cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High temperature continuous-wave operation of terahertz quantum cascade lasers

We report continuous-wave operation of a quantum-cascade laser at 3.2 THz (/spl lambda/ /spl sim/ 94 /spl mu/m) up to a heat-sink temperature of 93 K. Optical powers of /spl sim/1.5 mW at 10 K and /spl sim/400 /spl mu/W at 78 K are observed.
Biological Effects of Proton Radiation: What We Know and Don't Know

An understanding of proton radiobiology is critical for optimization of both proton radiotherapy and assessment of carcinogenesis risk from space radiation. Although the physical aspects of proton beam radiobiology is well understood, the biological aspects, particularly the complex biological end points, have been underexplored and underexploited. This review focuses on the biological responses observed to date, across various scales, molecular, cellular and especially tissue levels. Proton-induced perturbations of gene expression, along with signaling and functional alterations in cell cycle, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis are included. Particular emphasis is placed on differences noted in the literature between biological effects induced by protons and those induced by high-energy photons. An appreciation of the unique physical and biological characteristics of proton radiobiology should augment current strategies both to enhance therapeutic effectiveness and to quantify risk related to proton irradiation.
Stabilization of nonlinear systems with moving equilibria

This note provides a new method for the stabilization of nonlinear systems with parametric uncertainty. Unlike traditional techniques, our approach does not assume that the equilibrium remains fixed for all parameter values. The proposed method combines different optimization techniques to produce a robust control that accounts for uncertain parametric variations, and the corresponding equilibrium shifts. Comparisons with analytical gain scheduling are provided.
Measurements of N 2 Vibrational Distribution Function in Pulsed Nanosecond Nonequilibrium Discharge by Spontaneous Raman Scattering

Spontaneous Raman spectroscopy has been used, in conjunction with a master equation kinetic model, to study vibrational energy loading and relaxation in nitrogen (P=100 torr), in a pin-topin, nanosecond pulsed electric discharge. A highly non-equilibrium vibrational distribution (up to v=12 significantly populated) was observed for time delays after the pulse ranging from 135 nsec to 10 msec. Approximately 35% of the total discharge energy was found to couple directly to the N2 vibrational mode via direct electron impact, a result found to be in good agreement with discharge model predictions. Following the discharge pulse, the total vibrational quanta in all observed levels (v=0-12) was seen to rise by a factor of approximately 70 percent, indicating further energy coupling into N2 vibrations post-discharge, consistent with previous Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Spectroscopy (CARS) studies performed with the same discharge geometry. As a first attempt to account for this, a simple phenomenological E-V coupling model was incorporated into the master equation model. Significantly better overall agreement with the data, including the temporal evolution of the vibrational distribution function and total vibrational quanta was observed when a 30% energy defect into the N2(X,v) vibrational mode, during E-V transfer from quenching and pooling processes (involving the N2(A) and N2(C) excited electronic states), was assumed.
Measuring how people view biomedical research: Reliability and validity analysis of the Research Attitudes Questionnaire

With increasing numbers of studies on research ethics and a need to improve the recruitment of research subjects, the ability to measure attitudes toward biomedical research has become important. The Research Attitudes Questionnaire is a significant predictor of the public's attitudes toward and willingness to participate in research, yet limited data are available on its psychometric properties. This study establishes the scale's internal consistency and dimensionality using a large Internet-based sample from the United States. One item was removed due to a poor item-total correlation, and three additional items were removed which formed a reverse-wording measurement artifact factor. With improved internal consistency and dimensionality, the seven-item version has the advantages of shorter administration time and improved psychometric properties.
Influence of initial presentation on treatment outcome of clinically localized prostate cancer treated by definitive radiation therapy.

Abstract Purpose : The increasing proportion of early stage prostate cancer diagnosed by various early detection methods together with reports espousing watchful waiting as a management option raise the possibility that patients may be selected for surveillance according to their initial presentation. Methods and Materials : The outcome for 427 men with clinical stages T1 to T4 localized prostate cancer treated with radiation therapy was evaluated according to their presentation: elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level; abnormal digital rectal examination; or, urologic symptomatology. Results : With a median follow-up of 30 months, there were no significant differences in disease outcome according to initial presentation. The actuarial incidence of relapse at 5 years was: PSA-detected (54 patients), 24%; digital rectal-detected (173 patients) 29%; and, symptom-detected (200 patients) 31% (p = 0.79). Likewise, there were no significant differences in the incidence of postradiation rising PSA profiles among the three groups. The actuarial incidence of relapse and/or rising PSA at 5 years was: PSA-detected 35%; digital rectal-detected 42%; symptom-detected, 48% (p = 0.72). On the other hand, T-stage, Gleason grade, pretreatment PSA, pretreatment acid phosphatase, and transurethral resection in T 3 T 4 disease were each highly correlated with outcome. In multivariate proportional hazards regression pretreatment PSA (p = 0.0003), Gleason grade (p = 0.045), and transurethral resection in T 3 T 4 disease (p = 0.0562) correlated with outcome, but initial presentation did not (p = 0.25). Conclusion : The absence of a prognostic gradient, good to bad, from PSA-detected through digital rectal-detected to symptom-detected cancer suggests that the initial presentation of patients with localized prostate cancer is not a valid basis for selecting watchful waiting vs. initial treatment.
Single stranded DNA separations in oxide-passivated thin-walled plastic microchannels

