cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel selective laser melting process for glass fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites

Abstract A novel selective laser melting (SLM) process is presented for fabrication of glass fiber-reinforced metal (GFRM) matrix composite material. The SLM experiments are conducted using aluminum powders as matrix material and S-2 glass fibers as reinforcement. Laser heating turns the aluminum powders into a molten viscous flow which encapsulates the S-2 glass fibers. The glass fibers are not melted during the SLM process as the glass transition temperature is significantly higher than the melting point of aluminum powder. After the process, a mechanically enhanced glass fiber-reinforced metal matrix composite is produced with intact glass fibers embedded in the aluminum matrix.
Assessment of baseline symptom burden in treatment-naïve patients with lung cancer: an observational study

Patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer who have not yet begun treatment may already be experiencing major symptoms produced by their disease. Understanding the symptomatic effects of cancer treatment requires knowledge of pretreatment symptoms (both severity and interference with daily activities). We assessed pretreatment symptom severity, interference, and quality of life (QOL) in treatment-naive patients with lung cancer and report factors that correlated with symptom severity. This was a retrospective analysis of data collected at initial intake. Symptoms/interference were rated on the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI) between 30 days prediagnosis and 45 days postdiagnosis. We examined symptom severity by disease stage and differences in severity by histology. Linear regression analyses identified significant predictors of severe pain and dyspnea. Of 460 eligible patients, 256 (62%) had adenocarcinoma, 30 (7%) had small cell carcinoma, and 100 (24%) had squamous cell carcinoma; > 30% reported moderate-to-severe (rated ≥ 5, 0–10 scale) pretreatment symptoms. The most-severe were fatigue, disturbed sleep, distress, pain, dyspnea, sadness, and drowsiness. Symptoms affected work, enjoyment of life, and general activity (interference) and physical well-being (QOL) the most. Patients with advanced disease (n = 289, 63%) had more-severe symptoms. Cancer stage was associated with pain severity; both histology and cancer stage were associated with severe dyspnea. One third of lung cancer patients were symptomatic at initial presentation. Quantification of pretreatment symptom burden can inform patient-specific palliative therapy and differentiate disease-related symptoms from treatment-related toxicities. Poorly controlled symptoms could negatively affect treatment adherence and therapeutic outcomes.
Abstract IA05: From the clinic to the lab: Investigating response and resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint therapy

Immune checkpoint therapies, including anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1, have led to significant clinical responses in cancer patients. To investigate immunologic changes and mechanistic pathways that are elicited by these therapies, we conducted pre-surgical and tissue-based clinical trials, which permit access to tumor tissues for laboratory studies. To compare and contrast data, we chose one tumor type that responds well to immune checkpoint therapy and one that does not. The first pre-surgical trial was conducted with anti-CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) in a cohort of patients with localized bladder cancer. The second pre-surgical trial was conducted with anti-CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) in patients with localized prostate cancer. In addition, we evaluated data from patients with melanoma who received immune checkpoint therapy. These data enabled us to identify the ICOS/ICOSL pathway as relevant for anti-tumor immune responses in the setting of anti-CTLA-4 therapy. We also identified resistance mechanisms including expression of other immune inhibitory pathways, such as VISTA, and loss of the IFNg signaling pathway in tumor cells. These data will be discussed in greater details. Citation Format: Sharma Padmanee. From the clinic to the lab: Investigating response and resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fourth CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; Sept 30-Oct 3, 2018; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2019;7(2 Suppl):Abstract nr IA05.
Design Interactions between Robot Surfaces and Human Designers

This paper presents the rationale and current progress of my Ph.D. dissertation: "design interactions between robot surfaces and human designers." This specific topic serves as a case study trying to explore the question of how to design an interactive and partially intelligent space. We proposed the concept of "space agent" defined as "interactive and intelligent environments perceived by users as human agents" based on communication theories. Built upon this concept, we proposed a design framework for interactive environments. Then we further explored literatures about what space agent could contribute to human users specifically for the case of interior designers' work space. Research questions and research designs are introduced in this paper, followed by the discussions of experiments design.
Monitoring earthen archaeological heritage using multi-temporal terrestrial laser scanning and surface change detection

Abstract Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is a three-dimensional survey technique proven successful for in-field stratigraphic and site-wide documentation or damage assessment of archaeological heritage. This study explores the potential utility of TLS and the Multiscale Model to Model Cloud Comparison (M3C2) surface change detection method for monitoring and preserving ancient earthen architecture, and for creating comprehensive site monitoring programs in compliance with UNESCO periodic reporting guidelines. The proposed methodology was tested using 3-D TLS datasets spanning a period of six years to assess the decay of mud brick structures at Catalhoyuk, Turkey in order to understand material loss in walls and buildings, identify potential underlying causes, and create a plan for physical interventions. This paper explains how a multi-temporal laser scanning workflow using the M3C2 method can be leveraged successfully to quantify – with millimeter-level accuracy – the decay of large earthen sites and inform future conservation interventions. This approach allows for the identification of the wall features with the most immediate risk of deterioration based on the detection of patterns of change and calculation of its significance as a preventative measure. Results presented in this paper suggest that the proposed method can be used effectively to enhance site monitoring and perform preventative on-site interventions at large earthen sites earthen sites in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Synthetic peptide-based HIV vaccine induces protective immunity in SHIV-rhesus model

