cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In vivo multi-modality photoacoustic and pulse echo tracking of prostate tumor growth using a window chamber

Understanding the tumor microenvironment is critical to characterizing how cancers operate and predicting how they will eventually respond to treatment. The mouse window chamber model is an excellent tool for cancer research, because it enables high resolution tumor imaging and cross-validation using multiple modalities. We describe a novel multimodality imaging system that incorporates three dimensional (3D) photoacoustics with pulse echo ultrasound for imaging the tumor microenvironment and tracking tissue growth in mice. Three mice were implanted with a dorsal skin flap window chamber. PC-3 prostate tumor cells, expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP), were injected into the skin. The ensuing tumor invasion was mapped using photoacoustic and pulse echo imaging, as well as optical and fluorescent imaging for comparison and cross validation. The photoacoustic imaging and spectroscopy system, consisting of a tunable (680-1000nm) pulsed laser and 25 MHz ultrasound transducer, revealed near infrared absorbing regions, primarily blood vessels. Pulse echo images, obtained simultaneously, provided details of the tumor microstructure and growth with 100-μm3 resolution. The tumor size in all three mice increased between three and five fold during 3+ weeks of imaging. Results were consistent with the optical and fluorescent images. Photoacoustic imaging revealed detailed maps of the tumor vasculature, whereas photoacoustic spectroscopy identified regions of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood vessels. The 3D photoacoustic and pulse echo imaging system provided complementary information to track the tumor microenvironment, evaluate new cancer therapies, and develop molecular imaging agents in vivo. Finally, these safe and noninvasive techniques are potentially applicable for human cancer imaging.
Simulation Of The Mixing Of Highly Filled Suspensions In The Co-Rotating Twin Screw Extrusion Process

ABSTRACT Currently, the selection of elements and operating conditions in the mixing of various materials in a co-rotating twin screw extruder is an art which requires previous experimental studies. In this report, we outline various experimental and theoretical tools developed to investigate the mixing process in a fully intermeshing co-rotating twin screw extruder. The thermo-raechanical history of mixing is simulated employing the finite element method. To verify the numerical findings, experimental techniques were developed to investigate the goodness of mixing of samples collected from a 50.8 mm, clam shell design, Baker-Perkins twin screw extruder. 1.INTRODUCTION Mixing of various ingredients is an important task in all basic technologies. Among many mixing operations, the mixing of highly viscous and elastic polymeric resins with other resins (blending), and various additives including fillers and reinforcements (compounding) present special challenges and necessitate specialized batch or continuous mixers. The continuous mixers include single screw and twin screw extruders, single shaft kneaders and co-rotating disc extruders (1).The nature of the mixing step may be extensive (distributive) or intensive (dispersive) in character. In extensive mixing two or more starting components are interspersed in space with one another. On the other hand intensive (dispersive) mixing describes the multitute of processes in which some intrinsic change takes place in the physical character of one or more components during processing.Extensive mixing generates composition uniformity by the imposition of large strains through various types of deformation i.e., shear, squeezing and extension, which induce an increase in the interfacial area between components (2-4). The initial orientation of the phases and subsequent orientation of the interface are critical for achieving efficient extensive mixing (3). Extensional flows improve the efficiency of extensive mixing processes (5). On the other hand, intensive (dispersive) mixing generally involves the rupture of agglomerates of solid particulates and the further separation of closely packed particles after rupture (6,7). Both types of mixing are necessary and are incorporated into various continuous mixers.Among the available continuous mixers fully intermeshing, co-rotating twin screw extruders deserve special attention. These mixers operate on the building block principle, whereby the screw elements are selected and assembled depending on the requirements of the mixing task at hand. Reviews of the operational principles and comparisons to expecially the counter-rotating twin screw extruders are available (8-12).In our study we have applied various numerical and experimental studies to gain a fundamental understanding of the dynamics of the mixing process in co-rotating twin screw extruders. The following will summarize the tools that were developed to investigate the
An elastic plate model for interseismic deformation in subduction zones

