cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Broadband Waveform Modeling of Moderate Earthquakes in the San Francisco Bay Area and Preliminary Assessment of the USGS 3D Seismic Velocity Model

Abstract Recently, the United States Geologic Survey Earthquake Hazards Program developed a 3D seismic velocity model of Northern California based on geology, including a detailed model of the urbanized San Francisco Bay Area. In this study, we report comparisons of observed three-component broadband (0.03–0.25-Hz) waveforms with synthetic seismograms computed with the new 3D model using an elastic finite difference method. We selected a set of 12 moderate earthquakes ( M w 4.0–5.1) that occurred within the greater San Francisco Bay Area, having well-constrained source parameters and broadband recordings with high signal-to-noise ratios. The objective of this study was to investigate how well the 3D velocity model predicts observed waveforms and to identify features of the model that may require revision to improve the waveform fits and predictions of ground motions for future events. We show for the 3 September 2000 Yountville earthquake that reported source parameters accurately predict waveforms at two close strong-motion stations (approximately 10 km from the epicenter). By comparing synthetics for the average 1D model GIL7 (Stidham et al. , 1999) and the 3D structures we show that the effects of seismic wave propagation in the 3D model become important for frequencies at and above 0.1 Hz (periods less than 10 sec). Comparison of observed and synthetic seismograms for the 3D model consistently shows that the model predicts energy arriving earlier than is observed, particularly for the surface waves, indicating that the shear velocities in the upper crust must be reduced. We cross correlated the observed and synthetic waveforms and recorded the delay time and linear correlation for best alignment of the data and delayed synthetic. The results indicate that generally the 3D model predicts the observed waveforms well (mean linear correlations 0.41) and includes features that arise from the interaction of the wave field with 3D structure, especially the major sedimentary basins in San Pablo Bay, San Francisco Bay, Santa Clara Valley, and Livermore Valley. Simple conversion of the observed delay times for optimal alignment suggests shear velocities should be reduced by 4%–5% on average. Based on these findings, we conclude that the model is an excellent first step, suggesting that the overall structure of the model is accurate (i.e., the basin and discontinuity geometry). However, the velocities must be reduced to improve the observed timing of surface-wave arrivals.
Mercury(II)‐ and Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed [3,3]‐Sigmatropic Rearrangements [New Synthetic Methods (46)]

Mercury(II) and palladium(II) salts have found broad applications as catalysts for [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangements leading to formation of CO, CN, CS, and CC σ bonds. Increases in reaction rate are often very large (1010 – 1014 at 1 M catalyst concentration) and allow many previously difficult transformations to be conducted at or near room temperature, often with attendant increases in stereoselectivity and decreases in by-product formation. The mechanism of these catalyzed transformations is briefly discussed, and evidence is summarized to suggest that many follow a cyclization-induced rearrangement mechanism.
Crystallization of Mesoscopic Colloids into 3D Opaline Lattices in Packing Cells Fabricated by Replica Molding

Replica molding against an elastomeric mold has been used to fabricate packing cells to be used for the crystallization of mesoscopic, spherical colloids into three-dimensionally ordered arrays over relatively large areas. The capability and feasibility of this method have been demonstrated by the production of homogeneous, opaline lattices of 255 or 467 nm polystyrene beads over areas as large as ∼0.5 cm2. These 3D crystalline lattices of mesoscopic colloids are useful for fabricating new types of diffractive optical components, for producing porous materials, and for generating photonic bandgap structures. We believe the demonstration of a replica molding procedure for the fabrication of the packing cells should make the crystallization method more useful to those who have no direct access to clean-room facilities.
Effects of Pay Expected on Pay Received: The Confirmatory Nature of Initial Expectations1

Previous research suggests that women have lower pay expectations and a lower sense of personal entitlement with respect to pay than similarly qualified men (cf. Major & Konar, in press; Major, McFarlin, & Gagnon, 1984). The present research examined, in two liking simulation experiments, the impact of a job applicant's pay expectations and gender on starting salary offers, hiring recommendations, and evaluations made by management students. Results of both experiments indicated that, given identical applicant qualifications, the higher the salary requested by an applicant, the higher the salary he or she was offered, regardless of the applicant's gender. However, women with moderate pay expectations were offered significantly more money (Experiment 1) and were significantly more likely to be hired (Experiment 2) than were men with moderate expectations. Amount of pay expected had no impact on other evaluations of the applicant. The role that gender differences in pay expectations may play in perpetuating nonperformance-related pay differences between women and men is discussed.
Pediatric Clinical Assessment of Mother-Child Interaction: Concurrent and Predictive Validity

