cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rationale, design, and implementation protocol of an electronic health record integrated clinical prediction rule (iCPR) randomized trial in primary care

Clinical prediction rules (CPRs) represent well-validated but underutilized evidence-based medicine tools at the point-of-care. To date, an inability to integrate these rules into an electronic health record (EHR) has been a major limitation and we are not aware of a study demonstrating the use of CPR's in an ambulatory EHR setting. The integrated clinical prediction rule (iCPR) trial integrates two CPR's in an EHR and assesses both the usability and the effect on evidence-based practice in the primary care setting. A multi-disciplinary design team was assembled to develop a prototype iCPR for validated streptococcal pharyngitis and bacterial pneumonia CPRs. The iCPR tool was built as an active Clinical Decision Support (CDS) tool that can be triggered by user action during typical workflow. Using the EHR CDS toolkit, the iCPR risk score calculator was linked to tailored ordered sets, documentation, and patient instructions. The team subsequently conducted two levels of 'real world' usability testing with eight providers per group. Usability data were used to refine and create a production tool. Participating primary care providers (n = 149) were randomized and intervention providers were trained in the use of the new iCPR tool. Rates of iCPR tool triggering in the intervention and control (simulated) groups are monitored and subsequent use of the various components of the iCPR tool among intervention encounters is also tracked. The primary outcome is the difference in antibiotic prescribing rates (strep and pneumonia iCPR's encounters) and chest x-rays (pneumonia iCPR only) between intervention and control providers. Using iterative usability testing and development paired with provider training, the iCPR CDS tool leverages user-centered design principles to overcome pervasive underutilization of EBM and support evidence-based practice at the point-of-care. The ongoing trial will determine if this collaborative process will lead to higher rates of utilization and EBM guided use of antibiotics and chest x-ray's in primary care. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01386047
The effects of lovastatin and simvastatin on the diurnal periodicity of plasma mevalonate concentrations in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Animal and human studies have shown that the biosynthesis of cholesterol exhibits diurnal periodicity with nocturnal increases in the level of cholesterol precursors. Dietary cholesterol, which increases the intracellular pool of cholesterol and plasma cholesterol levels, has been shown to blunt the nocturnal increases in cholesterol biosynthesis. Patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) have very high levels of plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) due to their reduced ability to metabolize LDL particles. The present studies were carried out to determine whether diurnal variations in cholesterol synthesis occur in FH patients and to test the effects of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl CoA (HMG CoA) reductase inhibitors on the diurnal cycle of cholesterol biosynthesis in these patients. Diurnal rates of cholesterol synthesis were assessed by measuring the plasma concentrations of mevalonate, an intermediate in the pathway of cholesterol biosynthesis. Female FH patients exhibited a diurnal pattern in plasma mevalonate levels similar to that previously reported in controls with peak values occurring at night. Treatment with lovastatin and simvastatin (40 mg b.i.d.) significantly reduced 24-h mean plasma mevalonate levels from baseline values. Administration of lovastatin in the evening reduced the nocturnal increases in mevalonate levels, and the administration of simvastatin completely abolished the nighttime rise. These results demonstrate that inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis by lovastatin and simvastatin modifies the normal diurnal rhythm of cholesterol biosynthesis in female FH patients.
What Goes Into a Decision? How Nursing Faculty Decide Which Best Practices to Use for Classroom Testing.

Abstract AIM To explore the decision-making process of BSN faculty when determining which best practices to use for classroom testing. METHOD A descriptive, correlational study was conducted with a national sample (N = 127) of full-time BSN faculty. Participants completed a web-based survey incorporating instruments that measured beliefs about evaluation, decision-making, and best practices for item analysis and constructing and revising classroom tests. RESULTS Study participants represented 31 states and were primarily middle-aged white women. In multiple linear regression analyses, faculty beliefs, contextual factors for decision-making, and decision-making processes accounted for statistically significant amounts of the variance in item analysis and test construction and revision. Strong faculty beliefs that rules were important when evaluating students was a significant predictor of increased use of best practices. CONCLUSION Results support that understanding faculty beliefs around classroom testing...
MR spectroscopic imaging: Principles and recent advances

MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) has become a valuable tool for quantifying metabolic abnormalities in human brain, prostate, breast and other organs. It is used in routine clinical imaging, particularly for cancer assessment, and in clinical research applications. This article describes basic principles of commonly used MRSI data acquisition and analysis methods and their impact on clinical applications. It also highlights technical advances, such as parallel imaging and newer high-speed MRSI approaches that are becoming viable alternatives to conventional MRSI methods. Although the main focus is on (1) H-MRSI, the principles described are applicable to other MR-compatible nuclei. This review of the state-of-the-art in MRSI methodology provides a framework for critically assessing the clinical utility of MRSI and for defining future technical development that is expected to lead to increased clinical use of MRSI. Future technical development will likely focus on ultra-high field MRI scanners, novel hyperpolarized contrast agents using metabolically active compounds, and ultra-fast MRSI techniques because these technologies offer unprecedented sensitivity and specificity for probing tissue metabolic status and dynamics.
Phase I study of WR-2721 and carboplatin

