cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sexual function after stereotactic body radiotherapy for prostate cancer: results of a prospective clinical trial.

Purpose To study the sexual quality of life for prostate cancer patients after stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Methods and Materials Using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC)-validated quality-of-life questionnaire, the sexual function of 32 consecutive patients who received prostate SBRT in a prospective Phase II clinical trial were analyzed at baseline, and at median times of 4, 12, 20, and 50 months after treatment. SBRT consisted of 36.25 Gy in five fractions of 7.25 Gy using the Cyberknife. No androgen deprivation therapy was given. The use of erectile dysfunction (ED) medications was monitored. A comprehensive literature review for radiotherapy-alone modalities based on patient self-reported questionnaires served as historical comparison. Results Median age at treatment was 67.5 years, and median follow-up was 35.5 months (minimum 12 months). The mean EPIC sexual domain summary score, sexual function score, and sexual bother score decreased by 45%, 49%, and 25% respectively at 50 months follow-up. These differences reached clinical relevance by 20 months after treatment. Baseline ED rate was 38% and increased to 71% after treatment ( p = 0.024). Use of ED medications was 3% at baseline and progressed to 25%. For patients aged p = 0.008). Penile bulb dose was not associated with ED. Conclusions The rates of ED after treatment appear comparable to those reported for other modalities of radiotherapy. Given the modest size of this study and the uncertainties in the physiology of radiotherapy-related ED, these results merit further investigations.
A Tropical Ocean Recharge Mechanism for Climate Variability. Part II: A Unified Theory for Decadal and ENSO Modes

Abstract Decadal to interdecadal timescale variability in the Pacific region, commonly referred to as the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), is studied in this research using analytical and numerical models. A coupled analytical model is formulated to analyze the physical mechanism of both the PDO and ENSO. It has the equatorial β-plane dynamics of a reduced-gravity model coupled with the wind stress of fixed spatial patterns. The amplitude of the latter is proportional to the sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly in the eastern equatorial Pacific. The SST anomaly is governed by a simple thermal dynamic equation used for ENSO modeling. It is found that when a warm SST is coupled with cyclonic wind stress patterns in the eastern subtropical Pacific, an oscillation with a timescale of around 10–15 yr could be generated. In contrast, when a warm SST is coupled with only a westerly wind stress in the central equatorial Pacific, an ENSO-like oscillation could be generated with a timescale of around 3–5 yr. Thu...
Conflicts of Interest in the U.S. Equity Markets: Rethinking the Maker-Taker System

Exchange rebates and the maker-taker pricing system have recently come under fire for creating a conflict of interest between broker-dealers and their customers. Cognizant of the complexity inherent in our equity market microstructure, this paper seeks to add to the conversation on this conflict of interest by laying out, in lay terms, the main arguments for and against the maker-taker model, as set forth by industry leaders, finance scholars, and exchange executives. This paper ultimately argues that the conflict of interest problem is best cured by a complete abolishment of the rebate model — rather than by “band-aids” such as reducing the rebates or increasing monitoring and enforcement of broker-dealer duties to their customers.
A Structural Dynamics Model of a Multi-Segmented Folding Wing: Theory and Experiment

This paper presents a general structural dynamics model based on beam theory that predicts the natural frequencies of a folding wing with an arbitrary number of wing segments. The structural model is derived from a modal analysis using work-energy principles - the energy expressions and constraint equations are derived from a kinematics analysis, and the equations of motion are derived using Lagrange’s equations with Lagrange multipliers. The theoretical results are compared to experimental data for three dierent congurations: a 2-segment model, a 3-segment model, and a 4-segment model. The theoretical model accurately predicts the general behavior of natural frequencies versus fold angle for all three congurations, and the computed values are within 10% of the measured values for the majority of the modes.
Chronic Vegetative States: Intrinsic Value of Biological Process

A 'naturalistic principle' has been put forth by Rolston, which leads to respect for the irreversibly comatose by virtue of the residual biological (objective) life. By comparing objective and subjective life, he develops a naturalistic principle which he contrasts with the humanistic norm of contemporary medical ethics. He claims there are clinical applications which would necessarily follow. A critique of this viewpoint is presented here, which begins with an analysis of what might be of value in spontaneous objective life. A measure of the moral worth of simple objective life is attempted by means of comparison with our attitudes toward animals. Finally, some of the clinical applications suggested by Rolston are reviewed. Except for euthanasia, there appear to be few clinical situations where the naturalistic principle helps in problem solving.
Charge-gated transport of proteins in nanostructured optical films of mesoporous silica.