ABSTRACTThis study examines whether clinical assessments of mother-infant interactions collected at 8-month health supervision visits are associated with standardized measures of the home environment and mother-child interaction collected at later dates in other settings, and whether these clinical
Abstract LB-500: Genomic and RNAi analyses identify diverse oncogenic interactions between breast cancer cells and stromal fibroblasts

Although it is well established that fibroblasts in the breast cancer microenvironment can promote tumorigenicity, the scope and functional importance of all molecular interactions remains unclear. Here we9ve undertaken a systematic, genome-wide approach to identify and test genes that play functional roles in these interactions. We have developed an in vitro and in vivo based model system using human fibroblasts and breast cancer cell lines. Using this system, we first discovered a set of genes that are induced in fibroblasts upon co-culture with breast cancer cells and are also upregulated in the stroma of primary human breast cancer. Several of the upregulated genes encode secreted growth factors or cytokines. Using this approach, we also identified several oncogenic pathways upregulated in our model system as well as primary human breast stroma. We then used RNAi analyses and a co-injection tumorigenicity assay to functionally test these candidate genes for their roles in tumor-fibroblast interactions. We determined that the majority of our candidates play important roles in promoting breast cancer. Interestingly, these genes have significant yet diverse mechanisms through which they act. These results establish a wide range of potential targets for therapeutic inhibition of the ability of fibroblasts to promote breast cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-500. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-LB-500
NUCLEAR-POLARIZATION CORRECTIONS TO THE LEVELS OF MUONIC ATOMS.

It is shown that information about the nuclear electromagnetic-transition vertex derived from experimental inelastic-scattering cross sections for electrons may be used to evaluate the nuclear-polarization (dispersion) corrections to the levels of muonic atoms. A model-independent result is obtained for the contributions of discrete nuclear states. The most important systematic features of nuclear-excitation spectra, the giant-dipole resonance and the quasielastic peak, are considered in detail. The Goldhaber-Teller model is used for the former, and a simple-harmonic-oscillator shell model for the latter. Numerical estimates are obtained for total level shifts of low-lying muon states in nuclei with closed (harmonic-oscillator) proton shells, using closure approximation for the muon. The muon closure energies are considered in detail. It is felt that the results obtained are probably accurate to a factor of 2. The shifts are estimated to be several keV for the $1s$ state in heavy nuclei, and somewhat less (a few tenths to about 1 keV) for the $2s$ and $2p$ states. These shifts are significant in comparison to the present accuracy of measurement of muonic x-ray spectra, and should be considered in calculations to fit nuclear-charge distributions.
Straight line extraction, matching and 3D object motion estimations from intensity images

ABSTRACTAn experiment in determining 3D vehicle motion in an outdoor scene using line correspondences over an imagesequence is presented in this paper. The motivation of this experiment is to test how well algorithms of motion estima-Lion work on real life outdoor scenes. Using images taken by a well calibrated camera, the experiment includes straightline extraction from intensity images, straight line matching and motion estimation using line correspondences. Manycorrections and adjustments are performed on the raw image data before they are used for motion estimation, which include film distortion correction, lens distortion correction and camera alignment. The results of this experiment indicate that for the type of vehicle motion under consideration, our algorithm can obtain reasonably accurate estimates for rota-tion. The experiment also reveals that there is a big gap between simulation tests and real scene tests for algorithms of motion estimation. 1. INTRODUCTIONThe estimation of 3D motion of a rigid object from its intensity images is a major problem in computer vision that
Calcineurin inhibitor- and steroid-free immunosuppression in pancreas-kidney and solitary pancreas transplantation

Background. Calcineurin inhibitors and steroids are standard immunosuppressants in solid organ transplantation, but (long-term) side effects are harmful to the recipient and the graft. The authors present a novel strategy for posttransplant immunosuppression that combines a depleting antibody with an antimetabolite, avoiding calcineurin inhibitors and steroids. Methods. In a prospective, nonrandomized, observational cohort study, 75 pancreas-kidney and solitary pancreas recipients received alemtuzumab (4 doses for induction and up to 12 doses within the first year) and mycophenolate mofetil (≥2 g/day) for induction and maintenance therapy. Minimum follow-up was 6 months. We compared the results with a historical group of 266 consecutive pancreas recipients on Thymoglobulin (induction) and tacrolimus (maintenance). Results. Differences in patient and graft survival rates between the study and control groups at 6 months were not statistically significant. However, the incidence of a first reversible rejection episode was significantly higher for simultaneous pancreas-kidney recipients in the study (vs. control) group. We noted a trend toward higher modification of renal disease levels at 6 months posttransplant in the study (vs. control) groups. Conclusions. The combination of alemtuzumab and mycophenolate mofetil was associated with an acceptable rejection rate, a good safety profile, and good (graft and native) kidney function; it eliminated undesired calcineurin inhibitor- and steroid-related side effects. Longer follow-up is warranted before expanded application can be recommended.
An Examination of Effective Practice: Moving Toward Elimination of Achievement Gaps in Science

