cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
STREAM ASSESSMENT FOR MULTICELL CULVERT USE

Although culverts have traditionally been an economical means of conveying stream flow at a road crossing, they can hinder fish and wildlife passage in the channel and on the floodplain and can create or augment localized channel instabilities. A possible solution to these problems is to use a multiple-cell arrangement, in which one or more culverts placed in the channel convey all flows up to the dominant discharge and one or more culverts positioned in the floodplain convey overbank flows up to the design discharge. This arrangement results in a reduction of flow concentration through the culvert and a properly functioning floodplain, thereby improving fish and wildlife passage and reducing erosional problems. For this system to function properly, a well-established and active floodplain is required; the multicell system will not perform adequately in an incised channel. In this paper, a method to determine appropriate physical environments for multicell culvert systems, based on stream-channel stability and stage-of-channel evolution, is presented.
"Allergic sinusitis" revisited.

Background "Allergic sinusitis" is a frequently used term but there is question about its true existence. Objective To detect the presence of allergic inflammation of the sinuses in five highly symptomatic ragweed sensitive adults. Method Three imaging techniques were utilized: SPECT bone imaging, SPECT Indium 111 labeled WBC uptake, and FDG F-18 (PET scanning). Results We could find no evidence of sinus involvement in association with severe allergic rhinitis. Conclusions Employing three different imaging modalities, we were unable to demonstrate inflammation of the sinuses in patients with allergic rhinitis.
Spontaneous mammary adenocarcinomas in transgenic mice that carry and express MTV/myc fusion genes

We have produced 13 strains of transgenic mice that carry an otherwise normal mouse myc gene in which increasingly larger portions of the myc promoter region have been replaced by a hormonally inducible mouse mammary tumor virus promoter. Although expression of the fusion genes varies among these animals, the female founders of two of these transgenic strains spontaneously developed mammary adenocarcinomas during one of their early pregnancies. Both the tumors and the breast tissue of these founder animals expressed RNA transcripts corresponding to the fusion gene. Furthermore, in the best studied strain, all the available F1 female progeny that inherited the MTV/myc gene also developed mammary adenocarcinomas during their second or third pregnancies. Thus, although it has no obvious effect on the early development of these mice, the constitutionally deregulated myc gene appears to act as a heritable, predisposing factor favoring the accelerated development of a tissue-specific adenocarcinoma.
Blau Syndrome-Associated Uveitis and the NOD2 Gene

Blau syndrome (BS), a rare autosomal dominant autoinflammatory syndrome, is an example of a monogenic disease. It was first described as a classic triad of uveitis, arthritis, and exanthema, typically seen in patients less than four years of age. Since that time, the phenotype has been expanded to include fever, cranial neuropathies, cardiovascular abnormalities, and granulomas of the liver and kidney. The ocular inflammation is often a panuveitis that occurs later in the disease course and typically carries the greatest morbidity in BS. BS has been mapped to the chromosomal region 16q12-21, also known as the NOD2 gene (formerly CARD15/NOD2). The disease is secondary to a single amino acid mutation NOD2 that leads to peptidoglycan-independent activity of nuclear factor (NF)-κB. Clinical and genetic aspects of BS will be discussed, as well as recent advances in treatment protocols.
Multi-Layered Substrates for Wireless Communication Modules at 60GHz

A low-cost module structure for millimeterwave wireless communication is proposed. Hermetically sealed circuits and printed antennas are built on the opposite sides of a multi-layered substrate. Slot-coupled electromagnetic interconnects in multi-layered substrates with more than three layers were investigated experimentally. Broad band 50? matching and about 4.6dBi gain were achieved by a single patch antenna directly printed on the ceramic multilayered substrate with high ?r = 8.9. Suitability of the proposed structure for array antenna design is discussed.
Simultaneous Excitation of Electric and Magnetic Dipole Modes in a Resonant Core-Shell Particle at Infrared Frequencies to Achieve Minimal Backscattering

Plasmonic nanoparticles have been the focus of much interest in recent years, especially core-shell particles that pair a negative permittivity material with a dielectric layer to promote tunability of the resulting plasmon resonances. Nearly all nanoparticle designs have been considered in the optical regime where metals provide readily available negative permittivities, but where high-index dielectrics are uncommon. By moving to the infrared regime, high-index dielectrics can be used, which allow a greater variety of core-shell designs by admitting the appearance of magnetic resonances. By properly designing a core-shell nanoparticle to engineer the simultaneous excitation of both the magnetic and electric resonances with appropriate amplitudes, highly resonant particles with minimal backscattering can be achieved. Configurations that integrate these minimal backscattering designs with interfaces lead to potential thermal emission control surfaces.
Who will we recruit? Targeting deep- and surface-level diversity with human resource policy advertising

