The Impact of Religion in Central America: A Bibliographical Essay

Prior to the last two decades most scholars paid little attention to the Central American Catholic Church, viewing it in general as little more than a benevolent arm of the elite power structure or as an anachronistic institution intent on regaining privileges it lost during the nineteenth-century Liberal reforms. Traditionally conservative, its sacerdotal leadership had long accepted without question the medieval notions of church-state cooperation and social inequality. Such a mentality had led to a paternalistic approach to the poor. Rejecting as un-Christian all concepts of class conflict, the church believed the lower classes should be patient and ought not take it upon themselves to attempt to better their own condition. Instead, a well- ordered society was seen as a cooperative, top-down venture in which the upper class worked with the church to ameliorate the condition of the masses.
Ultrastructural and cytochemical features of mammalian skeletal muscle fibres following denervation.

After denervation, the usual cytochemical criteria for identifying fibre types in mammalian skeletal muscle are lost, and thus ultrastructural analysis becomes essential. The width of the Z-line is a valuable criterion for the identification of fibre types in normal muscle, and the differences in width remain apparent even after denervation. In the red portion of the normal rat semitendinosus muscle, there is a mixture of red, intermediate and white fibres. The red fibre has the highest mitochondrial content and the widest Z-line, whereas the white fibre has the lowest mitochondrial content and the narrowest Z-line (about half as wide as that of the red fibre). The intermediate fibre is intermediate in both characteristics. At 14 days after denervation, there is a shift toward a more homogeneous population of fibres, which are rich in mitochondria, but which have an ultrastructural appearance distinct from that of normal fibres. Most of the fibres resemble normal red or intermediate fibres, but lack the characteristic subsarcolemmal aggregations of mitochondria. There are also some fibres which exhibit severe myofibrillar disruption. These have narrow Z-lines, and are therefore classified as white fibres. This suggests that there is a preferential alteration of white fibres, and that their degradation may be responsible for the apparent increase in the proportion of red or intermediate fibres at this stage of denervation. In these disrupted fibres the sarcoplasmic membrane systems lose their usual organization, and triads become aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the myofibrils. All fibres, therefore, are, to some extent, altered by denervation, though the changes differ according to the type of fibre. In normal fibres, ribosomes are sparse, but following denervation they are abundant, particularly at the periphery. This is a general response to removal of the nerve supply, and does not appear to be related to fibre type; but it is more apparent in red and intermediate fibres, which possess an extensive superficial sarcoplasm. Conspicuous aggregations of large mitochondria normally occur in the subsarcolemmal region of these fibres, but after denervation, there are, instead, massive accumulations of free ribosomes and a few cisternae of rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum. Our observations suggest, moreover, that this concentration of protein-synthetic machinery corresponds to a spread in the sensitivity to acetylcholine along the surface of the fibres.
Life After Death

Like all good noirs, this hard-boiled tale, this dark quest for knowledge, was doomed from the start. My object of pursuit, my marketing baby, was nothing more than an apparition, a phantom, though one that pointed to a much bigger but infinitely unknowable conspiracy. Like most noirs, this one has an ambiguous and inconclusive ending.
When constants are not constant

In the movie The Meaning of Life, the Monty Python team reminds us that we live in "an amazing and expanding universe". Ever since the startling evidence for cosmic expansion was discovered in the 1920s, physicists have considered the possibility that the so-called constants of nature–such as the charge on the electron and the gravitational constant–are not constant and may, in fact, vary with time.
Simultaneous Resection of Multiple Metastatic Brain Tumors with Multiple Keyhole Craniotomies