Cross-linking in sieving matrices such as acrylamide gel in plastic based capillary electrophoresis systems is difficult due to the high permeability of oxygen through thin walls of plastic capillary electrophoresis systems. In this paper we report the fabrication of plastic based capillary electrophoresis systems, which use alumina-passivated thin-walled parylene-C microchannels for DNA separation. Results show alumina is a good oxygen barrier and excellent cross-linking of the sieving matrix can be achieved. We have achieved both dsDNA and ssDNA separation in these systems.
Temperatures of Fragments in Unimolecular Dissociations

A set of unsaturated molecules ranging from ethylene to tetramethylbenzene were irradiated with an excimer laser. The rate of formation of hydrogen (H) atoms and their average kinetic energy were determined by laser induced fluorescence. With increasing molecular size, these observables decrease in accord with theories of unimolecular dissociation. The vibrational temperature of the excited parent molecule before dissociation is equal to the translational temperature of the H atoms after dissociation. This result implies thatHatoms relax on a longer time scale than heavy atoms.
Locomotor modulation of disynaptic EPSPs from the mesencephalic locomotor region in cat motoneurons.

Degtyarenko, A. M., E. S. Simon, and R. E. Burke. Locomotor modulation of disynaptic EPSPs from the mesencephalic locomotor region in cat motoneurons. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 3284–3296, 1998. When low...
Gestational Diabetes, Preeclampsia and Cytokine Release: Similarities and Differences in Endothelial Cell Function

Gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia as well as intra-uterine infection during pregnancy affects the function of the endothelium both in the mother and the fetus leading to endothelial dysfunction. Gestational diabetes is also associated with an increased incidence of pre-eclampsia and it is likely that both the hyperglycemia as well as the release of cytokines especially TNFα during hyperglycemia may play an important role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction leading to preeclampsia. Similarly, some but not all studies have suggested that infection of the mother under certain circumstances can also lead to preeclampsia as women with either a bacterial or viral infection were at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia, compared to women without infection and infection also leads to a release in TNFα. Endothelial cells exposed to either high glucose or TNFα leads to an increase in the production of H2O2 and to a decrease in endothelial cell proliferation. The cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in this phenomenon are discussed.
Juvenal Acosta. Light From a Nearby Window: Contemporary Mexican Poetry , 1993; Alberto Blanco. Dawn of the Senses: Selected Poems;José Emilio Pacheco. San Francisco: City Lights, 1995; Jose Emilio Pacheco. City of Memory and Other Poems</i, 1997

"Del lado mexicano", dice Jose Emilio Pacheco en su introduccion a Dawn of the Senses, una antologia bilingue de la poesia de Alberto Blanco, "el rio no es Grande ni Bravo. Sin embargo, equivale a un oceano, simboliza una distancia que no se acortara jamas. [ ... ] Las (micas relaciones posibles se dirian la envidia y el desprecio, el resentimiento y el temor" (XII). El escepticismo de Pacheco, propio de este fin de milenio, contrasta con la esperanza utopica -esta, meramente finisecular- formulada hace mas de cien anos por Jose Marti. AI redactar su ensayo "Nuestra America" (1891), el modernista cubano pudo aun albergar la esperanza de que la futura relacion entre los Estados Unidos e Hispanoamerica se edificara en el interes y el respeto mutuo. Con solo "ensenarse como es" -pensaba- la America hispana se ganaria el respeto de Estados Unidos, que por consiguiente "sacaria de ella las manos": "los pueblos viriles... solo aman a los pueblos viriles" (43). Entre las dos visiones contrapuestas, el pesimismo de Pacheco es sin duda mas realista. Para no descartar sin mas a Marti, sin embargo, cabe preguntarse si Hispanoamerica -o, mas especificamente, Mexico- ha realmente podido "ensenarse como es". La cuestion es, por supuesto, sumamente compleja; abarca la politica de imagen, la representacion del pais en los medios de comunicacion, y una larga historia de conflictos entre el mundo hispanico y el anglosajon.
Utilization of a Best Value Structure on a City’s Park Renewal and Upgrade Program

The City of Roseville is utilizing a best value selection and contract management process for the delivery of their $19M park renewal and upgrade program. The best value process minimizes decision of the client, and requires pre-planning from the vendors. This paper analyzes the impact external factors can have on a successful implementation of best value business model. The City is using the model after a highly successful initial pilot project, and in response to tremendous political pressure to deliver a high quality, high performance renewal program.
Selective Oxidation and Etching of Reacted Pt Films on Gaas

