cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Observations of static Coulomb stress triggering of the November 2011 M5.7 Oklahoma earthquake sequence

In November 2011, a M5.0 earthquake occurred less than a day before a M5.7 earthquake near Prague, Oklahoma, which may have promoted failure of the mainshock and thousands of aftershocks along the Wilzetta fault, including a M5.0 aftershock. The M5.0 foreshock occurred in close proximity to active fluid injection wells; fluid injection can cause a buildup of pore fluid pressure, decrease the fault strength, and may induce earthquakes. Keranen et al. [2013] links the M5.0 foreshock with fluid injection, but the relationship between the foreshock and successive events has not been investigated. Here we examine the role of coseismic Coulomb stress transfer on earthquakes that follow the M5.0 foreshock, including the M5.7 mainshock. We resolve the static Coulomb stress change onto the focal mechanism nodal plane that is most consistent with the rupture geometry of the three M ≥ 5.0 earthquakes, as well as specified receiver fault planes that reflect the regional stress orientation. We find that Coulomb stress is increased, e.g., fault failure is promoted, on the nodal planes of ~60% of the events that have focal mechanism solutions, and more specifically, that the M5.0 foreshock promoted failure on the rupture plane of the M5.7 mainshock. We test our results over a range of effective coefficient of friction values. Hence, we argue that the M5.0 foreshock, induced by fluid injection, potentially triggered a cascading failure of earthquakes along the complex Wilzetta fault system.
E/Z-Configurational assignment of dehydropeptides: Differential noe enhancement between the vinyl and amide protons of an α,β-dehydro amino acid derivative

Abstract The nuclear Overhauser enahancement difference technique applied to vinyl and amide protons of an α,β-dehydroamino acid derivative allows the assignment of the E or Z configuration; E -form, NOE = 26–37% and Z -form, NOE = 0%.
A deformation gradient tensor and strain tensors for atomistic simulations

A kinematical algorithm is proposed for the construction of strain tensors from atomistic simulation data. Local strain tensors such as the Almansi and Green strain tensors suitable for use in large deformation molecular dynamics/statics simulations are computed directly from a discrete form of the deformation gradient. The discrete, incremental form of the deformation gradient emerges from a weighted least squares minimization that includes a length scale relating the distance from the atom in question with a particular radius. This region defines the nonlocal domain of the strain at that atom. The local atomic strain tensors are then computed using continuum definitions in terms of the deformation gradient. The results of molecular dynamics simulations are presented that compare the Almansi and Green strain tensors under inhomogeneous deformation and indicate that the small-strain approximation should not be used to determine large atomic strains.
Preheat Studies for Foils Accelerated by Ablation due to Laser Irradiation

Laser fusion requires the inward acceleration of pellet shells to very high velocity without excessive preheat of the pellet fuel. In a study of ablatively accelerated thin planar Al foils, the complete time history of the rear-surface temperatures has been determined, and the energy transport mechanisms that contribute to the heating have been evaluated.
Neutrophil phagocytosis during endotoxin-induced lung injury.

Depressed neutrophil (PMN) phagocytosis in patients with ARDS may contribute to the known increased incidence of pulmonary sepsis. To evaluate changes in phagocytosis, circulating PMNs from normal rats were compared to circulating and alveolar PMNs (obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage, BAL) from rats after 72 hr of endotoxin infusion (LPS-Rx)-induced acute lung injury. Since phagocytosis correlates with adherence, PMN adherence to coverslips and to a standard nylon wool column was also measured. PMN adherence to nylon wool was 65% for control, 77% for circulating LPS-Rx, and 20% for BAL PMNs. As a measure of phagocytosis the PMNs were incubated for 30 min with opsonized fluorescent (FITC) tagged yeast. Total PMN with yeast were 95.4 ± 2.1% for control; 96.4 ± 1.8% for circulating LPS-Rx; and 78.7 ± 7.8% (P < 0.05 compared to control) for BAL PMNs. Total numbers of yeast particles per 100 PMN are 270 ± 64 for control, 300 ± 42 for circulating LPS-Rx, and 170 ± 45 (P < 0.05 compared to control) for BAL PMN. Conclusions: (1) Intraalveolar (BAL) PMNs have decreased adherence; (2) nonadherent PMNs have decreased uptake of yeast; (3) BAL PMNs, overall, have a significantly decreased uptake of yeast; (4) this depression in BAL PMN phagocytosis may partially explain the known decreased rate of bacterial clearance in injured lungs and the increased risk of pulmonary sepsis with adult respiratory distress syndrome.
Leadership for Psychiatrists

Objective This article introduces the prospective leader to a set of questions and relevant leadership literature that aid in the process of deciding whether to accept a leadership position.
Phenomenological theory of life.