This longitudinal study of middle school science teachers explored the relationship between effective science instruction, as defined by the National Science Education Standards (NRC in National science education standards. National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1996), and student achievement in science. Eleven teachers participated in a three year study of teacher effectiveness, determined by the LSC Classroom Observation Protocol (Horizon Research, Inc. in Local Systemic Change Classroom Observation Protocol. May 1, 2002) and student achievement, which was assessed using the Discovery Inquiry Test in Science. Findings in this study revealed the positive impact that effective science teachers have on student learning, eliminating achievement gaps between White and Non-White students. Case studies of three teachers, both effective and ineffective explore the beliefs and experiences that influence teachers to change, or not to change practice. This study provides justification for teaching science effectively to narrow achievement gaps in science and provides insight to stakeholders in science education as to how to support teachers in becoming more effective, through addressing existing teacher beliefs and providing experiences that challenge those beliefs.
Minimal variable quantum decision makers for robotic control

In this report we describe our research involving the construction of quantum-based robotic controllers. By careful use of quantum interference as a computational resource and by utilizing only a linear number of elementary unitary transformations, we are able to construct systems which seem to provide a computational advantage even when simulated on a classical computer.
Celebrating Diversity and Denying Disparities: A Critical Assessment

In the past, researchers concerned with educational achievement gaps sought to identify underlying causes of those gaps by examining deficiencies of students’ home backgrounds. In reaction against this “blame the victim” approach, scholars have moved toward focusing on positive aspects of diversity. This article raises critical questions about the tradeoffs of framing all diversity as positive. The author contends that such framings divert attention from socioeconomic diversity and obscure larger, structural inequities. Moreover, by avoiding the difficult issues that many marginalized parents, students, and their teachers face daily, educational research risks becoming less useful and credible.
Modem Economic Theory and the Study of Nonprofit Organizations: Why the Twain Shall Meet:

Established economic theories of nonprofit organizations are incomplete. They tend to treat nonprofits as a black box; in other words, they do not address the severe incentive problems that can and...
Verification region selection and data assimilation for adaptive sampling

Adaptive or targeted observations supplement routine observations at a pre-specified targeting time. Adaptive observation locations are selected to supplement routine observations in an attempt to minimize the forecast error variance of a future target forecast within some predefined verification region (VR) at some predefined verification time. Ideally, the VR is placed in a location where unusually large forecast errors are likely. Here, we compare three methods of selecting VRs: a climatological method based on seasonal averages of forecast errors; an unconditioned method based on verification time ensemble spread; and a conditioned method based on an ensemble transform Kalman filter (ETKF) estimate of forecast error variance given the routine observations to be taken at the targeting time. To test the effectiveness of the three approaches, observation-system simulation experiments on a chaotic barotropic flow were performed using an imperfect model. To test the sensitivity of our results to the type of forecast error covariance model used in the data assimilation (DA) scheme, two types of DA schemes were tested: an isotropic and a hybrid scheme. For isotropic DA, correlations between vorticity forecast errors at any two points were solely a function of the distance between the points; for hybrid DA, the forecast error covariance matrix was a linear combination of the covariance matrix used in isotropic DA and the sample covariance matrix of an ETKF ensemble. For each of the three VRs, the ETKF was used to select two adaptive observations. To assess targeted-observation-induced error reductions, forecast errors with and without targeted observations were computed for the VR, the total domain and also for an empirical VR which was defined to be the VR with the largest forecast error without targeted observations. The sensitivity, to the type of DA scheme employed, of the ETKF's ability to distinguish high-impact targeted observations from low-impact observations, was also examined. Amongst other things, it was found that: conditioned VRs were more prone to large errors than the other VRs; and the targeted-observation-induced reduction in forecast error variance was largest when hybrid DA and conditioned VRs were used, as was the range of forecast impacts distinguished by ETKF predictions. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.
High-Precision Method for Measuring the Absorptance of Evaporated Metals

A new method is presented for measuring the absorptance of evaporated metal films as a function of wavelength with a possible precision of ±1.4%. The sample consists of a temperature-sensitive quartz crystal which is plated on both sides with the metal film. The small temperature rise of the plated crystal due to the energy absorbed from the incident beam of radiation is measured by monitoring the frequency change of the quartz crystal when it is driven in an oscillator. The absorptance, relative to a black surface, is determined from frequency rates at a particular temperature as the crystal goes through a heating and cooling cycle. Results are given on the absorptance of an aluminum film at room temperature as a function of wavelength between 0.45 and 2 μ.
Hyponatremia and central pontine myelinolysis.