Geodetic observations of interseismic surface deformation in the vicinity of subduction zones are frequently interpreted using simple kinematic elastic dislocation models (EDM). In this theoretical study, we develop a kinematic EDM that simulates plate subduction over the interseismic period (the elastic subducting plate model (ESPM)) having only 2 more degrees of freedom than the well-established back slip model (BSM): an elastic plate thickness and the fraction of flexural stresses due to bending at the trench that are released continuously. Unlike the BSM, in which steady state deformation in both plates is assumed to be negligible, the ESPM includes deformation in the subducting and overriding plates (owing to plate thickness), while still preserving the correct sense of convergence velocity between the subducting and overriding plates, as well as zero net steady state vertical offset between the two plates when integrated over many seismic cycles. The ESPM links elastic plate flexure processes to interseismic deformation and helps clarify under what conditions the BSM is appropriate for fitting interseismic geodetic data at convergent margins. We show that the ESPM is identical to the BSM in the limiting case of zero plate thickness, thereby providing an alternative motivation for the BSM. The ESPM also provides a consistent convention for applying the BSM to any megathrust interface geometry. Even in the case of nonnegligible plate thickness, the deformation field predicted by the ESPM reduces to that of the BSM if stresses related to plate flexure at the trench are released either continuously and completely at shallow depths during the interseismic period or deep in the subduction zone (below ∼100 km). However, if at least a portion of these stresses are not continuously released in the shallow portion of the subduction zone (via seismic or aseismic events), then the predicted surface velocities of these two models can differ significantly at horizontal distances from the trench equivalent to a few times the effective interseismic locking depth.
Reasons for Ineffective Contraceptive Use Antedating Adolescent Pregnancies: Part 2: A Proxy for Childbearing Intentions

Purpose Compare the relationship between childbearing intentions, maternal behaviors, and pregnancy outcomes in a group of early/middle adolescents versus a group of late adolescents (specifically high school seniors, high school graduates, and GED certificate recipients). Methods The reasons given by a racially/ethnically diverse group of 1,568 pregnant 13–18 year olds for not using contraception were used to classify their pregnancies as intended or unintended. Proportion comparison tests and stepwise logistic regression analyses were used to study the relationship between childbearing intentions, maternal behaviors, and pregnancy outcomes. Results Regardless of age, adolescents who intended to become pregnant conceived in an objectively more hospitable and supportive childbearing milieu than those who conceived unintentionally. This is evidenced by their greater likelihood of having goals compatible with adolescent childbearing, cohabitation with the father of the child, and living in a non-chaotic environment. However, pregnancy planning was not associated with improved compliance with preventive health care recommendations during gestation nor with infant outcomes. As such, the consequences among adolescents with intended pregnancies were negative, as evidenced by a higher rate of smoking, STDs late in gestation, school dropout, and repeat conception. Conclusions Like adults, adolescents with intended pregnancies conceived in an objectively more supportive environment than their counterparts with unintended pregnancies. However, this advantage did not translate into better support, healthier maternal behavior during gestation, or improved pregnancy outcomes.
Effects of Solvent Quality during Polymerization on Network Structure of Cross-Linked Methacrylate Copolymers

Processing conditions during free radical polymerization strongly affect the polymer network evolution. This work focuses on how the solvent quality during solution polymerization alters the mechanical and structural properties of the resulting polymer hydrogel network in methacrylate copolymerizations. Two copolymer systems were analyzed: 2/98 diethylene glycol dimethacrylate/methoxyethyl methacrylate and 2/98 diethylene glycol dimethacrylate/octyl methacrylate. Copolymerizations were performed in varying amounts of either hexanol or ethylene glycol diacetate. The equilibrium swelling of bulk DEGDMA was also measured to ascertain how the cross-linking agent interacts with the solvent. To compare the solvent quality of the two solvents, the equilibrium swelling of the copolymer samples was measured in each solvent. The results of dynamic mechanical analysis illustrate that changes in solvent concentration and solvent quality affect the extent of primary cyclization during the polymerization. The results ...
SU-E-T-303: Neutron Measurements for the Monarch-250 Proton Accelerator

Purpose: The Monarch‐250 proton accelerator, a unit utilizing a superconducting magnet synchrocyclotron, is currently undergoing testing (Still River Systems, MA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate neutron exposure at various locations around the accelerator. Methods: Neutrondose equivalents per therapeuticdose (H/D) were investigated for a 14cm‐diameter small field (SF) and a 25cm‐diameter large field (LF). The effect of stopping the beam in solid brass apertures was also studied. Two types of neutron detectors were used: a SWENDI‐2 detector (Thermo Scientific) and BD‐PND™ dosimeters (Bubble Technology). Measurements were performed at three locations: 1) ∼1m from central axis along the patient plane (P1), 2) ∼1m below the beamline between the patient and accelerator (P2) and 3) ∼1m behind the accelerator (P3). An ionization chamber (IBA) was used to determine the delivered therapeuticdose in a water phantom. Results: Using the SF beam delivered to a water tank, the measured H/D using the SWENDI‐2 were 0.39, 0.36, 0.14mSv/Gy at P1–P3, respectively. Stopping the beam in brass increased neutrondose to 0.51, 0.54mSv/Gy at P1, P2 respectively. For the LF the H/D values were 1.93, 2.18, 0.56mSv/Gy for P1–P3, respectively. When the LF beam was stopped in brass, the H/D was 2.16mSv/Gy at P1. The measured H/D using BD‐PND™ at P2 was 0.31mSv/Gy with the SF beam stopping in a water tank, and 0.66 mSv/Gy at P2 with brass in place. Conclusions: The H/D values obtained using the BD‐PND™ were not significantly different from the SWENDI‐2 values. The greater H/D with brass in place was consistent with excess neutrons created in a high‐Z material. Preliminary results indicate that the measuredneutron H/D from the Monarch‐250 are below the 1mSv/Gy guideline for radiation leakage (IEC 60601‐2‐1 average leakage for 10×10 field size). Supporting calculations are currently being performed using MCNPX2.6.
Executive Function and Cognitive Remediation