Several recent reports point to the importance of virus specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) protective responses for maintaining disease-free status in long-term nonprogressors and in certain individuals belonging to high-risk groups [1]. In the past, using various animal models, we have previously identified several HIV envelope peptides, from highly conserved regions, that induce HIV-specific T-cell responses without antibody production [2-4]. Additionally, we observed that these same peptides are also recognized as T-cell epitopes in chimpanzees chronically infected with HIV-1 IIIB, and HIV-seropositive individuals [5]. These data strongly suggest that the conserved HIV env peptides we identified should potentially be effective as a vaccine for protection against HIV infection and/ or development of AIDS.
Fast and effective distribution-key recommendation for amazon redshift

How should we split data among the nodes of a distributed data warehouse in order to boost performance for a forecasted workload? In this paper, we study the effect of different data partitioning schemes on the overall network cost of pairwise joins. We describe a generally-applicable data distribution framework initially designed for Amazon Redshift, a fully-managed petabyte-scale data warehouse in the cloud. To formalize the problem, we first introduce the Join Multi-Graph, a concise graph-theoretic representation of the workload history of a cluster. We then formulate the "Distribution-Key Recommendation" problem - a novel combinatorial problem on the Join Multi-Graph - and relate it to problems studied in other subfields of computer science. Our theoretical analysis proves that "Distribution-Key Recommendation" is NP-complete and is hard to approximate efficiently. Thus, we propose BaW, a hybrid approach that combines heuristic and exact algorithms to find a good data distribution scheme. Our extensive experimental evaluation on real and synthetic data showcases the efficacy of our method into recommending optimal (or close to optimal) distribution keys, which improve the cluster performance by reducing network cost up to 32x in some real workloads.
Predictors of early postoperative pain interference following orthopaedic surgery.

Abstract Introduction Despite the increasing incidence of orthopaedic surgeries, there is a lack of data reporting on patient experience and recovery following surgery. As such, there is a need to better characterize the natural history of pain interference (PI) after orthopaedic surgery to better manage patients’ expectations and recovery. Purpose To identify factors associated with greater pain interference two weeks following orthopaedic surgery. Methods All patients undergoing elective outpatient orthopaedic surgery at a single urban academic institution were evaluated preoperatively from August 2016 to March 2018. Patients completed a baseline assessment consisting of demographic information, PROMIS computer adaptive testing in 6 domains including Pain Interference (PI), Physical Function, Social Satisfaction, Fatigue, Anxiety, and Depression. Two weeks following surgery, patients completed the same questionnaires along with assessments of Improvement and Satisfaction. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses were performed. Categorical data was compared with ANOVA and continuous data was compared with Spearman's correlation coefficient (rs). Results 435 patients (age = 41.1 ± 15.7, 47% female) were studied. Mean PI was 60.1 ± 7.0 prior to surgery and 61.7 ± 7.6 at 2 weeks postoperative. Worse 2 week PROMIS PI was associated with lower extremity surgery, prior surgery on the joint, preoperative opioid use, depression, lower income, lower education, and higher ASA score (p Conclusion Early postoperative pain interference is associated with function, demographic, and psychosocial factors.
Tending to an Overgrown Garden

In 2019, the Borough of Manhattan Community College’s library undertook a massive cleanup and reconfiguration of the content and guides contained in their LibGuides v2 system, which had been allowed to grow out of control over several years as no one was in charge of its maintenance. This article follows the process from identifying issues, getting departmental buy-in, and doing all of the necessary cleanup work for links and guides. The aim of the project was to make their guides easier for students to use and understand and for librarians to maintain. At the same time, work was done to improve the look and feel of their guides and implement the built-in A-Z database list, both of which are also discussed.
From Three Dimensional Manifolds to Modular Tensor Categories