Research on targeted recruitment has focused on targeting applicants with surface-level attributes such as underrepresented demographic groups. The present study extends targeted recruitment research by examining how advertising human resource policies might be useful for targeting both surface- and deep-level attributes. Specifically, the current study uses an experimental design to examine the impact of work-family, diversity, and employee development policies on the job-pursuit intentions of working adults in the United States. We examined surface- (demographic characteristics; e.g., race) and deep-level differences (attitudes or values; e.g., diversity values) as predictors of whether participants intend to pursue jobs with firms advertising these human resource (HR) policies. Deep-level differences consistently predicted job-pursuit intentions for all three HR policies, but only marginal support was obtained for surface-level variables as predictors. Findings suggest that targeted recruitment based on deep-level attributes may be more successful than targeted recruitment based on surface-level factors.
Textural and geochemical alternations in Late Cenozoic Bahamian dolomites

Dolomitized intervals of a core from San Salvador Island, Bahamas, exhibit variations of two texturally and geochemically distinct end-members. In the Pliocene section of the dolomitized interval, the two end-members alternate in a pattern that may reflect originally and/or diagenetically modified depositional facies. Formerly mud-free intervals, locally capped by exposure surfaces are massive crystalline, mimetic dolomites (CM). Muddier sediments are replaced by friable microsucrosic dolomites (MS). CM and MS dolomites also differ in porosity ( 30%), permeability ( 100 md), mol% MgCO3 (44–9 vs 47–7) mol%), oxygen isotopic composition (1–7 vs 2–7‰) and strontium content (241 vs 106 ppm). These data indicate that depositional and diagenetic fabric are the principal controls governing the distribution of dolomite types. Differences in texture and geochemistry are suggested as arising through differential rates of crystallization produced as a result of variations in permeability and reactivity of the precursor sediments and rocks.
An application of seismic tomography to basin focusing of seismic waves and Northridge earthquake damage

[1] Damage during the 1994 Northridge earthquake was anomalously concentrated in Santa Monica, California. Aftershock studies suggest that the basin substructure caused localized amplification of seismic waves by focusing the energy. However, the geometry and velocities of the geological structure are uncertain, relying on extrapolation from widely separated boreholes. We present results of a tomographic study which includes inverting over 30,000 travel times from a seismic array experiment on a 194 station array and a 10-km-long Vibroseis survey. We find that the damage zone is located above a subbasin several kilometers deep where low-velocity sediments of the northeastern Los Angeles basin are separated from higher-velocity rocks of the Santa Monica Mountains by the steeply dipping Santa Monica-Potrero Canyon fault zone. Three-dimensional ray tracing through this structure shows that focusing of rays from the Northridge earthquake epicenter occurs in the region where damage was greatest and where aftershock amplitudes are magnified. We also find that near-surface P velocities, while low in the Santa Monica basin, do not correlate with the zone of damage. In a related study [Baher et al., 2002], site effects determined from coda waves are better correlated with damage, suggesting that compliant site effects were also important in localizing the damage distribution. We conclude that the anomalous damage was caused by a combination of site and basin focusing effects. Such geometries may be quite common in earthquake zones worldwide where similar results have been observed.
A Midlatitude Survival Model of Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Midlatitude survival of Anticarsia gemmatalis Hubner, the velvetbean caterpillar, is related to cooling degree-days (°C-days < 10.9°C). Model construction required a cooling degree-day algorithm and spatial distributional-data of velvetbean caterpillar populations in Florida from November to March (inclusive). Model input required lower and upper developmental thresholds of the velvetbean caterpillar and site-specific minimum and maximum daily temperatures. Model output was cooling degree-days per 24 h per site. Total cooling degree-days at each site were used to delineate the midlatitude survival boundary for velvetbean caterpillar. The model was validated quantitatively. Extended calculations with the model delineated a midlatitude survival boundary in south Texas slightly south of Mission and Harlingen. Field-collected velvetbean caterpillar in Texas and Mexico validated the model's calculations.
11-W average power Ti:sapphire amplifier system using downchirped pulse amplification

We demonstrate a high-power laser system that employs a new scheme in which pulses with negative chirp are amplified and then recompressed by dispersion in a block of transparent material. This scheme has significant advantages for amplification of intermediate energy pulses at high average power, including insensitivity to small misalignments of the pulse compressor, elimination of compressor gratings and their thermal loading issues, low compressor energy and bandwidth throughput losses, and a simplified optical design. Using this scheme, we demonstrate what we believe is the highest-average-power single-stage Ti:sapphire amplifier system with 11-W compressed output.
Having Our Say: African American Women, Diversity, and Counseling.