Autopsy in a patient with severe hyponatremia showed central pontine myelinolysis. Review of our patients with central pontine myelinolysis and those described in the English literature to date disclosed that 61 percent had documented hyponatremia. While the exact mechanism involving hyponatremia and central pontine myelinolysis cannot be defined, a circumstantial relationship is apparent. The purpose of this paper is to emphasize this relationship and to suggest that the possibility of central pontine myelinolysis be considered in any patient with hyponatremia and neurologic dysfunction.
Priming Effects on Cooperative Behavior in Social Dilemmas: Considering the Prime and the Person

ABSTRACT.We test whether people with a relatively more intrinsic vs. extrinsic value orientation (RIEVO) are particularly likely to enact cooperative behavior in resource dilemmas when they are primed with relatedness goals. In Study 1, high RIEVO participants primed with relatedness exhibited more restrained fishing behavior in a resource dilemma than their unprimed counterparts or participants low in RIEVO. Study 2 replicated this effect and further showed that the prime must signal the possibility of satisfying a valued goal (relatedness satisfaction) in order to elicit the value-consistent behavior. We discuss these results in the context of recent process models of goal priming, and also discuss how these findings contribute to our understanding of cooperative behavior and the predictive power of value constructs more broadly.
Testing of Cement‐Mortar Lined Carbon Steel Pipes

Corrosion and incrustation in carbon steel raw water pipelines have been found to be problems at many of TVA's fossil and nuclear plants. Lining existing and new carbon steel raw water pipelines with cement mortar conforming to AWWA C602‐76 requirements is one way to correct these problems. However, for nuclear applications, the cement‐mortar lining under seismic loading conditions must be qualified by either analysis or testing. This paper describes a TVA‐conducted full‐scale testing program to structurally quality the cement‐mortar lined carbon steel pipelines for safety‐related nuclear applications. Static and dynamic tests were carried out in the laboratory and field. After analyzing all data, it is concluded that the tests have verified the structural integrity of the cement‐mortar lining for both nuclear and non‐nuclear applications at TVA facilities.
A review of the reliability and validity of Likert-type scales for people with intellectual disability.

Background Likert-type scales are increasingly being used among people with intellectual disability (ID). These scales offer an efficient method for capturing a wide range of variance in self-reported attitudes and behaviours. This review is an attempt to evaluate the reliability and validity of Likert-type scales in people with ID. Methods Fifty-one studies reporting response rates, response bias, reliability and validity of Likert-type scales among adolescents and adults with ID were reviewed. Results Low response rates were found among adolescents and adults with moderate to profound ID, when pictorial representations of response alternatives were not employed, and for Likert-type scales with self-descriptive statements. Response bias was evident, particularly among adolescents and adults with moderate to profound ID. Likert-type scales have better reliability and validity among adolescents and adults with borderline IQ or mild ID. Pretests and clarifying questions increase reliability and validity. Conclusions Likert-type scales should include pictorial representations of response alternatives, a single set of one or two word response descriptors, clarifying questions, and pretests, and are best used with adolescents and adults with borderline IQ to mild ID.
Recycling Antibiotics into GUMBOS: A New Combination Strategy to Combat Multi-Drug-Resistant Bacteria

The emergence of multi-drug-resistant bacteria, coupled with the lack of new antibiotics in development, is fast evolving into a global crisis. New strategies utilizing existing antibacterial agents are urgently needed. We propose one such strategy in which four outmoded β-lactam antibiotics (ampicillin, carbenicillin, cephalothin and oxacillin) and a well-known antiseptic (chlorhexidine di-acetate) were fashioned into a group of uniform materials based on organic salts (GUMBOS) as an alternative to conventional combination drug dosing strategies. The antibacterial activity of precursor ions (e.g., chlorhexidine diacetate and β-lactam antibiotics), GUMBOS and their unreacted mixtures were studied with 25 clinical isolates with varying antibiotic resistance using a micro-broth dilution method. Acute cytotoxicity and therapeutic indices were determined using fibroblasts, endothelial and cervical cell lines. Intestinal permeability was predicted using a parallel artificial membrane permeability assay. GUMBOS formed from ineffective β-lactam antibiotics and cytotoxic chlorhexidine diacetate exhibited unique pharmacological properties and profound antibacterial activity at lower concentrations than the unreacted mixture of precursor ions at equivalent stoichiometry. Reduced cytotoxicity to invasive cell types commonly found in superficial and chronic wounds was also observed using GUMBOS. GUMBOS show promise as an alternative combination drug strategy for treating wound infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
Association of plasma omega-3 and omega-6 lipids with burden of disease measures in bipolar subjects

Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids have been implicated in mood disorders, yet clinical trials supplementing n-3 fats have shown mixed results. However, the predominant focus of this research has been on the n-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). We used an unbiased approach to assay plasma n-3 and omega-6 (n-6) species that interact at the level of biosynthesis and down-stream processing, to affect brain function and, potentially, mood. We used lipomic technology to assay plasma levels of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids from 40 bipolar and 18 control subjects to investigate differences in plasma levels and associations with the burden of disease markers, neuroticism and global assessment of function (GAF) and mood state (Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D)). Most significantly, we found the levels of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) to positively correlate with neuroticism and HAM-D scores and negatively correlate with GAF scores; and HAM-D to negatively correlate with linoleic acid (LA) and positively correlate with fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) activity, an enzyme responsible for converting LA to gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). These associations remained significant following Bonferroni multiple testing correction. These data suggest that specific n-6 fatty acids and the enzymes that control their biosynthesis may be useful biomarkers in measurements of depressive disorders and burden of disease, and that they should be considered when investigating the roles of n-3s.
How to select and combine oral agents for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

The increased number of oral agents available to treat patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has presented clinicians with choices about how to combine them when monotherapy is not adequate to achieve glycemic targets. Initial studies focused on whether a combination of 2 active drugs was better than a single active agent plus placebo. Several factors need to be considered before results of combination regimens from a given protocol can be compared with results from a different study regimen. Some of these factors include population characteristics, baseline control and prior therapies, length of study, and outcomes (glycemic and nonglycemic). Additional factors to be considered are costs and side effects. These studies generally demonstrate that combination therapy is more likely than monotherapy to achieve glucose control in patients not at glycemic targets. The data also demonstrate that inadequate glucose control with a given medication does not necessarily indicate drug failure; indeed, adding a new agent to an existing regimen is typically better than using the new agent as monotherapy. More recent studies have begun to compare regimens each containing 2 drugs (usually with 1 medication in common). Outcomes beyond glycemic control have been measured, including traditional (e.g., lipid profiles, albuminuria) and nontraditional (e.g., high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, plasminogen activator inhibitor type–1) markers. However, modifying traditional markers with these medications has not yet been shown to improve outcomes; modifying nontraditional markers is even less certain. None of these trials have been extended long enough to report on hard clinical end points. Nonetheless, certain combinations may end up being preferable because they have better impact on nonglycemic end points while maintaining equivalent degrees of glucose control. Finally, the costs of multiple medications for DM need to be weighed in the decision-making process faced by clinicians.
MAINTENANCE OF BEEF TENDERNESS BY INHIBITION OF RIGOR MORTIS

The objective of this research was to evaluate three different methods of affecting meat tenderness by treating pre-rigor muscle. The muscle relaxants (phosphate and magnesium chloride), a glycolytic inhibitor (sodium citrate) and microwave cooking were tested for improvement in post-rigor tenderness. The results indicate that microwave cooking of pre-rigor muscle produced a significant tenderization effect when compared to post-rigor cooking and the magnitude of this difference proved to be greater than 50%. Sodium hexametaphosphate, sodium pyrophos-phate-sodium hexametaphosphate and sodium citrate also produced an increase in tenderness when compared with their controls.
Diabetic pancreatic β cells ARNT all they should be

A complex network of interacting transcription factors plays a critical role in normal pancreatic β cell function, with mutations in certain transcription factor genes known to cause diabetes. In a recent issue of Cell, Gunton et al. (2005) demonstrate a role for the transcription factor ARNT/HIF1β (hydrocarbon nuclear receptor translocator/hypoxia-inducible factor 1 β) in normal β cell function. ARNT expression is reduced in diabetic human islets and β cell-specific ARNT knockout mice show the impaired glucose tolerance and abnormal insulin secretion that are characteristic of type 2 diabetes.
A nonhemolytic phospholipase C from Burkholderia cepacia.

Burkholderia cepacia is an opportunistic pathogen that causes serious pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Although several potential virulence factors—a protease, lipase, and two phospholipases C (one hemolytic and one nonhemolytic)—have been identified, only two, the protease and the lipase, have been described in detail. The goal of this study was to purify and characterize a nonhemolytic phospholipase C secreted by B. cepacia strain Pc224c. The enzyme was concentrated from culture supernatants and purified by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The 54-kDa protein was stable in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (up to 10%) and at 4°, 22°, and 37°C; it was, however, inactivated at 100°C. The enzyme bound to glass, chromatography matrices, and polyvinylidene difluoride and cellulose membranes, suggesting that it is hydrophobic. In a genetic approach, primers based on conserved sequences of a B. cepacia Pc69 hemolytic phospholipase C and both the Pseudomonas aeruginosa hemolytic and nonhemolytic proteins were designed to identify the Pc224c nonhemolytic phospholipase C gene. One polymerase chain reaction product was identified; it was sequenced and the sequence compared with sequences in the BLAST database. The best match was the Pseudomonas aeruginosa hemolytic phospholipase C. Ten additional B. cepacia strains were screened for the gene by Southern hybridization; five had the 4-kb band, suggesting that these strains have a similar form of the PLC gene. Nine of the ten strains reacted with the probe, suggesting that similar sequences were present, but in another form.
XXXI. Ionization in the unstriated discharge and in the arc

