cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Contemporary outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting in obese patients

BACKGROUND This study evaluated the impact of obesity on outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with particular attention to cases using bilateral internal mammary arteries (BIMAs). METHODS Patients undergoing isolated CABG from 2011 to 2017 at a single institution were categorized by body mass index (BMI): 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 , 25.0 to 29.9 kg/m2 , 30.0 to 34.9 kg/m2 , and ≥35 kg/m2 , respectively. The primary outcomes were mortality and readmission. Subgroup analysis was performed on CABGs using BIMAs. Adjusted Cox model curves were used for survival analyses and cumulative incidence function for readmissions. RESULTS A total of 4980 patients underwent CABG with BMIs of 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 (17.8%; n = 884), 25.0 to 29.9 kg/m2 (35.0%; n = 1745), 30.0 to 34.9 kg/m2 (27.5%; n = 1368), and ≥35 kg/m2 (19.7%; n = 983), respectively. Patients with BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 had a higher overall Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality. Adjusted survival was similar across BMI groups, and readmission risk was highest in those with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 (P = .01). Increasing BMI was associated with higher rates of postoperative deep sternal wound infection (DSWI). CABG was performed with BIMA in 820 (16%). In patients undergoing CABG with BIMA use, there were no differences in survival, readmissions, or DSWI rates between BMI groups. CONCLUSIONS CABG, including with the use of BIMA, can be performed in obese patients without an increased risk of mortality or hospital readmission out to 5 years. Although rates of postoperative DSWI increase with increasing BMI, this finding did not appear to be magnified in patients with BIMA, although the sample size was limited in this subanalysis. These data support the notion that BIMA use should not be precluded in the obese.
A Simple Game to Introduce Scrum Concepts

It is often very difficult to transition from the waterfall to an agile process. To simplify this transition, we designed a LEGO game to introduce basic Scrum concepts and principles. This game provides students with an opportunity to play different scrum roles and measure the development team velocity in two sprints.
Extending the Capabilities of the Multiproperty Apparatus for Thermophysical Property Determinations

The unique multiproperty apparatus developed at Purdue University has proven to be a powerful scientific and engineering tool. Efforts were made to increase its usefulness even further. Successful efforts were made to relax geometrical constraints on the samples, as a result of which the multiproperty apparatus can handle larger diameter samples. In addition to weakening geometrical limitations on samples, thermal conductivity measurement in an inert argon atmosphere was also demonstrated. Agreement within 5% was obtained with data obtained in vacuum. Since the presence of an atmosphere restricts sample vaporization, higher measurement temperature should be attainable.
Multi-set canonical correlation analysis in action-observation (mirror neuron) study

We used simultaneous functional near infrared spectroscopy along with electroencephalography to investigate mirror neuron network in human brain. We applied multi-set canonical correlation analysis in order to analyze the integrated, totally different in nature, datasets.
Diversity Dialogues: online discussions impact on teacher candidates’ adoption of characteristics of inclusive teachers

As public schools respond to calls to provide inclusive and equitable education for all students, teachers must possess positive attitudes towards disability and diversity in addition to content an...
Advances in the Treatment of Early-Stage HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

The management of early-stage human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer has evolved in recent years, with the current standard being to tailor the intensity of adjuvant treatment to individual risk. Risk-adapted approaches to systemic therapy have been facilitated both by the recent introduction of multiple novel HER2-targeted therapies and by the development of clinical and pathologic surrogates to enable better prediction of disease behavior. These approaches have been successful at both ends of the disease spectrum. Patients with low-risk tumors now experience excellent long-term outcomes and reduced toxicity after de-escalated adjuvant therapy, and patients with high-risk residual disease after neoadjuvant systemic therapy have had a significant decrease in the risk for disease recurrence with the escalation of adjuvant therapy, including the use of trastuzumab emtansine (also known as T-DM1). We review here key developments in neoadjuvant and adjuvant systemic therapy for early-stage HER2+ breast cancer and provide an overview of the current standards of management, incorporating recent advances in escalation and de-escalation approaches for higher- and lower-risk disease, respectively. We also discuss areas of ongoing clinical uncertainty, including how disease heterogeneity and hormone receptor status affect the selection of treatments and the selection of patients for chemotherapy-free approaches. Finally, we review ongoing areas of active investigation and unmet clinical needs in this patient population.
Family genetic result communication in rare and undiagnosed disease communities: Understanding the practice