African American female counseling professionals contribute greatly to the multicultural growth of the counseling profession by spurring the profession's evolution and defining new paradigms and counseling activities. Despite their contributions, they face serious organizational, intrapersonal, and interpersonal challenges to their success in academia. This article seeks to elucidate the challenges to African American female counseling professionals and offers systemic and personal strategies that will facilitate the profession's evolution to culturally competent, ethical, and intentional helping orientations and worldviews.
FTIR studies of intermolecular hydrogen bonding in halogenated ethanols.

Abstract The effect of halogen substitution on intermolecular hydrogen-bonding in ethanol is studied. Specifically, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of ethanol, 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE), and 2,2,2-trichloroethanol dissolved in carbon tetrachloride are reported as a function of temperature and concentration. The spectral intensities corresponding to monomer, dimer, and multimer formation are used to determine the effect of halogen substitution on intermolecular hydrogen-bonding. The enthalpy for dimerization was found to evolve from −4.2±0.3 kcal/mol in ethanol to −6.8±1.0 kcal/mol in TFE. An opposite trend was observed for multimer formation with enthalpies of −3.7±0.5 in ethanol and −2.1±1.4 kcal/mol in TFE. The majority of this evolution is assigned to the ability of ethanols to form intramolecular hydrogen bonds involving the hydoxyl proton and the halogen substituents.
Semantics, dynamics tradeoff in relational database design

Abstract This paper gives some objections to the artificial separation of the semantics and dynamics aspects of the application during the database design process. It is suggested that both aspects of the application should play a role throughout the design stages (logical and physical) in order to produce a workable schema that captures the real usage picture of the intended application. A simple method that “trades” semantics and dynamics is proposed to provide a common yardstick to measure the “goodness” of the database design. To narrow the scope of the problem a bit, we will concentrate on the database design for the relational model.
Relationships between metaphors, beliefs, and actions in a context of science curriculum change

This study is an interpretive investigation of Sarah, a first-time teacher of middle- and high-school science who, because of high levels of disruption, was unable to establish and maintain environments favorable to learning. Sarah reflected on her roles as a teacher and identified facilitating learning, management, and assessment as salient, each being associated with defining metaphors and belief sets. Sarah's efforts to improve her teaching began with the construction of a new metaphor, the social director, for her role as manager. She developed coherence between the new metaphor and beliefs about constructivism, teaching, and learning. Sarah then managed her class in accordance with the social director metaphor and, although improvements were apparent, some students were uncooperative. Sarah then changed her metaphor for assessment from the teacher being a fair judge to the teacher looking through a window into a student's mind, an opportunity for students to show what is known. When this metaphor guided Sarah's assessment practices the learning environment improved appreciably. Although the development of new metaphors was a significant part of the process of reconceptualizing her roles as a science teacher, Sarah could not have improved the quality of teaching and learning without substantial assistance from her colleagues and school administrators.
Do visitors' interest level and perceived quantity of web page content matter in shaping the attitude toward a web site?

Understanding the factors that affect consumer attitude toward web sites is important for both theoretical and practical reasons. Literature suggests that how much a consumer likes a web site after visiting it depends primarily on the "quality" of the web site; for example, perceived informativeness of the content, entertainment quality of the content, and ease of navigation. The current research investigates the role of the perceived amount of web site content (perceived quantity) in determining the consumer's post-visit attitude toward web sites. In particular, this study examines the attitudinal impacts of the perceived quantity in relation with the visitors' interest level. This research consists of three consecutive studies (two preliminary studies and a main study). In the two preliminary studies, the effects of informativeness, entertainment, and ease of navigation were tested and verified. The main study was conducted to test primarily the hypotheses regarding perceived quantity and the effect of consumer interest level on web quality perception and visitor attitude. The results indicate that, consistent with our predictions derived from dual-process models of informational influence, the perceived quantity has a positive attitudinal impact among low-interest visitors but not among high-interest visitors.
Dexamethasone premedication for prophylaxis of taxane toxicities: Can the doses be reduced when paclitaxel or docetaxel are given weekly?