The admission into and diffusion through nanoscale pores by molecules is a fundamental process of great importance to biology and separations science. Systems (e.g., chromatography, electrophoresis) designed to harness such processes tend to remove the separation process from the detection event, both spatially and temporally. Here, we describe the preparation and characterization of thin optical Fabry-Perot films of mesoporous silica (pSiO2) that can detect protein infiltration by optical interferometry, which probes the separation process in real time and in the same ultrasmall physical volume (5 nL). Admission of a protein into the pores is controlled by the diameter (∼50 nm) and the surface charge of the pores, and both the rate and the degree of protein infiltration are a function of solution pH. Test proteins bovine serum albumin (BSA, 66 kDa), bovine hemoglobin (BHb, 65 kDa), and equine myoglobin (EMb, 18 kDa) are admitted to or excluded from the nanophase pores of this material based on their size...
bFGF ameliorates focal ischemic injury by blood flow-independent mechanisms in eNOS mutant mice

Genetically engineered mice deficient in the expression of type III nitric oxide synthase (NOS) [endothelial NOS (eNOS)] were used to decipher the importance of nitric oxide (NO)-dependent augmentation of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) to infarct volume reduction following basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) infusion during acute middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. We have shown previously that intravenously administered bFGF reduces infarct volume following MCA occlusion in rats and that bFGF dilates cerebral pial arterioles by NO-dependent mechanisms. Halothane-anesthetized eNOS knockout and wild-type mice were subjected to permanent MCA occlusion by intraluminal filament for 24 h. bFGF (100 microg x kg(-1) x h(-1)) was infused intravenously for 2 h, beginning 15 min after the onset of occlusion. Infarct volume was reduced from 119 +/- 8 to 93 +/- 4 mm3 (22% reduction, P < 0.05) or from 102 +/- 9 to 77 +/- 6 mm3 (24% reduction, P < 0.05) in eNOS knockout or wild-type mice, respectively (means +/- SE; n = 10 per group), and neurological deficits were also significantly reduced. Although bFGF infusion caused a 27% increase in rCBF and a 17% reduction in vascular resistance in the infarct margin of wild-type animals as measured by laser Doppler flowmetry, bFGF did not enhance rCBF in the infarct margin of eNOS mutant mice. These data indicate that intravenous bFGF reduces infarct volume following focal ischemia by mechanisms that are largely blood flow independent.
Marginal effects in multivariate probit models

Estimation of marginal or partial effects of covariates x on various conditional parameters or functionals is often a main target of applied microeconometric analysis. In the specific context of probit models, estimation of partial effects involving outcome probabilities will often be of interest. Such estimation is straightforward in univariate models, and results covering the case of quadrant probability marginal effects in bivariate probit models for jointly distributed outcomes y have previously been described in the literature. This paper's goals are to extend Greene's results to encompass the general M≥2 multivariate probit (MVP) context for arbitrary orthant probabilities and to extended these results to models that condition on subvectors of y and to multivariate ordered probit data structures. It is suggested that such partial effects are broadly useful in situations wherein multivariate outcomes are of concern.
The association between dietary iodine and body composition in Caucasian females between the ages of 18 and 60

The purpose of this study was to determine if there was an association between dietary iodine consumption and body composition in Caucasian females between the ages of 18 to 60. Spearman rank order...
Inhibition of Cholera Toxin and Other AB Toxins by Polyphenolic Compounds

Cholera toxin (CT) is an AB-type protein toxin that contains a catalytic A1 subunit, an A2 linker, and a cell-binding B homopentamer. The CT holotoxin is released into the extracellular environment, but CTA1 attacks a target within the cytosol of a host cell. We recently reported that grape extract confers substantial resistance to CT. Here, we used a cell culture system to identify twelve individual phenolic compounds from grape extract that inhibit CT. Additional studies determined the mechanism of inhibition for a subset of the compounds: two inhibited CT binding to the cell surface and even stripped CT from the plasma membrane of a target cell; two inhibited the enzymatic activity of CTA1; and four blocked cytosolic toxin activity without directly affecting the enzymatic function of CTA1. Individual polyphenolic compounds from grape extract could also generate cellular resistance to diphtheria toxin, exotoxin A, and ricin. We have thus identified individual toxin inhibitors from grape extract and some of their mechanisms of inhibition against CT.
Palms and Cultural Landscapes

Palms are ubiquitous in Amazonia, in both upland and floodplain environments. Approximately 150 palm species are native to the region, and palm diversity increases as one approaches the Andes (Balslev et al. 2011; Kahn et al. 1988; Kristiansen et al. 2011). However, new palms species have recently been discovered and described, especially in the genus Geonoma, a diminutive palm used extensively to thatch buildings, so the total is likely to be much higher.
Cetuximab with or without chemotherapy for recurrent, unresectable squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (SCCS).

9090 Background: With an increasing aging population and a growing number of people with organ transplant on immune suppression, patients presenting with locally advanced, unresectable and metastat...
Parents' Perspectives of Physical Activity in Their Adult Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Social-Ecological Approach.