The amount of light given by the unstriated discharge and by the arc indicates that the rate at which ions recombine in these forms of discharge varies as the first power of the current, while the ...
The influence of type of coin on perception of area, value, and numerosity.

Summary The present study involved comparing the stability of the three perceptual constancies of area, value, and numerosity. Different groupings of quarters, dimes, and nickels served as the comparison stimuli in each constancy task. With a group of pennies as the standard, 90 college students served as Ss in a counterbalanced design. The area and value constancies were significantly affected by the type of coin used in comparison groups, and the results were insignificant for numerosity. The overall results were interpreted as support for the “new-look” school of perception.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy for re-irradiation of lung cancer recurrence with lower biological effective doses

Few studies have evaluated re-irradiation of lung cancer recurrences with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). This study evaluates outcomes with SBRT re-irradiation for recurrent lung cancer. Two hundred and seventy-eight patients treated with SBRT for lung cancer were retrospectively reviewed. Of those, 26 patients with 29 tumors were re-irradiated with SBRT. Ninety percent of tumors received prior external beam irradiation and 10 % received prior SBRT. Previous median radiation dose was 61.2 Gy with a median 8-month interval from previous radiation. The median re-irradiation SBRT dose was 30 Gy (48 Gy10 biological effective dose (BED)). Endpoints evaluated included local control, overall survival, and progression-free survival. Twenty-five of 29 tumors were evaluable for local control, with 27 tumors (93 %) considered in-field recurrences. In-field crude local control rate was 80 % (20/25) with 1 and 2-year actuarial rates of 78.6 and 65.5 %, respectively. One and 2-year actuarial survival rates were 52.3 and 37.0 %, respectively. One and 2-year actuarial progression-free survival rates were 56.7 and 37.0 %, respectively. Fifty-five percent of patients reported acute/chronic grades 1 and 2 toxicities. No grade 3 or higher toxicities were reported. Patients with recurrent lung cancer have limited options. SBRT re-irradiation is tolerable even after a median 61.2 Gy to the re-irradiation site. The lower BED used provided acceptable progression-free survival with low toxicity. Given the poor prognosis with current treatment options, new paradigms for re-treatment should include SBRT-re-irradiation as an adjunct to systemic therapy for in-field lung cancer recurrence.
Men's Retirement and Marital Quality:

Using longitudinal data from a national sample of married persons, we explore a wide range of contextual factors that may influence the effect of retirement on marital quality. Characteristics of the husband's job, the division of labor, health, social support, and marital quality are preretirement factors found to affect the influence of retirement on marital quality. Leaving a high-stress job improves marital quality, whereas factors signifying gender role reversals, poor health, and reduced social support lower marital quality. Changes that accompany retirement involving role reversals and decreased social support lower marital quality as did the amount of change in the individual's life. Retirement has a more powerful and pervasive influence on marital quality than prior research suggests.
Variation at the M235T locus of the angiotensinogen gene and essential hypertension: a population-based case-control study from Rochester, Minnesota

A variant of the angiotensinogen gene, M235T, has been associated with essential hypertension in selected subjects from Paris, France and Salt Lake City, Utah. In the present report, we studied a population-based sample consisting of 104 subjects diagnosed with hypertension before age 60 and 195 matched normotensive individuals from Rochester, Minnesota. We determined whether there was a relationship between the M235T polymorphism of the angiotensinogen gene and the occurrence of essential hypertension using two methods. First, a contingency chi-square analysis was carried out to test for an association between the M235T polymorphism and hypertension status. Second, multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to determine whether variation at the M235T polymorphism was a significant predictor of the probability of having essential hypertension. We detected no statistically significant association between the M235T polymorphism and the occurrence of essential hypertension. In particular, the association was not significant in either gender or in a subset of severely hypertensive subjects requiring two or more anti-hypertensive medications. Furthermore, variation in the number of M235T alleles did not make a significant contribution to predicting the probability of having essential hypertension, either alone or in conjunction with other predictor variables. These results suggest that the contribution of variation in the angiotensinogen gene to the occurrence of essential hypertension is less than initially suspected, or may not be constant across populations.
Effect of Mixing on Suspended Particle-Size Distribution