Abstract The characteristics of life phenomena are analyzed and systematized into seven abstract systems: the exponentially multiplying system, the concomitant linearly multiplying system, the self-controlled system, the self-maintained system, the motor system, the sensory system and the sensory-motor co-ordination system. Each of the systems is analyzed phenomenologically on the physical basis so that life as an existing phenomenon may be understood on the foundation of physical science. The dynamical and statistical aspects of the analysis are left to another paper; the two together are an attempt to establish a general theory of life dealing with its nature, origin and evolution in terms of the first principles of physical science.
Sorption and Desorption Rates of Carbon Tetrachloride and 1,2-Dichlorobenzene to Three Organobentonites and a Natural Peat Soil

The sorption and desorption rates of carbon tetrachloride (CCl{sub 4}) and 1,2-dichlorobenzene (1,2-DCB) to and from three organobentonites of varying alkyl-chain length were quantified. The effects of solute structure, organobentonite structure, and solute-sorbent contact time on the rates of solute mass-transfer were investigated. For each solute, the rate of sorption was compared to the rate of desorption. In addition, the rate of 1,2-DCB sorption to a natural peat soil was quantified. The experimental data were simulated using a two-site model and a model incorporating a continuous distribution of mass-transfer rate coefficients. Based on a statistical analysis of the model simulations, the following conclusions were made: (1) The rate of 1,2-DCB sorption to the organobentonites was significantly faster than the rate of 1,2-DCB sorption to the peat soil. (2) The rate of mass-transfer during sorption and desorption was greater for CCl{sub 4} than for 1,2-DCB. (3) The alkyl-chain lengths of the organobentonites did not affect the rate of mass-transfer during sorption; however, the rate of 1,2-DCB desorption decreased as the length of the organobentonite alkyl-chain increased. (4) The rate of solute desorption was slower than the rate of solute uptake for two of the three organobentonites. (5) For most environmental applicationsmore » using the organobentonites studied here, a local equilibrium assumption will satisfactorily describe CCl{sub 4} and 1,2-DCB sorption and desorption.« less
Hepatosis diaetetica in pigs.

Abstract Extract Hepatosis diaetetica of pigs (nutritional liver necrosis, toxic liver dystrophy, etc.) is a disease entity characterized by necrosis of parenchymal cells without any particular distribution within the liver. It has long been known that it could be produced by adding cod liver oil to the diet and prevented by adding vitamin E. Nutritional liver necrosis in the pig is now known to be one of the many manifestations of deficiency of vitamin E (α-tocopherol) and/or selenium which occur in numerous animal species. Some of these conditions are: white muscle disease (nutritional muscular dystrophy or degeneration) which is known in all the domestic and many non-domestic species; dietetic microangiopathy (mulberry heart) of pigs; exudative diathesis and encephalomalacia of chickens ; yellow fat disease of pigs, rats and mink ; oesophago-gastric ulcers in pigs.
Repeated use of computerized case simulations in a test format does not present a security risk.

Abstract Background: Computer-based examination formats permit evaluation of patient care strategies in a realistic context. Because such examinations are complex and difficult to develop, the same case simulations must often be used on multiple occasions. Methods: To determine if repeated, serial administration of computerized case simulations influences performance, 8 simulations were administered over 2 consecutive years to 252 third-year medical students at the conclusion of 16 surgical clerkship rotations (8 per year). One-way analyses of variance were used to compare scores across rotations during the year and to compare scores between 2 consecutive academic years. Scheffe pairwise comparisons were used to identify trends within each academic year. Results: The data demonstrate an increase in scores across rotations during the year. There is, however, no difference between scores in successive years. Conclusions: The data are consistent with an increase in knowledge during the course of the year, without evidence that test information transfer influences the performance of successive classes.
Interactions of humic acid with nanosized inorganic oxides.

Adsorption of natural organic matter (NOM) on nanoparticles (NPs) is important for evaluating their transport, transfer, and fate in the environment, which will also affect sorption of hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) by NPs and thereby potentially alter the toxicity of NPs and the fate, transport, and bioavailability of HOCs in the environment. Therefore, the adsorption behavior of humic acids (HA) by four types of nano-oxides (i.e., TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3, and ZnO) was examined in this study to explore their interaction mechanisms using techniques including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and elemental, ζ potential, and surface area analyses. Adsorption of HA was observed on nanosized TiO2, Al2O3, and ZnO but not on nano-SiO2. Furthermore, HA adsorption was pH-dependent. HA adsorption by nano-oxides was mainly induced by electrostatic attraction and ligand exchange between HA and nano-oxide surfaces. Surface hydrophilicity and negative charges of nano-oxides affected their adsorption of HA...
PRIMATE CHORIONIC GONADOTROPINS: ANTIGENIC SIMILARITIES TO THE UNIQUE CARBOXYL-TERMINAL PEPTIDE OF HCGβ SUBUNIT