The purpose of this study was to investigate parent perceptions of the physical activity (PA) engagement of their adult children with autism spectrum disorders. The theoretical framework used in this study was social ecology. Participants were nine parents from families with one adult child with autism spectrum disorder whose ages ranged from 18 to 42. Using phenomenological interviews, which explored parents’ life experience and meaning making, four themes were generated: supports and advocacy for PA, engaging in PA independently, benefits of PA, and barriers to or reasons for disengaging in particular activities. Parents’ interview comments showed that intrapersonal factors, interpersonal relationships, and community factors were essential for keeping the individuals with autism spectrum disorder engaged in PA. Families and practitioners can take advantage of that by seeking PA opportunities in community settings or with other individuals.
Fixed dose 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate for the emergent reversal of warfarin: a retrospective analysis

Published literature suggests that a fixed-dose 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4FPCC) may be efficacious in managing warfarin-associated hemorrhage, however the ideal dose is still unclear. The purpose of this evaluation was to determine the efficacy of fixed-dose 4FPCC in reducing the International Normalized Ratio (INR) to ≤ 1.5 among warfarin patients with need for urgent or emergent anticoagulation reversal. Starting October 2016, our institution changed from standard 4FPCC FDA-labeled dosing based on the patient’s presenting INR and weight, to a fixed-dose of 1500 units for all patients requiring urgent or emergent warfarin reversal. We conducted a retrospective evaluation, after implementation, with the primary outcome being the proportion of patients who achieved an INR ≤ 1.5 with a single fixed-dose of 1500 units of 4FPCC. Secondary outcomes assessed included: medication turnaround times, attainment of target INR ≤ 2 or clinical hemostasis (as judged by the prescribing provider), use of rescue doses, thrombotic events, and cost savings. A total of 37 patients were included in the analysis. Almost 75% of patients achieved an INR ≤ 1.5 after a single fixed dose of 1500 units, and 100% of patients achieved an INR ≤ 2. The median pre- and post-dose INRs were 3.06 and 1.32 respectively. Based on this evaluation, the administration of a fixed dose of 1500 units 4FPCC, was shown to be effective in adequately reversing the INR in the majority of patients with minimal thrombotic risks.
Emerging investigators series: ultraviolet and free chlorine aqueous-phase advanced oxidation process: kinetic simulations and experimental validation

An emerging advanced oxidation process uses ultraviolet light and free chlorine to produce active hydroxyl radicals and chlorine-derived radicals to degrade a variety of organic compounds in water. The use of free chlorine and reactivity of chlorine-derived radicals with many organic compounds have raised concerns about the potential formation of toxic degradation byproducts, e.g., chlorinated byproducts. An elementary reaction-based kinetic model is an attractive and promising approach to predict the degradation of a target organic compound and its degradation products and to provide mechanistic insight into the reaction mechanisms. We developed a UV/free chlorine elementary reaction-based kinetic model for a test compound, acetone, and its transformation products. The elementary reaction pathways were predicted by quantum mechanical calculations, and the reaction rate constants were predicted using previously developed linear free energy relationships. Ordinary differential equations were generated and numerically solved to obtain the time-dependent concentration profiles of acetone and its transformation products. Our experimental results were used to validate the model.
Comment: Ghrelin and des-acyl ghrelin: Do they predict success of AED treatment?

Ghrelin and des-acyl ghrelin are gastric mucosa–secreted neuropeptide hormones whose primary function is energy homeostasis, with widespread actions on many tissues including the hypothalamus and hippocampus. Their role in sleep and pituitary function suggested an effect in epilepsy, and elevated ghrelin levels were found in adults with controlled epilepsy.1 But subsequent studies have had confusing results, with both higher and lower ghrelin levels in adults and children with epilepsy, including lower levels in the acute postictal period.2 Weight changes, pre/postpubertal status, sample timing, and valproate use may all be confounders. Generally animal studies support a neuroprotective and antiepilepsy effect of ghrelin.3
Single-nanoparticle tracking reveals mechanisms of membrane fouling

Abstract While membrane fouling has been studied for decades, it remains challenging to obtain direct information about the dominant mechanism of fouling in a specific scenario. Here, we employed a high-throughput particle-tracking approach, which enabled the visualization of particle transport in actual microfiltration membranes under flow conditions and provided direct evidence for distinct fouling mechanisms under different operating conditions. Our results suggest that the “stickiness” of particles can qualitatively change the dominant fouling mechanism. In particular, the evolutions of effective flux, particle velocity and pathway tortuosity were found to be systematically different under “sticking” vs “reduced-sticking” conditions in two different microfiltration membranes, composed of PVDF and PTFE, respectively. Under “sticking” conditions, fouling was rapid, and individual pathways were observed to disappear with the reduction of flux. However, the average particle velocity and the tortuosity of particle trajectories were unchanged throughout the fouling process, consistent with the complete blocking of random pathways. Conversely, under “reduced-sticking” conditions, the average particle velocity decreased and the tortuosity of particle pathways increased systematically with fouling, consistent with the gradual narrowing of pathways causing increased resistance. The comprehensive information about particle dynamics in membranes achieved with this approach will assist design and optimization of reduced-fouling separation processes as well as advance the understanding of complex mass transport.
Determination of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine in human urine: a possible assay for in vivo oxidative DNA damage.