Using M-theory in physics, Cho, Gang, and Kim (JHEP 2020, 115 (2020) ) recently outlined a program that connects two parallel subjects of three dimensional manifolds, namely, geometric topology and quantum topology. They suggest that classical topological invariants such as Chern-Simons invariants of $\text{SL}(2,\mathbb{C})$-flat connections and adjoint Reidemeister torsions of a three manifold can be packaged together to produce a $(2+1)$-topological quantum field theory, which is essentially equivalent to a modular tensor category. It is further conjectured that every modular tensor category can be obtained from a three manifold and a semi-simple Lie group. In this paper, we study this program mathematically, and provide strong support for the feasibility of such a program. The program produces an algorithm to generate the potential modular $T$-matrix and the quantum dimensions of a candidate modular data. The modular $S$-matrix follows from essentially a trial-and-error procedure. We find modular tensor categories that realize candidate modular data constructed from Seifert fibered spaces and torus bundles over the circle that reveal many subtleties in the program. We make a number of improvements to the program based on our computations. Our main result is a mathematical construction of a premodular category from each Seifert fibered space with three singular fibers and a family of torus bundles over the circle with Thurston SOL geometry. The premodular categories from Seifert fibered spaces are related to Temperley-Lieb-Jones categories and the ones from torus bundles over the circle are related to metaplectic categories. We conjecture that a resulting premodular category is modular if and only if the three manifold is a $\mathbb{Z}_2$-homology sphere and condensation of bosons in premodular categories leads to either modular or super-modular categories.
Investigation of Pressure Drop Calculation for Twisted Tape Swirl Tubes by Conventional Channel Flow Correlations with Fusion Applications

Twisted tape inserts are commonly used for heat transfer enhancement in fusion applications. Although these devices have been extensively studied, existing correlations relating friction factor to ...
The Role of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) in the Lives of Transition-Age Youth with Foster Care Experience

This study aimed to better understand the role that Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) play in the lives of transition-age youth (TAY) by asking participants about the nature of their relationships with their CASAs, and the extent to which their CASAs helped prepare them for independent living. This study involved qualitative analysis of interviews conducted as part of a larger mixed-methods study with TAY in New York City. The sample included 15 young adults ages 18 to 22 who had a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) prior to or at the time of the interview/s. Youth were asked about the social support they were receiving, who was providing the most meaningful support, and how support was provided. They were also specifically asked about CASA service provision. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) was conducted to identify and describe emergent themes in the data on the services provided by their CASAs. Researchers generated initial codes, identified and defined key themes from the data, and extracted exemplary quotes. Participants discussed the value of the tailored approach that CASAs used when supporting them during their transition to adulthood. Three overarching themes emerged that characterized the roles played by CASAs in the lives of participants: (1) personalized provision of services and goods; (2) fierce advocacy; and (3) encouragement and empowerment. Study results show that CASAs play a unique role in the lives of TAY and an integral role on the child welfare team. Findings point to the need for a more collaborative approach to supporting young people as they transition into adulthood. The results have important implications for micro and macro-level practice with TAY and policies associated with the assignment and training of CASAs.
Instrumentation Database for Performance Analysis of Parallel Scientific Applications

Parallel codes, especially scientific applications, have increased the need for performance analysis tools. In this paper we present an approach that addresses some of the difficulties inherent to the analysis of parallel codes. To this end we examine the three components that comprise performance analysis: instrumentation, visualization, and analysis. The essence of our approach is to use a database to capture instrumentation data. We discuss how this approach influences the design of performance analysis components. We further motivate our approach with an example using a sparse matrix vector product code. We conclude by discussing some of the key implementation issues and outlining future plans.
The Influence of Land Cover on Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Elevations in Low‐relief Areas

The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM), the first relatively high spatial resolution near-global digital elevation dataset, possesses great utility for a wide array of environmental applications worldwide. This article concerns the accuracy of SRTM in low-relief areas with heterogeneous vegetation cover. Three questions were addressed about low-relief SRTM topographic representation: to what extent are errors spatially autocorrelated, and how should this influence sample design? Is spatial resolution or production method more important for explaining elevation differences? How dominant is the association of vegetation cover with SRTM elevation error? Two low-relief sites in Louisiana, USA, were analyzed to determine the nature and impact of SRTM error in such areas. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data were employed as reference, and SRTM elevations were contrasted with the US National Elevation Dataset (NED). Spatial autocorrelation of errors persisted hundreds of meters spatially in low-relief topography; production method was more critical than spatial resolution, and elevation error due to vegetation canopy effects could actually dominate the SRTM representation of the landscape. Indeed, low-lying, forested, riparian areas may be represented as substantially higher than surrounding agricultural areas, leading to an inverted terrain model.
Identification of a mutation that causes exon skipping during collagen pre-mRNA splicing in an Ehlers-Danlos syndrome variant.