The oxidation of prereacted Pt films on (100)-oriented n-GaAs substrates was studied in the temperature range between 550 and 750°C using Auger electron spectroscopy and Xe+ ion profiling. The GaPt/PtAs2/GaAs structure formed during annealing in hydrogen was oxidized using a mixture of water vapor and hydrogen. The GaPt phase can be oxidized completely, whereas the inner PtAs2 and GaAs interfaces are left unoxidized. The oxidation of the platinum-gallium phase is self limited by the diffusion of the Ga through the gallium oxide overlayer. The oxide can be etched off to leave a structure consisting only of platinum-arsenide on the GaAs substrate.
Epidemic Analysis of Hand-foot-mouth Disease in Wuxue City of Hubei Province from 2009 to 2012

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and clinical data of hand- foot- mouth disease in Wuxue City, Hubei Province and to explore appropriate and effective measures for its prevention and control. Methods Hand- foot- mouth disease cases were collected from National Diseases Reporting Information System,and descriptive statistical method was employed to analyze and compare them. Results 976 cases of hand- foot- mouth disease were reported in Wuxue from 2009 to 2012 with an average annual incidence rate of 36. 48 /100 000. The reported cases from 2009 to 2012 were 129,191,278 and 378 with reported incidence rates of 18. 74 /100 000,27. 65 /100 000,43. 15 /100 000 and 57. 98 /100 000 respectively. The incidence rate increased year by year. The period from April to July marked the disease outbreak and the incidence rate declined to a low level in August. The incidence rate from October to December in the year 2011 and 2012 reached another peak. Scattered children were the dominate crowd and accounted for 84. 83%( 828/976) of all report cases. The onset age was mainly lower than 5 years old who accounted for 98. 05%( 957/976) of all report cases and no death cases were observed. The main pathogen for hand- foot- mouth disease from 2009 to 2012 was enterovirus type 71( EV71) and EV71 accounted for 46. 88% of patients positive for etiological diagnosis while Cox16 and other enterovirus also accounted for some proportion. Conclusion The epidemic intensity of hand- foot- mouth disease in Wuxue from 2009 to 2011 is increasing year by year. The disease prevails in particular seasons and mainly among children younger than 5 years old. The main pathogen is enterovirus type 71( EV71). Peak seasons and key groups should be focused and scientific and standardized prevention programs should be formulated to strengthen epidemic surveillance and reduce morbidity and mortality.
New Reports of Nonnative Plants in Pennsylvania

ABSTRACT Range extensions to Butler County (Albizia julibrissin Durazz., Maclura pomifera (Raf.) C.K. Schneid., and Magnolia kobus DC.), Mercer County (Bellis perennis L.), Venango County (Lespedeza cuneata (Dum. Cours.) G. Don), and both Allegheny and Lawrence Counties (Arundinaria gigantea (Walter) Muhl.) are reported. All species are nonnative to Pennsylvania, and L. cuneata and A. julibrissin are considered invasive species in the commonwealth. The occurrence of M. kobus from a wet lowland forest in Butler County represents the first naturalized report of the species from the western half of the commonwealth. The reports of A. gigantea from Allegheny and Lawrence Counties are notable because they represent the second known occurrences of naturalized populations in Pennsylvania.
Stereotactic Radiation for Palliation of Skull Base Recurrences of Salivary Gland Carcinomas: Implications for Tumor Targeting.

Background Approximately 3 to 13% of salivary carcinomas recur at the skull base. We report our experience treating these recurrences with stereotactic radiation. Methods In total, 14 patients with skull base recurrence of salivary gland carcinoma were identified. Patient characteristics, treatment parameters, response to treatment, local recurrence-free/overall survival, and patterns of failure were studied. Results All 12 symptomatic patients experienced palliation of symptoms. Two grade 3 toxicities were observed. Local recurrence-free survival after skull base treatment was 28 months (74 months after allowing for additional course of salvage radiotherapy). Overall survival was 153 months from primary diagnosis and 67 months from first skull base failure. Of 13 treatment failures, 8 occurred at margins; the rest were infield. All intracranial failures occurred along meningeal surfaces. Conclusions Stereotactic radiation provides well-tolerated palliation for the majority of patients, but with a high rate of local failure. Due to the propensity for meningeal failures, we suggest increasing margins along the meningeal surfaces when treating these patients.
Trastornos sensitivos y autónomos

E ste capitulo esta dedicado fundamentalmente a los trastornos sensitivos de las extremidades y del tronco. Las alteraciones de la funcion autonoma suelen asociarse a perdidas de sensibilidad, pero a veces aparecen de forma aislada. En el capitulo 17 se estudiaran los trastornos sensitivos de la cara.
A study on model fidelity for model predictive control-based obstacle avoidance in high-speed autonomous ground vehicles

This paper investigates the level of model fidelity needed in order for a model predictive control (MPC)-based obstacle avoidance algorithm to be able to safely and quickly avoid obstacles even whe...
Prenatal Omega-3 Supplementation and Eczema Risk among Offspring at Age 36 Months.