Through the use of multiple case study design, this project examined the variations in executive function exhibited by two subjects who sustained frontal lobe damage. The study then investigated the relationship between executive functional deficit and activity preference. Subjects were trained in computerized cognitive retraining and conventional cognitive retraining. Subjects were then asked to select either modality. Each subject was tested for initiation and overall executive function, cognitive status and disability level. Findings revealed that executive functional deficits present in varied and unique ways and that activity preferrence is related to the unique constellation of sequelae rather than location of injury. Further implications point to the value of combining informal and formal inquiry techniques to patient assessment as well as research on closed head injury intervention.
New perspectives on acute pancreatitis

The past decade has witnessed considerable changes in the clinical management of acute pancreatitis. Simultaneously, significant advances have been made in understanding the cellular and biochemical events involved in the initiation of this disease. This review summarizes recent clinical and scientific progress regarding acute pancreatitis and suggests areas for future investigation.
Improving multiple target tracking in structured environments using velocity priors

In this paper, we present an algorithm for determining a velocity probability distribution prior from low frame rate aerial video of an urban area, and show how this may be used to aid in the multiple target tracking problem, as well as to provide a foundation for the automated classification of urban transportation infrastructure. The algorithm used to develop the prior is based on using a generic interest point detector to find automobile candidate locations, followed by a series of filters based on scale and motion to reduce the number of false alarms. The remaining locations are then associated between frame pairs using a simple matching algorithm, and the corresponding tracks are then used to build up velocity histograms in the areas that are moved through between the track endpoints. The algorithm is tested on a dataset taken over urban Tucson, AZ. The results demonstrate that the velocity probability distribution prior can be used to infer a variety of information about road lane directions, speed limits, etc..., as well as providing a means of describing environmental knowledge about traffic rules that can be used in tracking.
In vivo and in vitro inhibition of B16 melanoma growth by vitamin B6.

Abstract The effect of vitamin B6 on the growth of B16 melanoma cells in vivo and in vitro was studied. B16 melanoma cells grown for three days in medium supplemented with 5.0 mM pyridoxine or 0.5 mM pyridoxal showed an 80% reduction in cell proliferation compared with control culture. Cells cultured for six hours in medium supplemented with 0.5 mM pyridoxal took up and incorporated 13 and 32% less [3H]thymidine, respectively, than did control cultures. A 17% reduction in [3H]glucose uptake was observed at this time point. When the incubation time was decreased to three hours, an inhibition of cellular uptake of [3H]thymidine (22%), [3H]uridine (14%), and [3H]glucose (15%) was observed; however, little or no inhibition in incorporation was detected. In in vivo studies, mice pretreated with pyridoxal for two weeks and then injected with B16 melanoma cells had a 62% reduction in tumor weight compared with controls at the end of a three‐week period. If tumors were first established in mice and then treated w...
Fetal exposure to ethanol has long-term effects on influenza viral immunity and disease severity

Impaired host defense is linked to alcohol abuse due to alterations in inflammatory mediator production. We hypothesized that in human monocytes, acute alcohol induces hyporesponsiveness to LPS leading to decreased production of the proinflammatory cytokine, TNFa whereas chronic alcohol increases TNFa by sensitization to LPS. Human adherence-isolated blood monocytes were exposed to 25 mM alcohol for 7 days (chronic) and then treated with LPS (100ng/ml) for 18 hrs. For acute or short-term treatment, cells were exposed to LPS and 25 mM alcohol for 18 hrs. TNFa levels were analyzed by ELISA and IRAK-M mRNA and protein determined by real-time PCR and western blotting respectively. Our results show that acute alcohol decreases LPS-induced TNFa production (p ! 0.001) compared to LPS treatment alone. Concomitantly, LPS-induced IRAK-M, a negative regulator of inflammation, is increased after acute alcohol exposure. In contrast, chronic alcohol increases LPS-induced TNFa (p ! 0.001) with simultaneously decreased IRAK-M expression in these cells. Signaling molecules downstream to TLR4/ IRAK-M were also investigated to determine their regulation by acute and chronic alcohol exposure in monocytes. Acute alcohol decreases IRAK-1 and IKK activity, NFkB DNA binding and NFkB-driven reporter activity after LPS stimulation but chronic alcohol increases IRAK-1 and IKK kinase activities, NFkB DNA binding and NFkB-reporter activity. Inhibition of IRAK-M in acute-alcohol exposed monocytes using siRNA restores the LPS-induced TNFa whereas over-expression of IRAK-M in chronic alcohol macrophages prevents the increase in TNFa production. Addition of inhibitors of alcohol metabolism did not alter LPS signaling and TNFa production during chronic alcohol exposure. In summary, increased IRAK-M by acute alcohol leads to hyporesponsiveness of monocytes to LPS and reduced TNFa. In contrast, chronic alcohol sensitizes monocytes to LPS through decreased IRAK-M expression and results in increased TNFa production. Our data indicate that IRAK-M plays a central role in the differential regulation of LPS signaling by different lengths of alcohol exposure in monocytes.
The Structural Role of Lipid Domain Modifications in Antimicrobial Resistance for Salmonella Enterica Serovar Typhimurium