Experiments were performed to evaluate changes in suspended particle-size distribution as a function of variations in mixing conditions. Suspensions were taken from Lake Erie near Buffalo, N.Y., and mixed in a standard jar apparatus using six different mixing intensities. These suspensions were monitored for changes in particle size and shape using a noninvasive image analysis technique. A relationship was derived between suspended particle size and mixing intensity, based on estimates of energy dissipation rates. The regression was also compared with mixing of suspensions taken from two other systems in the Buffalo, N.Y. area, a small lake on the University at Buffalo campus, and the Buffalo River (Buffalo, N.Y.). Samples from all three sites behaved similarly in terms of particle size as a function of mixing conditions. Estimates for dissipation rates in natural systems were then used to relate the laboratory data to field conditions. Dissipation rates produced at slow mixing speeds in the jar were similar to those calculated for more energetic riverine and estuarine environments. Results of this study should be useful for understanding suspended particle-size distributions under a variety of mixing conditions, and is of direct interest in a wide range of sediment and contaminant transport problems.
Aero‐structural investigation of biplane wind turbine blades

As wind turbines grow larger, loads increase dramatically, particularly in the inboard region of the blade. A key problem is to design a strong inboard region that supports these loads without sacrificing too much aerodynamic performance. A new design is proposed: a biplane inboard region that transitions into a joint, which connects to a monoplane outboard region. The objective is to develop biplane inboard configurations that improve the aero-structural performance of blades. To approximately compare a conventional inboard region with a biplane inboard region, cross-sectional properties of a thick monoplane and a biplane were measured. Numerical simulations were used to explicitly compare the aerodynamic performance of a thick monoplane with a biplane. Then, several model beams were designed to be simple approximations of a conventional blade (‘monoplane beam’) and the biplane blade (‘biplane beam’). Canonical bending loads were applied to each model beam, and their deflections were compared. Numerical simulations show that the lift-to-drag ratio is significantly greater for the biplane than the thick monoplane for 0° < α < 15.5°. A parametric analysis of biplane beam configurations shows that their tip deflections are smaller than monoplane beams of the same length. These benefits for the inboard region of (i) improved aerodynamics and (ii) improved strength could lead to weight reductions in wind turbine blades. Innovations that create lighter blades can make large blades a reality. These results suggest that the biplane blade is an attractive design for large blades. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applications of a Vidicon Spectrometer to Analytical Problems in Clinical Chemistry

This report discusses characteristics of a custom-designed vidicon spectrometer and evaluates its applicability to several clinical analysis problems. Data show that the vidicon detector response is linear with intensity over about four orders of magnitude and that the uncertainty in absorbance measurements can approach 0.001 absorbance units in the range from 0 to 2 absorbance units. Applications include the enzymatic determination of glucose, the determination of lactate dehydrogenase, and determinations of barbital, chlordiazepoxide, and glutethimide. Capabilities of the instrument system for first-derivative spectroscopy are also discussed. The discussion included a critical evaluation of the potential advantages and limitations of the concept.
Using Literature and Innovative Assessments to Ignite Interest and Cultivate Critical Thinking Skills in an Undergraduate Neuroscience Course

Science education reform initiatives emphasize 1) the value of concepts over facts; 2) the benefits of open-ended, inquiry-based problem-solving rather than protocols leading to a single correct answer; and 3) the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to teaching that is not confined by departmental boundaries. Neuroscientists should be at the forefront of this movement by the very nature of the discipline we study. Neuroscience is a relatively new field that integrates diverse subjects (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, molecular biology, computer science, and psychology) and experimental advances are constantly changing and expanding our understanding of brain function. How can we convey this excitement in the classroom? The project described in this article uses nonscientific literature to introduce a scientific topic of study. In addition, the multitask assignment requires the acquisition of content knowledge and the development of critical thinking skills. As students explore the topic from multiple perspectives, they recognize the interconnectedness of science and society and confront ethical and moral issues related to science. A comparison of exam scores, essay responses, engagement level, as well as students' own reflections, demonstrates that inclusion of the project does not sacrifice content knowledge, rather it enhances the overall learning process.
Integrating Spreadsheets into a Case-based MBA Quantitative Methods Course: Real Managers Make Real Decisions

In discussing how the availability of spreadsheet technology has impacted our required MBA quantitative analysis, we eschewed a more conventional lecture approach for the heart and soul of our teaching pedagogy---the case method. We assigned a simple case to the seminar participants, a cross-section of educators interested in spreadsheet technology and teaching, and then conducted an actual case class. The results were consistent with our experience that spreadsheet technology as an analytical or pedagogical tool is powerful and effective only the extent to which it is clearly embedded in the real world of the practicing decision maker.
Optimal design of survivable mesh networks based on line switched WDM self-healing rings