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical literature supporting reduced doses of dexamethasone to prevent taxane hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs), and edema/skin toxicities in respect to docetaxel, when taxanes are given weekly, as opposed to every 3 weeks.Data sources: Clinical literature of human-controlled clinical trials, accessed through MEDLINE and meeting abstract databases (from 1990 to 2010).Data extraction: The retrieved literature was reviewed to include all human clinical trials that recorded adverse effect information with weekly taxanes utilizing reduced-dose or tapering dexamethasone schemas, either prospectively or retrospectively.Data synthesis: Prophylaxis for paclitaxel-related HSRs generally includes one or more 20 mg doses of dexamethasone, with histamine-1 and -2 receptor antagonists prior to infusion of paclitaxel. Prophylaxis for docetaxel-related HSRs generally includes dexamethasone beginning 1 day before docetaxel, and continuing twice daily for a total of 3 days. These schedules were ...
A microcomputer based simulation package for teaching agricultural pest management

Simulations play an important role in the study of agricultural pest management. Several microcomputer-based simulations have been developed for this purpose. They range from basic population growth to the real-time management of complex agricultural systems consisting of pests, natural enemies, chemicals, and weather. Descriptions of the models and example simulations are described in this paper.
Social Definitions of Police Corruption: The Case of South City

The recent literature on the police has alluded to a "clean "and "dirty" money distinction among the various patterns of police corruption, and has suggested that police peer groups use this distin...
Extended survival and function of peripheral nerve allografts after cessation of long-term cyclosporin administration in rats☆

Abstract To determine whether survival and function of peripheral nerve allografts are possible after cessation of long-term cyclosporin (CsA) treatment, we grafted 4.25 cm Lewis rat peripheral nerve allografts ( n = 22) into tibial nerve gaps in recipient brown Norway rats. Allograft groups received CsA (15 mg/kg) subcutaneously every day for 20 days and then biweekly for either 5 or 8 months after transplantation. The control group, brown Norway rats with isografts from brown Norway donor rats ( n = 2), also received identical CsA treatment. Semimonthly electrophysiologic studies were done from postoperative week 13 until the animals were killed (up to 79 weeks). The corresponding CsA levels in the nerve and blood were recorded from cessation of CsA up to 58 weeks after surgery. No electrophysiologic signs of rejection were observed in any of the 22 allograft recipients treated with CsA for up to 8 months or in 17 of the 22 observed for up to 58 weeks after cessation of CsA. Overall, 5 of 22 allografts were rejected in the first 8 weeks after discontinuation of CsA. Signs of rejection occurred only in the 5-month treatment group and followed the large initial drop in CsA blood level (from 1010 ng/ml to
Animated 3D CT Imaging

A new display-system approach uses 3D animation to enhance the viewer's spatial perception of patient scan data.
Transformation of Stimulus Information from Very Short-Term Memory

Observers were shown a simple stimulus pattern, a mask pattern, and a test pattern on each trial. Different types of test patterns were used to assess transformations of material from very short-term memory. The durations of the initial stimulus pattern and the mask pattern were also varied. Significant differences in average response data were found between types of test pattern over exposure durations; however, sensitivity measures showed minimal differences between types of test pattern. This suggested some distinctions between input processing and response selection in the paradigm. Selective feature analysis seems to be a characteristic of response selection.
3D-QSAR studies on c-Src kinase inhibitors and docking analyses of a potent dual kinase inhibitor of c-Src and c-Abl kinases☆

Abstract Three-dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D-QSAR) analyses were carried out on quinazoline, quinoline, and cyanoquinoline derivatives inhibiting c-Src kinase. Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) 3D-QSAR models were developed. The conventional r2 values for CoMFA and CoMSIA are 0.93 and 0.89, respectively. In addition, a homology model of c-Src kinase with the activation loop resembling the active conformation was constructed using the crystal structure of the kinase domain of Lck. The ATP binding pocket of the active form of c-Src is similar to that of the c-Abl kinase in which the activation loop resembles that of an active form. One of the potent c-Src and c-Abl dual kinase inhibitors (77 or SKI-606) was docked inside the active sites of both c-Src and c-Abl. The orientation and hydrogen bonding interactions of 77 are similar in both kinases. The results of 3D-QSAR analyses and structure based studies will be useful for the design of novel c-Src and c-Abl dual kinase inhibitors.
Geochemical changes in baslts and andesites across the Archean-Proterozoic boundary: Identification and significance