Antigenic similarities of chorionic gonadotropin from human (hCG), chimpanzee (chCG), gorilla (gCG), orangutan (orCG), baboon (paCG), macaque (mCG), and marmoset (maCG) were investigated in a radioimmunoassay system using an antiserum (rabbit H93) with antigenic determinants known to reside in the terminal 15 amino acid residues of the unique carboxyl-terminal peptide of hCGbeta, which makes it highly specific for hCG without crossreactivity to hLH. Our findings indicate that the extreme antigenic similarity between chCG and hCG at the unique carboxyl-terminal region of hCGbeta, as well as the availability of these apes for laboratory research, make the chimpanzee the optimal nonhuman primate model for assessing potential risks of fertility control in women by immunization against hCGbeta.
STUDY OF OVARIES AFTER ADMINISTRATION OF A GONADOTROPIC PRINCIPLE OF ANTERIOR PITUITARY1

We have described previously (1) observations upon ovaries following injections of the so-called luteinizing principle of pregnancy urine (APL/PU). Studies have also been reported (2) on the endometrium in endometrial hyperplasia after treatment with APL/PU, with a gonadotropic principle of anterior lobe and with other principles. This communication is based upon the study of ovaries from 14 patients who had received injections of an extract of gonadotropic principle of anterior pituitary (APE) over short periods of time. We have been supplied with an active fractionated gonadotropic extract of anterior pituitary gland from the research laboratories of Parke, Davis & Co. According to information supplied by Dr. Oliver Kamm, the source is beef, sheep and hog glands. Crude alkaline extracts are prepared in general by the method described by Bugbee (3). The growth and lactational principles are separated from the gonadotropic by precipitation. The preparation is said to contai n small amounts of growth and t...
Agglomeration of dust in convective clouds initialized by nuclear bursts

Abstract Convective clouds initialized by nuclear bursts are modeled using a two-dimensional axisymmetric cloud model. Dust transport through the atmosphere is studied using five different sizes ranging from 1 to 10,000 μm in diameter. Dust is transported in the model domain by advection and sedimentation. Water is allowed to condense onto dust particles in regions of supersaturation in the cloud. The agglomeration of dust particles resulting from the collision of different size dust particles is modeled. The evolution of the dust mass spectrum due to agglomeration is modeled using a numerical scheme which is mass conserving and has low implicit diffusion. Agglomeration moves mass from the small particles with very small fall velocity to the larger sizes which fall to the ground more readily. Results indicate that the dust fallout can be increased significantly due to this process. In preliminary runs using stable and unstable environmental soundings, at 30 min after detonation the total dust in the domain was 11 and 30%, respectively, less than a control case without agglomeration.
Information velocity-in ultraslow and fast light media

We consider the effect of large normal or anomalous dispersion on the information velocity. We also experimentally study how pulse shapes are distorted as the pulse bandwidth becomes comparable to the region of steep dispersion
Self-assembly of Au nanoparticles on graphene sheets as a catalyst with controlled grafting density and high reusability

In the present work, we have developed a method to achieve self-assembly of Au nanoparticles (NPs) on graphene sheets through chemical functionalization. Transmission electron microscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy results indicate that the grafting density of Au NPs on graphene sheets can be controlled by changing the types of functional groups. The ability to control the density of Au NPs cannot be overestimated, because it provides tunable catalytic activity. These graphene/Au composites display good stability against agglomeration and show excellent catalytic activity in a model reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol into 4-aminophenol. This study demonstrates a general approach to the preparation of tunable and reusable catalysts containing densely loaded and well dispersed Au NPs.
Forward--the visual culture of the queer in the clinic.

This short essay provides an overview of the Visual Studies section of the special issue “Queer in the Clinic.” Addressing the impact of visual culture on queer experiences in the clinic, the author offers thoughts on the graphic artwork of Edie Fake and Brain Cremins’s essay included in this issue. Arguing that contemporary and historical visual assessments of the LGBTQ clinical subject are vital contributors to queer bioethical debates, she explains relevant concepts such as “radical somatic transformation,” “the nature of bodily possibility,” and Walter Benjamin’s “world of secret affinities.”
An analysis of nanoscientists as public communicators

The American public remains unfamiliar with nanotechnology despite more than a decade of investment and development. Nanoscientists have an opportunity to contribute to public conversations about their work, and its potential implications, through their engagement with lay audiences and media professionals. Indeed, the leaderships of many professional scientific organizations have placed a renewed focus on the public communication of science, particularly in the light of drastic changes in the information landscape and the increasing politicization of many technological and scientific issues. However, we have a limited understanding of nanoscientists' perceptions and behaviours regarding their participation in public communication. Here, we report survey results that provide an examination of the public communication behaviours of nanoscientists affiliated with the National Science Foundation's (NSF) National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN), an integrated partnership of US research institutions designed to facilitate nanoscale research and development. Our results suggest that nanoscientists are relatively frequent public communicators who commonly associate their communication efforts with positive impacts on their professional success. We also identify a handful of characteristics that drive nanoscientists' intentions to communicate with the public about nanotechnology.
Structure of the O-antigen of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serotype 7 lipopolysaccharide.