Background The proper management of symptomatic patients with 2 or more brain metastases is not entirely clear, and the surgical outcomes of these patients undergoing multiple simultaneous craniotomies have not been well described. In this article, we describe patient outcomes after simultaneously resecting metastatic lesions through multiple keyhole craniotomies. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of data obtained for all patients undergoing resection of multiple brain metastases in one operation between 2014 and 2016. We describe a technique for resecting multiple metastatic lesions and share the patient outcomes of this operation. Results Twenty patients with 46 tumor resections were included in the study. The primary site of metastases for the majority of patients was lung, followed by melanoma, renal, breast, colon, and testes. Nine of 20 (45%) patients had 2 preoperative intracranial lesions, and 11 (55%) had three or more. Karnofsky performance scales were calculated for 14 patients: postoperatively 10 of 14 (71%) scores improved, 2 of 14 (14%) worsened, and 2 of 14 (14%) remained unchanged. After surgery, 9 of 14 (64%) patients were weaned off steroids by 2-month follow-up. The overall median survival time from date of surgery was 10.8 months. Conclusions We present patient outcomes after simultaneously resecting metastatic brain tumors through multiple keyhole craniotomies in symptomatic patients. Our results suggest comparable outcomes and similar surgical risk compared with those undergoing resection of a single brain metastasis. Resection of multiple brain metastases may improve Karnofsky Performance Scale scores in the early postoperative period and allow patients to be weaned from steroids.
Review of Combinational Circuits

This chapter introduces the combinational logic design. It describes basic logic gates, De Morgan’s theorem, truth tables, and logic minimization. The chapter uses these key concepts to design mega cells, namely various types of adders and multipliers.
BUILDING ELLIPTIC PROBLEM SOLVERS WITH ELLPACK

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on building elliptic problem solvers with ELLPACK. Embedding a partial differential equation (PDE) solving system into a general purpose language allows to build PDE solvers for a much broader range of applications and, often, to achieve high efficiency. ELLPACK is designed to solve linear, second order elliptic problems in two or three dimensions. The geometry in two dimensions is general, but is rectangular in three dimensions. It can be used effectively to solve broad classes of nonlinear elliptic problems, initial value problems, and simultaneous nonlinear elliptic problems. The chapter focuses on the use of Frechet derivatives and MACSYMA to provide a simple and effective implementation of Newton's method for nonlinear elliptic problems. ELLPACK is used to solve elliptic problems with interface conditions and on three dimensional cylindrical domains.
RENAL OUTCOMES OF ADULT PATIENTS ON VENO-ARTERIAL EXTRA-CORPORAL MEMBRANE OXYGENATOR (VA-ECMO) BASED ON 2012 KIDNEY DISEASE IMPROVING GLOBAL OUTCOMES (KDIGO) STAGING OF ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY (AKI)

The study is designed to look into predictors of poor renal outcomes in patients undergoing VA-ECMO. We analyzed data on adult patients undergoing VA-ECMO and then staged patients with pre- ECMO AKI according to 2012 Kidney Disease Improved Global Outcome (KDIGO) AKI staging guidelines. We then look
Blocking electrochemical collisions of single E. coli and B. subtilis bacteria at ultramicroelectrodes elucidated using simultaneous fluorescence microscopy

Abstract The adsorption events and movements of individual E. coli and B. subtilis bacteria were detected in real time using ultramicroelectrodes(UMEs). Electrochemical detection of single bacteria was enabled by their inhibition of diffusive flux of a redox species when near the UME. With the UME biased for steady state oxidation of the redox species, each bacteria–electrode collision event at the UME resulted in a transient in the oxidation current. The two bacteria species show differences in their collision transient shapes, with E. coli showing “step” shaped transients and B. subtilis showing predominantly “blip” (spike) shaped transients. Simultaneous fluorescence microscopy of the UME surface during bacteria detection experiments allowed each current transient in the electrochemical data to be correlated with a specific collision event of fluorescently labeled bacteria. It was established that step-shaped transients observed for E. coli were due to adsorption of bacteria to the UME surface, while blip-shaped transients observed for B. subtilis were due to short-lived bounce events of the bacteria. The frequency of recorded transients varied linearly over bacteria concentrations of 1–10 fM for E. coli and 15–60 fM for B. subtilis, establishing the blocking collision method as a route for in situ determinations of bacteria concentration. This work demonstrates for the first time differences in blocking collision transient shapes between two bacterial analytes, and suggests applications of the method for selective electrochemical bacteria sensing.
Motor adaption during repeated motor control testing: Attenuated muscle activation without changes in response latencies.

