cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The INvestigation of STEnt Grafts in Aortic Dissection (INSTEAD) Trial The Need for Ongoing Analysis

In the present issue of Circulation , Nienaber et al1 report the results of a randomized comparison of strategies for type B dissection: the INvestigation of STEnt grafts in Aortic Dissection (INSTEAD) trial. This trial represents the first prospective randomized study of elective stent graft placement in survivors of uncomplicated chronic type B aortic dissection. The results have been eagerly anticipated by clinicians, particularly in light of recent analyses of the benefits of endovascular repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms2,3 and thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) for the treatment of degenerative thoracic aneurysms.4–6 The authors are to be commended on providing Level 1 evidence to assist us in the management of chronic aortic dissection. The INSTEAD trial demonstrates that thoracic stent graft (TEVAR) placement failed to improve the rates of 2-year survival and adverse events when compared with optimal medical therapy (OMT). Although considerable attention to detail was paid by the authors in the design of this trial,7 several limitations exist that may preclude using these results to determine the final role of stent grafts in the management of chronic aortic dissection. Article see …
Overlapping Signals for Protein Degradation and Nuclear Localization Define a Role for Intrinsic RAG-2 Nuclear Uptake in Dividing Cells

Expression of the recombinase proteins RAG-1 and RAG-2 is discordant: while RAG-1 is relatively long lived, RAG-2 is degraded periodically at the G1-S transition. Destruction of RAG-2 is mediated by a conserved interval in the recombination-dispensable region. The need for RAG-2 to reaccumulate in the nucleus at each cell division suggested the existence of an intrinsic RAG-2 nuclear localization signal (NLS). RAG-1 or RAG-2, expressed individually, is a nuclear protein. A screen for proteins that bind the recombination-dispensable region of RAG-2 identified the nuclear transport protein Importin 5. Mutation of residues 499 to 508 in RAG-2 abolished Importin 5 binding, nuclear accumulation, and periodic degradation of RAG-2. The Importin 5 binding site overlaps an NLS, defined by mutagenesis. RAG-1 rescued the localization of degradation-defective, RAG-2 NLS mutants; this required an intact RAG-1 NLS. Mutations in RAG-2 that abolish intrinsic nuclear accumulation but spare periodic degradation impaired recombination in cycling cells; induction of quiescence restored recombination to wild-type levels. Recombination defects were correlated with a cell cycle-dependent defect in the ability of RAG-1 to rescue localization of the RAG-2 mutants. These results suggest that the intrinsic RAG-2 NLS functions in the nuclear uptake of RAG-2 following its reexpression in cycling cells.
HJ-OpenCL: Reducing the Gap Between the JVM and Accelerators

Recently there has been increasing interest in supporting execution of Java Virtual Machine (JVM) applications on accelerator architectures, such as GPUs. Unfortunately, there is a large gap between the features of the JVM and those commonly supported by accelerators. Examples of important JVM features include exceptions, dynamic memory allocation, use of arbitrary composite objects, file I/O, and more. Recent work from our research group tackled the first feature in that list, JVM exception semantics[14]. This paper continues along that path by enabling the acceleration of JVM parallel regions that include object references and dynamic memory allocation.The contributions of this work include 1) serialization and deserialization of JVM objects using a format that is compatible with OpenCL accelerators, 2) advanced code generation techniques for converting JVM bytecode to OpenCL kernels when object references and dynamic memory allocation are used, 3) runtime techniques for supporting dynamic memory allocation on OpenCL accelerators, and 4) a novel redundant data movement elimination technique based on inter-parallel-region dataflow analysis using runtime bytecode inspection.Experimental results presented in this paper show performance improvements of up to 18.33× relative to parallel Java Streams for GPU-accelerated parallel regions, even when those regions include object references and dynamic memory allocation. In our evaluation, we fully characterize where accelerators or the JVM see performance wins and point out opportunities for future work.
Improved broadband electrical detection of individual biological cells

Based on a homemade probe station on top of an inverted microscope for simultaneous microwave measurement and visual validation, broadband detection of live Jurkat cells was successfully extended from 2–3.5 GHz to 0.5–20 GHz with comparable sensitivity and reproducibility. With a carefully optimized coplanar waveguide, closely spaced microwave probes, and frequent calibrations, reference planes were established next to the microfluidic channel, which resulted in smooth and well-behaved scattering parameters without spurious resonances. From the measured scattering parameters, the extracted cytoplasm resistance of 190 kΩ was consistent with the previously reported value but validated over a much wider bandwidth.
Analysis of gene expression in multiple sclerosis lesions using cDNA microarrays

In multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, a coordinated attack of the immune system against the primary constituents of oligodendrocytes and/or the myelin sheath of oligodendrocytes results in the formation of lesions in the brain and spinal cord. Thus far, however, a limited number of genes that potentially contribute to lesion pathology have been identified. Using cDNA microarray technology, we have performed experiments on MS tissue monitoring the expression pattern of over 5,000 genes and compared the gene expression profile of normal white matter with that found in acute lesions from the brain of a single MS patient. Sixty-two differentially expressed genes were identified, including the Duffy chemokine receptor, interferon regulatory factor-2, and tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor-2 among others. Thus, cDNA microarray technology represents a powerful new tool for the identification of genes not previously associated with the MS disease process.
Night-time reception of solar radio events

RIIHMAA has reported night-time reception of a solar radio event1. The observation, in the frequency range 20.85–23.20 MHz, was made at Kiiminki (65°05′N, 25°54′E) on 30 March 1976 with the Sun (and Jupiter) well below the horizon. Night-time reception of solar bursts had also been reported by Smith et al.2. Such night-time solar radio burst reception might be brought about by anomalous propagation associated with plasma waves in the lower ionospheric E layer. I briefly discuss this phenomenon here and point out the possible importance of large ionospheric electric fields.
Endoluminal revision of gastric bypass for weight regain--a systematic review.

Abstract Background Weight recidivism after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a challenging problem for patients and bariatric surgeons alike. Traditional operative strategies to combat weight regain are technically challenging and associated with a high morbidity rate. Endoluminal interventions are thus an attractive alternative that may offer a good combination of results coupled with lower periprocedure risk that might one day provide a solution to this increasingly prevalent problem. The purpose of this article is to systematically review the available literature on endoluminal procedures used to address weight regain after RYGB, with specific attention to the safety profile, efficacy, cost, and current availability. This review focuses only on endoluminal procedures that are performed for weight regain after RYGB, as opposed to primary endoluminal obesity procedures. Methods This study was a retrospective review. Results Several methods of endoluminal intervention for weight regain are reviewed, ranging from injection of inert substances to suturing and clipping devices. The literature review shows the procedures on the whole to be well tolerated with limited efficacy. The majority of the literature is limited to small case series. Most of the reviewed devices are no longer commercially available. Conclusions Endoluminal therapy represents an intriguing strategy for weight regain after RYGB. However, the current and future technologies must be rigorously studied and improved such that they offer durable, repeatable, cost-effective solutions.
Oxidation Behavior of Zirconium Diboride Silicon Carbide Produced by the Spark Plasma Sintering Method

Dense samples of ZrB2–20 vol% SiC were successfully fabricated by spark plasma sintering without the use of sintering aids. Oxidation behavior of these samples was characterized by exposing them to 1400°, 1500°, and 1600°C in an ambient atmosphere for 150 min, and by measuring the weight gains of the sample and crucible, as well as the thickness of the oxide scale and the glassy outer layer. The effects of gravity on the viscous outer layer are shown to result in significant heterogeneity within a sample. The oxidation scales were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis. The oxide scale was found to be composed of three layers: (1) a SiO2-rich glassy outer layer, (2) an intermediate layer of a ZrO2 matrix with interpenetrating SiO2, and (3) a layer containing a ZrO2 matrix enclosing partially oxidized ZrB2 with Si–C–B–O glass inclusions.
“Are Humans Evolving?” A Classroom Discussion to Change Student Misconceptions Regarding Natural Selection

Natural selection is an important mechanism in the unifying biological theory of evolution, but many undergraduate students struggle to learn this concept. Students enter introductory biology courses with predictable misconceptions about natural selection, and traditional teaching methods, such as lecturing, are unlikely to dispel these misconceptions. Instead, students are more likely to learn natural selection when they are engaged in instructional activities specifically designed to change misconceptions. Three instructional strategies useful for changing student conceptions include (1) eliciting naive conceptions from students, (2) challenging nonscientific conceptions, and (3) emphasizing conceptual frameworks throughout instruction. In this paper, we describe a classroom discussion of the question “Are humans evolving?” that employs these three strategies for teaching students how natural selection operates. Our assessment of this activity shows that it successfully elicits students’ misconceptions and improves student understanding of natural selection. Seventy-eight percent of our students who began this exercise with misconceptions were able to partially or completely change their misconceptions by the end of this discussion. The course that this activity was part of also showed significant learning gains (d = 1.48) on the short form of the Conceptual Inventory of Natural Selection. This paper includes all the background information, data, and visual aids an instructor will need to implement this activity.
Sphingosine-1–Phosphate Receptor–3 Is a Novel Biomarker in Acute Lung Injury