Genetic results have implications not only for the individual, but also for their family members. Research on family communication of genetic results has primarily focused on families affected by adult-onset, dominant conditions as well as more common genetic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia, cardiomyopathies, and genetic hearing loss. This study therefore aimed to characterize genetic result communication in families with rare and undiagnosed conditions and identify factors that influence communication. One hundred and forty-two individuals who received a diagnosis from the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN), a study focused on providing diagnoses to individuals with undiagnosed conditions, were eligible to complete a survey assessing genetic results communication. Survey items assessed if communication was discussed with healthcare providers, with whom participants communicated genetic testing, why they chose to communicate with these family members, and what information they communicated. All respondents (5 adult UDN participants, 38 parents/guardians of UDN participants, and 2 identifying as both) shared genetic results with at least one family member. Individuals who identified as both were considered exclusively adult participants for the purpose of these analyses. Adult participants and parents/guardians of participants reported high levels of understanding (96%), utility (96%), and comfort communicating genetic results (89%). Additionally, parents/guardians were more likely to disclose genetic results due to a general desire to share (60% of parents/guardians vs. 14% adult participants), while adult participants reported that they shared results to communicate risk to family members (86% of adult participants vs. 24% of parents/guardians). Many respondents did not recall discussing with a healthcare provider how (64%) or what (42%) to communicate about results. The results of this study provide insight into the practice of result communication by individuals with rare and previously undiagnosed conditions, which can ideally inform development of more effective counseling strategies and guidelines to aid family communication.
Why Didn’t Ukraine Fight for Crimea? Evidence from Declassified National Security and Defense Council Proceedings

While the Russian decision to annex Crimea has been widely explored and debated, scholarship has largely overlooked the Ukrainian response. Why did the Ukrainian side refrain from escalating? I add...
Two-Player Zero-Sum Poker Models with One and Two Rounds of Betting

The paper presents the basic von Neumann’s two-player zero-sum poker model with independent and identically distributed uniform hands, and extends it by allowing player II to re-raise. The analysis shows that both models favor the player who initially raises, but re-raising option cuts in player I’s advantage, reducing his expected payoff. “Payoff square”, a square diagram that indicates the payoffs under different hands and strategies, is introduced and used to derive players’ payoffs. Extensions to multiple and infinite rounds of betting are discussed, and optimal strategies are conjectured. Related models are reviewed along the way.
A Simplified Space Vector PWM Algorithm for Four-Switch Three-phase Inverters

Four-switch three-phase (FSTP) inverters are attractive in many applications due to their low cost and high reliability. The paper proposed a simplified Space Vector PWM (SVPWM) algorithm for FSTP inverters. The method applies the modulation of the space vectors twice and generates unified control formulas across the four regions in a fundamental period. It simplifies the understanding and analysis of FSTP inverters and makes the duty ratio calculation and switching sequence selection much easier. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by the studies of an FSTP inverter using MATLAB Simulink and Simscape. It has been shown that FSTP inverters are the most efficient and less unbalanced when working with a large modulation ratio around the full-load condition. FSTP inverters can be more efficient than six-switch three-phase (SSTP) inverters when operating at the same input/output voltage ratio with SSTP inverters. Combining with the low-cost feature (due to fewer switches and interface circuits), FSTP inverters are good options for solar panel and electric vehicle applications.
Microscopic observations of the placental barrier in transplacental erythrocytotoxic anemia (erythroblastosis fetalis) and in normal pregnancy.

Abstract Microscopic examination of the placentas of fifteen cases of erythroblastosis fetalis shows, in all, numerous breaks in the barrier associated with hemorrhage from the fetal circulation into the maternal intervillous spaces. In areas of very recent hemorrhage, nucleated red blood cells of the fetus are observed in the regional intervillous spaces. The breaks in the placental barrier involve the surface of villi and trunks and apparently result from the occlusion of peripheral capillaries or larger vessels by agglutinated red blood cells and fibrin. Regional to the areas of vascular occlusion, the overlying epithelium shows degenerative or necrotic change and in places erosion associated with hemorrhage from the fetal circulation into the regional intervillous spaces. Coincidentally, access of maternal blood to the fetal circulation is afforded. The mixture of bloods is stopped quickly, apparently by the formation of a clot at the site of injury. Since it is now known that the erythroblastosis in the disease is a secondary manifestation, the designation “erythroblastosis fetalis” is no longer justified. Furthermore it has been found that destruction of the incompatible fetal red blood cells in the disease occurs in part by phagocytosis. The term “congenital hemolytic anemia,” therefore, is not entirely accurate and “transplacental erythrocytotoxic anemia” is suggested as a better name for the disease. Microscopic examination of the placentas in 213 cases in the last half of normal pregnancy shows, in the barrier in all, numerous breaks of the same type as observed in the cases of erythroblastosis fetalis. In all these cases of erythroblastosis fetalis and of normal pregnancy, the blood clots associated with the erosions of villi and trunks are of variable size and shape. At times they are very small and cover the area of erosion only. Frequently, however, especially when the vessels of trunks are involved, they extend for some distance and in all directions from their source. They bind villus to villus, villus to trunk, trunk to villus, and occasionally trunk to trunk. The recent clots appear soon to be molded, in great part, into shapes resembling portions of villi and trunks. The enmeshed cellular elements soon disappear and cylinders of fibrin remain. These are apparently quickly covered by syncytium growing from areas regional to the injury and from the villus, villi, or trunk to which they are adherent. Subsequently, connective tissue from regional structures grows into the fibrin cores and the completed structures are then indistinguishable from similar residual elements of the placenta.
An Efficient Numerical Spectral Method for Solving the Schrödinger Equation