Because WR-2721 reduces the toxicity of cisplatin and carboplatin in preclinical systems, we have treated 35 patients in a phase I study of WR-2721 and carboplatin. As the plasma half-life of WR-2721 is short relative to that of carboplatin, WR-2721 was administered in two divided doses. This schedule produced acceptable toxicity in 24 patients treated with carboplatin 400 mg/m 2 and escalating doses of WR-2721. In the subsequent 11 patients, WR-2721 was fixed at 740 mg/m 2 /dose and the dose of carboplatin was escalated. With WR-2721, grade 3–4 thrombopenia (platelets 9 /l) was produced in 4/5 patients treated with carboplatin 625 mg/m 2 and in 1/6 patients treated with carboplatin 500 mg/m 2 . Carboplatin pharmacokinetic parameters in 4 patients were similar to those reported for carboplatin alone. These results suggest that WR-2721 might increase the maximum tolerated dose of carboplatin from 400 to 500 mg/m 2 .
Opiate effects on social behavior of juvenile dogs as a function of social deprivation.

Abstract The relationship between opioids and social behavior was examined by administering morphine (an opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist) to juvenile dogs and measuring various social behaviors (e.g., tail wagging) in a large room. Drugs were administered following social deprivation and nondeprivation. It was hypothesized that morphine would ease effects of social deprivation while naloxone would result in behavior typical of untreated socially-deprived dogs. Social deprivation (24 hr) resulted in more contact with the experimenter and increased tail wagging relative to nondeprivation. Morphine (0.25 mg/kg) resulted in more contacts with the experimenter and entrances into the “experimenter's area” relative to vehicle injections. Further, morphine decreased and naloxone increased tail wagging in the dog's area and there was a significant social condition × drug interaction for that measure. Naloxone (0.25 mg/kg) increased wagging following nondeprivation while morphine decreased wagging following deprivation. These data support the hypothesis that social deprivation can increase social behaviors, and that social behavior is regulated by activity in brain opioid systems.
A Rit GTPase-p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Survival Pathway Confers Resistance to Cellular Stress

Cells mobilize diverse signaling cascades to protect against stress-mediated injury. Ras family GTPases play a pivotal role in cell fate determination, serving as molecular switches to control the integration of multiple signaling pathways. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling serves as a critical fulcrum in this process, regulating networks that stimulate cellular apoptosis but also have the capacity to promote cell survival. However, relatively little is known concerning this functional dichotomy, particularly the regulation of p38-dependent survival pathways. Here, we demonstrate that the Rit GTPase promotes cell survival by directing an unexpected p38 MAPK-dependent AKT survival pathway. Following stress exposure, Rit small hairpin RNA interference (shRNAi)-treated cells display increased apoptosis and selective disruption of p38 MAPK signaling, while expression of constitutively activated Rit promotes p38-AKT-dependent cell survival. Rit, but not Ras or Rap GTPases, can associate with, and is critical for, stress-mediated activation of the scaffolded p38-MK2-HSP27-AKT prosurvival signaling complex. Together, our studies establish Rit as a central regulator of a p38 MAPK-dependent signaling cascade that functions as a critical cellular survival mechanism in response to stress.
DQDB-an access delay analysis

The distributed queue dual bus is a protocol being considered by the IEEE 802.6 Working Committee for adoption as a metropolitan area network standard. Its primary function is to interconnect LANs over a high-speed physical medium (optical networks) operating at over 100 Mb/s and to support integrated traffic. Although DQDB is a totally distributed and contention-free protocol with throughput very close to one, the access delays experienced by stations vary with their position on the bus, upstream stations on a particular bus experiencing lesser delays compared to downstream stations. The results of simulation runs that compare the access delays experienced by MAC (media access control) stations at different utilization levels and at different priority levels are presented. It is noted that skewing in access delays is experienced by downstream stations. >
A posteriori estimation of vocal tract length

Various estimators of vocal tract length, both iterative and noniterative, have been proposed and used for various speech processing and speech pathological purposes. The results of the accuracy of these methods are compared with an a posteriori estimator and others. The a posteriori estimator is shown to provide nearly the same accuracy as the more complex and computation-time costly iterative algorithms.
Multichip module packaging of microelectromechanical systems