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) make up the outermost layer of Gram-negative bacterial envelopes. Bactericidal agents must either target or traverse this layer before or during primary action, it has been widely accepted that most antibiotics are either small enough to allow their diffusion through outer membrane protein channels, or sufficiently lipophilic to allow diffusion across the lipid bilayer. The two mutations of the PhoPQ regulatory system, which alters LPS structure, have been found to cause reordering of the lipid-A domains. Derived LPS domains from null and constitutive mutants were studied using Epifluorescence Microscopy (EFM), Specular X-Ray Reflectivity, and Grazing Incidence Diffraction (GIXD) and displayed an interesting response to reordering of the lipid domains. A dynamical interaction allowing interaction of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 through incorporation into the disordered areas of the film is suggested in null mutants, whereas additions of a 4-aminoarabinose sugar group, of hydroxyl group to myristoyl residue, and of a palmitoyl group to the lipid domains displayed an ability to subvert drug traversal through a set of complex interactions, leaving the peptide only incorporated into a small portion of the outer sugar groups.
Saliva testosterone and personality of male college students

Saliva testosterone was assayed from 47 male college students, who also completed Gough and Heilbrun’s (1965, 1983) Adjective Check List (ACL) and Spence and Helmreich’s (1984) Expanded Personal Attributes Questionnaire (EPAQ). Multiple regression onto three ACL scales, hetero-sexuality, exhibition, and self-control, accounted for 33% of the variance in testosterone. Factor analyses on data from an independent sample of 1,000 males revealed three factors, based on fewer than half the items of the original scales, that still accounted for 21% of the variance in testosterone. These factors can be described as engaging versus cold, arrogant versus unpretentious, and steady versus erratic. Subjects with high testosterone levels were engaging, unpretentious, and erratic. EPAQ results indicated that subjects with high testosterone levels are high in expressive behavior. The overall picture is in contrast to findings that testosterone is related to criminal violence. An attempt at replication failed, leaving uncertain the matter of how much reliance can be placed on the present findings.
Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Utilizes Cell-Specific Infectious Entry Mechanisms

ABSTRACT Understanding the entry and trafficking mechanism(s) of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) into host cells can lead to evolution in capsid and vector design and delivery methods, resulting in enhanced transduction and therapeutic gene expression. Variability of findings regarding the early entry pathway of rAAV supports the possibility that rAAV, like other viruses, can utilize more than one infectious entry pathway. We tested whether inhibition of macropinocytosis impacted rAAV transduction of HeLa cells compared to hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. We found that macropinocytosis inhibitor cytochalasin D blocked rAAV transduction of HeLa cells (>2-fold) but enhanced (10-fold) transduction in HepG2 and Huh7 lines. Similar results were obtained with another macropinocytosis inhibitor, 5-( N -ethyl- N -isopropyl) amiloride (EIPA). The augmented transduction was due to neither viral binding nor promoter activity, affected multiple rAAV serotypes (rAAV2, rAAV2-R585E, and rAAV8), and influenced single-stranded and self-complementary virions to comparable extents. Follow-up studies using CDC42 inhibitor ML141 and p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) siRNA knockdown also resulted in enhanced HepG2 transduction. Microscopy revealed that macropinocytosis inhibition correlated with expedited nuclear entry of the rAAV virions into HepG2 cells. Enhancement of hepatocellular rAAV transduction extended to the mouse liver in vivo (4-fold enhancement) but inversely blocked heart tissue transduction (13-fold). This evidence of host cell-specific rAAV entry pathways confers a potent means for controlling and enhancing vector delivery and could help unify the divergent accounts of rAAV cellular entry mechanisms. IMPORTANCE There is a recognized need for improved rAAV vector targeting strategies that result in delivery of fewer total particles, averting untoward toxicity and/or an immune response against the vector. A critical step in rAAV transduction is entry and early trafficking through the host cellular machinery, the mechanisms of which are under continued study. However, should the early entry and trafficking mechanisms of rAAV differ across virus serotype or be dependent on host cell environment, this could expand our ability to target particular cells and tissue for selective transduction. Thus, the observation that inhibiting macropinocytosis leads to cell-specific enhancement or inhibition of rAAV transduction that extends to the organismic level exposes a new means of modulating vector targeting.
Terrestrial Microorganisms at an Altitude of 20,000 m in Earth's Atmosphere