Abstract To identify accurately changes in rock composition across the Archean-Proterozoic boundary, it is necessary to compare rocks from similar lithologic associations to constrain the effect of tectonic setting. Most basalts and andesites from the greenstone association (volcanic-dominated submarine supracrustal rocks) possess a geochemical subduction-zone component similar to their counterparts from modern arc systems. Basalts with island arc geochemical affinities dominate in Archean greenstones while those with calc-alkaline affinities are most abundant in Proterozoic greenstones. Basalts with MORB or oceanic within-plate geochemical characteristics are rare in Precambrian greenstones of all ages. Preserved early Archean greenstone basalts (⩾3500 Ma) reflect mantle sources less depleted than late Archean greenstone basalts (2500–3500 Ma). Proterozoic greenstone basalts are derived from relatively enriched mantle sources compared to all Archean sources, a feature which may be due to recycling of continental sediments into the mantle following rapid late Archean continental growth. Precambrian andesites are geochemically similar to andesites from modern arcs, but Archean andesites are unique in that they are depleted in heavy REE and Y. Results are consistent with Archean andesite production by partial melting of descending mafic crust with amphibole/garnet remaining in the residue, while Proterozoic (and younger) andesites are produced by fractional crystallization of basalts.
IFN-Stimulated transcription through a TBP-free acetyltransferase complex escapes viral shutoff

IFN-Stimulated transcription through a TBP-free acetyltransferase complex escapes viral shutoff
Skin adhesion in sweetpotato and its lack of relationship to polygalacturonase and pectinmethylesterase during storage

Abstract Sweetpotatoes have a tendency to experience epidermal loss during harvest and postharvest handling. Epidermal detachment from underlying periderm (skin loss) causes weight loss, shriveling of the root surface, increased susceptibility to pathogen attack and inferior appearance. ‘Beauregard’ is very prone to skin loss, while ‘Jewel’ is thought to have stronger skin. Our objective was to determine the variation in skin strength in relation to cell wall enzyme activity and to determine possible correlations among these variables that could explain skin loss on the basis of enzyme activity during storage of the roots. Skin adhesion, polygalacturonase (PG) and pectinmethylesterase (PME) activity were measured during storage of ‘Beauregard’ and ‘Jewel’ roots in 1999 and again in 2000. Skin adhesion varied among years and cultivars. Overall, roots of ‘Beauregard’ were more susceptible than ‘Jewel’ to skin loss after several weeks of storage. Roots of ‘Jewel’ had lower skin adhesion at harvest, which increased after several weeks of storage and decreased again at the end of the storage period. Enzyme activity exhibited a random pattern during the storage period, and skin adhesion did not correlate with PG or PME activity.
Supply-based water pricing in a conjunctive use system: implications for resource and energy use

Irrigation water prices which vary with surface water supplies and aquifer levels are developed and applied to a conjunctive-use irrigation district in Kern County, CA. Results suggest moderate inter-seasonal variations in price can conserve both water and energy. Additionally, conjunctive use reduces price variability and limits the impacts of groundwater overdraft.
Separation and quantitation of lactic dehydrogenase isoenzymes by disc electrophoresis.

Abstract The disc electrophoresis method of Davis (16) does not permit the separation of all 5 isoenzymes of LDH. The method was modified by omitting the stacking and sample gels, and substituting 40% sucrose solution. All 5 isoenzyme fractions then migrate into the separating gel. The material staining at the surface of the separating gel is shown to be “nothing” dehydrogenase. By accurately marking the distance the albumin-dye or the dye front is to migrate, excellent reproducibility of the isoenzyme separation can be achieved. The separations are such that there is no doubt as to the identification of the individual bands, and quantitation can readily be achieved.
Human-computer interfaces and OPACS: introductory thoughts related to INNOPAC

Research in the area of human‐computer interfaces offers guidance for enhancing online catalogs to satisfy patrons' information needs in a “user‐friendly” environment. This article briefly describes human‐computer interfaces and the fundamentals of good human‐computer communication. These concepts are then used as the criteria for evaluating the benefits and shortcomings of San Diego State University Library's INNOPAC, the PAC. In the final analysis, the PAC is not perfect—no system is. It has, however, made strides to overcome some of the failings of second‐generation online public access catalogs.
Synaptic vesicle recycling. The Ferrari of endocytosis