A sensitive analytical method has been developed for the determination of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (h8dG) in human urine, based on reversed-phase HPLC combined with electrochemical detection. Previous attempts to use urine as a means to monitor DNA oxidative damage have centered around the detection of thymine glycol, thymidine glycol, and 5-hydroxymethyluracil.1–3 The present assay offers improvements in detection limits, sample volumes and analysis time.
Magnetic Properties, Anomalous Electrical Resistivities, and Specific Heats of Ordered and Disordered NiPt and Nearby Compositions

Alloys which are subject to an order-disorder transformation are in some respects a link between amorphous solids on the one hand and crystalline elemental solids on the other hand. For example, alloys in the disordered state and amorphous solids both have non-periodic structures (although of somewhat different natures), whereas alloys in the ordered state and crystalline elemental solids both have periodic structures (again of somewhat different natures).
Response Inhibition, Response Execution, and Emotion Regulation among Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with deficits in response inhibition, response execution, and emotion regulation. However, the nature of the associations among these deficits remains unclear. Thus, this study examines these associations using a multi-method design. One hundred sixty-six children (aged 5-13 years; 66.3% male; 75 with ADHD) completed two conditions (i.e., neutral and fear) of an emotional go/no-go task. Parasympathetic-based regulation was indexed via respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), and sympathetic-based reactivity was indexed via cardiac pre-ejection period (PEP). Overall, children exhibited more difficulty with response execution (i.e., more omission errors, fewer correct go responses) and less difficulty with response inhibition (i.e., fewer commission errors, more correct no-go responses) during the fear condition than the neutral condition. Children with ADHD displayed more difficulty with response execution during the fear condition compared to typically developing youth. Additionally, children with ADHD displayed parasympathetic-based dysregulation (i.e., RSA increase from baseline) and reduced sympathetic-based reactivity (i.e., PEP lengthening) compared to typically developing youth across task conditions. In sum, children with ADHD demonstrate greater difficulty with response execution during emotionally salient contexts, as well as parasympathetic-based emotion dysregulation. Future work should examine these associations longitudinally with the aim of predicting impairment and treatment response in youth with ADHD.
Recent methamphetamine profiling trends: Tracking the nitrostyrene method used for P2P production

Abstract N-butylamphetamine and N-cyclohexylamphetamine have been found to be useful target compounds for tracking P2P-based methamphetamine produced using nitrostyrene chemistry. Since 2015, these two process impurities have been detected at low levels in many seized methamphetamine samples and forensic information regarding these target compounds is provided in this report. Several laboratory experiments were performed using a variety of nitrostyrene related conditions to synthesize P2P. Methamphetamine was then produced using standard reductive amination conditions to prove that the presented target impurities were detected and therefore related to nitrostyrene chemistry. Methamphetamine profiling data is then presented to show that nitrostyrene related profiles have been dominant in the United States for the last 3 years.
Estimating Cost and Energy Demand in Producing Lithium Hexafluorophosphate for Li-Ion Battery Electrolyte

In this work, the production of lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) for lithium-ion battery application is studied. Spreadsheet-based process models are developed to simulate three different production processes. These process models are then used to estimate and analyze the factors affecting cost of manufacturing, energy demand, and environmental impact due to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The results indicate that in a facility with a capacity of making 10,000 t per year of LiPF6 the cost of production is around $20 per kg of LiPF6, energy consumption is around 30 GWh per year, and the emission of greenhouse gases in CO2-equivalent gases is around 80 t per day. The impact of change in process and economic parameters on the cost of production, energy demand, and emissions is studied. In addition, a few insights on reducing the cost of production are presented. Finally, the impact of varying LiPF6 costs on the overall cost of a Li-ion battery ($ kWh–1) is presented.
Data-independent screening method for 14 fentanyl analogs in whole blood and oral fluid using LC-QTOF-MS.