Abstract The structure of the O-antigen polysaccharide of A. pleuropneumoniae serotype 7 was investigated by methylation analysis, partial acid hydrolysis, periodate oxidation, and 1 H- and 13 C-n.m.r. spectroscopy. The polysaccharide repeating-unit consists of a branched tetrasaccharide having the following structure. [→4)-α- l -Rha p -(1 → 3)-β- d -Gal p -(1 → 4)-β- d -Gal p NAc-(1 →] n
Locating the Extrema of Fungible Regression Weights

In a multiple regression analysis with three or more predictors, every set of alternate weights belongs to an infinite class of “fungible weights” (Waller, Psychometrica, in press) that yields identical SSE (sum of squared errors) and R 2 values. When the R 2 using the alternate weights is a fixed value, fungible weights (a i ) that yield the maximum or minimum cosine with an OLS weight vector (b) are called “fungible extrema.” We describe two methods for locating fungible extrema and we report R code (R Development Core Team, 2007) for one of the methods. We then describe a new approach for populating a class of fungible weights that is derived from the geometry of alternate regression weights. Finally, we illustrate how fungible weights can be profitably used to gauge parameter sensitivity in linear models by locating the fungible extrema of a regression model of executive compensation (Horton & Guerard, Commun. Stat. Simul. Comput. 14:441–448, 1985).
Scavenging deep-sea amphipods: Effects of food odor on oxygen consumption and a proposed metabolic strategy

In situ respiration rates as a response to the odor of food were measured for two species of scavenging amphipods, Paralicella caperesca from 3 650 m in the western North Atlantic Ocean and Orchomene sp. B from 1 300 m in the Santa Catalina Basin off southern California (USA). In addition, complementary laboratory starvation/respiration rates for a shallow-water species, Orchomene sp. A, were determined. Initial elevated O2 consumption rates were found for up to 8 h in all deep-sea amphipods exposed to bait odor, followed by a period of lowered respiration equivalent to rates observed in individuals not exposed to bait. Orchomene sp. A revealed a response similar to that observed in the deep-sea species. A metabolic strategy is proposed whereby scavenging amphipods efficiently utilize large episodic organic falls in the food-limited environment of the deep sea. This strategy involves (1) the ability to withstand long periods of starvation, (2) rapid response to an organic fall, (3) rapid location of the organic fall, (4) maximal rate of food consumption with maximal quantity ingested, and (5) efficient utilization of the consumed food. Each of these attributes are explored with the expected and observed mechanisms employed to achieve them.
Assessing ICD-9-CM and ICPC-2 Use in Primary Care. An Italian Case Study

Controlled vocabularies and standardized coding systems play a fundamental role in the healthcare domain. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is one of the most widely used classification systems for clinical problems and procedures. In Italy the 9th revision of the standard is used and recommended in primary care for encoding prescription documents. This paper describes a statistical and terminological study to assess ICD-9-CM use in primary care and its comparison to the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC), specifically designed for primary care. The study has been conducted by analyzing the clinical records of about 199,000 patients provided by a set of 166 General Practitioners (GPs) in different Italian areas. The analysis has been based on several techniques for detecting coding practice and errors, like natural language processing and text-similarity comparison. Results showed that the selected GPs do not fully exploit the diseases and procedures descriptive capabilities of ICD-9-CM due to its complexity. Furthermore, compared to ICPC-2, it resulted less feasible in the primary care setting, particularly for the high granularity of the structure and for the lack of reasons for encounters.
Similarity-based clustering strategy for mobile ad hoc multimedia databases

Multimedia data are becoming popular in wireless ad hoc environments. However, the traditional content-based retrieval techniques are inefficient in ad hoc networks due to the multiple limitations such as node mobility, computation capability, memory space, network bandwidth, and data heterogeneity. To provide an efficient platform for multimedia retrieval, we propose to cluster ad hoc multimedia databases based on their semantic contents, and construct a virtual hierarchical indexing infrastructure overlaid on the mobile databases. This content-aware clustering scheme uses a semantic-aware framework as the theoretical foundation for data organization. Several novel techniques are presented to facilitate the representation and manipulation of multimedia data in ad hoc networks: 1) using concise distribution expressions to represent the semantic similarity of multimedia data, 2) constructing clusters based on the semantic relationships between multimedia entities, 3) reducing the cost of content-based multimedia retrieval through the restriction of semantic distances, and 4) employing a self-adaptive mechanism that dynamically adjusts to the content and topology changes of the ad hoc networks. The proposed scheme is scalable, fault-tolerant, and efficient in performing content-based multimedia retrieval as demonstrated in our combination of theoretical analysis and extensive experimental studies.
Data collection methodology for dynamic temperature model testing and corroboration