Recent biochemical studies have shown that the fibroblasts from a patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type VIIB produce nearly equal amounts of normal and shortened pro-alpha 2(I) collagen chains (Wirtz, M.K., Glanville, R. W., Steinmann, B., Rao, V. H., and Hollister, D. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 16376-16385). Compositional and sequencing studies of the abnormal pro-alpha 2(I) chain identified an interstitial deletion of 18 residues corresponding to the N-telopeptide of the collagen molecule. Since this region is encoded by a 54-base pair exon, number 6, the protein defect could have been caused by gene deletion, abnormal pre-mRNA splicing, or both. Here, in order to elucidate the molecular nature of this mutation we have analyzed the sequences of pro-alpha 2(I) collagen cDNA and genomic clones obtained from RNA and DNA of the patient's fibroblasts. Using oligomer-specific cloning we identified a cDNA that contains a 54-base pair deletion corresponding precisely to the sequence of exon 6. Identification of the normal gene was based on the finding of an identical sequence polymorphism in a normal cDNA and in the genomic clone derived from one of the two collagen alleles. The other gene, instead, displayed a base substitution (T to C) in the obligatory GT dinucleotide of the 5' splice-site sequence of intron 6. Analysis of nearly 100 base pairs immediately 5' to exons 5, 6, and 7, and 3' to exons 5 and 7 did not reveal any additional change. Therefore, the data strongly suggest that the observed GT-to-GC transition at the splice donor site of intron 6 generates an abnormally spliced mRNA in which the sequence of exon 5 is joined to the sequence of exon 7. Since skipping of exon 6 does not interfere with the coding frame of the mRNA, the resulting shortened polypeptide, albeit utilized in the assembly of a procollagen trimer, ultimately causes the Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type VII phenotype.
Experimental Demonstration of Producing High Resolution Zone Plates by Spatial-Frequency Multiplication

In an earlier publication [1]. the possibility of producing high resolution zone plates for X-ray applications by spatial-frequency multiplication was analyzed theoretically. The theory predicted that for a daughter zone plate generated from the interference of mth and nth diffraction orders of a parent zone plate. its primary focal spot size and focal length are one (m + n)th of their counterparts of the parent zone plate, respectively. It was also shown that a zone plate with the outermost zone width of as small as 13.8nm might be produced by this technique. In this paper, we report an experiment which we carried out with laser light (λ = 4166A) for demonstrating this technique. In addition, an outlook for producing high resolution zone plates for X-ray application is briefly discussed.
Increased roles of linear algebra in control education

In the past, control theory developed along different lines that required different mathematical tools. Time varying systems required one set of tools, time-invariant another. SISO problems lend themselves easily to one approach, but this approach is awkward for MIMO systems, etc. The purpose of this paper is to point to the desirability of a unified approach to elementary control education using only tools of linear algebra as the enabling unifier. The following is a description and motivation for the proposed new control course (approach).
Lansoprazole in Children

As reported in the accompanying article, lansoprazole has been successfully used in the treatment of children with GERD. It was well tolerated, and was effective in providing symptomatic relief in several pediatric studies. Constipation, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, headache or insomnia may occur in 3 years’ duration) use of proton pump inhibitors. Lansoprazole’s availability in capsules and powder form makes it easier to administer to children. Usually a once-daily average dose of 0.9 mg/kg is sufficient for relieving symptoms, however, twice daily administration may be needed. Further dose escalation requires combined intragastric and intraesophageal monitoring to decide which individual dose should be increased, the morning or evening one. [2] In a few refractory cases, the average daily dosage (administered as two divided doses) was increased to 1.35 mg/kg/day (range 1.1–3.0 mg/kg/day). GERD is a long term and common gastrointestinal malady, and requires treatment that significantly affects the quality of life for patients and parents. [3] Furthermore, if GERD is not treated aggressively, there is potential for complications to develop in people with the disease. It is extremely important to ensure the efficacy and safety of these medications, as otherwise, when the ‘little’ refluxers grow into ‘adult’ refluxers they may be forced to look at other treatment options such as surgery. ▲ References
Plans for Analysis of Lunar Satellite Orbits

Two satellites are scheduled to orbit around the Moon in 1966. Their orbits are fixed by non-selenodetic considerations and there are engineering limitations on their range and range-rate tracking.
Cardiac G-protein receptor kinase activity: effect of a beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist.

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a summary of the data that test the hypothesis that β -adrenergic receptor ( β AR) activation affects G-protein receptor kinase (GRK) activity in the heart. Data reported in the chapter have been previously published. The chapter has attempted to summarize the key features of this publication. Selected figures and tables from this publication have been reprinted, largely without alteration, from the original publication. Research suggests that chronic administration of β AR antagonists affects cell surface β AR number and physiological responsiveness in the heart. However, the mechanisms by which elements of the β AR-adenylyl cyclase pathway are altered by such treatment and the nature of these alterations remain to be firmly established. An element that has received little previous attention but that is likely to provide important insights into mechanisms for altered transmembrane signaling in the setting of reduced β AR activation is GRK activity. GRK participates in receptor desensitization by catalyzing phosphorylation of agonist-occupied receptors in concert with β -arrestin. It has been reported that GRK activity is increased in failing left ventricles obtained from humans with heart failure. Based on these studies and others alluded to, the question arises whether GRK activity may be altered in a manner dependent on the extent of β AR agonist activation. In this purpose, pigs are treated for 35 days with the β 1 AR antagonist bisoprolol to determine the effects of reduced β AR activation on cardiac GRK activity; and the hypothesis that, in left ventricular myocardium, reduced β AR agonist activation would be associated with reduced β AR kinase activity is tested.
Parametric Study and Optimization of an Irreversible Closed Intercooled Regenerative Brayton Cycle