Spectral expansions of a known or unknown smooth function converge very rapidly, and are suited for accurate solutions of differential or integral equations. Based on such expansions, a numerical algorithm for solving the Schrodinger equation has recently been developed. First a simple numerical example is described in order to illustrate the accuracy properties of spectral expansions, and then the associated numerical algorithm for solving the Schrodinger equation is described in simple terms. The method proceeds by transforming the differential equation into an equivalent Lippmann-Schwinger integral equation, and then solving the latter by dividing the radial range into partitions. In each partition the (unknown) solution is expanded into a set of Chebyshev polynomials, and the coefficients of the expansion are calculated. A stringent accuracy test of resonant scattering involving barrier penetration for a Morse potential is provided.Web extra: Appendix 1 (HTML) (PDF) Matlab Program for Scattering in a Morse Potential Appendix 2 (PDF) Accuracy of Spectral ExpansionsAppendix 3 (PDF) Calculating the Coefficients A and B in the SpectralIntegration Equation MethodAppendix 4 (PDF) Comparison with Other Methods
Muscle Oxygen Saturation Measurements in Diving Mammals and Birds Using NIRS

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) principles have been applied to study muscle oxygen (O2) saturation in diving mammals and birds. Custom-made NIRS instruments and probes were developed to measure myoglobin (Mb) O2 saturation levels in two studies conducted in Antarctica at isolated dive holes on the sea ice of McMurdo Sound on freely-diving Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) and on freely diving emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri). Studies also used a modified, commercially available NIRS instrument (Vander Niroscope) to measure muscle O2 levels in trained harbor seals for simulated dives using a helmet that filled with water for specific time periods. The present chapter will focus on NIRS principles and the development and application of custom-made instruments and the methodology to study diving mammals.
Application of streamline simulation for gas displacement processes

Performance evaluation of miscible and near-miscible gas injection processes is available through conventional finite difference (FD) compositional simulation, which is widely used for solving large-scale multiphase displacement problems that always require large computation time. A step can be taken to reduce the time needed by considering low-resolution compositional simulation. The model can be adversely affected by numerical dispersion and may fail to represent geological heterogeneities adequately. The number of fluid components can possibly be reduced at the price of less accurate representation of phase behaviour. Streamline methods have been developed in which fluid is transported along the streamlines instead of the finite difference grid. In streamline-based simulation, a 3D flow problem is decoupled into a set of 1D problems solved along streamlines, reducing simulation time and suppressing any numerical dispersion. Larger time steps and higher spatial resolution can be achieved in these simulations, particularly when sensitivity runs are needed to reduce study uncertainties. Streamline-based reservoir simulation, being orders of magnitude faster than the conventional finite difference methods, may mitigate many of the challenges noted above. For gas injection, the streamline approach could not provide a high resolution or adequate representation for the multiphase displacement. In this work, the streamline simulations for both compositional and miscible gas injection were tested. In addition, the conventional gas injection scheme and detailed comparison between the FD simulation and the streamline approach are illustrated. A detailed comparison is given between the results of conventional FD simulation and the streamline approach for gas displacement processes. Finally, some guidelines are given on how the streamline method can potentially be used to enhance for gas displacement processes.
Mitochondrial Mechanisms of Neural Cell Death and Neuroprotective Interventions in Parkinson's Disease

Mitochondrial dysfunction, due to either environmental or genetic factors, can result in excessive production of reactive oxygen species, triggering the apoptotic death of dopaminergic cells in Parkinson's disease. Mitochondrial free radical production is promoted by the inhibition of electron transport at any point distal to the sites of superoxide production. Neurotoxins that induce parkinsonian neuropathology, such as MPP(+) and rotenone, stimulate superoxide production at complex I of the electron transport chain and also stimulate free radical production at proximal redox sites including mitochondrial matrix dehydrogenases. The oxidative stress caused by elevated mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species promotes the expression and (or) intracellular distribution of the proapoptotic protein Bax to the mitochondrial outer membrane. Interactions between Bax and BH3 death domain proteins such as tBid result in Bax membrane integration, oligomerization, and permeabilization of the outer membrane to intermembrane proteins such as cytochrome c. Once released into the cytosol, cytochrome c together with other proteins activates the caspase cascade of protease activities that mediate the biochemical and morphological alterations characteristic of apoptosis. In addition, loss of mitochondrial cytochrome c stimulates mitochondrial free radical production, further promoting cell death pathways. Excessive mitochondrial Ca(2+) accumulation can also release cytochrome c and promote superoxide production through a mechanism distinctly different from that of Bax. Ca(2+) activates a mitochondrial inner membrane permeability transition causing osmotic swelling, rupture of the outer membrane, and complete loss of mitochondrial structural and functional integrity. While amphiphilic cations, such as dibucaine and propranolol, inhibit Bax-mediated cytochrome c release, transient receptor potential channel inhibitors inhibit mitochondrial swelling and cytochrome c release induced by the inner membrane permeability transition. These advances in the knowledge of mitochondrial cell death mechanisms and their inhibitors may lead to neuroprotective interventions applicable to Parkinsons's disease.
Physical Interaction of the Activator Protein-1 Factors c-Fos and c-Jun with Cbfa1 for Collagenase-3 Promoter Activation