This article describes a data collection approach for determining the significance of individual heat fluxes within streams with an emphasis on testing (i.e. identification of possible missing heat fluxes), development, calibration and corroboration of a dynamic temperature model. The basis for developing this approach was a preliminary temperature modelling effort on the Virgin River in southwestern Utah during a low-flow period that suggested important components of the energy balance might be missing in the original standard surface-flux temperature model. Possible missing heat fluxes were identified as bed conduction, hyporheic exchange, dead zone warming and exchange and poor representation of the amount of solar radiation entering the water column. To identify and estimate the relative importance of the missing components, a comprehensive data collection effort was developed and implemented. In particular, a method for measuring shortwave radiation behaviour in the water column and an in situ method for separating out bed conduction and hyporheic influences were established. The resulting data and subsequent modelling effort indicate that hyporheic and dead zone heat fluxes are important, whereas solar radiation reflection at the water surface was found to be insignificant. Although bed conduction can be significant in certain rivers, it was found to have little effect on the overall heat budget for this section of the Virgin River.
Multiattribute evaluation in baseball all‐star predictions

Determining the utility of alternatives that vary on many dimensions is a problem of great importance. It can be an aspect of decision making in all levels of living systems. A simple multiattribute utility procedure was used by Einhorn and McCoach (1977) to evaluate National Basketball Association player performance. In the present study, we performed a similar analysis using 1978 player performances in baseball to predict the 1979 All-Star team selections. Detailed statistics were obtained about each player's performance in the American and National Leagues during the 1978 season. Five of these attributes were weighted in order of importance. Two measures of total performance were then made by combining the component performances, one using rank weights and the other using equal weights. Although the use of rank or equal weights did not seem to make a big difference, equal weighting did present a slightly finer degree of accuracy. Both methods resulted in a 62.5% prediction for the National League nonpitchers. The nonpitcher proportions for the American League were not as high, with 25% and 37.5% rank and equal weight methods, respectively. A second analysis using more recent statistical trends (1979 performance statistics) improved prediction accuracy to 75% and 62.5% for the National and American Leagues, respectively. The Einhorn-McCoach procedure appears to be a reasonably effective evaluation model in certain situations.
Proof Construction: Adolescent Development from Inductive to Deductive Problem-Solving Strategies

Abstract Inductive and deductive approaches to the construction of problem-solving proofs were examined using a task that requires the discovery of a geometrical figure hidden behind a series of covers. It was proposed that during adolescence, with the acquisition of a formal reasoning competence (as measured by Overton′s [1990] version of Wason′s selection task), there would be a transition from inductive to deductive proof construction strategies. One hundred adolescents were assessed on both the problem-solving proof task and the reasoning competence selection task. The results demonstrate that a formal level of reasoning competence is associated with taking a deductive approach to proof construction. Formal reasoners tend to construct a proof based on the use of a falsification strategy as demonstrated by their search for disconfirming instances. A nonformal level of competence on the other hand is associated with inductive approaches. In this situation nonformal subjects tend to employ a verification strategy as demonstrated by the generation of redundant information. Results support the hypothesis that there is a cognitive developmental progression from an inductive approach to the construction of proofs to a deductive approach.
Determination of metabolites of tyrosine and of tryptophan and related compounds by gas-liquid chromatography

Abstract A one-step procedure for the simultaneous derivatization of acidic, neutral and basic metabolites of tyrosine and tryptophan has been developed. The derivatives of sixteen tryptophan metabolites, twelve tyrosine metabolites and several related compounds were quantitatively determined by gas-liquid chromatography using three stationary phases of varying selectivities.
An accurate semi-analytical framework for full-chip TSV-induced stress modeling

TSV-induced stress is an important issue in 3D IC design since it leads to serious reliability problems and influences device performance. Existing finite element method can provide accurate analysis for the stress of simple TSV placement, but is not scalable to larger designs due to its expensive memory consumption and high run time. On the contrary, linear superposition method is efficient to analyze stress in full-chip scale, but sometimes it fails to provide an accurate estimation since it neglects the stress induced by interactions between TSVs. In this paper we propose an accurate two-stage semi-analytical framework for full-chip TSV-induced stress modeling. In addition to the linear superposition, we characterize the stress induced by interactions between TSVs to provide more accurate full-chip modeling. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed framework can significantly improve the accuracy of linear superposition method with reasonable overhead in run time.
The synthesis of N-methylovigerine

Abstract A synthesis is described for (±)-1,2,10,11-bis methylenedioxyaporphine (2). The latter proved to be the racemic form of the alkaloid (+)-N-methylovigerine, thus confirming the structures assigned earlier to this alkaloid and to the related base ovigerine on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and chemical transformations.
Concentration of terahertz radiation through tapered circular subwavelength apertures

We demonstrate the concentration of broadband terahertz radiation through conically tapered subwavelength apertures. Concomitantly, there is a reduction of the THz group velocity for the transmitted pulse. We describe the underlying principle behind this phenomenon.
Rationale for the administration of acellular pertussis vaccine to parents of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit

Pertussis infections in the United States are increasing as a consequence of waning immunity and increased surveillance. Those most at-risk of mortality include infants less than 6 months of age and premature infants. The 2006 immunization schedule emphasizes an adolescent pertussis booster at 12 years of age. However, of concern is the current generation of parents and grandparents who will still be un-immunized and therefore, available vectors of pertussis to vulnerable neonates. Given the proximity of parents to medical care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and the potential for severe disease in their children, NICU personnel should consider administration of acellular pertussis vaccine to parents of hospitalized infants.
TH‐A‐217BCD‐11: A Practical Approach to Evaluate the Performance of Automatic Exposure Controls in Digital Mammography

Purpose: To establish a practical methodology to quantify the performance of different automatic exposure controls (AEC) options in digital mammography in terms of dose efficiency. Methods: A Hologic Selenia digital mammography system was used in the study. A figure of merit (FOM), defined as the squared signal difference to noise ratio normalized by the mean glandular dose (MGD), was utilized to delineate the AEC performance. The measurements and analyses were conducted under different AEC options on a realistically shaped tissue equivalent phantom (CIRS 18‐222). The phantom consists of simulated masses, fibers, and microcalcifications. Slabs of BR12 were added to reach different thicknesses. Based on the results, a computer simulation was performed for lesions on the images of an anthropomorphic breast phantom (Gammex, Rachel) acquired under the same AEC options. The pathological findings from the resulted images were compared. Results: For the mammography system used in the experiment, it was found that as compared with the default AEC, the lower kVp and Mo‐Mo target‐filter AEC table results in a FOM improvement on low contrast by 11% to 20%, except for 7 cm thickness where the FOM is reduced by 17%. The FOM improves negligibly on high contrast details for the thicknesses of 4.5 – 6 cm and decreases by 18% for the thickness of 7 cm. The simulated lesions on the Rachel phantom showed enhanced contrast with the lower kVp and Mo/Mo option, but the enhancement gradually decreases for the thicker breast. Conclusions: A methodology was established to quantify the performance of different AEC options using the figure‐of‐merit and the commercially available phantoms. For the tested mammography system, the lower kVp and Mo/Mo option is preferred if the breast thickness ranges 4.5 – 6 cm, whereas the default AEC is recommended if the breast thickness is 7cm and above.
Attributional Complexity: Information Search and Integration during Causal Reasoning

Abstract The information search and integration patterns of attributionally complex and simple subjects (Fletcher, Danilovics, Fernandez, Peterson, & Reeder, 1986) were compared in a task derived from Kelley′s (1967) attribution model. Attributionally complex subjects selected a higher proportion of items about dissimilar but not similar comparison actors, entities, and occasions than simple subjects. In addition, discriminant analyses showed that information selection patterns predicted the attributional judgments of complex subjects but not of attributionally simple subjects.
Effect of Substrate Concentration on Multicomponent Adsorption

Recent studies of the adsorption of cellulase enzymes onto pretreated wood indicate that the adsorption isotherm is dependent upon the concentration of substrate in the solution. The computer studies reported in this note show that such behavior is to be expected of Langmuir type adsorption when two types of adsorbants compete for the same adsorption sites.
A NEW DIAGNOSTIC TEST OF MODEL INADEQUACY WHICH USES THE MARTINGALE DIFFERENCE CRITERION

. Let {x(t)} denote a discrete-time random process. Given a sample of increments e(t) = x(t) - x(t - 1) from the time series, we wish to test formally whether the sample is consistent with the assumption that {e(t)} is a martingale difference. It is shown that the martingale criterion is more general than the white noise criterion in analyzing fitted residuals for signs of model inadequacy. In this paper we present such a test which approximately achieves a given type 1 error probability for samples. We assume that (1) the process is strictly stationary, (2) all its kth-order cumulant functions exist and (3) the kth-order cumulants are absolutely summable and satisfy a mixing condition. The martingale assumption implies that most third-order cumulants of the increment process are zero, and thus the third-order cumulant sequence is sparse. This result is used to derive test statistics based on a modified sample bispectrum. The test can be regarded as a two-dimensional portmanteau test of serial dependence. The large-sample results are demonstrated through the use of artificial data. Finally, the test is applied to a daily financial series.
Failed Contracting: Lessons Learned from False Starts with National, State and Local Sport Organizations

This article outlines steps that can be taken by certified sport psychology consultants to reduce false starts in consulting relationships with sport governing bodies by working through the phases of contracting that include the interest, education and decision phases of the process. Recommendations for effective contracting are made so future working relationships are clearer, create more shared value and lead effective consultation experiences.
Endochronic modeling of coupled volumetric-deviatoric behavior of porous and granular materials

Abstract The mechanical behavior of the porous and granular class of materials is modelled by means of endochronic plasticity. Special attention is given to the coupled volumetric-deviatoric behavior including volumetric deformation enhanced by shear loading and the enhancement of deviatoric deformation due to the application of hydrostatic loads. The theory is applied to describe a set of results for concrete available in the literature. This application has demonstrated a reasonably wide range of applicability for the model.
Surrogate Modeling of High-Fidelity Fracture Simulations for Real-Time Residual Strength Predictions