In this paper, entropy generation minimization techniques are used in the analysis of an irreversible closed intercooled regenerative Brayton cycle coupled to variable temperature heat reservoirs. First, dimensionless power and efficiency equations are derived for a base case (single stage) which replicates those obtained in recent literature. Second, equations are derived for a multi-stage Brayton cycle. The dimensionless power and efficiency equations are used to analyze the effects of total pressure ratio, intercooling pressure ratio, thermal capacity rates of the working fluid and heat reservoirs, and the component (regenerator, intercooler, hot and cold side heat exchangers) effectiveness. Using detailed numerical examples, the optimal power and efficiency corresponding to variable component effectiveness, compressor and turbine efficiencies, intercooling pressure ratio, total pressure ratio, pressure recovery coefficients, heat reservoir inlet temperature ratio, and the cooling fluid in the intercooler and the cold side heat reservoir inlet temperature ratio are analyzed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Effectiveness of California’s High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) system

Abstract The effectiveness of California’s 1171 mile High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) system is assessed using peak hour traffic data from 700+ loop detector stations over many months. The study reaches the following conclusions. (1) HOV lanes are under-utilized: 81% of HOV detectors measure flows below 1400 vehicles per hour per lane (vphpl) during the PM peak hour. (2) Many HOV lanes experience degraded operations: 18% of all HOV miles during the AM peak hour and 32% during the PM peak hour have speeds below 45 mph for more than 10% of weekdays. (3) HOV lanes suffer a 20% capacity penalty, achieving a maximum flow of 1600 vphpl at 45 mph vs. maximum flow above 2000 vphpl at 60 mph in general purpose (GP) lanes. (4) HOV lanes offer small travel time savings. The mean savings over a random 10-mile route on an HOV lane vs. the adjacent GP lane is 1.7 min and the median is 0.7 min; however, HOV travel times are more reliable. (5) Travel time savings do not provide a statistically significant carpooling incentive. (6) A system with one HOV lane and three GP lanes carries the same number of persons per hour as a system with four GP lanes. (7) HOV lanes reduce overall congestion slightly only when the general purpose lanes are allowed to become congested. Despite these findings, HOV facilities can play a useful role in a well-managed freeway system in California. In particular, they can be useful if there is a significant number of buses or vanpools; as a 2-lane HOV/HOT facility, which eliminates capacity loss; and, with efficient metering, as a HOV/HOT bypass at the on-ramps.
New flash-evaporation feeder for chemical vapor deposition

A new device for generation of vapor of solid precursor(s) for the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) process has been designed and tested. Powder of the precursor(s) is kept at room temperature in an inert atmosphere during the deposition and steadily delivered by small portions into an evaporator. Small beads of an inert material are added to the powder in order to dilute the mixture and make the slow powder delivery process more reliable. Flash evaporation of the precursor(s) from the beads' surface assures controlled and constant in-time composition of the precursor(s) vapor. This facilitates the use of temperature unstable precursors. Simultaneous evaporation of several precursors allows multicomponent films to be easily grown. This process is especially suitable for use of precursors with a big difference in sublimation/evaporation temperatures. The feeder was tested during the CVD of nickel, copper, cobalt, and copper-cobalt thin films. These films were deposited from nickel(II) bisdiethylglyoximate, copper(II) bisdipivaloylmethanate, cobalt(II) bisacetylacetoniminate, and cobalt(II) bis-3,5-dimethylpyrazolylborate complexes. The conditions were optimized for the film growing processes in each case. All films were characterized by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy.
Current Status of Residency Training of Allergic-like Adverse Events to Contrast Media

Rationale and Objectives Acute allergic-like adverse reactions to contrast media are rare but life-threatening events. Residents may complete training without ever managing such an event. Surveys have shown practicing radiologists to incorrectly dose and administer medications for treatment. Thus, contrast education may be deficient or inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to assess the current status of contrast reaction education in US radiology residency programs and the methods used to test residents’ knowledge. Materials and Methods A 10-question anonymous survey on residency education methods and testing pertaining to allergic-like adverse events to contrast media was distributed through the Association of Program Directors in Radiology to program directors of US diagnostic radiology residency programs. The past 4 years of the American College of Radiology in-service examination were reviewed to assess the number of contrast reaction questions. Results Fifty-one programs responded to the Association of Program Directors in Radiology survey. Forty-nine percent of programs train with one lecture per year, 29.4% train with two lectures, and 16% train with three or more lectures. Only 44% include role-playing training during the lectures. Eighteen percent of programs are incorporating simulation training. Fewer than 50% of programs formally test residents’ knowledge, and there were no questions on the 2007 to 2010 American College of Radiology in-service examinations. Conclusions Resident education for contrast reaction management is primarily performed with annual lectures. Only 18% of programs are using simulation training, and
Prolonged Inhibition of Presynaptic Catecholamine Synthesis With α-Methyl-Para-Tyrosine Attenuates the Circadian Rhythm of Human TSH Secretion