Background: Long-term follow-up was completed in 84 mother-infant pairs of 118 women who completed a randomized controlled trial of prenatal supplementation with EPA- or DHA-rich fish oil or soy oil placebo. The goal of this study was to determine whether prenatal omega-3 fatty acid supplementation protects offspring against development of early childhood allergies. Methods and Findings: Assessment of childhood allergic/atopic disease among offspring at age 36 months was performed by maternal interview using the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) questions for childhood digestive allergies, wheezing, eczema or skin allergy, and respiratory allergy. Multiple logistic regressions examined the association between prenatal supplementation and childhood outcomes, adjusted for covariates. Eczema was reported in 26/84 (31%) of offspring at age 36 months, and was significantly more prevalent in the omega-3 supplementation groups vs. placebo: EPA 13/31 (41.9%);DHA 10/26 (38.5%); placebo 3/27 (11.1%), p=0.019. Compared to placebo, EPA and DHA were associated with ≥5 times risk of offspring eczema [odds ratios (ORs): EPA 5.8 (95% CI 1.4-23.3);DHA 5.0 (95% CI 1.2-21.0)]. After adjusting for other potential risk factors (race, birthweight, vaginal/Cesarean delivery, maternal eczema) the magnitudes of association for omega-3 supplementation increased: EPA OR 8.1 (95% CI 1.4-45.6);DHA OR 9.6 (95% CI 1.6-58.5). Maternal eczema was also significantly associated with offspring eczema in the adjusted model: OR 10.8 (95% CI 2.1-54.3) Conclusion: Contrary to our hypothesis, acids supplementation compared to soy oil was associated with a substantial increase in risk of childhood eczema. This association was not observed on childhood respiratory or digestive outcomes. It is unclear if these findings were driven by unfavorable effects of omega-3s, or whether there may have been unanticipated protective effects of the soy-based placebo with regards to eczema.
Confronting Bias through Teaching: Insights from Social Psychology.

Research in social psychology has the potential to address real-world issues involving racial stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Literature on confrontation suggests that addressing racis...
Psychological Flexibility Among Youth with Type 1 Diabetes: Relating Patterns of Acceptance, Adherence, and Stress to Adaptation

Psychological flexibility, a complex concept encompassing both acceptance and action related factors, has been identified as a target for intervention for diabetes management. Research suggests acceptance, self-management, and stress, all factors that influence psychological flexibility, have an impact on adaptation to type 1 diabetes (T1D) by youth independently. However, yet to be explored is individually varying patterns of these variables and how they may relate to diabetes adaptation outcomes. The present study aimed to establish individual variations of patterns of these factors to derive profiles of psychological flexibility, and examine their relations to the adaptation outcomes of glycemic control and health-related quality of life. Youth (N = 162, aged 12-17 years) with T1D completed the Acceptance and Action Diabetes Questionnaire, Diabetes Stress Questionnaire, Self-Care Inventory, and Pediatric Quality of Life-Diabetes Module. Hemoglobin A1c values were abstracted from medical records. Latent profile analysis yielded three profiles: High Acceptance & Adherence/Low Stress, Low Acceptance/Moderate Adherence & Stress, and Low Acceptance & Adherence/High Stress. The High Acceptance & Adherence/Low Stress group displayed significantly higher health-related quality of life and lower HbA1c compared to other groups. Fluid psychological variables, such as acceptance and diabetes stress, and adherence behaviors may be salient targets to increase psychological flexibility for individual psychosocial interventions aimed at improving adaptation to type 1 diabetes in youth.
A retrospective analysis of the comparative effectiveness of smoking cessation medication among individuals with mental illness in community‐based mental health and addictions treatment settings

Introduction Individuals with mental illnesses (MI) have diagnostic-specific reasons for smoking and achieve low smoking cessation when using cessation medications. Aim To assess differences in smoking cessation outcomes by MI diagnosis and cessation medications in outpatient mental health and addictions treatment settings in Vancouver, Canada Method A retrospective analysis of tobacco treatment outcomes from 539 participants. The program consists of cessation pharmacotherapy with 8- to 12-weeks of behavioral counseling and 12-weeks of support group. Smoking cessation was verified by expired carbon monoxide levels. Generalized estimating equations models assessed differences in cessation by type of medication in both total and stratified samples. Results No significant differences in cessation by pharmacotherapy in the total sample. Individuals with a mood disorder were two-times more likely to achieve cessation as compared to those with an anxiety disorder. Among individuals with mood disorders, receiving varenicline alone resulted in three-times the likelihood of cessation as compared to receiving single NRT. Discussion The differences in outcomes by MI diagnosis suggest the need for more diagnosis-specific approaches to optimize cessation. Implications for Practice Compared to other diagnoses, persons with anxiety disorders may have a greater challenge quitting and those with a psychotic disorder may require longer treatment durations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
History of Exploration at Mammoth Cave

Many forces have led humans to enter caves in the Mammoth Cave area over the past 5000 years. Caves have served as sources of adventure, social gathering, scientific discovery, and exploration. They have been valued for economic benefits including the mining of cave minerals (calcium nitrate from which to make saltpeter for gunpowder) and speleothems as well as their commercial potential as show caves. Caves were used as places of shelter from the elements of nature, for storing produce and meat and as refuge from criminal activity or war. Curiosity drove many prehistoric and historic explorers to enter caves seeking answers to many questions concerning their length, depth, and extent. The curiosity of modern explorers led to the connection of the Flint Ridge Cave System (FRCS) to Mammoth Cave in 1972. Since then, discoveries have continued and nobody alive today will hear of the end of the Mammoth Cave System.
Experimental Observation of Convective Cell Formation due to a Fast Wave Antenna in the Large Plasma Device.