A surrogate model methodology is described for predicting in real time the residual strength of flight structures with discrete-source damage. Starting with design of experiment, an artificial neural network is developed that takes as input discrete-source damage parameters and outputs a prediction of the structural residual strength. Target residual strength values used to train the artificial neural network are derived from 3D finite element-based fracture simulations. A residual strength test of a metallic, integrally-stiffened panel is simulated to show that crack growth and residual strength are determined more accurately in discrete-source damage cases by using an elastic-plastic fracture framework rather than a linear-elastic fracture mechanics-based method. Improving accuracy of the residual strength training data would, in turn, improve accuracy of the surrogate model. When combined, the surrogate model methodology and high-fidelity fracture simulation framework provide useful tools for adaptive flight technology.
In vitro metabolism of a rifamycin derivative by animal and human liver microsomes, whole blood and expressed human CYP3A isoform

1. In vitro metabolism of a rifamycin derivative, benzoxazinorifamycin KRM-1648, was studied using mouse, rat, guinea pig, dog, monkey and human liver microsomes. 30-Hydroxy-KRM-1648 (M2) was produced in mouse, dog, monkey and human microsomes. 25-Deacetyl-KRM-1648 (M1) was produced in dog and human microsomes, but not in mouse or monkey microsomes. Neither M1 nor M2 was detected in rat or guinea pig microsomes. 2. In dog and human liver microsomes the formation of M2 was dependent on NADPH, but the formation of M1 was not. 3. In vitro metabolism of the parent compound was studied in whole blood in some species. Only M1 was detected in mouse and rat blood, and not in dog and human blood. 4. These findings demonstrated that the metabolite pattern in dog resembled that in man, and suggested that the 30-hydroxylation of KRM-1648 was mediated by cytochrome P450, but that the 25-deacetylation was not. 5. Among the ten recombinant human P450 isoforms used, only the cell lysates including CYP3A3 and CYP3A4 catalysed the M2 formation from KRM-1648.
Three-dimensional esophageal varix model quantification of variceal volume by high-resolution endoluminal US.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of three-dimensional volume measurements by high-resolution endoluminal ultrasound in an esophageal varix model. Methods: An esophageal varix model was made by filling three esophageal dilatation catheters with various volumes of water. A 20 MHz ultrasonography transducer was then pulled along the length of the catheters at a constant rate (1.25 mm/sec) while videotaping the procedure. Cross-sectional surface area measurements of each catheter were taken every second and the cross-sectional surface area was multiplied by the length of each catheter, as determined by high-resolution endoluminal ultrasound, to determine the volume in each catheter. Interobserver variability was calculated, and three-dimensional reconstruction was performed. Results: The measured volumes corresponded closely with the actual volumes with an error ranging from 0% to 15.4%. The correlation between actual and measured volumes was r = 0.988. The interobserver variability ranged from r = 0.951 to r = 0.994. Actual esophageal varices were then imaged in a similar fashion to determine the feasibility of this method in patients with esophageal varices. Conclusions: High-resolution endoluminal ultrasound is an accurate and reproducible method of measuring volumes in an esophageal varix model and can be used in a clinical setting to determine variceal volume. Volume studies are now underway in human subjects.
Anionic polymerization of styrene in a tubular reactor

For high-volume products, continuous processes are generally preferred over batch processes since they typically give more consistent quality at lower cost. Despite this, most commercial anionic polymerizations are batch because of a variety of stability issues. This paper explores the feasibility of a tubular process for high-molecular-weight polystyrene with low polydispersity. Experimental results show number-average chain lengths of 600-2600 with polydispersities of 1.05-1.42. Apparent steady states were achieved. A comprehensive process model based on available transport and kinetic properties gave reasonable predictions. A single adjustable parameter improved the model to the point that it is adequate for design purposes. This adjustable parameter accounts for the initial deactivation of a n-butyllithium initiator due to the trace contaminates in the raw materials. Scale-up to industrial-scale production appears feasible, although long-term stability must be explored.
Specific reversal of cytolytic T lymphocyte – target cell interaction

A functional assay is described that measures the reversal of specific cytolytic T cell (CTL)-target cell binding. Binding of 51Cr-labeled P815 cells was stable in suspension but could be readily reversed by the addition of unlabeled P815 cells. The reversal of CTL-tumor cell and CTL-spleen cell binding was H-2 specific; only cells of the same H-2 type as the bound target cell could induce reversal. In all cases, tumor cells were substantially more efficient than spleen cells in inducing specific reversal.
In Memoriam: John Newport (1951–2005)

The news is so full of lives cut short that one might worry that we have become inured to the experience. But cold reality asserts itself when a premature death strikes within our own community, and the full tragedy and the wasted opportunity are exposed. We then pause to mark the singularity of human existence and the personal nature of science itself. John Newport, distinguished professor of biology at the University of California, San Diego, died on December 26th, 2005 after a few short months fighting pancreatic cancer.
Examining Third-Person Perceptions in the Context of Sexually Oriented Advertising