A joint effort between the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Global Desert Dust and NASA's Stratospheric and Cosmic Dust Programs identified culturable microbes from an air sample collected at an altitude of 20,000 m. A total of 4 fungal (Penicillium sp.) and 71 bacteria colony-forming units (70 colonies of Bacillus luciferensis believed to have originated from a single cell collected at altitude and one colony ofBacillus sphaericus) were enumerated, isolated and identified using a morphological key and 16S rDNA sequencing respectively. All of the isolates identified were spore-forming pigmented fungi or bacteria of terrestrial origin and demonstrate that the presence of viable microorganisms in Earth's upper atmosphere may not be uncommon.
Primary renal lymphoma. Does it exist

Although secondary renal involvement from systemic lymphoma is common, primary lymphoma of the kidney is not well recognized. One case is reported and 27 cases purported to be primary tumors are reviewed. From these cases three conclusions have been drawn: (1) it is reasonable to assume that renal lymphoma can be a primary lesion; (2) almost all patients with primary renal lymphoma will develop extrarenal lymphomatous disease shortly after diagnosis of their renal tumor; and (3) survival for more than 1 year after diagnosis is rare.
Vitamin A quantification in fluid dairy products: rapid method for vitamin A extraction for high performance liquid chromatography.

Abstract A rapid method has been developed to extract retinol from saponified milk and from half and half samples for vitamin A determination by reverse-phase HPLC. Saponification, extraction, and washing steps were conducted in a single test tube. An aliquot of the organic extraction phase was evaporated and redissolved in methanol for HPLC injection. Four different solvent systems, diethyl ether, petroleum ether, hexane, and diethyl ether:petroleum ether (1:1), were evaluated for their retinol extraction efficiency from the digest. A method that uses several extractions and washing steps with separatory funnels was used as a reference saponification and extraction method. Diethyl ether:petroleum ether (1:1) gave the highest retinol extraction efficiencies, between 101.5 and 103.6%, when compared with the reference procedure for milk, half and half, and a retinol acetate standard. The lowest results were obtained when using hexane. In studies of the recovery of added, all- trans retinol from augmented samples using the rapid method diethyl ether:petroleum ether gave recoveries generally greater than 98%. This method is rapid and benefits from the use of mixing vortex for maximum extraction and centrifugation to break the emulsion.
The Internet as an adjunct for pediatric primary care.

Purpose of review This review highlights recent publications on the use of the Internet as it relates to pediatric primary care, including its application to the pediatrician, teen, pediatric patient, and patients' parents. A brief overview of early work is introduced. Recent findings The Internet has become a tool to expand the reach of preventive interventions, including school-based online pediatric health education. Although research continues to describe barriers to the adoption of online resources, recent reports highlight newer applications, including user-generated content (i.e. social networking sites), and the impact on teens and their health. There are concerns and benefits of Web 2.0 and the teen population, with adolescents at risk online yet also learning about their health online. Internet referrals, prescriptions for information, and online assessment methods have had varied success to date. There have been some studies of e-learning and online continuing medical education having an impact on clinical decision making, but there is a need for more research on the electronic medical record as it relates to the practicing pediatrician and the Internet at the point of care. Summary The Internet is more than an information repository and continues to affect the lives and health of the pediatric population, parents, and providers. The growth of and changes to the Internet over time bring online innovations that have yet to be studied.
Understanding and structuring NL descriptions: The case of 101 animals

Our premise is that an intelligent system should be able to structure all the information that can be obtained from natural language text, and it should do it in such a manner that the structured information be useful for further processing. This paper presents an experiment in structuring information from the natural language incomplete descriptions of 101 animals collected from a children's dictionary. The goal of this experiment is to use computational semantic analysis of the natural language descriptions—which are quite heavy in common sense knowledge—and to come up with a hierarchy of and similarities among the described animals, as well as flagging descriptions that are largely inconsistent with other information.
Global Political Order, Economic Change, and Armed Conflict: Coevolving Systems and the Use of Force