The inflamed lung exhibits oxidative and nitrative modifications of multiple target proteins, potentially reflecting disease severity and progression. We identified sphingosine-1–phosphate receptor–3 (S1PR3), a critical signaling molecule mediating cell proliferation and vascular permeability, as a nitrated plasma protein in mice with acute lung injury (ALI). We explored S1PR3 as a potential biomarker in murine and human ALI. In vivo nitrated and total S1PR3 concentrations were determined by immunoprecipitation and microarray studies in mice, and by ELISA in human plasma. In vitro nitrated S1PR3 concentrations were evaluated in human lung vascular endothelial cells (ECs) or within microparticles shed from ECs after exposure to barrier-disrupting agonists (LPS, low-molecular-weight hyaluronan, and thrombin). The effects of S1PR3-containing microparticles on EC barrier function were assessed by transendothelial electrical resistance (TER). Nitrated S1PR3 was identified in the plasma of murine ALI and in hum...
An abstract to concrete shift in the development of biological thought: the insides story

For more than a century, theorists of cognitive development have embraced some form of the thesis that cognitive development proceeds from concrete to abstract knowledge. In contrast to this view, we suggest an abstract to concrete shift in the development of biological thought. In five studies we examine children's expectations for what could be inside animals and machines and we find that children of all ages respond systematically, revealing abstract expectations for how the insides of animals and machines should differ. By 8 years, children seem to have more concrete expectations for the nature of insides, and are substantially more accurate than preschoolers. More broadly, we suspect that an abstract to concrete progression may capture important features of how knowledge develops in the realm of biological thought and in many other areas of understanding as well.
Boundary Making and Regional Identities in a Globalized Environment: Reordering the Nariva Swamp, Trinidad

The recent work in critical geopolitics problematizes the notion of boundaries and interrogates the narratives, ideologies, and institutions that inform processes of boundary making, or ‘reborderings’. From the perspective of critical geopolitics, boundary making for conservation purposes is understood as an act of power embedded within a discourse of environmental geopolitics. Through reborderings, environmental geopolitics thus reflects and informs everyday practices and relations of power between local, state, and international actors. In this paper I illustrate a process of rebordering in Trinidad, the West Indies, in which local, state, and international actors engaged in a contest to define conservation boundaries and produce bounded identities within the Nariva Swamp. Rebordering in the Nariva Swamp reflected and influenced state and local practices in complex ways, altered relations of power on multiple levels, and led to the production of a bounded space that is simultaneously local and global.
Analog extensions to verilog

Verilog-A is an analog hardware description language derived from Verilog. The mapping of Verilog-A behavioral descriptions to an underlying network equivalent model is discussed in detail. The chapter provides an overview of the capabilities of the Verilog-A language and presents examples of its features. The syntax and the special purpose built-in functions of Verilog-A are discussed. In addition issues relating to the interaction of the language with Spice type simulators are presented, for example language-simulator interaction in terms of timestep control and analysis dependent functions for noise and ac analysis are described. Finally multi-disciplinary modeling in Verilog-A is discussed.
QMotor 3.0 and the QMotor robotic toolkit: a PC-based control platform

Q Motor 3.0 is a QNX-based object-oriented single-processor software environment that allows the implementation of real-time control algorithms as C++ programs on standard Intel-processor-based PCs. The QMotor 3.0 graphical user interface (GUI) integrates functionality for testing and tuning of these control programs. In addition, it provides advanced data logging, plotting, and data exporting capabilities. The control program, as well as the development tools and the GUI, can all execute simultaneously on the PC due to the deterministic response of the operating system (OS). This architecture replaces the traditional multiprocessor host/DSP board architecture often used in control applications. Advantages of a single-processor system include reduced cost and lower complexity, as well as increased flexibility and upgradability. A client/server architecture decouples the control program from the hardware so that QMotor 3.0 can easily be extended to work with new hardware. QMotor 3.0 has been used successfully in many of the control experiments performed by the Clemson Control and Robotics group, including motor and robot control, active magnetic bearing experiments, and vibration control for flexible structures.
Multiple Perspectives on the Classroom Performance of Certified and Uncertified Teachers

Despite the increasingly widespread practice of alternative certification, only a few researchers have investigated the relationship between pedagogical training and teachers' classroom perform ance. In this study, the classroom performance of novice, advanced beginner, and expert teachers was compared from the perspectives of subject matter knowledge and delivery, educational con noisseurship, nonverbal behavior, and systematic observation. Teachers without pedagogical train ing were less able than those with training to keep students on task, to provide appropriate feed back, to assess student performance, and were less effective in subject matter delivery. These findings raise questions about the practice of alternative and emergency certification.
Hierarchical shape representation using locally adaptive finite elements