Originating from the pituitary gland, TSH secretion is regulated predominantly by thyroid-releasing hormone (TRH) neurons located in the hypothalamus. Norepinephrine and dopamine have important effects in modulation of TSH secretion. An inhibitor of catecholamine synthesis, α-methyl-para-tyrosine (AMPT) has been used in several studies of the regulation of human TSH secretion. The short-term effects ( 24 hours), theoretically both dopamine and norepinephrine levels are lowered significantly in the brain, although this has not been reported previously. Nine subjects (five women and four men) received a total of five 1-g doses of AMPT or five 50-mg doses of promethazine (active placebo) over 28 hours in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design in which the active and control tests were separated by 4–6 weeks. Blood samples were obtained over 24 hours (18 time points) on day 2 of each condition. Changes in prolactin secretion and 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate excretion indirectly showed the effects of AMPT on dopamine and norepinephrine. The typical circadian rhythm of TSH secretion was blunted by AMPT throughout the night; at ten time points, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P <. 01). The long-term effects of repeated doses of AMPT were inhibition of TSH secretion and significant attenuation of the circadian rhythm of TSH. Additionally, AMPT induced low norepinephrine levels, which counteracted the stimulatory effect of low dopamine levels on TSH. Through its inhibitory effect on TRH, norepinephrine appeared to be involved in the regulation of TSH.
A randomized, double-blind, prospective study comparing the efficacy of continuous versus pulsed radiofrequency in the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome.

Abstract Study Objectives To compare the efficacy of continuous radiofrequency (CRF) thermocoagulation with pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome. Design Prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. Setting Ambulatory pain clinic at a level-I trauma center and teaching institution. Patients 50 ASA physical status I, II, and III patients, at least 18 years of age, scheduled to undergo CRF or PRF for lumbar back pain. Interventions Target facet joints were identified with oblique radiographic views. Continuous radiofrequency thermocoagulation was delivered at 80°C for 75 seconds, while PRF was delivered at 42°C with a pulse duration of 20 ms and pulse rate of two Hz for 120 seconds. Measurements Visual analog scale (VAS) pain assessment and Oswestry Low Back Pain and Disability Questionnaire (OSW) were administered at baseline and then at three months. Comparisons between groups and within groups were made of the relative percentage improvement in VAS and OSW scores. Main Results No significant differences in the relative percentage improvement were noted between groups in either VAS ( P = 0.46) or OSW scores ( P = 0.35). Within the PRF group, comparisons of the relative change over time for both VAS ( P = 0.21) and OSW scores ( P = 0.61) were not significant. However, within the CRF group, VAS ( P = 0.02) and OSW scores ( P = 0.03) showed significant improvement. Conclusions Although there was no significant difference between CRF and PRF therapy in long-term outcome in the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome, there was a greater improvement over time noted within the CRF group.
Crystalline Cyclic Peptide Nanotubes at Interfaces

The assembly, orientation, and structural features of nanoscale tubes composed of cyclic peptides, formed at the air−water interface, were detected by grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD). Th...
Insertion of sequences containing the coat protein subgenomic RNA promoter and leader in front of the tobacco mosaic virus 30K ORF delays its expression and causes defective cell-to-cell movement

The regulation of the internal open reading frame (ORF) of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) that encodes the 30K movement protein was examined by constructing mutants in vitro with the putative coat protein subgenomic RNA promoter and leader sequences inserted upstream of the 30K ORF. A mutant with a 49-nucleotide fragment of the promoter region inserted replicated only transiently before being overtaken by a progeny wild-type virus with the insert deleted. A mutant with a 253-nucleotide promoter region fragment inserted replicated stably, and the inserted promoter was active in its new location. The production of 30K protein was not enhanced by this promoter/leader insertion to a level similar to that of coat protein. However, the accumulation of 30K protein was delayed, suggesting that different promoters/leader sequences determine the time of expression of the genes. This mutant was deficient in movement. A similar mutant, but with increased production of 30K protein, overcame the movement deficiency, suggesting that 30K protein is needed during the early stages of infection for efficient cell-to-cell movement of the virus.
Extent of Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection During Radical Cystectomy: Where and Why!