Previously, we determined that the activator protein-1 (AP-1)-binding site and the runt domain (RD)-binding site and their binding proteins, c-Fos.c-Jun and Cbfa, regulate the collagenase-3 promoter in parathyroid hormone-treated and differentiating osteoblasts. Here we show that Cbfa1 and c-Fos.c-Jun appear to cooperatively bind the RD- and AP-1-binding sites and form ternary structures in vitro. Both in vitro and in vivo co-immunoprecipitation and yeast two-hybrid studies further demonstrate interaction between Cbfa1 with c-Fos and c-Jun in the absence of phosphorylation and without binding to DNA. Additionally, only the runt domain of Cbfa1 was required for interaction with c-Jun and c-Fos. In mammalian cells, overexpression of Cbfa1 enhanced c-Jun activation of AP-1-binding site promoter activity, demonstrating functional interaction. Finally, insertion of base pairs that disrupted the helical phasing between the AP-1- and RD-binding sites also inhibited collagenase-3 promoter activation. Thus, we provide direct evidence that Cbfa1 and c-Fos.c-Jun physically interact and cooperatively bind the AP-1- and RD-binding sites in the collagenase-3 promoter. Moreover, the AP-1- and RD-binding sites appear to be organized in a specific required helical arrangement that facilitates transcription factor interaction and enables promoter activation.
Real time processing and display of near-bottom acoustic reflectivity measurements

Development of an automated system for quantitative processing of ocean-bottom reflected echo sounder signals is described. This system incorporates a mini computer for digitization, processing and display in real time of the reflection data. The system was developed in conjuction with the Deep Tow project of the Marine Physical Laboratory of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and has been utilized to process data from a 4-kHz bottom profiler system on the Deep Tow Instrument. This Instrument is normally towed close to the bottom (100 meters altitude) by means of an armored coaxial cable, thus greatly improving the lateral resolution of the profiler system. The processing system digitizes the raw 4-kHz signal, stores the digitized data for future reference, and displays a normalized and smoothed version of the data on a facsimile-type graphic recorder. Typically, a display of instantaneous energy and displays of cumulative energy for selected vertical sections are presented simultaneously. In addition, the system has been utilized to calculate reflected energy returned from buried layers as a function of depth of burial in an effort to estimate acoustic attenuation in the overlying sediments. Processed data from several areas of the Pacific has revealed abrupt changes in sedimentary reflectivity of over 7dB, small-scale spatial variations in reflectivity of several dB over horizontal distances less than 100 meters, and several dB variations in reflected energy due to small-scale topographic features of buried reflectors. In addition, attenuation calculations have determined values for acoustic attenuation in calcareous equatorial sediments which are almost 1/3 of those determined for North Pacific sediments of comparable porosity.
Project Selection Guidelines for Road Rehabilitation Through Full-Depth Reclamation with Foamed Asphalt

Full-depth reclamation-recycling—or deep in situ recycling—of damaged pavement with foamed asphalt and an active filler (e.g., portland cement or lime) to provide a stabilized base for a new hot-mix asphalt or chip-sealed wearing course, is a pavement rehabilitation-upgrading strategy of increasing interest worldwide. However, the process is not a fix-all solution that can be used in every instance to rehabilitate failed or close-to-failed pavements, and a thorough project investigation needs to be undertaken to identify candidate projects as well as problems that need to be corrected before rehabilitation-upgrading can be considered. This paper provides guidelines for undertaking such an investigation and is applicable to projects with both thin (multiple chip seals) and thick (multiple lifts of thin asphalt concrete) surfacings.
Manipulating milk production in early lactation through photoperiod changes and milking frequency.