Abstract With repeated exposure to postural perturbations the human postural control system can adapt and create efficient strategies to counteract these perturbations. The Motor Control Test (MCT) is commonly used to elicit reactionary postural movements. Though this device has been assessed for possible learning effects and reliability of composite scores, yet no study has evaluated possible neuromuscular alterations repeated bouts might elicit. Twenty participants (age: 25 ± 4.73 years; height: 183.8 ± 8.5 cm; mass: 85.2 ± 15.6 kg) volunteered and, following familiarization, performed five full-randomized MCTs over six testing sessions. The first five sessions occurred on consecutive days, with the sixth occurring two days later. Electromyography (EMG) was recorded on right lower extremity knee flexors and extensors, and ankle plantarflexors and dorsiflexors. Response latencies and Mean and RMS muscle activity were calculated and analyzed using 1 × 5 (within days) and 1 × 6 (across days) RM ANOVA. Decreases in muscle activation of proximal musculature were noted between days and trials within days, however these changes were not maintained after the two-day retention period. No differences were detected for MCT scores. These results suggest repeated MCT exposure modifies neuromuscular responses to maintain similar reaction time through a postural control strategy shift.
Guided Waves in Anisotropic Media: Applications

This paper presents an overview of the use of guided waves for the characterization of anisotropic media.
The Adenoma-carcinoma Sequence in Colorectal Neoplasia

In this article the epidemiologic, pathologic, molecular, and clinical evidence for the adenoma-carcinoma sequence is reviewed. The authors describe the morphologic evolution of the precursor adenomas, from the earliest discernible abnormality of the colon to adenomas with advanced pathologic features, the factors that determine the risk of progression of adenomas to adenocarcinoma, the molecular events that parallel or underlie the morphologic changes, the outcome of clinical interventions that have tested this hypothesis, and the time frame within which this progression is likely to occur.
The Selection of Time Interval Between Surgery and Adjuvant Therapy in Early Stage Cervical Cancer.

Objectives The optimal interval between surgery and adjuvant treatment has not yet been found in cervical cancer. And whether patients with different FIGO stage should choose different interval is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether interval has a different effect on oncologic outcome for patients with different tumor stages. Methods We performed a retrospective study of 226 cervical cancer patients who were treated by surgery and adjuvant therapy from May 2005 to August 2015. All patients were divided into 2 groups according to the interval of 5 weeks. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared between patients with interval shorter and longer than 5 weeks in the whole group and subgroups. Recurrence patterns were also analyzed. Multivariate analysis was performed to explore clinical factors significantly associated with DFS, local recurrence-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival for patients with stage IB2–IIA. Results For patients with stage IA2–IB1, the 5-year OS and DFS were similar between groups of short and long interval with also the comparable results of local and distant failure. For patients with IB2–IIA, both the OS and DFS in the short-interval group were higher than that in the long-interval group. Besides, the rates of local recurrence were found higher in the group of long interval compared with short interval. Multivariable analysis indicated that time interval was an independent predictor of DFS and local recurrence-free survival for patients with stage IB2–IIA. Conclusions In cervical cancer patients, time interval between surgery and adjuvant therapy may have different effects on the prognosis in different FIGO stages.
Theoretical Food and Nutrient Composition of Whole-Food Plant-Based and Vegan Diets Compared to Current Dietary Recommendations.

Public interest in popular diets is increasing, in particular whole-food plant-based (WFPB) and vegan diets. Whether these diets, as theoretically implemented, meet current food-based and nutrient-based recommendations has not been evaluated in detail. Self-identified WFPB and vegan diet followers in the Adhering to Dietary Approaches for Personal Taste (ADAPT) Feasibility Survey reported their most frequently used sources of information on nutrition and cooking. Thirty representative days of meal plans were created for each diet. Weighted mean food group and nutrient levels were calculated using the Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR) and data were compared to DRIs and/or USDA Dietary Guidelines/MyPlate meal plan recommendations. The calculated HEI-2015 scores were 88 out of 100 for both WFPB and vegan meal plans. Because of similar nutrient composition, only WFPB results are presented. In comparison to MyPlate, WFPB meal plans provide more total vegetables (180%), green leafy vegetables (238%), legumes (460%), whole fruit (100%), whole grains (132%), and less refined grains (−74%). Fiber level exceeds the adequate intakes (AI) across all age groups. WFPB meal plans failed to meet the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA)s for vitamin B12 and D without supplementation, as well as the RDA for calcium for women aged 51–70. Individuals who adhere to WFBP meal plans would have higher overall dietary quality as defined by the HEI-2015 score as compared to typical US intakes with the exceptions of calcium for older women and vitamins B12 and D without supplementation. Future research should compare actual self-reported dietary intakes to theoretical targets.
Youth perceptions of violence in Western Honduras