An experiment in a linear device, the Large Plasma Device, is used to study sheaths caused by an actively powered radio frequency (rf) antenna. The rf antenna used in the experiment consists of a single current strap recessed inside a copper box enclosure without a Faraday screen. A large increase in the plasma potential was observed along magnetic field lines that connect to the antenna limiter. The electric field from the spatial variation of the rectified plasma potential generated $\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{\mathbit{E}}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{\mathbit{B}}}_{0}$ flows, often referred to as convective cells. The presence of the flows generated by these potentials is confirmed by Mach probes. The observed convective cell flows are seen to cause the plasma in front of the antenna to flow away and cause a density modification near the antenna edge. These can cause hot spots and damage to the antenna and can result in a decrease in the ion cyclotron range of frequencies antenna coupling.
Time Convolution with Impulse Response

The main idea here is simple. We know how to decompose a signal in terms of convolution with the delta (impulse) function. Assume now we have the impulse response of a system/circuit h(t). To find the response due to an arbitrary signal x(t), all that needs to be done is take the impulse response h(t) and time convolve it with the new input signal x(t)! All these follow from linearity and superposition. This is an extremely powerful concept. The main premise is as follows: characterize the system/circuit only once and obtain the impulse response; next apply as many variants of input stimuli and figure corresponding response without even having to re-characterize the system again! We demonstrate the convolution process on the parallel RC circuit. First we figure the impulse response. Then we figure the unit step response via convolution. We show all the intermediate steps and we observe the solution being built one convolution step at a time. Next we repeat the process on a different stimulus—this time a periodic pulse. Then again on a causal sinusoid. We observe in all cases better accuracy for smaller convolution time steps. We wrap the chapter with an applied example on a parallel RLC network. It is critical that the reader comprehends the idea of taking the impulse response, scaling it, and then adding it to the next offset impulse response till all the input stimuli have been sampled. This is best explained graphically as has been done here.
Abstract 20607: Suppression of MiR-143 By Poly I:C Attenuates Myocardial I/r Injury Involving Glycolytic Dependent Yap Activation

Introduction: We observed that Toll like receptor 3 (TLR3) is required for the neonatal heart repair and regeneration after myocardial ischemic injury and TLR3 ligand, Poly (I:C) enhances glycolysi...
Gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) in femur and vertebra tissues of the hypovitaminosis D kyphotic pig model

The hypovitaminosis D kyphotic pig provides a reliable model to study the initiation of bone lesions caused by maternal vitamin D (D) deficiencies. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP; specifically, MMP9 and MMP13) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are important in endochondral ossification and are potentially regulated by D. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is interrelated with D homoeostasis and bone mineralisation. Relative mRNA expression of MMP9, MMP13, VEGF and FGF23 was measured in pig femur and vertebra. Sows (n 37) were fed diets with 0 (-D), 8·125 (+D) or 43·750 (++D) µg D3/kg throughout gestation and lactation. At weaning (3 weeks), pigs were fed diets with 0 (-D) or 7·0 (+D) µg D3/kg, each with 75 and 95 % (LCaP) or 150 and 120 % (HCaP) of the Ca and P requirements. Pigs at birth (n 27), 3 weeks (n 27) and after the nursery period (7 weeks; n 72) were euthanised for analysis. At 3 weeks, femur MMP9 expression of pigs produced by +D or ++D sows was reduced (P<0·05) to 0·5-fold and VEGF expression to 0·4-fold compared with pigs from -D sows. At 7 weeks, MMP9 expression was reduced (P<0·05) to 0·45-fold in femur and 0·58-fold in vertebra from pigs produced by +D or ++D sows compared with pigs from -D sows. Pig femur VEGF expression was reduced to 0·75-fold in pigs produced by ++D sows. MMP9 and VEGF mRNA expression offer potential markers for the initiation of bone lesions in the hypovitaminosis D kyphotic pig model.
ETHANOL AND NATURAL KILLER ACTIVITY

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the different aspects of ethanol and natural killer activity. In a study described in the chapter, natural killer activity of human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBL) was studied in a 4 hr 51 Cr release assay using K562 target cells. HPBL preparations derived from a total of 15 normal healthy volunteers and 32 chronic alcoholics were examined for NK activity in 11 experiments. In each experiment, at least one control HPBL preparation was tested along with two to six HPBL preparations from alcoholics. Wide variations in the levels of NK activity were found in HPBL preparations from control and alcoholics, but upon statistical analysis of variance, levels of NK activity in PBL derived from alcoholics were significantly higher than the control levels. The difference in the cytotoxic activity of PBL from control and alcoholic subjects was not abolished as a result of depletion of macrophages, T cells, and B cells, and therefore the cytotoxic activity of PBL from normal and alcoholic subjects resided in the NK population. The NK inhibitory effect of ethanol could be confirmed in the mouse system. Short-term preincubation of mouse spleen cells with ethanol had no effect on their subsequent NK activity.
Frailty in ovarian cancer identified the need for increased postoperative care requirements following cytoreductive surgery.