Several recent explanations for major-power war focus on purported cycles in global economic activity or in global political order. I shall argue that a better understanding of interrelationships among the economic long wave, the global leadership cycle, and armed conflict can be gained if we (1) expand the study of interstate conflict beyond the limited domain of great power or systemic wars and (2) treat the long wave and the leadership cycle as quasi-independent and interrelated processes, each contributing to the conflict dynamics of the interstate system. Theoretical foundations for these two recommendations are drawn from the core works in this field. A model based on this new approach is developed and tested empirically along with four formal representations of the core frameworks. Poisson regression is employed using data on interstate disputes (1816–1976) to test resulting hypotheses. Analysis shows that broadening the explanatory domains of existing frameworks is valid and that the “coevolving systems” model is measurably superior to all tested competitors. I conclude that these two global processes are best viewed as coevolving systems and that future studies of systemic conflict should take this approach.
EQUIVOCAL MESSAGES IN ORGANIZATIONS

This study examined the impact of ambiguous messages and organizational level on the processing of equivocality. Using Weick's (1979) model as a theoretical frame, investigators measured the number of rules, the number of people, and the frequencies of message categories generated in two zero-history organizations. Subjects used more rules and more people to process Hi ambiguous messages than they did to process Lo ambiguous messages. Analysis of group interaction revealed that most groups spent their talk time reducing equivocality. Workers and foremen reduced ambiguity by adding interpretations while managers proposed specific action steps. This study suggested that misunderstandings in organizations might evolve from divergent approaches to the management of equivocality. Since some degree of equivocality is present, in all organizational inputs (Weick, 1979), the way individuals interpret and process this ambiguity is a key to understanding how organizations make sense of their activities.
Magnetic Compression of Intense Ion Rings

It is shown how Lawson criterion for controlled fusion might be achieved by magnetic compression of intense ion rings to field reversal.
Creating corporate world experience in capstone courses

Many engineering capstone courses require senior design projects involving teamwork. The curricula at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Donaghey CyberCollege engages local industries in providing meaningful design projects for student teams in real world settings. Both St.Vincent Health System and Heifer International sponsored capstone design teams in yearlong projects. These projects resulted in the students gaining professional skills, the industries gaining products that saved money and won awards, and the CyberCollege faculty gaining understanding and experience for developing its engineering curricula. Engineering educators who want to provide real-world experience to graduating seniors may benefit from learning how we obtained corporate sponsors for the projects, created student-consulting teams, and developed a capstone course incorporating system design theory. They may also gain insight from discussions about our methods for student evaluations and about the lessons we learned from our experimental capstone course.
Cation transport by the neuronal K+-Cl− cotransporter KCC2: thermodynamics and kinetics of alternate transport modes

Both Cs+ and NH4+ alter neuronal Cl− homeostasis, yet the mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated. We hypothesized that these two cations altered the operation of the neuronal K+-Cl− cotranspor...
Comprehensive performance investigation of turbo codes over high density magnetic recording channels

We study the performance of turbo codes for magnetic recording channels using realistic channel models. We investigate the effect of the (turbo) code block length, the use of different code structures, and the effects of precoding on the system performance. We assume that the partial response target is EPR4. In addition, we model the media noise present in real magnetic recording systems, and evaluate the effectiveness of the turbo codes in combating the media noise.
Coupled Ionic and Electronic Transport Model of Thin‐Film Semiconductor Memristive Behavior

The memristor, the fourth passive circuit element, was predicted theoretically nearly 40 years ago, but we just recently demonstrated both an intentional material system and an analytical model that exhibited the properties of such a device. Here we provide a more physical model based on numerical solutions of coupled drift-diffusion equations for electrons and ions with appropriate boundary conditions. We simulate the dynamics of a two-terminal memristive device based on a semiconductor thinfilm with mobile dopants that are partially compensated by a small amount of immobile acceptors. We examine the mobile ion distributions, zero-bias potentials, and current‐voltage characteristics of the model for both steady-state bias conditions and for dynamical switching to obtain physical insight into the transport processes responsible for memristive behavior in semiconductor films.
Mercury Concentrations in Lentic Fish Populations Related to Ecosystem and Watershed Characteristics

Predicting mercury (Hg) concentrations of fishes at large spatial scales is a fundamental environmental challenge with the potential to improve human health. In this study, mercury concentrations were examined for five species across 161 lakes and ecosystem, and watershed parameters were investigated as explanatory variables in statistical models. For all species, Hg concentrations were significantly, positively related to wetland coverage. For three species (largemouth bass, pike, and walleye), Hg concentrations were significantly, negatively related to lake trophic state index (TSI), suggestive of growth biodilution. There were no significant relationships between ecosystem size and mercury concentrations. However, Hg concentrations were strongly, positively related to ecosystem size across species. Scores of small or remote lakes that have never been tested could be prioritized for testing using models akin to those presented in this article. Such an approach could also be useful for exploring how Hg concentrations of fishes might respond to natural or anthropogenic changes to ecosystems over time.
Femtosecond observation of a concerted chemical reaction