Beyond nutritional factors, a substantial body of evidence is accumulating to suggest that environmental and management factors can be manipulated to ease the transition into lactation. Photoperiod, defined as the duration of light exposure an animal receives within a day, can be adjusted to produce dramatic effects on periparturient health and subsequent lactational efficiency. Increasing the frequency of milking in the immediate postpartum period also produces persistent increases in milk yield and improvements in mammary health. In both techniques, evidence is emerging to support the concept that alteration of prolactin sensitivity is the mechanism underlying health and production responses. Those data, along with practical application of the techniques, form the basis of this review.
Transient response at the boundary of a cylindrical cavity in an elastic medium

Abstract An unbounded, elastic medium with a circular, cylindrical cavity is subjected to a circumferentially uniform, suddenly applied step pressure pulse at the cavity surface. Formulae for the circumferential stress, radial displacement, and radial velocity at the cavity wall are developed. These formulae contain only elementary functions and can easily be used as influence coefficients to determine, by means of Duhamel integrals, the response produced by an arbitrary pressure pulse.
Agricultural exposure to ozone and acid precipitation

Abstract The incompatibility of environmental and socioeconomic data has limited direct empirical analysis of the impacts of air pollution on farm-level productivity. The kriging procedure was used to create state- and county-level indexes for ozone, NO 3 , and SO 4 , for the northeastern United States for 1980 and 1990. This paper (a) presents county-level air-quality indexes (AQIs) to measure crop exposure to air pollutants and (bl combines environmental and economic data to identify geographic areas where air pollution is likely to impose the greatest economic costs to agriculture. It is hoped that this information, combined with the AQIs will be useful for future statistical analysis of the effects of air pollution on farm- and county-level measures of agricultural performance. Air quality in 1990 was much improved over 1980 in most counties. However, some areas of New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania. Vermont and Virginia still experience relatively high levels of acidic depositions. Portions of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey. North Carolina and Pennsylvania were identified as areas of high potential economic vulnerability to ozone pollution.
Paralysis of the awake human: visual perceptions.

Abstract Subparalytic doses ofcurarewere given to three observers. Four major perceptions were reported: (1)displacement or repositioning of the perceived visual world in the direction of a successfully executedeye movement; (2)jumping during a saccade; (3)movement associated with drift of the eye; (4) increasedeffort associated with each eye movement. Paralytic doses ofsuccinylcholinewere administered to a single observer. Three major perceptions were reported: (1)displacement in the direction of the intended eye movement without jumping: (2) a sensation that greateffort was required to move the eye; (3)fading of the visual image due to effective retinal stabilization. Similar visual perceptions were observed when the eye was paralyzed with a local anesthetic; however, nofading or sense ofeffort was reported. No deficits in pattern vision (except for intermittent fading) were reported in any of the studies.
Tumefactive cyst with a vascular blush as a late complication after combined embolization and stereotactic radiosurgery treatments for a cerebral arteriovenous malformation.

Cyst formation is a recognized late complication after stereotactic radiosurgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). We report on a patient with delayed cyst formation after combined embolization and stereotactic radiosurgery treatments for a cerebral AVM. The true nature of the cyst was complicated by tumefactive magnetic resonance MR imaging characteristics. The tumefactive cyst was associated with an additional imaging finding suggestive of a neoplastic lesion — a ‘blush’ on conventional angiography.
Framing French Success in Elementary Mathematics: Policy, Curriculum, and Pedagogy

AbstractFor many decades Americans have been concerned about the effective teaching of mathematics, and educational and political leaders have often advocated reforms such as a return to the basics and strict accountability systems as the way to improve mathematical achievement. International studies, however, suggest that such reforms may not be the best path to successful mathematics education. Through this qualitative case study, the authors explore in depth the French approach to teaching elementary mathematics, using interviews, classroom observations, and documents as their data sets. They apply three theoretical frameworks to their data and find that the French use large-group instruction and a visible pedagogy, focusing on the discussion of mathematical concepts rather than on the completion of practice exercises. The national curriculum is relatively nonprescriptive, and teachers are somewhat empowered through site-based management. The authors conclude that the keys to French success with mathem...
Simulations of the Penetration of 6061-T6511 Aluminum Targets by Spherical-Nosed VAR 4340 Steel Projectiles

In certain penetration events it is proposed that the primary mode of deformation of the target can be approximated by known analytical expressions. In the context of an analysis code, this approximation eliminates the need for discretizing the target as well as the need for a contact algorithm. Thus, this method substantially reduces the computer time and memory requirements. In this paper a forcing function which is derived from a spherical-cavity expansion (SCE) analysis has been implemented in a transient dynamic finite element code. This irnplementation is capable of computing the structural and component responses of a projectile due to a three dimensional penetration event. Simulations are presented for 7.1 l-mm-diameter, 74.7-mm-long, spherical-nose, vacuum- arc-remelted (VAR) 4340 steel projectiles that penetrate 6061-T6511 aluminum targets. Final projectile configurations obtained from the simulations are compared with post-test radiographs obtained from the corresponding experiments. It is shown that the simulations accurately predict the permanent projectile deformation for three dimensional loadings due to incident pitch and yaw over a wide range of striking velocities.
High-resolution 248-nm bilayer resist