Abstract Objectives We sought to examine the relationship between frailty and complicated postoperative courses, including intensive care unit (ICU) admission and non-home discharge, in patients with advanced ovarian cancer (OC) undergoing primary debulking surgery (PDS) for curative intent. Methods Patients were identified from a retrospectively collected database at a single institution between 1/1/2003–12/31/2011. A frailty index was derived from 30 items representing comorbidities and activities of daily living, each scored as 0, 0.5, or 1, and calculated as the total summated score divided by the total number of non-missing items. Frailty was defined as an index ≥0.15. Associations with binary outcomes were assessed using logistic regression. Results A total of 535 patients met inclusion criteria. Frail patients were older, mean age 67.8 versus 63.2 years (p Conclusion Frailty is a measurable, objective clinical syndrome that has impact on postoperative outcomes in advanced OC and should be considered when decision-making about treatments and counseling patients.
Radial planetary vorticity tilting in the leading-edge vortex of revolving wings

Previous studies suggested that Coriolis acceleration and spanwise flow both played key roles in stabilizing the leading-edge vortex (LEV) in revolving wings. The current study examined a mechanism that relates the effects of Coriolis acceleration, spanwise flow, and the tilting of the planetary vorticity on removing the radial component of LEV vorticity. Specifically, the fluid particles moving with the spanwise flow toward the wing tip are expected to experience tangential Coriolis acceleration in the wing-fixed rotating frame; therefore, a vertical gradient in spanwise flow can create a vertical gradient in the Coriolis acceleration, which will in turn produce oppositely signed radial vorticity within the LEV. This gradient of Coriolis acceleration corresponds to the radial component of planetary vorticity tilting (PVTr) that reorients the planetary vorticity into the spanwise (radial) direction, therefore producing oppositely signed radial vorticity. Using an in-house, immersed-boundary-method flow solver, this mechanism was investigated alongside the other vorticity dynamics for revolving wings of varying aspect ratio (AR = 3, 5, and 7) and Reynolds number (Re = 110 and 1400). Analyses of vorticity dynamics showed that the PVTr consistently produced oppositely signed vorticity for all values of AR and Re investigated, although other three-dimensional phenomena play a similar but more dominant role when Re = 1400. In addition, the relative strength of the PVTr increased with increasing AR due to a decrease in the magnitude of advection. Finally, a dimensional analysis was performed on the advection and PVTr for the different AR and Re.
Structural Approach to Ice Growth (and Nucleation) in Liquid Water

Crystal growth is commonly conceptualized with a simple structural model, the stacking of molecules or atoms represented by cubes, or sometimes spheres. The growth process is by adding single molec...
ATORVASTATIN REDUCES TOTAL EVENTS OVERALL AND ACROSS VASCULAR BEDS IN THE SPARCL TRIAL

In SPARCL, first vascular event was reduced from 687 for placebo to 530 for atorvastatin (hazard ratio [HR] 0.74; p<0.001), with significant reductions in stroke or TIA, coronary events, and revascularization procedures. Here we describe treatment effects on total (first and subsequent) vascular
Breast Radiation Therapy Under COVID-19 Pandemic Resource Constraints-Approaches to Defer or Shorten Treatment From a Comprehensive Cancer Center in the United States.

Abstract Purpose Breast radiation therapy accounts for a significant proportion of patient volume in contemporary radiation oncology practice. In the setting of anticipated resource constraints and widespread community infection with SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic, measures for balancing both infectious and oncologic risk among patients and providers must be carefully considered. Here, we present evidence-based guidelines for omitting or abbreviating breast cancer radiation therapy, where appropriate, in an effort to mitigate risk to patients and optimize resource utilization. Methods and Materials Multidisciplinary breast cancer experts at a high-volume comprehensive cancer center convened contingency planning meetings over the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic to review the relevant literature and establish recommendations for the application of hypofractionated and abbreviated breast radiation regimens. Results Substantial evidence exists to support omitting radiation among certain favorable risk subgroups of patients with breast cancer and for abbreviating or accelerating regimens among others. For those who require either whole-breast or postmastectomy radiation, with or without coverage of the regional lymph nodes, a growing body of literature supports various hypofractionated approaches that appear safe and effective. Conclusions In the setting of a public health emergency with the potential to strain critical healthcare resources and place patients at risk of infection, the parsimonious application of breast radiation therapy may alleviate a significant clinical burden without compromising long-term oncologic outcomes. The judicious and personalized use of immature study data may be warranted in the setting of a competing mortality risk from this widespread pandemic.
Diurnal behavior and distribution patterns of Kiko wethers and Katahdin rams in woodlands with different vegetation heights during fall