Abstract Recently, fentanyl analogs account for significant number of opioid deaths in the United States. Routine forensic analyses are often unable to detect and differentiate these analogs due to low concentrations and presence of structural isomers. A data-independent screening method for 14 fentanyl analogs in whole blood and oral fluid was developed and validated using liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Data were acquired using Time of Flight (TOF) and All Ions Fragmentation (AIF) modes. The limits of detection (LOD) in blood were 0.1–1.0 ng/mL and 0.1–1.0 ng/mL in TOF and AIF modes, respectively. In oral fluid, the LODs were 0.25 ng/mL and 0.25–2.5 ng/mL in TOF and AIF modes, respectively. Matrix effects in blood were acceptable for most analytes (1–14.4%), while the nor-metabolites exhibited ion suppression >25%. Matrix effects in oral fluid were −11.7 to 13.3%. Stability was assessed after 24 h in the autosampler (4 °C) and refrigerator (4 °C). Processed blood and oral fluid samples were considered stable with −14.6 to 4.6% and −10.1 to 2.3% bias, respectively. For refrigerated stability, bias was −23.3 to 8.2% (blood) and −20.1 to 20.0% (oral fluid). Remifentanil exhibited >20% loss in both matrices. For proof of applicability, postmortem blood (n = 30) and oral fluid samples (n = 20) were analyzed. As a result, six fentanyl analogs were detected in the blood samples with furanyl fentanyl and 4-ANPP being the most prevalent. No fentanyl analogs were detected in the oral fluid samples. This study presents a validated screening technique for fentanyl analogs in whole blood and oral fluid using LC-QTOF-MS with low limits of detection.
Relationship between wetting and electrical contact properties of pure metals and alloys on semiconducting barium titanate ceramics

In this work, the relationship between the thermodynamic properties of metal–ceramic interfaces and their electrical contact properties was explored for semiconducting BaTiO3 ceramics. The role of chemical reactivity at the interface was quantified through sessile drop measurements of the work of adhesion (Wad). The interfacial properties were characterized with impedance spectroscopy to quantify contact resistance and capacitance. It was observed that interfaces with a strong chemical interaction between the metal and the oxygen anion in the ceramic showed large Wad and correspondingly low contact resistances. It is believed that an oxygen depleted region near the surface of the BaTiO3 was formed as a result of the strong metal-oxygen interactions and led to a large Wad and an Ohmic contact.
Clinicopathological Features, Staging, and Current Approaches to Treatment in High-Risk Resectable Melanoma.

The incidence of melanoma in the United States has been increasing over the past several decades. Prognosis largely depends on disease stage, with 5-year melanoma-specific survival ranging from as high as 99% in patients with stage I disease to less than 10% for some patients with stage IV (distant metastatic) disease. Fortunately, in the last 5-10 years, there have been remarkable treatment advances for patients with high-risk resectable melanoma, including approval of targeted and immune checkpoint blockade therapies. In addition, results of recent clinical trials have confirmed the importance of sentinel lymph node biopsy and continue to refine the approach to regional lymph node basin management. Lastly, the melanoma staging system was revised in the eighth edition AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, which was implemented on January 1, 2018. Here we discuss these changes and the clinicopathological features that confer high risk for locoregional and distant disease relapse and poor survival. Implications regarding the management of melanoma in the metastatic and adjuvant settings are discussed, as are future directions for neoadjuvant therapies.
4,4′-Dicyanobiphenyl

4,4′-Di­cyano­bi­phenyl, C14H8N2, has a normal structure with a twist angle of 31.8 (2)°. The mol­ecules stack with overlapping π systems and form chains held together by antiparallel C—N⋯C—N interactions. In addition, there are a number of C—H⋯N interactions.
Stress tolerance of two freshwater invaders exposed to Microcystis aeruginosa and microcystin-LR

Invasion of freshwaters by non-native animal species is a major threat to global aquatic systems. Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea) and quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) are two highly invasive bivalves in North America that share life histories that facilitate invasion; however, they may experience different stress tolerances which can influence local population distribution. We compare the sensitivity of these two bivalves to the environmental stressors Microcystis aeruginosa and its associated toxin, microcystin. In laboratory assays, we exposed both species to M. aeruginosa and measured oxygen consumption and filtration rate. Sensitivity to microcystin was evaluated through two oxidative stress biomarkers, catalase, and lipid peroxidation. Quagga mussels exhibited elevated physiological responses, consuming more oxygen with cyanobacteria exposure, at an approximately doubled rate compared to Asian clams. Both species had increased filtration rates when fed M. aeruginosa with quagga mussels filtering at an overall higher rate. Oxidative stress was variable in both species. These results indicate that quagga mussels may be more sensitive to M. aeruginosa and microcystin than Asian clams, possibly due to physiological differences associated with invasion histories. The findings from these studies can be used to predict range expansion and lead to more effective control of nuisance populations.
A Critical Review of PET Tracers Used for Brain Tumor Imaging

The brain is a common site for metastases as well as primary tumors. Although evaluation of these malignancies with contrast-enhanced MR imaging defines current clinical practice, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET has shown considerable utility in this area. In addition, many other tracers targeting various aspects of tumor biology have been developed and tested. This article discusses recent developments in PET imaging and the anticipated role of FDG and other tracers in the assessment of brain tumors.
An investigation into the sensitivity of social opinion networks to heterogeneous goals and preferences

As research into the dynamics and properties of opinion diffusion on social networks has increased, so too has the attention paid to modeling such systems. Simulations using agent-based modeling (ABM) analyze aggregate network outcomes when individual agents act on typically limited information, and tend to focus on agents that are conforming and hemophilic --- that is, they prefer to be around similar others, and they update their own personal state over time to be more like their friends. In this work, we illustrate the value of diverse agent modeling in environments that allow for strategic unfriending. We focus on network dynamics generated by three agent models, or archetypes. Our work shows that polarization and consensus dynamics, as well as topological clustering effects, may rely more than previously known on the interplay between individuals' goals for the composition of their neighborhood's opinions.
Long-term Consequences of West Nile Virus in Virginia.