Abstract Methods of packaging microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) using two advanced multichip module (MCM) foundry processes are described. Special-purpose surface and bulk micromachined MEMS packaging test dies were designed and fabricated. The MEMS test dies were successfully packaged with CMOS electronics dies using the ‘chips first’ General Electric high-density interconnect (HDI) technology. Methods for reducing the potential for laser-induced damage and residue formation in the HDI process are demonstrated. The micro module systems MCM-D process was also successfully investigated for applicability to MEMS packaging. Development of MEMS compatible MCM packaging provides an alternative to monolithic fabrication for integration of MEMS and microelectronics.
Treatment planning at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Abstract We have established a group of 30D treatment-planning planning tools that are routinely used by physicians in the clinic. Our research goals are primarily directed at improving 3-D visualizations of medical images and developing tools to rapidly assess the impact of beam design on dose distribution, normal tissue complications, and tumor control probability.
Endocrine Effects of Circadian Disruption

Disruption of circadian rhythms, provoked by artificial lighting at night, inconsistent sleep-wake schedules, and transmeridian air travel, is increasingly prevalent in modern society. Desynchrony of biological rhythms from environmental light cycles has dramatic consequences for human health. In particular, disrupting homeostatic oscillations in endocrine tissues and the hormones that these tissues regulate can have cascading effects on physiology and behavior. Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic disruption of circadian organization of endocrine function may lead to metabolic, reproductive, sleep, and mood disorders. This review discusses circadian control of endocrine systems and the consequences of distorting rhythmicity of these systems.
Contributions to College Costs by Married, Divorced, and Remarried Parents

Using parent interview data from a subsample of the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), the authors compared the financial contributions of married, divorced, and remarried parents toward their children’s college education and found that although divorced parents contributed significantly less than married parents, remarried parents contributed amounts similar to those of divorced parents, despite having incomes similar to those of married parents. The authors also investigated the financial contributions of divorced and remarried parents who lived in states that permit courts to extend child support beyond the age of 18 for college expenses (postmajority states) and found that living in a postmajority state is not associated with increased parent contributions.
A High-Gradient CW RF Photo-Cathode Electron Gun for High Current Injectors

The paper describes the analysis and preliminary design of a high-gradient photo-cathode RF gun optimized for high current CW operation. The gun cell shape is optimized to provide maximum acceleration for the newly emitted beam while minimizing wall losses in the structure. The design is intended for use in future high-current high-power CW FELs but the shape optimization for low wall losses may be advantageous for other applications such as XFELs or Linear Colliders using high peak power low duty factor guns where pulse heating is a limitation. The concept allows for DC bias on the photocathode in order to repel ions and improve cathode lifetime.
Youth Substance Use and Body Composition: Does Risk in One Area Predict Risk in the Other?.

Both substance use and obesity are prevalent among youth. As youth age, substance use rates increase and over the past three decades, obesity rates among youth have tripled. While these two factors have both short- and long-term health impacts, little research has explored how substance use and obesity among youth may be related. This study explores the bi-directional longitudinal relationships between substance use and body composition. Participants (N = 704; 50.7% female) were mostly white (86.4%) with a baseline mean age of 14.7 years. Objectively measured body composition was used to calculate body mass index z-scores (BMI z-score) and percent body fat. Cross-lagged structural equation models, accounting for clustering at the school level, were run to determine the longitudinal association between body composition and self-reported substance use (alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana), adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, pubertal status, and weight satisfaction. Baseline alcohol use predicted decreased BMI z-score at follow-up and a similar association with percent body fat approached significance. Baseline cigarette use predicted increased percent body fat. No longitudinal associations were seen between baseline body composition and future substance use. Our results suggest that substance use contributes to subsequent body composition; however, body composition does not contribute to subsequent substance use. Continued research that explores these relationships longitudinally is greatly needed.
A Graphic Approach to Rosenberg's Affective-Cognitive Consistency Theory

The Abelson-Rosenberg consistency theory has failed to live up to its potential in providing adequate explanation andfostering creative research. Specifically, the theory fails to fully operationalize "least effort" and rarely presents falsifiable hypotheses. This paper attempts to adapt consistency theory to a geometric framework correcting the above shortcomings and several others so that consistency can be fruitfully applied in psychology, political science, and other social sciences. Two examples are included from political science to illustrate the geometric approach.
A Determinant of Sindbis Virus Neurovirulence Enables Efficient Disruption of Jak/STAT Signaling