Meat-type goats and sheep are common small ruminants in the southeast USA, where a vast coverage of woodland (61%) presents a huge potential for supporting small ruminant grazing. However, dense and tall growing plants in woodlands restrict animals’ movement and their access to vegetation. Thus, vegetation growing beyond animals’ reach in woodlands should be managed at low heights for efficient utilization. Studies on how animals would interact with the landscape having different vegetation characteristics is lacking. The objective of the current study was to determine the diurnal behavior and distribution patterns of Kiko wethers (castrated male goats) and Katahdin rams (male sheep) in woodlands with different vegetation heights during fall. Study plots (6 plots, 0.4-ha each) comprised of southern pines, hardwoods, and numerous understory vegetation. The non-target (non-pine) species were either left uncut (control) or cut to one of the heights from the ground level: 0 m, 0.9 m, and 1.5 m. Kiko wethers and Katahdin rams were rotationally stocked in separate plots (3 plots/species) during 2017 and 2018, and their diurnal behavior (dawn–dusk) and distribution patterns monitored when they were in each plot. Animal behavior and distribution data were analyzed in SAS v 9.4, and the distribution evenness index (DEI) in R v 3.4.4. Wethers spent predominant feeding time browsing in areas where non-target plants were cut to 0.9 m and 1.5 m (53–71%), and rams grazed predominantly (49–61%) in areas with non-target plants cut to the ground level, mostly during post-midday (p < 0.05). Lying was predominant during midday (p < 0.0001), especially in open spaces (p < 0.05). Wethers had a higher DEI than rams throughout the study period (p < 0.01). Vegetation utilization in woodlands was highly influenced by the vegetation height, diurnal period, and study year (age of animals).
Bisphosphonate Versus Bisphosphonate and Calcitonin for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Hypercalcemia of Malignancy.

BackgroundHistorically, intravenous (IV) bisphosphonates with calcitonin are the treatment of choice for hypercalcemia of malignancy. However, evidence is lacking.ObjectiveThe objective of this stu...
Qualitative features of a nonlinear, nonlocal, agent-based PDE model with applications to homelessness

In this paper, we develop a continuum model for the movement of agents on a lattice, taking into account location desirability, local and far-range migration, and localized entry and exit rates. Sp...
Using Adaptive Management to Restore Grasslands Invaded by Tall Fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus)

Abstract Invasive grasses reduce habitat quality for multiple taxa and can negatively impact forage quality for livestock. Large-scale experimental studies are needed to inform more effective grassland restoration that is grounded in practice. To this end, we studied the control of a common but highly invasive cool-season grass using a landscape-scale experiment, employing an adaptive management framework. The study design included three patches (average 8.7 ha) at each of seven sites. Treatments included 1) herbicide (glyphosate), 2) herbicide and native seeding, and 3) control. Four sites were grazed by domestic cattle using adaptive stocking. We sampled vegetation composition and structure during one pretreatment year (2014) and four post-treatment years (2015–2018). Our primary objective was to evaluate how these one-time treatments affected the cover of tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus) and native grasses and forbs. Tall fescue cover was reduced after a one-time glyphosate application, and this reduction was maintained over 4 years on grazed and ungrazed sites. We observed increases of warm-season grasses after herbicide and seeding, with the strongest restoration observed on ungrazed sites. Native grasses did not differ strongly between treatments on grazed sites, where there was a resurgence of nonfescue exotic grasses. Percent cover of native forbs was near zero before seeding but ranged from low to moderate levels afterward. Our results indicate a one-time application of herbicide can be used to reduce but not eradicate the invasive grass tall fescue, although other exotic grasses may replace tall fescue, especially on grazed sites. For plant community restoration to be successful, sites should be rested from grazing to give native seedings time to establish. Although eradication of invasive grasses is often infeasible in productive landscapes, restoring at least some native vegetation has the potential to protect ecosystem services provided by grasslands.
Quantification of Rotating Detonations Using OH* Chemiluminescence at Varied Widths

Rotating detonation combustors (RDCs) are studied with significant interest in recent years, due to their promulgated benefits over other pressure gain combustion systems. Although notable strides ...
Hepatic encephalopathy

A characteristic feature of the neuropsychiatric changes in hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is the potential for a complete recovery in the majority of patients. In this review, we limit our discussion to HE in individuals with chronic liver disease. The optimal approach to the management of HE includes the following elements. Provide standard supportive therapy for patients with an altered mental status. This is the mainstay of therapy in the majority of clinical situations and includes administration of parenteral fluids and nutrition, care of vascular and bladder catheters, control of self-injurious activities, and instituting aspiration precautions. Rule out or control concomitant causes of encephalopathy. The diagnosis of HE has positive and negative criteria, and ruling out other causes of change in mental status is an essential component of the diagnosis. Identify and correct the precipitating factors of HE. In the majority of patients with HE, a clearly defined precipitating factor usually is identified, and the reversal or control of these factors is a key step in management. Institute gut-cleansing and ammonia-lowering measures. These measures are based on clinical and pathogenic characteristics of HE and are aimed at neutralizing the putative encephalogenic toxins (namely ammonia).
Genome-Wide Association Analyses of Fertility Traits in Beef Heifers