3 Introduction 4 Objectives 7 Methods 7 Results 9 Discussion 13 Conclusion 16 Tables 17 References 32
Statement of the Problem

The problem of unilateral denunciation of treaty because of prior violations of obligations by other party or parties, in the absence of an express provision in the treaty or outside the treaty, is not a new phenomenon in international legal relationships. Since the introduction of the institution of treaty in interstate relations the jurists, the judges and the state officials have shown a considerable concern not only for the recurrent phenomenon of treaty violations but also for legal consequences flowing from violations of treaty obligations.
Familial basaloid follicular hamartoma: A report of one family

Basaloid follicular hamartoma is a rare but benign adnexal neoplasm that can simulate basal cell carcinoma. Both sporadic and familial variants have been described. We illustrate a family cluster of this unusual entity which presented as milia-like or hyperpigmented papules. Criteria for distinction between the hamartoma and carcinoma are delineated, although evolution of basaloid follicular hamartoma into basal cell carcinoma may also be a possibility.
SEASONAL CLIMATE FORECASTING AND THE RELEVANCE OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Seasonal climatic forecasting is one of the more promising experimental technologies now being developed to help mitigate the risks posed by climatic hazards for agricultural production in developing nations. However, numerous studies of traditional agricultural communities have shown that farmers already often manage climatic risk through traditional methods of climate prediction and ritual. This local knowledge may or may not accurately predict climatic events, but it characterizes the demand for climate information and indicates how new climate forecasts might be received. Based on ethnographic data, this paper describes traditional climate prediction methods of farmers in Tlaxcala, Mexico to illustrate the relevance of local climate knowledge for seasonal forecasting. [Key words: climate forecasting, agriculture, local knowledge, Mexico.]
Knowledge and practices of preventing diarrhoea in malnourished children.

Instructions for preventing diarrhoea, based on a knowledge-deficit model, are a common health-promotion approach aimed at the providers of child care attending nutritional reha bilitation centres. However, there is rarely an assessment of baseline knowledge to justify the need for this type of intervention and to guide its form. This study investigated the practice and knowledge of recommended diarrhoea-prevention behaviours of caregivers of 78 mal nourished children consecutively admitted to a realimentation programme. Major deficits included: 39% not boiling (or not planning on boiling) drinking water after the child reached two years of age; 35 % not always washing children's hands before meals; only 17 % reporting that it was rare for their children to go barefoot; and the majority breastfeeding for less than one year. However, almost all measures of knowledge, based on open and closed questions, were not related to the corresponding practice. Several types of barriers to preventive prac tices were reported on open questions, including, "beliefs," "children as barriers," and "time." This information may be helpful in designing more effective health-promotion programmes.
Drift homotopy methods for a non-Gaussian filter

We present a novel approach for improving particle filters suited for a nonlinear and non-Gaussian environment. First, the non-Gaussian densities are approximated by a Gaussian mixture model. Next, we employ an approach based on drift homotopy for stochastic differential equations. Drift homotopy constructs a Markov Chain Monte Carlo step which is appended to the particle filter algorithm. This extra step moves the weighted samples closer to the associated observations while at the same time respecting the stochastic dynamics. The algorithm has been implemented in a non-Gaussian problem of diffusion in a double well potential.
A self-tuning controller for systems with unknown or varying time delays†

A SISO self-tuning controller with a Smith-predictor type of time delay compensator (STC-TDC) is proposed to handle open-loop stable processes with unknown or varying time delays. Two numerical examples comparing PI control, the standard STC of Clarke and Gawthrop, the self-tuning Dahlin algorithm of Vogel and Edgar, and the STC-TDC show that the new approach performs best for both set-point and load changes when process time delay changes occur. A third example shows that the STC-TDC matches the extended stability characteristics of the alternative approach due to Kurz and Goedecke but is computationally much simpler.
Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 Expression Is Associated With the Development of Vein Graft Intimal Hyperplasia

Abstract Infiltration of immunologically active cells into vein grafts is concomitant with the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH) and often leads to obliterative stenosis and graft failure. Previous work has demonstrated the prolonged presence of monocytes and macrophages in vein grafts. The stimuli attracting these macrophages remain unidentified. Monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), a potent and specific chemokine for monocytes/macrophages, is secreted by smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and leukocytes, all of which are present in grafted veins. In this study, we examined the temporal profile of MCP-1 gene expression in rat vein grafts by using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry. Epigastric vein–to–femoral artery bypass grafts were microsurgically placed and harvested at various time points after grafting. Histological analysis confirmed the consistent development of IH. PCR was performed and relative levels of MCP-1 quantified by a...
Methylsulphone metabolites of m-dichlorobenzene as ligands for alpha 2u-globulin in rat kidney and urine.