A limited amount of research has been undertaken to investigate third-person perceptions as persuasion in the context of sexually oriented advertising. This study examined whether sexually oriented advertising and gender differences would yield significant influences on third-person perceptions and whether participants’ sexual cognition would moderate their third-person perceptions. Results showed that sexually oriented advertising, gender differences, and sexual cognition were significant factors that dominated the third-person perceptions. After exposure to sexually oriented advertising, females were led to a stronger degree of the third-person perceptions than males. Moreover, the participants with a more negative level of sexual cognition had a stronger degree of the third-person perceptions than those with a more positive level of sexual cognition after exposure to sexually oriented advertising.
Euclidean inverses for the characterization of three-dimensional molecular structures

Abstract A new technique is formulated using inverses of Euclidean distance matrices of molecular structures for the characterization of the three-dimensional molecular geometries. It is shown that the inverse powers can be used to partition the nuclei into equivalence classes that reflect the true geometry of the molecule. Applications to NMR and ESR spectroscopy are considered.
Membrane transport of folates.

Abstract The chapter reviews the current understanding of the transport mechanisms for folates in mammalian cells—their molecular identities and organization, tissue expression, regulation, structures, and their kinetic and thermodynamic properties. This encompasses a variety of diverse processes. Best characterized is the reduced folate carrier, a member of the SLC19 family of facilitative carriers. But other facilitative organic anion carriers (SLC21), largely expressed in epithelial tissues, transport folates as well. In addition to these bi-directional carrier systems are the membrane-localized folate receptors alpha and beta, that mediate folate uptake unidirectionally into cells via an endocytotic process. There are also several transporters, typified by the family of multidrug resistance-associated proteins, that unidirectionally export folates from cells. There are transport activities for folates, that function optimally at low pH, related in part to the reduced folate carrier, with at least one activity that is independent of this carrier. The reduced folate carrier-associated low-pH route mediates intestinal folate transport. This review considers how these different transport processes contribute to the generation of transmembrane folate gradients and to vectorial flows of folates across epithelia. The role of folate transporters in mouse development, as assessed by homologous deletion of folate receptors and the reduced folate carrier, is described. Much of the focus is on antifolate cancer chemotherapeutic agents that are often model surrogates for natural folates in transport studies. In particular, antifolate transport mediated by the reduced folate carrier is a major determinant of the activity of, and resistance to, these agents. Finally, many of the key in vitro findings on the properties of antifolate transporters are now beginning to be extended to patient specimens, thus setting the stage for understanding response to these drugs in the clinical setting at the molecular level.© 2003, Elsevier Science (USA).
Multidisciplinary Care of the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patient

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex disease that requires the attention of physicians and surgeons from diverse backgrounds. This chapter will focus on the unique contributions of the hepatologist, radiologist, pathologist, medical oncologist, interventional radiologist, transplant surgeon, and the hepatobiliary surgeon. This chapter will conclude by illustrating how careful multidisciplinary care optimizes the long-term outcomes of patients with HCC.
On Frame Synchronization for Multiple Access Channels

The problem of frame synchronization is formulated and investigated for multiple access channels (MAC). Several decision rules for locating the starting positions in continuously transmitted frames are proposed and compared, for both user- synchronous and user-asynchronous cases. It is shown that the common decision rule based on the correlation statistic is suboptimal, and that correction terms need be added in order to achieve an improved detection performance. For the user- asynchronous case, the optimal joint decision rule is derived in analytical form for two-user MAC and is highly complex, and is shown to suffer from a high computational complexity. To reduce the complexity, suboptimal separate decision algorithms with and without Gaussian approximation are derived, and it is il- lustrated using Monte Carlo simulation that those low-complexity algorithms only incur a slight degradation in optimality. by the specific problem of RFID signal separation (6). When multiple RFID tags are activated, symbol-synchronous signals from these tags are simultaneously transmitted in a continuous and repeated fashion, with fixed sync-words inserted into the data streams. Such a system model exactly fits into the research domain of frame synchronization. In this paper, we investigate both the user-synchronous and user-asynchronous cases. In the user-synchronous case, transmitters are scheduled such that their transmitted frames align synchronously. We derive the optimal maximum a pos- terior (MAP) decision rule in this case, which akin to single- user channels includes a correction term in addition to the correlation statistic. In the more general and complicated user- asynchronous case, multiple transmitters start transmitting frames at different time instants and thus there are multiple frame positions to locate. The computational complexity of the MAP joint decision rule grows exponentially with the number of transmitters thus rendering it infeasible for practical implementation. Consequently, an alternative approach which performs frame synchronization for each transmitter separately is proposed, with and without the further complexity reduction via Gaussian approximation of multiple access interference. The performance of the various approaches is evaluated through Monte Carlo simulation, in which different design parameters like the choice of sync words, the relative signal strength between transmitters, and the number of transmitters are examined.