Previous studies with Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus and Sindbis virus (SINV) indicate that alphaviruses are capable of suppressing the cellular response to type I and type II interferons (IFNs) by disrupting Jak/STAT signaling; however, the relevance of this signaling inhibition toward pathogenesis has not been investigated. The relative abilities of neurovirulent and nonneurovirulent SINV strains to downregulate Jak/STAT signaling were compared to determine whether the ability to inhibit IFN signaling correlates with virulence potential. The adult mouse neurovirulent strain AR86 was found to rapidly and robustly inhibit tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT2 in response to IFN-γ and/or IFN-β. In contrast, the closely related SINV strains Girdwood and TR339, which do not cause detectable disease in adult mice, were relatively inefficient inhibitors of STAT1/2 activation. Decreased STAT activation in AR86-infected cells was associated with decreased activation of the IFN receptor-associated tyrosine kinases Tyk2, Jak1, and Jak2. To identify the viral factor(s) involved, we infected cells with several panels of AR86/Girdwood chimeric viruses. Surprisingly, we found that a single amino acid determinant, threonine at nsP1 position 538, which is required for AR86 virulence, was also required for efficient disruption of STAT1 activation, and this determinant fully restored STAT1 inhibition when it was introduced into the avirulent Girdwood background. These data indicate that a key virulence determinant plays a critical role in downregulating the response to type I and type II IFNs, which suggests that the ability of alphaviruses to inhibit Jak/STAT signaling relates to their in vivo virulence potential.
Acute and chronic neuropathies: new aspects of Guillain–Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, an overview and an update

During the last 15 years new information about clinical, electrophysiological, immunological and histopathological features of acute and chronic inflammatory neuropathies have emerged. Thus, the Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is no longer considered a simple entity. Subtypes of the disorder besides the typical predominant motor manifestation, are recognized, i.e. a cranial nerve variant with ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and areflexia, an immune-mediated primary motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), and a motor-sensory syndrome (AMSAN). Also, the clinical pattern of GBS is related to preceding viral or bacterial infections. Two types of acute motor paralysis have been described, one with slow and incomplete recovery, another with recovery times identical with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). Histologically, the first is characterized by Wallerian degeneration of motor roots and peripheral motor nerve fibres. In the latter anti-GM antibodies bind to the nodes of Ranvier producing a failure of impulse transmission. Motor-point biopsies have shown denervated neuromuscular junctions and a reduced number of intramuscular nerve fibres. Molecular mimicry has been postulated as a possible mechanism triggering GBS. Thus, in the cranial variant antibodies to ganglioside GQ1b recognizes similar epitopes on Campylobacter jejuni strains and similar observations apply to anti-GM1 antibodies. Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) also has several different clinical presentations such as a pure motor syndrome, a sensory ataxic variant, a mononeuritis multiplex pattern, relapsing GBS, and a paraparetic subtype. Each of the acute and the subtypes have different, more or less distinct, electrophysiologic and pathological findings. Instructive patient stories are presented together with there electrophysiologic and biopsy findings.
Effects of Increased Residual Volume, Increased Output Resistance and Autonomic Drugs on Ventricular Suction in the Turtle

Immersed, isolated turtle ventricles were allowed to beat when filling only by suction. Obstruction of ejection at various volumes showed an inverse relationship between residual volume and volume aspirated. Diastolic aspiration occurred even with residual volumes of at least 0.55 ml. Ventricles, filling by suction only, maintained continuous output of up to 3 ml./min. working against pressures of 16 to 22 cm. H2O. In these circumstances ejection was diminished or abolished by acetylcholine and usually increased by epinephrine. This work amplifies and further quantitates recent work showing ventricular diastolic suction in a variety of species.
A Randomized, Prospective, Double-Blind Comparison of Midazolam (Versed) and Emulsified Diazepam (Dizac) for Opioid-Based, Conscious Sedation in Endoscopic Procedures

Objective: We completed a prospective, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial to compare the quality of sedation with two benzodiazepines (emulsified diazepam and midazolam) for endoscopic procedures. Methods: Adult patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy were eligible. Exclusion criteria included: drug allergies, altered mental status, untreated glaucoma, active pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, resident physician training, or cases done outside the Endoscopy unit. Nurses began the sedation process by administering an opioid followed immediately by administering study drugs until patients were adequately sedated. At completion of the procedure, both the physician and the nurse rated whether the patient's sedation appeared to be adequate. In addition, before discharge, patients were asked to rate the quality of sedation. Results: A total of 111 patients were randomized to the emulsified diazepam group and 100 to the midazolam group. There was no difference in the physician's assessment of quality of sedation between the groups (p > 0.05). The length of time to sedation, total procedure time, and recovery time were similar between both groups. The estimated cost of using emulsified diazepam was approximately 50% less than that of midazolam, with an equal quality of sedation. Conclusion: Neither the physicians, nurses, nor the patients could detect a difference between sedation produced by the drugs. We conclude that both drugs were equally effective for sedation for both upper and lower endoscopic procedures. Based on the results of this trial, we suggest that increased use of emulsified diazepam would markedly reduce the cost without altering the quality of sedation. The cost savings would be at least $50,000/yr at our institution.
Trace Metals – Phytoplankton Interactions: An Overview