Abstract A time-resolved study is presented of the photodissociation of methylene iodide (CH 2 I 2 ) to produce a carbene diradical and molecular iodine. This reaction pathway occurs only at high excitation energies (vacuum ultraviolet) and is initiated in this case by a two-photon transition at λ equivalent = 155 nm. Discrimination over competing pathways is achieved by wavelength-selective monitoring of the nascent I 2 dynamics. The results show clear evidence that breakage of the two carbon-iodine bonds and formation of the iodine-iodine bond is concerted. The reaction takes place in less than 100 fs and is characterized by coherent vibrational motion in the iodine molecule.
Psychostimulant treatment of combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder

The objective of this paper is to describe three cases of combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), largely refractory to standard medication treatment who responded well to psychostimulant treatment. Symptoms of PTSD potentially result from chronic, stress-induced dopaminergic dysfunction in the prefrontal cortex/basal ganglia system. Psychostimulants, by their relative propensity to enhance dopamine (DA) activity within these brain regions, may have particular value in targeting this dysfunction. Evidence of dopaminergic dysfunction following chronic stress is reviewed and possible mechanism of action of psychostimulants is explored. Psychostimulants appeared to be well tolerated and beneficial in the treatment of the cases of combat-related PTSD reported. General applicability of the use of psychostimulants in combat- and non-combat-related PTSD awaits further study. The potential implications of these findings in further delineating pathophysiology and treatment in PTSD deserve further exploration.
Clinical and genetic predictors of weight gain in patients diagnosed with breast cancer

Background: Post-diagnosis weight gain in breast cancer patients has been associated with increased cancer recurrence and mortality. Our study was designed to identify risk factors for this weight gain and create a predictive model to identify a high-risk population for targeted interventions. Methods: Chart review was conducted on 459 breast cancer patients from Northwestern Robert H. Lurie Cancer Centre to obtain weights and body mass indices (BMIs) over an 18-month period from diagnosis. We also recorded tumour characteristics, demographics, clinical factors, and treatment regimens. Blood samples were genotyped for 14 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and adiponectin pathway genes (ADIPOQ and ADIPOR1). Results: In all, 56% of patients had 40.5kgm –2 increase in BMI from diagnosis to 18 months, with average BMI and weight gain of 1.9kgm –2 and 5.1kg, respectively. Our best predictive model was a primarily SNP-based model incorporating all 14 FTO and adiponectin pathway SNPs studied, their epistatic interactions, and age and BMI at diagnosis, with area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.85 for 18-month weight gain.
Determination of acetylsalicylic acid and salicylic acid in plasma.

A specific and sensitive method has been developed for the determination of acetyl-salicylic acid and salicylic acid in plasma. Both of these compounds are extracted from acidified plasma with ether. A portion of the ether extract is concentrated, reacted with a silanizing reagent in carbon disulfide, and the silyl derivative of acetylsalicylic acid is analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography using dibutyl maleate as the internal standard. Another portion of the ether extract is extracted with phosphate buffer and the salicylate read spectrophotofluorometrically. Only 0.5 ml. or less of plasma is required for analysis and one can readily determine 0.4 mcg. acetylsalicylic acid/ml. in the presence of 100 mcg. salicylic acid/ml.
An Extensible I/O Subsystem

This paper provides an overview of the I/O subsystem of the eMIPS dynamically self-extensible processor. During execution, eMIPS can load additional logic blocks that perform a variety of functions, from adding new instructions to the base instruction set to controlling I/O pins. A dynamically loaded logic block that acts as an I/O peripheral to software is what we term an extensible I/O peripheral, and the resulting I/O subsystem an extensible I/O subsystem. Extensible I/O subsystems already exist for off-chip peripherals and busses. On eMIPS, this is now also realized to create loadable on-chip peripherals and bus interfaces. To realize the extensible I/O subsystem, we have made two changes to the existing design. First, we have added additional mechanisms for a newly loaded extensible on-chip peripheral to connect to the memory controller, to interact with system software in the discovery process, to obtain the I/O space and interrupt resources that it needs to operate correctly and finally to disconnect from it. Second, we have extended the security model to extensible on-chip peripherals and their software drivers. Privileged peripherals can request access to additional interface signals that are normally not available to non-privileged extensions. These signals allow access to physical memory, interrupt lines and I/O pins. Extensible on-chip peripherals can interact with system software via memory-mapped I/O and interrupts. Further, they can also add new I/O instructions to the processor's ISA.
Young children’s Perceptions of engineers before and after a summer engineering outreach course