This paper presents a physics-based algorithm for hierarchical shape representation using deformable models with locally adaptive finite elements. Our new adaptive finite element algorithm ensures that during subdivision the desirable finite element mesh generation properties of conformity, non-degeneracy and smoothness are maintained. Through our algorithm, we locally subdivide the triangular finite elements based on the distance between the given datapoints and the model. In this way, we can very efficiently and accurately represent the shape of an object with a resulting small number of model nodes. Furthermore, using our locally adaptive subdivision algorithm in conjunction with our model's global deformations we construct a hierarchical representation of the given 3D data.
Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Osteosarcoma Induced in the Syrian Golden Hamster by Simian Virus 40

Leukemia, lymphoma, and osteogenic and anaplastic sarcomas develop in Syrian golden hamsters inoculated intravenously at 3 weeks of age with simian virus 40, which is a popova virus. Previously, only RNA and herpes DNA viruses have been recognized as capable of inducing leukemia and lymphoma in mammals. The significance of these findings is emphasized in relation to the nature of viral agents that may be involved in analogous diseases of man.
Permeability of the oceanic crust based on experimental studies of basalt permeability at elevated pressures

Christensen, N.I. and Ramananantoandro, R., 1988. Permeability of the oceanic crust based on experimental studies of basalt permeability at elevated pressures. Tectonophysics 149: 181-186. Permeabilities have been measured as a function of confining pressure at constant temperature for basalt dredge samples from the Juan de Fuca and Tonga-Kermadec regions. Permeabilities at 40 MPa are 1.1 X 10-19 m2 for the Juan de Fuca basalt and 7.4 X 10-19 m2 for the higher porosity Tonga-Kermadec basalt. Permeabilities decrease significantly with increasing confining pressure. The measured values of permeability are considerably lower than the estimated 10-14 to 10~15 m2 permeabilities of the upper few hundred meters of basement rocks of the oceanic crust, thereby supporting oceanic crustal convection models in which seawater convection occurs largely through macrocracks at relatively shallow depths. Based on our laboratory measurements it is estimated that permeabilities of layer 2C and layer 3 are generally less than 1.0 X 10-19 m2. Permeabilities of layers 2A and 2B in young oceanic crust are expected to be anisotropic due to the preferred orientation of fractures. An anisotropic upper crustal model is presented in which layer-2 permeabilities are low parallel to spreading directions.
RACE, RACIAL THREAT, AND SENTENCING OF HABITUAL OFFENDERS*

As legislatures proliferate novel "enhancements" to criminal sentencing, such as "three-strikes" and related provisions, and as criminologists debate their effects, the role of existing enhancements, such as habitual offender statutes, has received little empirical attention. This article explores the effect of race in the decision to prosecute and sentence eligible defendants as "habitual" offenders. During FY 1992-93, 9,690 males admitted to prison in Florida were statutorily eligible (two prior felony convictions or one prior violent felony conviction) for sentencing as "habitual" offenders. Approximately 20% received that disposition. They will serve at least 75% of their enhanced sentence as compared with the state average of about 40%. Logistic regression, controlling for prior record, crime seriousness, and other relevant factors, shows a significant and substantial race effect. The disadvantage of black defendants is particularly strong for drug offenses and for property crimes that have relatively high victimization rates for whites (larceny, burglary). Race is less consequential for violent and weapons-related crimes. Race effects are more often significant in sentencing contexts that are low in terms of percent black, racial income inequality, drug arrest rates, and violent crime rates. The relevance of these findings for a "racial threat" interpretation of sentencing outcomes is discussed.
The Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) Pathfinder Atmosphere (PATMOS) Climate Dataset: Initial Analyses and Evaluations

Abstract As part of the joint National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration–National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NOAA–NASA) Pathfinder program, the NOAA/National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Service (NESDIS) has created a research-quality atmospheric, climate-scale dataset through the reprocessing of archived Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) observations from four afternoon satellites, in orbit since 1981. The raw observations were recalibrated using a vicarious calibration technique for the AVHRR reflectance channels and an improved treatment of the nonlinearity of the three infrared emittance channels. State-of-the-art algorithms are used in the Pathfinder Atmosphere (PATMOS) project to process global AVHRR datasets into statistics of channel radiances, total cloud amount, components of the earth's radiation budget, and aerosol optical thickness over oceans. The radiances and earth radiation budget components are determined for clear-sky and all-sky condition...
Text-Driven Toponym Resolution using Indirect Supervision

Toponym resolvers identify the specific locations referred to by ambiguous placenames in text. Most resolvers are based on heuristics using spatial relationships between multiple toponyms in a document, or metadata such as population. This paper shows that text-driven disambiguation for toponyms is far more effective. We exploit document-level geotags to indirectly generate training instances for text classifiers for toponym resolution, and show that textual cues can be straightforwardly integrated with other commonly used ones. Results are given for both 19th century texts pertaining to the American Civil War and 20th century newswire articles.
Explaining the Surprising Performance of Whisper Forecasts of Earnings