Abstract Morel, F.M.M., 1986. Trace metals-phytoplankton interactions : an overview. In: P. Lasserre and J.M. Martin (eds), Biogeochemical Processes at the Land-Sea Boundary. Elsevier, Amsterdam. As shown early in the century, the role of trace metals as nutrients or toxicants to phytoplankton is mediated by the aqueous speciation of the elements. More recently free metal ion activities have been demonstrated to be the parameters determining such physiological effects. It is argued that this result implies no particular role for the free hydrated metal ions but represents simply the thermodynamic tendancy of the elements to react chemically, at pseudo-equilibrium, with cellular functional groups and hence to be bioactive. At present the focus is on disequilibrium processes, particularly the reduction and photoreduction of the metals Fe and Mn at cell surfaces. Such a process may make these essential elements more available to algae. It may also enhance the specificity of the uptake system, other metals which act as coordinative analogs of the essential ones being toxic by interfering with their transport or utilization. These physiological processes correspond to a general ecological view in which aquatic micro-organisms are simultaneously limited in stable systems by several essential elements and their toxic chemical analogs.
Pathways to HIV-Related Behavior Among Heterosexual, Rural Black Men: A Person-Centered Analysis

We investigated the psychosocial mechanisms linking personal and contextual risk factors to HIV-related behavior among 498 rural Black men. We characterized HIV-related behavior in terms of profile groups and hypothesized that contextual and personal risk factors (childhood adversity, community disadvantage, incarceration, and racial discrimination) would predict HIV-related behavior indirectly via two psychosocial mechanisms: impulsivity and negative relational schemas. Study results documented three HIV-related behavior profile groups. The Safer group reported low levels of risky behavior. The Risk-Taking group reported inconsistent condom use and elevated substance use. The Multiple Partners group reported the highest numbers of partners and relatively consistent condom use. Risk factors predicted profile groups directly and indirectly through psychosocial mechanisms. Impulsivity mediated the association between community disadvantage and membership in the risk-taking group. Negative relational schemas mediated the associations of childhood experiences and community disadvantage with membership in the multiple partners group. Specificity in pathways suggests the need for targeted interventions based on multidimensional characterizations of risk behavior.
The effect of stationary versus rocked storage of whole blood on red blood cell damage and platelet function

BACKGROUND Increasingly, cold-stored whole blood (WB) is being considered for the resuscitation of civilian trauma patients. It is unclear whether the WB should be agitated to enhance the function of the platelets (PLTs) or whether agitation will cause RBC damage. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS WB units were collected by standard procedures using a PLT-sparing inline leukoreduction filter and stored between 1 and 6°C. On Storage Day 3 each unit was divided into 4 subunits that were stored under one of the following conditions for 21 days: unrocked, manually rocked once daily, continuously rocked end over end, or continuously rocked horizontally. From Day 3 to Day 10, hemolysis and the mechanical fragility index (MFI) for RBC injury were measured daily and again on Days 15 and 21 (n = 9-16 units tested each time). On Days 4 and 10, rapid thromboelastogram (rTEG) measurements were performed (n = 8-10 units tested each time). RESULTS Hemolysis and MFI increased significantly between Day 3 and Day 21 (p < 0.0001) for all RBC rocking conditions, as well as the unrocked units. Only the manually and horizontally rocked units demonstrated higher hemolysis (on Day 21) and MFI (starting on Day 10) compared to the unrocked units. Only the α-angle and maximum amplitude in the end-over-end rocked units increased significantly between Day 4 and Day 10. There were no significant differences between the rocked and unrocked units on Day 10 for any rTEG variable. CONCLUSIONS Rocking does not appear to enhance in vitro PLT activity in cold-stored WB and can lead to increased hemolysis.
Spatio-temporal Networks: An Introduction

Spatio-temporal networks are spatial networks whose topology and parameters change with time. These networks are important for many critical applications such as emergency traffic planning and route finding services. This chapter establishes the significance of such networks by describing its applications and briefly outlines the basic concepts.
A revised phylogenetic classification of the ant subfamily Formicinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), with resurrection of the genera Colobopsis and Dinomyrmex