In their classic article on radical cystectomy published in 1962 [1], Whitmore and Marshall described the standard template for a bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). PLND is begun along the lateral margin of the common iliac artery, where the ureter crosses the vessel, and continues distally to Cooper’s ligament, removing all areolar tissue, fat, and nodes lateral, above, and below the common and external iliac artery and vein. The obturator nodes are removed from the pelvic sidewall and obturator fossa, completely resecting the obturator artery and vein at their origin from the hypogastric artery to flush with the obturator foramen. The posterior pelvic wall is neatly dissected of nodal tissue, exposing the internal iliac vessels and their ramifications, and extended up to remove the presacral nodes. It is important to remove all nodes medial and lateral to the hypogastric vessels, including underneath the common iliac vessels at their bifurcation.When nodes are left behind, this location is a common site of pelvic recurrence. The deep dissection exposes the fascia over the sciatic nerve and removes fat and adjacent lymphatics from the ischiorectal fossa, visual landmarks confirming a complete hypogastric dissection. A standard PLND has the following limits: proximal, midportion of the common iliac artery; lateral, genitofemoral nerve; medial, bladder wall; distal, inguinal ligament; and inferior, pelvic floor and hypogastric vessels, lying on the deep muscular and bony walls of the pelvis. This is considered the standard PLND performed during radical cystectomy. Anything less is a limited dissection; anything more (up to bifurcation of aorta and above) can be called an extended PLND. The rationale for PLND during cystectomy is improved staging and even cure in a select minority of patients with
Dynamics of dispersion managed octave-spanning titanium:sapphire lasers

An extensive one-dimensional laser model based on dispersion managed mode locking is presented that accurately describes the pulse dynamics of octave-spanning titanium:sapphire lasers generating sub-two-cycle pulses. By including detailed characteristics for the intracavity elements (mirrors and output coupler), it is demonstrated that the spectral output and temporal pulse shape of these lasers can be predicted quantitatively in very good agreement with experimental results.
Rhodium supported on activated carbon as a heterogeneous catalyst for hydroformylation of propylene in supercritical carbon dioxide

Abstract The new paradigm of pollution prevention dictates that we develop new techniques for producing valuable commodity chemicals that are sustainable and present minimal wastes. One appropriate technique is solvent replacement. Within this paper, we investigate the use of supercritical carbon dioxide as a replacement solvent for hydroformylation, used commercially in the oxo process to produce over 1×109 kg of aldehyde annually. Unfortunately, commercial hydroformylation catalysts are not soluble in supercritical CO2, thus we describe the development of a heterogeneous catalyst for use with this reaction. Rhodium, supported on activated carbon, is active for the hydroformylation of propene to butanal, but it is not selective. Two different activated carbons are used to provide information as to the role of the support in promoting this reaction. A two-step reaction pathway is defined, and the effect of temperature and pressure are quantified based on the proposed pathway.
Vacuum tribological behaviour of self-lubricating quasicrystalline composite coatings

High-temperature-resistant self-lubricating coatings are needed in space vehicles for components that operate at high temperatures and/or under vacuum. Thick composite lubricant coatings containing quasicrystalline alloys as the hard phase for wear resistance can be deposited by a thermal spray technique. The coatings also contain lubricating materials (silver and BaF2CaF2 eutectic) and NiCr as the tough component. This paper describes the vacuum tribological properties of TH103, a coating of this type, with a very good microstructural quality. The coating was deposited by high-velocity oxygen fuel spraying and tested under vacuum using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Different loads, linear speeds, and pin materials were studied. The pin scars and disc wear tracks were characterised using a combination of scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry. A minimum mean steady friction coefficient of 0.32 was obtained when employing an X750 Ni superalloy pin in vacuum conditions under 10 N load and 15 cm/s linear speed, showing moderate wear of the disc and low wear of the pin.
Homalodisca coagulata (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa to Almond.

Almond leaf scorch (ALS) is caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, transmitted by sharpshooter leafhoppers and spittlebugs. The recent invasion of a X. fastidiosa vector, Homalodisca coagulata (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae), into California may have major consequences to the spread of ALS because this insect feeds readily on trees, including stone fruit species. We found that, under laboratory conditions, H. coagulata acquired X. fastidiosa from symptomatic almond plants with low efficiency relative to grape (3.3 to 10% per individual per day). Inoculation efficiency also was low, approximately 4% per insect per day. H. coagulata inoculated 1-year-old woody tissues of almond plants at similar rates as green shoots. H. coagulata transmitted two X. fastidiosa grape strains from grape source plants to grape and almond. We also observed X. fastidiosa transmission to dormant almond plants. X. fastidiosa populations in the petioles of field-collected symptomatic almond leaves were not higher than 107 CFU/g of tissue, suggesting that low bacterial populations within almond are partially responsible for the lower acquisition rates observed from diseased almond compared with diseased grape, which are usually within the range of 108 to 109 CFU/g. The relevance of our findings to ALS epidemiology, considering H. coagulata as a vector, is discussed.
Predicting animal δ18O: Accounting for diet and physiological adaptation