Whisper numbers have attracted both popular press and academic interest since at least 1998, when Whispernumbers.com was established. Nearly all academic research to date has focused on the accuracy and representativeness of whispers relative to financial analysts' earnings forecasts and has found that in some circumstances, whisper forecasts are more accurate and/or more closely associated with investors' expectations than are financial analysts' forecasts. In this paper we find that the surprisingly strong performance of whisper forecasts says more about relative weakness in analysts' forecasts in certain contexts than relative strength of whispers.
Random Knotting: Theorems, Simulations and Applications

This article describes some of the theoretical and simulation results on random entanglement, and give a few scientific applications. I will prove that, on the simple cubic lattice Z3, the probability that a randomly chosen n-edge polygon in Z3 is knotted goes to one exponentially rapidly with length n (Murphy’s Law of entanglement); in other words, all but exponentially few polygons of length n in Z3 are knotted. Measures of entanglement complexity of random knots and random arcs are discussed as well as application of random knotting to viral DNA packing.
Fast Playback Framework for Analysis of Ground-Based Doppler Radar Observations Using MapReduce Technology

AbstractThe creation of a 3D mosaic is often the first step when using the high-spatial- and temporal-resolution data produced by ground-based radars. Efficient yet accurate methods are needed to mosaic data from dozens of radar to better understand the precipitation processes in synoptic-scale systems such as tropical cyclones. Research-grade radar mosaic methods of analyzing historical weather events should utilize data from both sides of a moving temporal window and process them in a flexible data architecture that is not available in most stand-alone software tools or real-time systems. Thus, these historical analyses require a different strategy for optimizing flexibility and scalability by removing time constraints from the design. This paper presents a MapReduce-based playback framework using Apache Spark’s computational engine to interpolate large volumes of radar reflectivity and velocity data onto 3D grids. Designed as being friendly to use on a high-performance computing cluster, these methods ...
Quibron® (Mead Johnson)

Theophylline, a bronchodilater, acts by direct relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle. It is also a coronary vasodilator, cardiac stimulant, skeletal muscle stimulant, central nervous system stimulant, and diuretic. Guaifenesin increases respiratory tract secretions, possibly by stimulating the Goblet cells.
Hybridization-Induced Carrier Localization at the C60/ZnO Interface

Electronic coupling and ground-state charge transfer at the C60 /ZnO hybrid interface is shown to localize carriers in the C60 phase. This effect, revealed by resonant X-ray photoemission, arises from interfacial hybridization between C60 and ZnO. Such localization at carrier-selective electrodes and interlayers may lead to severely reduced carrier harvesting efficiencies and increased recombination rates in organic electronic devices.
Ebola Epidemic: Using Current Events to Teach Authentic Inquiry Science

Abstract First reported in March 2014, the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in West Africa has now claimed more lives than all other known EVD outbreaks combined, making it the deadliest occurrence of the disease since it was first discovered nearly 40 years ago. In hopes of turning the outbreak into something positive from an educational standpoint, a module was developed focusing on EVD, infectious disease, and epidemiology. The module engages students in a series of inquiry-based lessons, providing accurate and up-todate information on the current outbreak of EVD in West Africa. The lessons also serve to correct popular misconceptions about the disease. The lessons include a jigsaw WebQuest using resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a simulation based on fluid exchange to model the spread of an outbreak of infectious disease, and a “disease detective”—style mapping activity based on published data outlining the start of the current EVD outbreak in Guinea.
The Current Status of Morphology in Northeastern North America

A survey to determine the current status of morphological research in Northeastern North America was conducted in late September and early October in 1973.
Franco-American Literature Today

Whereas it would be inaccurate to state that Franco-American literature is today flourishing, to posit that it has ceased to exist would also be inaccurate and extremely unfair. In fact, not only are there individuals involved, but institutions as well, both in New England and in Louisiana. The F.A.R.O.G. Forum, for example, a bilingual student newspaper published by the Franco-American Resource Opportunity Group at the University of Maine (Orono) has, for years, opened its pages to novelists, poets, dramatists, and essayists. The quality varies, the diversity is great, the effort commendable, and it would not be premature for the Forum's editor, Mr. Yvon Labbe, to begin planning a retrospective F.A.R.O.G. anthology. Another institution which is steadily gaining visibility is the National Materials Development Center in Bedford, New Hampshire, directed by Dr. Normand C. Dube. Much discussion is being generated by the Center's ongoing publishing efforts. To date, four volumes of Dr. Richard Santerre's Anthologie de la litterature franco-americaine de la Nouvelle-Angleterre have appeared, as well as new editions of eight French-language novels written by Franco-Americans between the eighteen-seventies and the nineteenthirties. Re-issuing these novels-which one had despaired of ever seeing in print-will make them wonderfully accessible to new readers and will favor a badly needed reevaluation. The National Materials Development Center also publishes contemporary writers such as Dr. Normand C. Dube, whose several volumes of poetry are a welcome addition to the Franco-American literary corpus. A recent NMDC publication, edited by Renaud S. Albert, A tour de r6le, is a collection of nine one-act plays by some young playwrights: Dr. Normand C. Dube, Renaud S. Albert, Paul Pare, Gregoire Chabot. The Center has also put out other plays including Gregoire Chabot's much-discussed Un Jacques Cartier errant. Fairness requires mention of the efforts made by the French Institute of Assumption College (Worcester, Mass.) on behalf of Franco-American literature. Directed by Professor Claire Quintal, the Institute provides a meeting-place for those interested in Franco-American studies and is amassing an enviable collection of Franco-Americana.
The synthesis and stabilization on PVC of diorganotin dicarboxylates