The classification of the ant subfamily Formicinae is revised to reflect findings from a recent molecular phylogenetic study and complementary morphological investigations. The existing classification is maintained as far as possible, but some tribes and genera are redefined to ensure monophyly. Eleven tribes are recognized, all of which are strongly supported as monophyletic groups: Camponotini, Formicini, Gesomyrmecini, Gigantiopini, Lasiini (= Prenolepidii syn. n.), Melophorini (= Myrmecorhynchini syn. n.; = Notostigmatini syn. n.), Myrmelachistini stat. rev. (= Brachymyrmicini syn. n.), Myrmoteratini, Oecophyllini, Plagiolepidini, and Santschiellini stat. rev. Most of the tribes remain similar in content, but the generic composition of Lasiini, Melophorini, and Plagiolepidini is changed substantially. Species that have been placed in the genus Camponotus belong to three separate lineages. To ensure monophyly of this large, cosmopolitan genus we institute the following changes: Colobopsis and Dinomyrmex , both former subgenera of Camponotus , are elevated to genus level (stat. rev.), and two former genera, Forelophilus and Phasmomyrmex , are demoted to subgenus status (stat. n. and stat. rev., respectively) under Camponotus ; two erstwhile subgenera of Phasmomyrmex , Myrmorhachis and Myrmacantha , become junior synonyms (syn. n.) of Camponotus ( Phasmomyrmex ); and the Camponotus subgenus Myrmogonia becomes a junior synonym (syn. n.) of Colobopsis . Dinomyrmex , represented by a single species from southeast Asia, D. gigas , is quite distinctive, but Camponotus and Colobopsis exhibit more subtle differences, despite being well separated phylogenetically. We identify morphological features of the worker caste that are broadly useful for distinguishing these two genera. Colobopsis species on the islands of New Caledonia and Fiji—regions with few native Camponotus species—tend to exceed these diagnostic bounds, but in this case regionally applicable character differences can be used to distinguish the two clades. Despite confusing similarities in the worker caste Colobopsis and Camponotus retain diagnostic differences in their larvae and pupae.
Low-speed friction and brittle compressive failure of ice: fundamental processes in ice mechanics

Frictional sliding plays a fundamental role in the mechanics of ice, on scales small and large. Whether across opposing faces of microcracks within laboratory specimens, across strike-slip like features within the sea ice cover on the Arctic Ocean, or across faults within the crust of icy satellites of the Outer Solar System, sliding of ice upon itself is central to the process of brittle compressive failure. In that regard, ice is similar to rock and to other crystalline materials. This review addresses the role of sliding in brittle compressive failure and then focuses on the nature of friction per se. Both static friction and low-velocity (<0.1ms-1) kinetic friction are described at temperatures from near the equilibrium melting point to as low as -175°C. The corresponding coefficients of friction are discussed in terms of the interaction and deformation of asperities that protrude from opposing surfaces. The coefficients appear to be governed largely by asperity creep at lower velocities and by creep ...
SEXUAL ISOLATION, SPECIATION AND THE DIRECTION OF EVOLUTION.

Kaneshiro (1976), in his study of behavioral isolation among four species of Hawaiian Drosophila, made the observation that isolation was asymmetrical between allopatric species. That is, between any allopatric pair of species, sexual isolation was strong in one direction but showed weak or no isolation in the other reciprocal. Based on the assumption that "elements of behavior" are "lost" during founder events due to severe drift conditions and the genetic revolution which accompanies such events, Kaneshiro proposed a hypothesis to infer the direction of evolution for the four species studied. Ohta (1978) analyzed sexual isolation among six populations of two other Hawaiian Drosophila species and observed striking asymmetry in pair-wise combinations of four of the six. By using Kaneshiro's (1976) hypothesis, Ohta was able to propose a uni-directional phylogeny for the six populations of the grimshawi complex of species. A preliminary search of the literature on ethological isolation between populations of Drosophila indicates that one-sided mating preference or asymmetrical isolation is not an uncommon phenomenon. Re-evaluation of these data in terms of the hypothesis proposed by Kaneshiro (1976) complements phylogenetic interpretations inferred from various other techniques. This paper elaborates the hypothesis proposed by Kaneshiro (1976). Additional evidence which appear to support his ideas will be presented. A discussion of the origin of premating isolation mechanisms is presented first to emphasize the role of sexual isolation in the speciation process.
Aerothermoelastic Simulation of Air-Breathing Hypersonic Vehicles

This paper describes the development and implementation of a partitioned-based, multiphysics, multi-fidelity simulation framework for flexible hypersonic vehicles. This simulation framework will enable the study of the dominant physics needed for the generation of control-oriented models and will provide a reference model for flight control evaluation. A partitioned-based solution is employed to approach the problem of modeling a flexible hypersonic vehicle by dividing the vehicle into discrete regions within which unique combinations of physical processes are relevant. The dominant physics of each region are then modeled locally and information is exchanged across region interfaces at predetermined time intervals as the vehicle simulation is marched forward in time. The highly coupled physical processes within each region are modeled using an array of variable fidelity reduced order models. The partition solution implementation is compared to a monolithic solution through trim and time simulation of a sample hypersonic vehicle geometry. Trim results of rigid and flexible vehicle models show good matching between the partitioned and monolithic solutions for Mach 6, 26 km altitude, steady level flight. Time simulations at the same flight conditions also show good qualitative matching between the solutions, but a mismatch in effective mass distribution allows the monolithic vehicle model to have a slightly faster control response to a commanded elevon deflection. The partitioned solution code architecture is then extended to the characterization of flutter for a hypersonic lifting surface, showing a significant reduction of flutter Mach number as a function of flight time.
Abstract 1507: TGF-beta induced stromal versican promotes cancer invasion in advanced stage serous ovarian cancer