Network survivability provided at the optical layer is a desirable feature in modern high-speed networks. For example, the wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) self-healing ring (or SHR/WDM) provides a simple and fast optically transparent protection mechanism against any single fault in the ring. Multiple self-healing rings may be deployed to design a survivable optical mesh network by superposing a set of rings on the arbitrary topology. However, the optimum design of such a network requires the joint solution of three subproblems: the ring cover of the arbitrary topology (the RC subproblem); the routing of the working lightpaths between end node pairs to carry the offered traffic demands (the WL subproblem); and the provisioning of the SHR/WDM spare wavelengths to protect every line that carries working lightpaths (the SW subproblem). The complexity of the problem is exacerbated when software and hardware requirements pose additional design constraints on the optimization process. The paper presents an approach to optimizing the design of a network with arbitrary topology protected by multiple SHRs/WDM. Three design constraints are taken into account, namely, the maximum number of rings acceptable on the same line, the maximum number of rings acceptable at the same node, and the maximum ring size. The first objective is to minimize the total wavelength mileage (working and protection) required in the given topology to carry a set of traffic demands. The exact definition of the problem is given based on an integer linear programming (ILP) formulation that takes into account the design subproblems and constraints and assumes ubiquitous wavelength conversion availability. To circumvent the computational complexity of the exact problem formulation, a suboptimal solution is proposed based on an efficient pruning of the solution space. By jointly solving the three design subproblems, it is numerically demonstrated that the proposed optimization technique yields up to 12% reduction of the total wavelength mileage when compared to solutions obtained by sequentially and independently solving the subproblems. The second objective is to reduce the number of wavelength converters required in the solution produced by the ILP formulation. Two approaches are proposed in this case that trade the required wavelength mileage for the number of wavelength converters.
PARI Overexpression Promotes Genomic Instability and Pancreatic Tumorigenesis

This study offers preclinical proof-of-concept for a novel element in the homologous recombination pathway of DNA repair widely elevated in pancreatic cancer as a candidate therapeutic target to treat this deadly disease.
A COMPOUND POISSON APPROXIMATION INEQUALITY

We give conditions under which the number of events which occur in a sequence of m-dependent events is stochastically smaller than a suitably defined compound Poisson random variable. The results are applied to counts of sequence pattern appearances and to system reliability. We also provide a numerical example.
Effects of anhedonia on days to relapse among smokers with a history of depression: A brief report

Introduction: Despite the strong co-occurrence between lifetime prevalence of depression and smoking, a history of major depressive disorder (MDD history) does not reliably predict smoking cessation outcomes. However, depression is a heterogeneous syndrome comprising several dimensions (e.g., anhedonia, vegetative symptoms, negative affect), and each symptom expression may differentially influence cessation failure. Measuring proxi mal depressive dimensions may provide a more reliable way of identifying MDD history smokers most at risk for smoking relapse. Anhedonia, in particular, is a core feature of depression that may increase risk for smoking relapse among MDD history smokers. The primary goal of the present study was to investigate the relation between anhedonia and relapse latency among MDD history smokers following a brief smoking cessation workshop. Methods: Participants (N = 45, 48.9% female), who were euthymic regular smokers with a history of MDD, were randomized to 1 of 3 treatment groups that all involved participation in a daylong group workshop. Workshops were followed by 48 hr of bioverified abstinence and weekly follow- up visits for 1 month. Results: Cox proportional hazard modeling was used to evaluate the effect of anhedonia on relapse latency 30 days following quitting smoking. Results showed that higher levels of anhedonia predicted reduced relapse latencies, both with and without prequit depressive symptom severity included in the model.
Efficient division and sampling of cell colonies using microcup arrays

A microengineered array to sample clonal colonies is described. The cells were cultured on an array of individually releasable elements until the colonies expanded to cover multiple elements. Single elements were released using a laser-based system and collected to sample cells from individual colonies. A greater than an 85% rate in splitting and collecting colonies was achieved using a 3-dimensional cup-like design or “microcup”. Surface modification using patterned titanium deposition of the glass substrate improved the stability of microcup adhesion to the glass while enabling minimization of the laser energy for splitting the colonies. Smaller microcup dimensions and slotting the microcup walls reduced the time needed for colonies to expand into multiple microcups. The stem cell colony retained on the array and the collected fraction within released microcups remained undifferentiated and viable. The colony samples were characterized by both reporter gene expression and a destructive assay (PCR) to identify target colonies. The platform is envisioned as a means to rapidly establish cell lines using a destructive assay to identify desired clones.