This paper reported that the synthesis of two series of dialkylorganotin dicarboxylates and their ndication test as PVC stabilizer.
Growth requirements of B lineage lymphocytes from scid and normal mice.

Long term culture techniques provide unique approaches to dissecting components of the bone marrow microenvironment. These procedures are particularly effective for studies utilizing mice, where it is possible to selectively propagate either myeloid, or B lineage lymphoid cells for many months (Whitlock et al. 1984). Several laboratories have established and cloned “stromal” cell lines which support myelopoiesis and/or lymphopoiesis, as well as lymphocyte clones which depend on them for growth. Progress is also being made in learning which regulatory cytokines are made in these circumstances, and conditions favoring their production. However, there are indications that these model systems do not fully reflect the cellular and molecular heterogeneity that exists in vivo (Kincade et al. 1988). This has become particularly noteworthy from culture studies of genetically determined abnormalities, including SCID. Further comparison of the behavior of such defective cells in vivo and in vitro should be informative about mechanisms involved in normal lymphopoiesis.
Full STEAM Ahead in Physical Education

A current U.S. Department of Education goal is to prepare over 100,000 new science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) teachers by 2021. This article discusses how physical educators and their field “fit” within the STEAM philosophy.
An optofluidic channel model for in vivo nanosensor networks in human blood

In vivo Wireless Nanosensor Networks (iWNSNs) consist of nano-sized communicating devices with unprece- dented sensing and actuation capabilities, which are able to operate inside the human body. iWNSNs are a disruptive technology that enables the monitoring and control of biological processes at the cellular and sub- cellular levels. Compared to ex vivo measurements, which are conducted on samples extracted from the human body, iWNSNs can track (sub) cellular processes when and where they occur. Major progress in the field of na- noelectronics, nanophotonics and wireless communication is enabling the interconnection of nanosensors. Among others, plasmonic nanolasers with sub-micrometric footprint, plasmonic nano-antennas able to confine light in nanometric structures, and single-photon detectors with unrivaled sensitivity, enable the communication among implanted nanosensors in the near infrared and optical transmission windows. Motivated by these results, in this paper, an optofluidic channel model is developed to investigate the communication properties and temporal dynamics between a pair of in vivo nanosensors in the human blood. The developed model builds upon the authors’ recent work on light propagation modeling through multi-layered single cells and cell assemblies and takes into account the geometric, electromagnetic and microfluidic properties of red blood cells in the human circulatory system. The proposed model guides the development of practical communication strategies among nanosensors, and paves the way through new nano-biosensing strategies able to identify diseases by detecting the slight changes in the channel impulse response, caused by either the change in shape of the blood cells or the presence of pathogens.
Percutaneous ablation in the treatment of breast cancer

Treatment of early breast cancer continues to evolve toward targeted systemic therapy and minimally invasive procedures. Breast-conserving surgery is a safe approach for most patients but does have some morbidity. Therefore, percutaneous ablation techniques are being evaluated for the treatment of early breast cancer and may provide lower complications. However, patient selection is critical in determining which tumors will have complete ablation. Review of the most common percutaneous ablation techniques, suitable tumor histology, complications, and short-term recurrence outcomes is discussed. Limitations in pre- and posttreatment imaging, evaluation of real-time ablation, and identification of appropriate patients still exist but may improve with imaging advancements. Special consideration for using percutaneous ablation in select clinical situations is also discussed. It is possible that percutaneous ablation techniques such as cryoablation may become an effective treatment option for nonsurgical management of early breast cancer.
Estimating white trunk rot in aspen stands