Tumor microenvironment is crucial for tumor progression. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) support tumor growth and invasion by actively secrete different proteins into the extracellular matrix. Using transcriptome profiling analysis on microdissected normal and malignant ovarian tumor tissues, we obtained a CAF specific gene signature. One of the identified genes, versican, showed a 15fold increase in expression in the fibroblastic stromal component of the tumor tissue. This study seeks to evaluate the clinical significance of stromal versican over-expression, to delineate the role of versican in ovarian cancer progression and to understand the regulatory mechanism of versican. Clinical significance of stromal versican expression was evaluated by Kaplan Meier analysis (N=102). Results suggested that high versican expression in cancer stroma is significantly associated with poor overall and progression free survival in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) patients (p Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1507. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1507
Using material behavior models to develop process control strategies

Advances in material behavior modeling have enabled the explicit incorporation of material phenomena into process design and control methodologies. A new approach to material behavior modeling, in which stability analysis has been combined with the analysis of activation energy, can be used to identify processing regimes within which the material behavior is essentially deterministic and is amenable to process control. This articles illustrates the application of this dynamic material modeling approach through the example of deformation processing of a δ-TiAl alloy. Additionally, a new control-system design strategy explicitly based on the knowledge of the state of the material under hot-deformation conditions is explored.
Use of Network Analyzer and Coaxial Probe to Determine Complex Permittivity

A vector network analyzer combined with an open ended coaxial probe provides a way to make non-destructive measurements of complex permittivity. These measurements can be made on both solids and liquids. Many authors have done work on using an open ended coaxial line for making these measurements[1][2][3]. They have presented different techniques for modelling the coaxial probe. This paper does not focus on the area of modelling, but deals instead with the use of a vector network analyzer and coaxial probe in making measurements. To enhance measurement accuracy, the technique described adapts a calibration technique currently in use in vector network analysis. An HP 8720B vector network analyzer was used for the development and measurements presented in this paper.
What Every College President Should Know About Mathematics

Let me start with a very brief remark on the nature of the college presidency. The best characterization occurred to me somewhat accidentally when I was speaking to our California alumni during the primary races last spring. I found some remarkable similarities between the activities the political candidates were engaging in and and what I was doing. Therefore, I should like to characterize the college presidency as the unique job in which you first get elected to office and then spend the rest of your time running for office. It is a very peculiar multi-faceted job and it is not clear what kind of training is really good for a college president. But having a mathematician in such an office is a sufficiently rare event in the history of higher education that it might be worth considering whether there are ways in which being a mathematician is helpful to a college president. Obviously, there are a great many activities college presidents engage in where mathematics is totally irrelevant, but the opposite question is an interesting one. Therefore I will interpret the topic proposed for me by Professor J. L. Snell to mean "Are there certain things about mathematics that all college presidents should know?" I shall briefly mention some trivia and then go on to a few interesting examples from my own experience. Most people would say that it helps a college president to be able to read a financial statement. That is actually not as trivial as it sounds, because the purpose of most college financial statements is to meet a legal requirement, but to make sure that no one who reads the statement can find out what its contents mean. Secondly, it is good to be able to check the arithmetic in financial statements. I managed to find two errors in my first year as president, and I notice that this has had a salutory effect on the care with which these statements are prepared. But, more important is the fact that mathematicians are usually very good at explaining complicated mathematical things in fairly simple language to a non-mathematical audience.
Is the Political Personal? Everyday Behaviors as Forms of Environmental Movement Participation

Most studies of behaviors associated with social movements focus on activists and are limited to conventional forms of social movement participation (e.g. movement organization membership and event participation). We argue for an expansion of the forms of movement participation beyond those carried out by activists to include the everyday behaviors of the general public. We examine five behaviors (conserving water, gasoline, energy, and purchasing products made from recycled materials, and purchasing such products when they are more expensive) and explore whether they are being carried out as expression of social movement adherence. Using data from a telephone survey conducted by The University at Albany's Center for Social and Demographic Analysis we explore this issue. Factoring in stated motivations for actions taken and employing continuation-ratio logistic regressions examining the relationship between forms of social movement participation (conventional vs. everyday) and movement identity, we found ...
Analysis of the Effect of the Global Fund for TB Control Program in Shanxi during 7 Years