Bilayer thin film imaging is one approach to extend 248 nm optical lithography to 150 nm regime and beyond. In this paper, we report our progress in the development of a positive-tone bilayer resist system consisting of a thin silicon containing imaging layer over a recently developed crosslinked polymeric underlayer. The chemically amplified imaging layer resist is based on a novel dual-functional silicon containing monomer, tris(trimethylsilyl)silylethyl methacrylate, which in addition to providing etch resistance, also functions as the acid sensitive functionality. The stabilization of (beta) -silyl carboncation by silicon allows this moiety to serve as an acid sensitive protecting group. Thus high silicon content and high resist contrast are achieved simultaneously. Lithographic evaluation of the bilayer resist with a 0.63 NA and a 0.68 NA 248 nm exposure tool has demonstrated resolution down to 125 nm equal line/space features with a dose latitude of 16 percent and depth of focus (DOF) of 0.6 um. The dose latitude and DOF for 150 nm equal line/space features are 22 percent and 1.2 um, respectively. Finally, residue-free, ultra-high aspect ratio resist features have been obtained by O 2 or O 2 /SO 2 reactive ion etching using a high-density plasma etch system. The resist design, deprotection chemistry, lithographic and etch characteristics of the top layer, as well as the design of the new underlay, will be discussed.
Consumer level multi-GPU systems utilization, efficiency, and optimization

This paper focuses on the basic techniques that a common programmer can use to utilize multiple consumer level GPUs, commonly available to them at home or through purchase, to assist them in massively parallel computation in their work. It lays out an experimental framework to determine the best and easiest styles of programming for multiple GPUs to use, without actually using the more complex and available NVIDIA multi-GPU templates and techniques.
An Alternate Method for Determining Functional Gain of Hearing Aids

The functional gain of a hearing aid typically is determined by comparing aided and unaided behavioral thresholds. With this method, however, true gain may be underestimated in frequency regions of normal or near-normal hearing sensitivity (i.e., in cases of sloping, rising, or trough-shaped audiograms). Internal hearing-aid noise and/or amplified room noise imposes a lower limit on obtainable aided thresholds. In these cases, comparing aided and unaided acoustic-reflex thresholds may be a valuable clinical alternative to traditional means of determining real-ear gain. This study compared sound-field behavioral threshold and acoustic-reflex threshold estimates of functional gain for individuals with a variety of audiometric configurations. The sound-field behavioral threshold measurements were found to underestimate functional gain if unaided thresholds approached the normal hearing range. In regions of greater hearing loss, behavioral and acoustic-reflex estimates of functional gain were in good agreement.
1H NMR studies on the effects of annealing on chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) diamond

Abstract A proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectrum of diamond produced by chemical vapor deposition typically exhibits both a narrow lorentzian and a broad gaussian line. The spin-lattice relaxation time constants of the two components are different in one sample and vary from sample to sample. Typical values are in the range of approximately 50 ms to 1 s. There is little or no hydrogen evolution on annealing in a nitrogen atmosphere at temperatures less than 750°C. However, T1 increases on annealing and the line shape changes as the contribution due to the narrow component decreases. The magnetization recovers as M = M 0 [1 − exp ( − t T 1 ) n ] , where 0.5 ⩽ n ⩽ 1. The values of n and T1 increase with annealing indicating a change in the number of relaxation centers present in the sample.
Mechanical properties of vanadium-carbon alloys

Abstract The effects of carbon on the mechanical properties of 99.95% vanadium were determined. A solution heat-treatment at 1200°C followed by quenching and aging at 350°C increased the ultimate tensile strength of a vanadium-0.18 at.% carbon alloy from 30 to 75 × 10 3 p.s.i. Vanadium containing higher carbon levels could not be appreciably strengthened due to the presence of a pre-existing carbide phase which effectively precipitated the highly mobile carbon atoms from solid solution during quenching.
Onconase mediated NFKβ downregulation in malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) with Ranpirnase (Onconase) results in disruption of protein translation and cell apoptosis. We hypothesize that Onconase exerts an effect via downregulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFKβ) by specific microRNAs (miRNAs) and that interference of this pathway could have implications for MPM resistance to chemotherapy. Three immortalized MPM cell lines (H2959, H2373 and H2591) were exposed to Onconase at 0–20 μg/ml. Cell counts were measured at 48 and 72 h. Gene expression in miRNA-enriched RNA was validated by reverse transcription–PCR (RT–PCR). The functional implications of miRNA expression were evaluated by transfecting miRNA mimics or inhibitors into MPM cell lines, and performing Matrigel invasion, cell proliferation, soft agar colony formation and scratch closure assays. Effects on NFKβ expression and downstream targets including ABC transporters, BCL-xl and IAP were assessed by RT–PCR and western blotting. Treatment with 20 μg/ml of Onconase significantly decreased cell count and invasion. Hsa-miR-17* was significantly upregulated and hsa-miR-30c was significantly downregulated by Onconase treatment in all cell lines. Forced expression of hsa-miR-17* mimic and hsa-miR-30c inhibitor each significantly decreased functional activity of Onconase in all assays. NFKB1 (p50) expression and downstream targets were also decreased with Onconase treatment, as well as with forced expression of miRNA mimic and inhibitors. Onconase treatment caused a significant decrease in cell proliferation, invasion and in expression of certain miRNAs. Recapitulation of the resultant miRNA expression pattern with hsa-miR-17* mimic and hsa-miR-30c inhibitor resulted in downregulation of NFKB1 and reduced malignant behavior in functional assays. Thus, Onconase likely exerts its antitumor effect through these miRNAs.
Physical and chemical characterization of a spring flood event, Bench Glacier, Alaska, U.S.A.: evidence for water storage