Understanding how engineering education connects to children's conceptions of engineers will enable educators to improve ways of educating children about engineering. The purpose of this study is to survey elementary school students' perceptions of engineers before and after participating in one of two engineering outreach classes. One class introduced students to several engineering fields and the other class taught students about the design of bridges in civil engineering. The design of and analysis for this study was grounded in constructivist theory, whereby emphasis was placed on gathering students' prior conceptions and comparing and contrasting these conceptions with newly acquired knowledge. Data was collected via student drawings, interviews, and questionnaires. The data focused on students' perceptions of engineers, how they learned about engineering before and during the class, and if they were interested in being an engineer in the future. Findings from this study indicate that, by the end of the class, students generally had different ideas about engineering and engineers.
Two-phase jet impingement for non-volatile residue removal:

A high-speed jet impingement facility, which was developed for non-volatile residue removal from aerospace components in contact with liquid oxygen, has been fabricated and tested. A two-phase mixture, consisting of water droplets suspended in air, expands through a converging-diverging nozzle and the resulting jet impacts the target surface at high speed. The advantage of this facility over conventional high-speed water jets is that the water consumed is extremely low, typically 1.67 × 10 -4 -16.7 ×10 -4 kg/s. Thus the disposal of the waste water is greatly simplified. This work explores the performance of the jet impingement facility over a range of operating conditions using different nozzle configurations. The performance is characterized by the rate of residue removed, which is measured using a laser reflectivity technique. It is demonstrated that the optimum rate of residue removal is achieved when the air/liquid mixture temperature is as high as possible without evaporating liquid and the water flowrate is as high as possible without water droplets agglomerating. Based on theoretical considerations in conjunction with the experimental results, it is demonstrated that the residue removal mechanism is due to emulsification upon liquid droplet impact with the target surface. Potential applications for the jet impingement facility reach far beyond the aerospace industry.
Upper Extremity Pain Seen With Fly-Casting Technique: A Survey of Fly-Casting Instructors

Objective To identify the prevalence of upper extremity pain symptoms in fly-casting instructors and examine the association between pain and casting style and equipment. Methods We used a cross-sectional survey of a randomly selected group of 577 fly-casting instructor mailing-list members and recorded equipment; casting styles; pain symptoms; and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand inventory. We used univariate statistical tests to examine the associations between pain and casters' equipment and styles. Results In 292 usable surveys, pain was reported in the shoulder (50%), elbow (39%), and wrist (36%) of those surveyed and was characterized as moderate-to-severe by 25% of all respondents. Overhead casting was associated with less frequent wrist and elbow pain than was sidearm or elliptical casting. Respondents who used multiple casting styles had significantly less elbow pain than did single-style casters (7% vs 38% overhead, P =.04; 45% sidearm, P =.02; 71% elliptical, P =.003). Pain was significantly more frequent in those who cast with a haul (75% vs 33%, P =.04), used shooting heads (79% vs 66%, P =.04), or added weight to sinking flies (78% vs 60%, P =.01). Moderate-to-severe pain was more frequent in fishers of heavy saltwater fish. Conclusions Upper extremity pain was frequent, but not often severe, in this group of fly-casting instructors. Increased weight on the line and "haul" technique appeared to increase pain symptoms. Modifications in casting style and equipment may help in avoiding or reducing pain.
Current Status of Transport Properties of Hydrogen

This article contains a survey of experimental data for the thermal conductivity and viscosity of hydrogen, which are needed for many applications in system analysis and design. It includes an analysis of the current standard models for thermal conductivity and viscosity of normal hydrogen and parahydrogen, which are based on measurement and correlation work done before the mid1980s. Properties calculated with these models are analyzed and compared to all available experimental data for normal hydrogen and parahydrogen. Finally, recommendations for future work, including new experimental measurements to enable the development of improved transport property formulations for hydrogen, are provided.
Language Conflicts and Political Community

Must a viable nation be made up largely of one language group? If this is true, then there are almost insuperable difficulties in the way of establishing a European political community. Recent events in India, Canada, Belgium, Nigeria and several other areas give one cause to think that there may be some basis for drawing that conclusion.
Use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring versus traditional self-monitoring of blood glucose levels improves glycaemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes

Commentary on: JC Pickup, SC Freeman, AJ Sutton. Glycaemic control in type 1 diabetes during real time continuous glucose monitoring compared with self monitoring of blood glucose: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials using individual patient data.BMJ2011;343:d3805.
Combined Microstructure X-Ray Optics; Multilayer Diffraction Gratings

Multilayers are man-made microstructures engineered to vary in depth that are now of sufficient quality to be used as x-ray, soft x-ray and extreme ultraviolet optics. Gratings are in-plane man-made microstructures which have been used as optic elements for most of this century. Joining of these two optical elements to form combined microstructure optics has the potential for greatly enhancing both the resolution and the throughput attainable in these spectral ranges. Experimental results for multilayer gratings are presented and discussed. It will be demonstrated that multilayer diffraction gratings act as x-ray prisms and are high efficiency dispersion elements.