Youth violence is a growing challenge worldwide, particularly in countries that are experiencing extreme social disorganisation. This is exemplified in Honduras which has been one of the top five c...
MPAS-Ocean Simulation Quality for Variable-Resolution North American Coastal Meshes

Climate model components utilizing unstructured meshes enable variableresolution, regionally enhanced simulations within global domains. Here we investigate the relationship between mesh quality and simulation statistics using the JIGSAW unstructured meshing library and the Model for Prediction Across ScalesOcean (MPASOcean) with a focus on Gulf Stream dynamics. In the base configuration, the refined region employs 8 km cells that extend 400 km from the coast of North America. This coastal refined region is embedded within a lowresolution global domain, with cell size varying latitudinally between 30 and 60 km. The resolution transition region between the refined region and background mesh is 600 km wide. Three sensitivity tests are conducted: 1) the quality of meshes is intentionally degraded so that horizontal cells are progressively more distorted; 2) the transition region from high to low resolution is steepened; and 3) resolution of the coastal refinement region is varied from 30 km to 8 km. Overall, the ocean simulations are shown to be robust to mesh resolution and quality alterations. Meshes that are substantially degraded still produce realistic currents, with Southern Ocean transports within 0.4% and Gulf Stream transports within 12% of highquality mesh results. The narrowest transition case of 100 km did not produce any spurious effects. Refined regions with high resolution produce eddy kinetic energy and sea surface height variability that are similar to the highresolution reference simulation. These results provide heuristics for the design criteria of variableresolution climate model domains.
Stomatal closure response to soil drying at different vapor pressure deficit conditions in maize.

Abstract A plant transpiration rate under progressive soil drying remains constant until a threshold fraction of transpirable soil water (FTSW) is reached, and subsequently decreases linearly. The sensitivity of this function and the involvement of abscisic acid (ABA) and aquaporins in such responses have not been compared at various levels of atmospheric evaporative demand conditions. This study was conducted in controlled environment chambers with a drought-tolerant maize hybrid imposing progressive drought stress under three levels of vapor pressure deficit (VPD- 1.2, 2.3, and 3.5 kPa). A shift in threshold-FTSW from 1.2 kPa (FTSW-0.42) VPD to 3.5 kPa(FTSW-0.51) VPD was observed, showing an effect of VPD on stomatal closure response under soil drought conditions. Foliar ABA showed a substantial rise approximately at the same time as of stomatal closure initiated (FTSW-threshold), indicating ABA involvement. As the drought progressed, an increase in plasma membrane intrinsic protein and a decrease in tonoplast intrinsic protein expression levels were observed. Overall, this study suggests the influence of evaporative demand on the initiation of stomatal closure of drought-tolerant maize subjected to soil drying. The sensitivity of stomatal closure was associated with foliar ABA under drought stress but not under high evaporative demand conditions, indicating alternative water conservative mechanisms.
Colorectal cancer and the microbiome: dysplasia, probiotics, and Fusobacterium nucleatum

Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) has increased over the last several decades because of the Western lifestyle, including low fiber diet, increased fatty acids, and red meat, which results in an intestinal dysbiosis with increased Proteobacteria that favor inflammation over mucosal immune homeostasis. We do not know if this dysbiosis is a cause or an effect of the cancer. However, several specific bacteria have been associated with increased polyps and malignant degeneration. Microbial mechanisms for malignant degeneration include chronic inflammation as seen in inflammatory bowel disease, bacterial oncotoxins, DNA instability, and increased bacterial penetration. To protect or treat CRC, individuals must increase a “Mediterranean diet” with high fiber and increased fruits and vegetables. The use of probiotics such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus can help to stabilize dysbiosis and promote immune homeostasis. Probiotics and a healthy diet in conjunction with chemotherapy to treat CRC may also be helpful. A healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent CRC.