Previous studies of alpine glaciers have demonstrated that as water discharge increases through the summer, the predominant mode of subglacial drainage shifts from a distributed system to a more efficient conduit drainage system. We observed an early-melt-season speed-up and flood event lasting roughly 2 days in a small, uncomplicated Alaskan glacier that appears to have resulted from a sudden shift of the subglacial system in response to a significant accumulation of meltwater within the glacier. Calculated melt-water inputs exceeded discharge before the event; the implied change in storage over this 10 day period was equivalent to roughly 0.13 m averaged over the entire glacier bed. The pattern of discharge and suspended-sediment variations and the appearance of large ice chunks in the stream suggest that the speed-up occurred during a period of establishment of new subglacial conduits. A culminating flood and associated suspended-sediment pulse appear to have marked the final establishment of the new section of subglacial conduit. The flood ended the episode of high sliding velocity, but released water with high solute concentrations that reflect relatively long contact time with sediments. Discharge of stored water, inferred from high solute concentrations and lack of diurnal variation in discharge, continued for at least 3 days. While events such as this must recur through the melt season as the conduit system extends up-glacier and the locus of meltwater inputs shifts, their manifestations in the outlet stream will likely be more subdued later in the season.
Gradient nanostructure and residual stresses induced by Ultrasonic Nano-crystal Surface Modification in 304 austenitic stainless steel for high strength and high ductility

Abstract In this study, the effects of Ultrasonic Nano-crystal Surface Modification (UNSM) on residual stresses, microstructure changes and mechanical properties of austenitic stainless steel 304 were investigated. The dynamic impacts induced by UNSM leads to surface nanocrystallization, martensite formation, and the generation of high magnitude of surface compressive residual stresses (−1400 MPa) and hardening. Highly dense deformation twins were generated in material subsurface to a depth of 100 µm. These deformation twins significantly improve material work-hardening capacity by acting both as dislocation blockers and dislocation emission sources. Furthermore, the gradually changing martensite volume fraction ensures strong interfacial strength between the ductile interior and the two nanocrystalline surface layers and thus prevents early necking. The microstructure with two strong surface layers and a compliant interior embedded with dense nanoscale deformation twins and dislocations leads to both high strength and high ductility. The work-hardened surface layers (3.5 times the original hardness) and high magnitude of compressive residual stresses lead to significant improvement in fatigue performance; the fatigue endurance limit was increased by 100 MPa. The results have demonstrated that UNSM is a powerful surface engineering technique that can improve component mechanical properties and performance.
Field-In-Field Technique With Intrafractionally Modulated Junction Shifts for Craniospinal Irradiation

Purpose To plan craniospinal irradiation with “field-in-field” (FIF) homogenization in combination with daily, intrafractional modulation of the field junctions, to minimize the possibility of spinal cord overdose. Methods and Materials Lateral cranial fields and posterior spinal fields were planned using a forward-planned, step-and-shoot FIF technique. Field junctions were automatically modulated and custom-weighted for maximal homogeneity within each treatment fraction. Dose–volume histogram analyses and film dosimetry were used to assess results. Results Plan inhomogeneity improved with FIF. Planning with daily modulated junction shifts provided consistent dose delivery during each fraction of treatment across the junctions. Modulation minimized the impact of a 5-mm setup error at the junction. Film dosimetry confirmed that no point in the junction exceeded the anticipated dose. Conclusions Field-in-field planning and modulated junction shifts improve the homogeneity and consistency of daily dose delivery, simplify treatment, and reduce the impact of setup errors.
Protease-activated receptor signalling, endocytic sorting and dysregulation in cancer

Protease-activated receptors (PARs) are G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are activated by a unique proteolytic mechanism. PARs play crucial roles in hemostasis and thrombosis, as well as in inflammation and vascular development. Coagulant proteases, which are generated at sites of vascular injury, act mainly through PARs to elicit signalling in a variety of cell types. Since PARs are irreversibly activated signalling must be tightly regulated. Desensitization and trafficking of proteolytically activated PARs control the magnitude, duration and spatial aspects of receptor signalling. Recent studies have revealed novel endocytic sorting mechanisms that regulate PAR signalling. PARs have also been implicated in tumor progression. PARs are overexpressed in several types of malignant cancer, transmit signals in response to tumor-generated proteases and promote tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. Recent work also indicates that matrix metalloprotease 1 (MMP-1) signals through PAR1 to promote tumor growth and invasion. In addition to PAR overexpression, tumor cells display aberrant PAR1 trafficking, which causes persistent signalling and cellular invasion. Thus, a novel type of gain-of-function in GPCR signalling in cancer can be acquired through dysregulation of receptor trafficking.
Probable evolutionary mechanism underlying octanol dehydrogenase isozyme patterns in the genus drosophila