Advanced decay caused by Phellinus tremulae was estimated in 295 trembling aspen on 30 plots in 2 Minnesota counties using existing inventory guides, and then measured by felling and sectioning the trees. In standing trees, decay volume was underestimated by 38% compared to measured decay volume in felled trees. The most reliable external indicator of decay was the presence of conks of the fungus. Results indicate that decay associated with conks in the first 16ft of the trees accounted for nearly 70% of the total volume loss. Decay volume in trees with no conks averaged less than 2% compared to 14% in trees with conks. There was little merchantable volume lost from decay associated with poplar borer (Saperda calcarata) damage, closed wounds, and hypoxylon cankers. We recommend that inventory guides for estimating aspen decay in Minnesota be revised, and a suggested guide is provided.
Community-Based Efforts to Prevent and Manage Diabetes in Women Living in Vulnerable Communities

Social determinants of health likely play a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes for women in vulnerable communities. Adult African American women diagnosed with or at-risk for diabetes in Inkster, Michigan (n = 113) and a group of demographically similar women in Flint, Michigan (n = 48) participated in programs aimed at increasing diabetes-related self-management behaviors through peer coaching, health literacy training, and social support. Participants completed surveys to measure changes in health, health behaviors, health literacy, and social support. We found that these diabetes programs with a focus on increasing women’s capacity to practice health management behaviors, navigate the health care system, and connect with social support, led to an increase in healthy behaviors and a reported increase in both overall and diabetes-specific health over an 18 month period. Overall health, general diet and specific diet improved significantly (p < 0.05) from baseline to follow-up, when controlled for age, diabetes status and site. Exercise also improved, but the change was not statistically significant. Women who participated in the intervention changed health behaviors, and increased their sense of health literacy and social support. Improvement in women’s access to and use of community preventive services, and the provision of outreach support using community health workers (CHWs) and peer mentorship was an integral part of creating these changes. Although this study found that a variety of diabetes prevention and management programs provided opportunities for positive health changes, findings also suggest that it is critical to address the burdens women from vulnerable communities face in order to participate in these programs.
PREDICTIVE IMPACTS OF PERCEIVED LEADERSHIP STYLES ON QUIT INTENTIONS AMONG CIVIL SERVANTS IN ANAMBRA STATE

This study investigated the predictive effects of perceived styles of leadership on quit intentions among civil servants in Anambra State, Nigeria. 321 civil servants drawn from various Ministries of the State participated in the study. There were 200 males (representing 56% of the total sample size) and 121 females (representing 44% of total sample size). Their ages ranged from 27 – 46 years (Mean = 44.54; SD = 55.22). The study design was cross-sectional with two levels of leadership – consideration leadership style; and initiating structure leadership style. One hypothesis, stating that initiating structure leadership style will be more predictive of quit intentions among Civil Servants in Anambra State was tested using regression analysis. Results of regression analysis showed that the initiating structure leadership style predicted turnover intentions among employees in a significant way R 2 = 0.46; F = 382.15, p < 0.001; 95 % (1.13, 1.45) for initiating structure leadership and F = 382.15, p < 0.08; 95 % (-.34, .028) for consideration leadership. This result confirmed the study hypothesis. Implications, study limitations and recommendations for subsequent research were highlighted.
Mitral Bioprosthetic Valve Fracture: Bailout Procedure for Undersized Bioprosthesis During Mitral Valve-in-Valve Procedure With Paravalvular Leak Closure.

A 76-year-old obese man (body mass index 30.8 kg/m2, body surface area 2.35 m2) with a history of mitral valve replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting was admitted to our hospital with decompensated heart failure. The patient underwent surgical mitral valve replacement with a 25-mm Mosaic
NGO intervention in jihadist conflicts: a closer look at Afghanistan and Somalia

Research suggests that an increase in the number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will increase terrorist attacks. However, the nuances of this relationship are unknown. This study seeks to...
Acoustic activation of water-in-oil microemulsions for controlled salt dissolution.

Abstract Hypothesis The dynamic nature of the oil-water interface allows for sequestration of material within the dispersed domains of a microemulsion. Microstructural changes should therefore change the dissolution rate of a solid surface in a microemulsion. We hypothesize that microstructural changes due to formulation and cavitation in an acoustic field will enable control over solid dissolution rates. Experiments Water-in-oil microemulsions were formulated using cyclohexane, water, Triton X-100, and hexanol. The microstructure and solvation properties of Winsor Type IV formulations were characterized. Dissolution rates of KH2PO4 (KDP), were measured. A kinetic analysis isolated the effect of the microstructure, and rate enhancements due to cavitation effects on the microstructure were characterized by measuring dissolution rates in an ultrasonic field. Findings Dispersed aqueous domains of 2–6 nm radius dissolve a solid block of KDP at 0–10 nm/min. Dissolution rate is governed not by the domain-surface collision frequency but rather by a dissolution probability per domain-surface encounter. Higher probabilities are correlated with larger domains. Rapid and reversible dissolution rate increases of up to 270× were observed under ultrasonic conditions, with
Creating the future: IAIMS planning premises at the University of Washington.