Objective:To evaluate the impact of the Global Fund for TB Control Program in Shanxi.Methods:The final assessment data of Global Fund for TB Control Program in Shanxi from 2003 to 2009 was analyzed.Results:DOTS(directly obeserved trement+short-course) coverage rate remained 100%.Detection rate of 72 523 cases of new smear positive pulmonary discovered from 2003 to 2009 was 72.03%.The cure rate of 68 132 cases cured from 2003 to 2009 was 93.7%.Conclusions:The Global Fund for TB Control Program in Shanxi has been implemented well.DOTS strategies have been stretched so high detection rate and high cure rate of smear positive pulmonary can be achieved.It has provided a successful model for the program target of the continuous development of TB Control Work in Shanxi.
Focus ion beam-induced mechanical stress switching in an ultra-fast resistive switching device

The Mo/Si3N4:Pt/Pt nanometallic resistive switching devices with ultra-fast write/erase speed (<50 ns) were fabricated. Other than conventional electrical switching, a mechanical stress-induced switching was demonstrated. Such mechanical stress was provided by momentum transfer of 30 keV Ga+ ions in a focus ion beam system, enabling a one-way high resistance state (HRS) to low resistance state (LRS) transition. The capability of mechanical stress switching provides evidence that electron trapping/detrapping mechanism is responsible for nanometallic resistive switching. It was further demonstrated that HRS (trapping state) is a meta-stable state, while LRS (detrapping state) is a stable state. Strong mechanical stress facilitates local bond distortion in dielectric films and thus lowers the energy barrier between HRS and LRS, eventually leading to a barrier-less state transition. A quantitative model based on stress-mediated parallel conduction paths were established to provide a more accurate description of the resistive switching devices.
Peer Observation and Evaluation Tool (POET): A Formative Peer Review Supporting Scholarly Teaching

The Peer Observation and Evaluation Tool (POET) is a valid and reliable measure developed for formative peer evaluation of pharmacy faculty. The authors replicated a study conducted on the POET in pharmacy in order to report the instrument’s validity and reliability in occupational therapy and to explore its potential as a formative teaching evaluation for occupational therapy educators. To verify item importance, seven participants from the faculty in an occupational therapy department rated each item. To establish inter-rater reliability, the participants evaluated one videotaped 55 min lecture. The POET was reliable with ICC at 0.93. There were high levels of agreement with the importance ratings among the participants with all scales. The POET appears to be a valid and reliable formative measure of teaching. At a time of significant change in the level of occupational therapy education, this measure may be an important support for scholarly teaching in two ways: First, this measure offers several opportunities to document the instructor’s strengths and, second, it offers the instructor suggestions about ways to improve teaching quality. Finally, the POET may facilitate faculty professional growth and development through systematic, strategic, and constructive peer review feedback.
Manilatown: Global Exclusion and Global Margins

Like other Asian-American ethnic groups in San Francisco, Filipino immigrants once had their own ethnopolis — Manilatown, a ten-block area located in the vicinity of Chinatown. Filipinos, unlike the Japanese and Chinese, who initially immigrated into the United States in the nineteenth century, began arriving in California in large numbers only in the 1920s. Starting in 1898, the US occupation of the Philippines resulted in the end of Spanish colonization of the islands and the beginning of American hegemonic domination of the territory. This new but imposed partnership between the two countries led to the immigration of Filipino students to the United States during the first quarter of the twentieth century to attend American universities for graduate and postgraduate training. These pensionados, mostly children of the elite, were supposed to return to the Philippines to build a new Western-trained professional cadre that would develop their country. In the United States, these young professionals lived in cities and university towns for the most part and were not the contract laborers who later constituted the bulk of the residents of San Francisco’s Manilatown.
The “Irrealevance” of Habit Formation: Stjernfelt, Hofstadter, and Rocky Paradoxes of Peircean Physiosemiosis

Using examples of geophysical processes, I discuss the implications for semiotics (physiosemiotics) of Peirce’s statement that “habit is by no means exclusively a mental act … The stream of water that wears a bed for itself is forming a habit” (CP 5.492). Geophysical phenomena are habit-producing processes that open up, not close down, the future and are always already recording phenomena that take advantage of their past and that reveal themselves as “natural propositions”, in Stjernfelt’s terms (2014). Further, the relationship of habit structure to habit structure, as concerns especially the emergence of “semiotic freedom” (Hoffmeyer 1996, 2010), can best be understood in terms of how habits simultaneously make themselves necessary AND necessarily irrelevant: here I follow Hofstadter (2007) and his concept of “responsible irrelevance” (2007), what I call “irrealevance”. The question is this: how has nature been able to seal itself off from that for which it is responsible in order to open up its own future?