A comparative species study of octanol dehydrogenase (ODH) isozyme patterns of members of the genusDrosophila and six related genera has shown a rough correlation of these with taxonomic grouping at the level of subgenus or section within the subgeneraPholadoris, Sophophora, andDrosophila. Extensive polymorphism of ODH patterns occurs in thequinaria section of the subgenusDrosophila. In polymorphic strains ofD. pellewae andD. metzii, ODH pattern types of single females were shown to occur in frequencies expected on the hypothesis of a Hardy-Weinberg distribution of morphs depending on alleles at a single locus. However, patterns of homozygous B and A variants extracted from such populations differ from those expected if variants are due to alleles at a structural locus and indicate that such variants differ in alleles affecting the levels of particular isozymes. ODH patterns of monomorphic species strikingly resemble those of homozygous B, D, or A variants extracted from polymorphic populations ofD. pellewae, D. metzii, orD. albirostris which have been studied genetically by Pipkin (1968a, 1969) and Ogonji (1971). Based on these findings and previous work indicating that the ODH molecule is a polymer, an hypothesis is proposed that species differences in ODH patterns depend on differential activity of several ODH structural genes.
Neurogenic atherosclerosis in mentally retarded persons.

. The question is raised whether arteriosclerosis (AS) may be induced in man by chronic central nervous system injury. In an institutionalized population of mentally retarded children, more AS than expected was observed. Of 1173 residents with detailed clinical and autopsy records over 40 years, 78 of them, aged 1–21 years, showed mild to moderate coronary or aorta AS. Thirty control subjects without AS, matched for sex, age and IQ, were studied in comparison. In 65 of the probands, the condition could not be explained by predisposing diseases or known risk factors. There were more lesions in those with convulsive disorder; this was felt to reflect arterial changes due to neuronal-sympathoadrenal hyperactivity. In addition, more disease occurred in physically restricted patients; this appeared related to the stress of handicap and inability to respond to psychosocial needs. It is concluded that certain areas of brain defect predispose to atherogenesis. Down's syndrome provides a different set of influences on AS, yet the frequency of AS in these patients was similar to that of non-Down's.
Crystal plasticity modeling of deformation and creep in polycrystalline Ti-6242

This paper develops an experimentally validated computational model based on crystal plasticity for the analysis of two-phase α/β Ti-6242 polycrystalline alloys. A rate-dependent elastic-crystal plasticity model is incorporated in this model to accommodate anisotropy in material behavior and tension-compression asymmetry inherent to this alloy. A combination of microtesting, orientation imaging microscopy, computational simulations, and minimization process, involving genetic algorithms, is implemented in this study for careful characterization and calibration of the material parameters. Size effects are considered in this analysis through a simple scaling process. A homogenized equivalent model of the primary α with transformed β colonies is developed for incorporation in the Ti-6242 FE model. The polycrystalline Ti-6242 computational model incorporates accurate phase volume fractions, as well as statistically equivalent orientation distributions to those observed in the orientation imaging microscopy scans. The effects of orientation, misorientations, and microtexture distributions are investigated through simulations by this computational model. The model is used to simulate constant strain rate and creep tests in compression and tension, and the results are compared with experiments. The effects of microstructure and creep-induced load-shedding on the localization of microstructural stresses and strains are studied for potential crack initiation criteria.
Intrauterine hypoxia-ischemia alters nitric oxide synthase expression and activity in fetal and neonatal rat brains.

Abstract The effects of intrauterine hypoxia–ischemia (HI) on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and on expression of NOS isoforms were investigated in fetal and neonatal rat brains. Rat fetuses were subjected to either a 30-min intrauterine HI insult or a sham operation (SH) on gestational day 17 (G17). NOS activity in the homogenate of the rat brain was detectable on G17 and increased with age. NOS activity in the HI group was 20–30% higher than in the SH group from 6 to 48 h after the HI, but was 30% lower than in the SH group from postnatal day 8 to 14. Expression of the inducible NOS (iNOS) mRNA, as examined by RT-PCR, was increased as compared to the SH group from 6 to 24 h after the HI surgery. Expression of the constitutive neuronal NOS (nNOS) mRNA was reduced in the HI group from 24 h after the HI surgery up to postnatal day 14. Immunoblotting data have shown that alterations in NOS isoform protein expression caused by the intrauterine HI were consistent with the mRNA expression data. The overall results indicate that prenatal HI has long-lasting effects on function and expression of NOS in fetal and neonatal rat brains and that the altered NOS activity may be associated with prenatal HI-induced neurological abnormalities.