1. Kidneys from rats given oral doses of either 3,5- or 2,4-dichlorophenyl[14C]methylsulphide contained the corresponding sulphones that were associated with a protein which has been isolated and characterized by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblot analysis to be a2u-globulin.2. The same methylsulphone-a2u-globulin complex was isolated from the urine from rats doses with 3,5-dichlorophenyl[14C]methylsulphide (0.3–1.0% of dose, 8.5% of 14C in urine).3. The stoichiometry of binding of the isolated methylsulphone-a2u-globulin complex was shown to be 0.54—0.78 nmol/nmol protein. This binding was not covalent.
The analyzing power Ay(θ) for the 9Be(p, n)9B reaction from 8 TO 15 MeV

Abstract The analyzing power A y ( θ ) for the 9 Be(p, n) 9 B reaction was measured at seven energies between 8.1 to 15.0 MeV for reaction angles between 0° and 100° (c.m.). The A y ( θ ) values are predominantly negative and exhibit a smooth variation with energy. The significance of these results in Lane optical- model calculations for the 9 Be + nucleon system and in comparisons between the observables P y ( θ ) and A y ( θ ) is indicated.
Genotypic Differences and Prior Defoliation Affect Re-Growth and Phytochemistry after Coppicing in Populus tremuloides

Although considerable research has explored how tree growth and defense can be influenced by genotype, the biotic environment, and their interaction, little is known about how genotypic differences, prior defoliation, and their interactive effects persist in trees that re-grow after damage that severs their primary stem. To address these issues, we established a common garden consisting of twelve genotypes of potted aspen (Populus tremuloides) trees, and subjected half of the trees to defoliation in two successive years. At the beginning of the third year, all trees were severed at the soil surface (coppiced) and allowed to regenerate for five months. Afterwards, we counted the number of root and stump sprouts produced and measured the basal diameter (d) and height (h) of the tallest ramet in each pot. We collected leaves one and two years after the second defoliation and assessed levels of phenolic glycosides, condensed tannins, and nitrogen. In terms of re-growth, we found that the total number of sprouts produced varied by 3.6-fold among genotypes, and that prior defoliation decreased total sprout production by 24%. The size (d2h) of ramets, however, did not differ significantly among genotypes or defoliation classes. In terms of phytochemistry, we observed genotypic differences in concentrations of all phytochemicals assessed both one and two years after the second defoliation. Two years after defoliation, we observed effects of prior defoliation in a genotype-by-defoliation interaction for condensed tannins. Results from this study demonstrate that genotypic differences and impacts of prior defoliation persist to influence growth and defense traits in trees even after complete removal of above-ground stems, and thus likely influence productivity and plant-herbivore interactions in forests affected by natural disturbances or actively managed through coppicing.
Reducing the financial disincentives to living kidney donation: will compensation help the way it is supposed to?

Reducing the financial disincentives to living kidney donation: will compensation help the way it is supposed to?
Imagining a “cultural turn” in transportation geography

This paper asks what a “cultural turn” in transportation geography might look like. In taking seriously Susan Hanson's claim that transportation geography has become a “moribund corner” of the discipline, this paper suggests a set of new avenues for inquiry. To do so, the paper draws on fieldwork I conducted in California's East Bay, as well as the story a fictitious transit system called the “B-Line.” Despite being a fiction, I argue that the B-Line offers an excellent entry point into mapping what a “cultural turn” in transportation geography might entail. Speaking to the larger theme of “doing cultural geography,” this essay argues that doing cultural geography not only means continuing to explore questions of representation, ideology, and cultural meaning, but it also means applying those questions to areas of study like transportation geography—areas where such questions remain largely unexplored.
Physical, chemical and microbial changes in shredded sweet potatoes.

With the increasing demand for freshly cut vegetables, a substantial potential exists in developing minimally processed sweet potato products. This study was undertaken to determine the effects of semipermeable polymeric materials and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on quality changes and microbial growth in shredded sweet potatoes under refrigerated storage. Shredded sweet potatoes from two major commercial cultivars (Beauregard and Hernandez) were packed in low and medium O2permeability bags and flushed with gas composed of 5% O2, 4% CO2and 91% N2. Quality changes and microbial growth were monitored in comparison to the samples packed in air using high-O2permeable films. The quality of shredded sweet potatoes could be maintained for 7 days at 4C in air, but extended up to 14 days in MAP. Considering the parameters measured in this investigation, the best results were obtained by MAP using moderately O2-permeable film (7000 cm3/atm/m2/24 h). Shredded sweet potatoes stored in MAP showed less changes in tissue firmness, dry matter, ascorbic acid and starch than shredded sweet potatoes stored in air. The MAP-stored shredded sweet potatoes consistently exhibited fewer total aerobic bacteria and enteric bacteria compared to the shredded sweet potatoes stored in air. Yeasts, molds, lactic acid bacteria, color, beta-carotene and sugars of all stored shredded sweet potatoes did not significantly change, regardless of treatments. Higher ethanol levels were generated in the MAP-stored shredded sweet potatoes after 10 days, but off-odors were not detected in any of the MAP-stored shredded sweet potatoes.
Stability and flux jumping of internal-Sn, Nb/sub 3/Sn conductors (and a model system MgB/sub 2/)