Abstract Theoretical predictions and measured isotope variations indicate that diet and physiological adaptation have a significant impact on animals δ18O and cannot be ignored. A generalized model is therefore developed for the prediction of animal body water and phosphate δ18O to incorporate these factors quantitatively. Application of the model reproduces most published compositions and compositional trends for mammals and birds. A moderate dependence of animal δ18O on humidity is predicted for drought-tolerant animals, and the correlation between humidity and North American deer bone composition as corrected for local meteoric water is predicted within the scatter of the data. In contrast to an observed strong correlation between kangaroo δ18O and humidity (Δδ18O/Δh ∼ 2.5± 0.4‰/10%r.h.), the predicted humidity dependence is only 1.3 – 1.7‰/10% r.h., and it is inferred that drinking water in hot dry areas of Australia is enriched in 18O over rainwater. Differences in physiology and water turnover readily explain the observed differences in δ18O for several herbivore genera in East Africa, excepting antelopes. Antelope models are more sensitive to biological fractionations, and adjustments to the flux of transcutaneous water vapor within experimentally measured ranges allows their δ18O values to be matched. Models of the seasonal changes of forage composition for two regions with dissimilar climates show that significant seasonal variations in animal isotope composition are expected, and that animals with different physiologies and diets track climate differently. Analysis of different genera with disparate sensitivities to surface water and humidity will allow the most accurate quantification of past climate changes.
Cross-tolerance between ethanol and neurotensin in mice selectively bred for ethanol sensitivity.

Abstract Neurotensin (NT), a tridecapeptide that satisfies criteria as a neurotransmitter, mimics many actions of ethanol, and evidence indicates that some of the acute effects of ethanol are mediated in part by NT. Recent studies have shown that chronic ethanol treatment produced a downregulation of NT receptors in mesolimbic brain regions of long sleep (LS) mice and that reduced NT binding capacity was associated with acquisition and decay of tolerance to ethanol-induced locomotor inhibition and hypothermia in these mice. The present study was undertaken to determine whether cross-tolerance develops between NT and ethanol and whether chronic NT infusion produces NT receptor downregulation. Animals chronically treated with ethanol were tolerant to NT-mediated locomotor inhibition at a dose of 1.8 pmol NT, ICV, and were tolerant to NT-induced hypothermia at 1.8 and 6.0 pmol NT. Following repeated injections or continuous infusion of NT ICV, LS mice showed tolerance to both NT-and ethanol-induced hypothermia and locomotor inhibition. Indeed, ethanol doses that are hypnotic in control mice (2.8 g/ kg) were not effective in abolishing locomotor activity following chronic NT administration. Results with chronic saline infusion ICV indicate that stress alters sensitivity to ethanol-induced hypothermia. Chronic infusion of NT ICV produced a region-specific downregulation of high-affinity NT receptors in the striatum. The results demonstrate that cross-tolerance develops between NT and ethanol, and further support a role for neurotensinergic systems in the actions of ethanol.
Pseudo-isothermal ice-crystallization kinetics in the gas-diffusion layer of a fuel cell from differential scanning calorimetry

Abstract Non-isothermal ice-crystallization kinetics in the fibrous gas-diffusion layer (GDL) of a proton-exchange-membrane fuel cell is investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Non-isothermal ice-crystallization rates and ice-crystallization temperatures are obtained from heat-flow measurements in a water-saturated commercial GDL at cooling rates of 2.5, 5, 10, and 25 K/min. Our previously developed isothermal ice-crystallization rate expression is extended to non-isothermal crystallization to predict ice-crystallization kinetics in a GDL at various cooling rates. Agreement between DSC experimental results and theory is good. Both show that as the cooling rate increases, ice-crystallization rates increase and crystallization temperatures decrease monotonically. Importantly, we find that the cooling rate during crystallization has a negligible effect on the crystallization rate when crystallization times are much faster than the time to decrease the sample temperature by the subcooling. Based on this finding, we propose a pseudo-isothermal method for obtaining non-isothermal crystallization kinetics using isothermal crystallization kinetics evaluated at the non-isothermal crystallization temperature.
Editorial Comment—Spontaneous Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Volume, Experience, and Outcome

In recent years, there has been a trend in neurosurgery and other fields toward both subspecialization (as evidenced by the recent accreditation of the specialty Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology by the ACGME) and regional specialization. This trend has been propelled by increases in medical and technical knowledge. The current medicolegal environment also has probably fueled this trend. It has been hypothesized that regional specialization permits greater efficiency and improved outcome while minimizing costs and complications. Accordingly, Kalkanis et al examined a cohort of patients with cranial neuralgia who required microvascular decompression.1 These authors found that higher-volume hospitals and surgeons had better discharge outcomes with fewer complications and more discharges to home. Similarly, Long and colleagues examined patients who received craniotomies for tumor resection.2 The mortality rates, hospital costs, and length of stay were all more favorable in higher-volume centers. Focusing on subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), Bardach et al reviewed the admission diagnoses of SAH over a 10-year period in California using an available database for nonfederal hospitals.3 Rates of mortality, adverse outcome, length …