Abstract In September 1990, the University of Washington (UW) received a Phase I IAIMS Planning Grant from the National Library of Medicine and embarked upon a planning process involving the entire health sciences center. As a result of our relatively late entry into IAIMS planning, we have been able to learn from the experiences of other health sciences centers and to leverage our existing institutional efforts. Consequently, our progress has been rapid, and in a little over a year, we drafted a long-range plan and embarked on several related research and development projects. The hallmarks of our planning process include careful study of both the UW institutional environment and the experiences of other IAIMS institutions throughout the United States; broad, interdisciplinary participation of faculty, librarians, and administrators; an intensive educational process; a focus on people rather than technology; and, above all, leveraging of existing institutional and research projects that support our vision for the future.
Testing of Intelligent Vehicles Using Virtual Environments and Staged Scenarios

This chapter focuses on procedures and tools used in the testing stages of the intelligent vehicle design process. By testing the developed intelligent vehicle algorithms and architectures in a series of environments, starting from pure simulation and ending with physical, full-scale tests, it is possible to avoid the time, safety, and logistics costs of full-blown outdoor tests for the initial stages of the development process. The described procedure, which uses both simulation environments and small-scale indoor testbeds before the outdoor tests, makes use of different levels of virtualization for sensors, agents, scenarios and environments, and has been successfully demonstrated on multiple autonomous vehicle implementation examples.
Systematic reviews for evidence-based management: how to find them and what to do with them.

Objective To identify strategies for retrieval and evaluation of systematic reviews from a management perspective. Study design Review of available literature and resources on systematic reviews. Methods From published literature on evidence-based medicine and systematic review, we identified resources and adapted retrieval and evaluation strategies for healthcare managers. A published systematic review then was assessed for quality and relevance to management decisions. Results Systematic reviews relevant to the organization and delivery of care are available. Criteria for evaluating the relevance and quality of systematic reviews on clinical topics may be adapted for systematic reviews on organizational topics. However, even a systematic review that focuses on an organizational topic can lack important information on costs and study setting. Conclusions Greater familiarity with the retrieval and evaluation of systematic reviews can help managers use these sources effectively and encourage the development of evidence-based management.
Representing Terrain With Mathematical Operators

This work describes a mathematical representation of terrain data consisting of a novel operation, the “drill”. It facilitates the representation of legal terrains, capturing the richness of the physics of the terrain’s generation by digging channels in the surface. Given our current reliance on digital map data, hand-held devices, and GPS navigation systems, the accuracy and compactness of terrain data representations are becoming increasingly important. Representing a terrain as a series of operations that can procedurally regenerate the terrains allows for compact representation that retains more information than height fields, TINs, and other popular representations. Our model relies on the hydrography information extracted from the terrain, and so drainage information is retained during encoding. To determine the shape of the drill along each channel in the channel network, a cross section of the channel is extracted, and a quadratic polynomial is fit to it. We extract the drill representation from a mountainous dataset, using a series of parameters (including size and area of influence of the drill, as well as the density of the hydrography data), and present the accuracy calculated using a series of metrics. We demonstrate that the drill operator provides a viable and accurate terrain representation that captures both the terrain shape and the richness of its generation.
Survival trends among non-small-cell lung cancer patients over a decade: impact of initial therapy at academic centers.

BACKGROUND Treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been rapidly advancing over the last decade. Academic centers are considered equipped with better expertise. NSCLC outcome trends in novel therapeutic era and impact of initial treatment at academic centers have not been reported. METHODS The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to identify NSCLC incident cases from 2004 to 2013. Overall survival (OS) was plotted by year of diagnosis and type of initial treatment center, accounting for several factors available in NCDB. RESULTS A total of 1 150 722 NSCLC patients were included and separated by initial treatment center type (academic: 31.5%; nonacademic: 68.5%). Median follow-up and OS for all patients were 11.8 months (range: 0-133.6 months) and 13.1 months (95% CI: 13.08-13.17), respectively. Median OS improved significantly for those diagnosed in 2010-2013 (14.8 months [95% CI: 14.7-14.9]) as compared to 2004-2009 (12.4 months [95% CI: 12.3-12.5]) (P < 0.001). Treatment at academic centers was associated with improved OS (multivariate HR for OS = 0.929 [95% CI: 0.92-0.94], P < 0.0010). Four-year OS for academic and nonacademic cohorts was 28.5%% and 22.1%, respectively (P < 0.001), and the difference was more pronounced in stage I to III NSCLC. CONCLUSION In this largest analysis, thus far, NSCLC survival has improved over time, and type of initial treatment center significantly influences survival. Identifying and removing barriers to obtaining initial treatment of NSCLC at academic medical centers could improve OS.