The flux jump stability of Nb/sub 3/ Sn, internal-Sn strands was investigated using both experiment and calculation. An MgB/sub 2/ bulk sample was also used as a model system. M-H loops were measured in the temperature range of 4.2 K to 15 K for fields up to 1.7 T using a small vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) system, while /spl plusmn/9 T loops were taken with a larger VSM. Measurement were made on samples up to 3 cm long in transverse fields, and in the form of spiral samples (in axial fields) containing up to 37 cm of sample length. Some strands displayed larger flux jumps at higher fields, and numerous small flux jumps at low fields. In one case, the outer Cu stabilizer was removed from the strand, and as a result the strand became less stable, with flux jumping occurring at higher fields (where the magnetization is lower). Additionally, the influence of ramp rate on flux jumping was investigated. This was done by direct experiment, the use of a model system (MgB/sub 2/), and the extension of existing theory. It was found that the maximum instability, which is related to the maxima in dJ/dT, could occur off-axis. Additionally, higher ramp rates led to decreased stability. This was seen to lead in some cases to a ramp rate dependence in the field position of the flux jump.
Electron-electron scattering. II. Helicity cross sections for positron-electron scattering

The differential cross sections for polarized electron-positron scattering are calculated to order ${e}^{6}$ by using the five invariant amplitudes presented in a previous paper. The unpolarized result of Polovin is rederived. As an application of the helicity amplitudes the spin-momentum correlation for a polarized target positron is obtained in agreement with Fronsdal and Jaksic.
Outcomes of a consultation service to emergency medicine clinicians for postexposure management of occupational bloodborne pathogen exposures

Potential bloodborne pathogen exposures, many of which occur after hours and are evaluated by emergency medicine physicians, are an important occupational hazard. Emergency medicine physicians might not be as conversant with the latest US Public Health Service guidelines as occupational medicine physicians. This research presents an efficient model in which a single expert occupational medicine physician provides guidance to many emergency medicine clinicians. Outcomes evaluation indicates that the service was widely utilized and highly rated.
Author reply: Surgery in stage IV breast cancer patients: Continued controversy

We appreciate the opportunity to respond to Dr. Fitzal’s letter to this journal regarding our 2008 study evaluating the impact of timing on surgical intervention at the primary tumor site in Stage IV breast cancer. The limitations of any retrospective analysis are well known; currently, however, these are the data available to guide treatment decisions and future trials. In this light, there are multiple retrospective single-institution and database reviews that indicate a possible survival advantage. Included in these are both our initial analysis comparing surgical intervention and systemic therapy versus systemic therapy alone, as well as the Fields’ et al. publication supporting our initial findings. To our knowledge, the surgical intervention timing study is the only one to carefully evaluate a cohort of patients treated at a single institution and identify factors that contributed to increased survival among the patients who received surgical intervention. Timing of surgical intervention did not contribute to survival on multivariate analysis, a point discussed extensively; however, there was an improvement in metastatic progression-free survival (P = .0008) on univarate analysis. Estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor status were evaluated and not found to be contributing factors to survival (P = .74, .339, respectively) or metastatic progression-free survival (P = .796, .952 respectively) and therefore not reported. The study from Fields et al. does evaluate why surgical intervention was performed—diagnosis, curative intent, or palliation; however, there is no specific evaluation of the timing of surgical intervention from the date of diagnosis and its correlation with survival. In reference to the ongoing study of Dr. Badwe, the group at Tata Memorial is congratulated for being able to initiate a trial that has been discussed in the United States for years, but unfortunately not performed. Their preliminary analysis of 99 patients suggests an improvement in progression-free survival in patients with local resection. All patients were randomized only AFTER completing chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, 5FU, and epirubicin; therefore, most likely placing them in the same group that had improved metastatic progression-free survival in our review—those patients who had surgery [3 months after their initial diagnosis of breast cancer. Patients in this initial dataset were not randomized prior to initiation of systemic therapy. Improving systemic therapies have enabled increased survival in Stage IV patients, underlining the need for prospective data to optimize patient outcomes. We look forward to the results of Dr. Badwe’s trial, which plans to have an enrollment of 350 patients and should be adequately powered to answer this important question.