The ability of livestock to reproduce efficiently is critical to the sustainability of animal agriculture. Antral follicle count (AFC) and reproductive tract scores (RTS) can be used to estimate fertility in beef heifers, but the genetic mechanisms influencing variation in these measures are not well understood. Two genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted to identify the significant loci associated with these traits. In total, 293 crossbred beef heifers were genotyped on the Bovine GGP 50K chip and genotypes were imputed to 836,121 markers. A GWAS was performed with the AFC phenotype for 217 heifers with a multi-locus mixed model, conducted using the year, age at time of sampling and principal component analysis groupings as the covariates. The RTS GWAS was performed with 289 heifers using an additive correlation/trend test comparing prepubertal to pubertal heifers. The loci on chromosomes 2, 3 and 23 were significant in the AFC GWAS and the loci on chromosomes 2, 8, 10 and 11 were significant in the RTS GWAS. The significant region on chromosome 2 was similar between both analyses. These regions contained genes associated with cell proliferation, transcription, apoptosis and development. This study proposes candidate genes for beef cattle fertility, although future research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms.
Innovation in Extraterrestrial Service Systems - A Challenge for Service Science

This presentation was prepared at the invitation of Professor Yukio Ohsawa, Department of Systems Innovation, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, for delivery at the International Workshop on Innovating Service Systems, sponsored by the Japanese Society of Artificial Intelligence (JSAI) as part of the JSAI Internation Symposium on AI, 2010. It offers several challenges for Service Science and Service Innovation. the goal of the presentation is to stimulate thinking about how service systems viII evolve in the future, as human society advances from its terrestrial base toward a permanent presence in space. First we will consider the complexity of the International Space Station (ISS) as it is today, with particular emphasis of its research facilities, and focus on a current challenge - to maximize the utilization of ISS research facilities for the benefit of society. After briefly reviewing the basic principles of Service Science, we will discuss the potential application of Service Innovation methodology to this challenge. Then we viII consider how game-changing technologies - in particular Synthetic Biology - could accelerate the pace of sociocultural evolution and consequently, the progression of human society into space. We will use this provocative vision to advance thinking about how the emerging field of Service Science, Management, and Engineering (SSME) might help us anticipate and better handle the challenges of this inevitable evolutionary process.
Material Behavior—Linear Elastic Solids

The previous two chapters established elasticity field equations related to the kinematics of small deformation theory and the equilibrium of the associated internal stress field. Based on these physical concepts, six strain–displacement relations and three equilibrium equations were developed for the general three-dimensional case. Nine field equations have now been developed. The unknowns in these equations include three displacement components, six components of strain, and six stress components, yielding a total of 15 unknowns. Thus, the nine equations are not sufficient to solve for the 15 unknowns, and additional field equations are needed. This result should not be surprising since up to this point we have not considered the material response. We now wish to complete our general formulation by specializing to a particular material model that provides reasonable characterization of materials under small deformations. The model we use is that of a linear elastic material, a name that categorizes the entire theory. This chapter presents the basics of the elastic model for the special case of homogeneous and isotropic materials.
Abstract 16873: Circulating Multimarker Profile of Patients with Symptomatic Heart Failure Demonstrates Enhanced Fibrotic Degradation and Reduced Extracellular Matrix Remodeling

Introduction: Maladaptive cardiac remodeling involves dysregulated angiogenesis and progressive myocardial fibrosis. Recent evidence suggests potential crosstalk between angiogenic and fibrotic signaling pathways in heart failure. Few studies have simultaneously examined circulating markers of angiogenesis and fibrosis in patients with cardiomyopathy. Hypothesis: Our hypothesis was that biomarkers of angiogenesis and fibrosis correlate with heart failure severity. Methods: Blood samples were collected prospectively from 52 consecutive patients with cardiomyopathy (CM); 17 ischemic (iCM) and 35 non-ischemic (niCM); referred for diagnostic cardiac catheterization. 19 patients without cardiovascular risk factors served as controls. We measured serum levels of markers of collagen synthesis [procollagen type I C-peptide (PIP), procollagen type III C-peptide (P3NP)], collagen degradation [carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP)], pro-angiogenesis [placental growth factor (PIGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)], anti-angiogenesis [soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 1 (sFlt1)], extracellular matrix remodeling [matrix metalloprotease-2 (MMP2), matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP9), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloprotease-1 (TIMP-1)], aldosterone and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB). Group means were compared by unpaired student’s T test and correlations between markers were assessed by unweighted Spearman coefficients. Results: Among all 52 CM patients compared to controls, P3NP, ICTP, MMP2, TIMP-1, PIGF and sFlt1 were elevated. The PIP/ICTP, PIGF/sFlt1, and VEGF/sFlt1 ratios were reduced among all CM patients consistent with fibrotic degradation and anti-angiogenesis. Compared to iCM, patients with niCM had lower levels of ICTP, MMP2, MMP9, and PIGF. The PIP/ICTP, MMP-9/TIMP-1 and VEGF/sFlt1 ratios were lower in patients with NYHA class III/IV HF compared to class I/II HF. Conclusions: In patients with symptomatic heart failure, the circulating biomarker profile is consistent with fibrotic degradation and minimal angiogenesis. Further validation of a multimarker approach in a larger patient cohort may guide patient selection for therapies targeted at fibrosis and angiogenesis.