Abstract After neurotransmission, neurons internalize and recycle the membrane components of synaptic vesicles remarkably quickly; they may have a ‘rebuilt, turbo-charged' endocytic engine to achieve these speeds.
Evidence for altered renal tubule function in idiopathic calcium stone formers

Patients who form calcium kidney stones often have metabolic disorders such as idiopathic hypercalciuria (IH) that reflect abnormalities in mineral handling in the kidney. Renal handling of calcium is altered by ingestion of nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, and sodium, and patients with IH appear to be more sensitive to these stimuli. Studies using probes such as diuretics or lithium clearance have the ability to clarify which nephron segments are involved in the altered renal calcium transport with nutrient seen in IH. Studies in the genetic hypercalciuric rat demonstrate alterations in both proximal tubule and thick ascending limb calcium reabsorption. Similar studies in humans have begun to provide evidence about the corresponding abnormalities in stone formers with IH. A pattern of altered renal tubule transport in calcium stone formers is suggested by the frequency of such findings as decreased tubular maximal reabsorption of phosphate and abnormal urine acidification as well as hypercalciuria in such patients, not explained by monogenic transport abnormalities.
Lean Six Sigma Applied to Ultrasound Guided Needle Biopsy in the Head and Neck.

Objectives(1) Confirm the positive value stream of office-based ultrasound using Lean Six Sigma; (2) demonstrate how ultrasound reduces time to diagnosis, costs, patient inconvenience and travel, e...
Isolation of a helical, lipid-binding fragment from the human plasma high density lipoprotein, apolp-GLN-I

Abstract The major apolipoprotein of human plasma high density lipoproteins (HDL), apoLP-Gln-I, has previously been shown to have a high content of α-helical conformation and a molecular weight of approximately 28,000. Our results show that apoLP-Gln-I contains three methionine residues. We have treated apoLP-Gln-I with cyanogen bromide (CNBr) and have isolated the four CNBr fragments by chromatography on BioGel P-30. One of the fragments, CNBr-I has 92 amino acid residues, contains no homoserine or methionine and corresponds to the car☐yl-terminal peptide. This fragment is of particular interest since it was shown to retain a high content of α-helix, while the other fragments were mainly disordered, and to possess the ability to bind phosphatidyl choline.
Situation and User Experience Influences on Voice Mail System Performance Evaluations

This paper presents results of a large evaluation of user perspectives on voice mail system performance as measured by message transmission delay. Over 1000 state employee respondents completed survey questions rating system speed (as presented in a standardized user interface questionnaire) and tolerance for message transmission delay in a variety of situational task contexts. Results of the study indicate that situation variables (message urgency, message context, and sender-receiver distance) affected user ratings of maximum acceptable transmission delay. In addition, user experience as measured by frequency of system use, but not length of exposure to the system, was a significant predictor of evaluations of what constituted acceptable voice mail message delivery performance. Users dynamically change their expectations and tolerances for “adequate” system performance based on system use and task demands. These results provide implications for future studies of diffusion of innovations and organization...
A Validated Model for Identifying Patients Unlikely to Benefit From the 21-Gene Recurrence Score Assay.

Abstract Background Predicting recurrence risk and chemotherapy benefit in early-stage breast cancer can be challenging, and Onco type DX (ODX) is often used to gain insight. However, it is still unclear whether ODX can benefit in all cases. To clarify ODX's usefulness we sought to develop a model using readily available pathologic markers to help clinicians make that determination. Patients and Methods Clinical pathologic data from 221 hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative invasive breast cancer patients was used to create a model. The model was then validated on a second institution's set of 319 patients. Results The model has 2 simple rules: low grade and positive progesterone receptor tumors (LG+PR) are low risk, and high grade or low estrogen receptor (ER) (ER Conclusion A simple 2-rule model based on readily available pathologic data was developed and validated, which categorized patients into high and low risk for recurrence. Identification of patients who are unlikely to benefit from ODX testing could result in significant cost avoidance.
New insights on translational development of mesenchymal stromal cells for suppressor therapy

The discovery of the immunosuppressive properties of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) has given new hope to patients suffering from autoimmune diseases as their lack of immunogenicity in addition to their immunosuppressive and regenerative properties makes them an ideal biological agent for the treatment of various disorders ranging from autoimmune diseases to tissue injury. The translational promises of a safer and more effective therapy has however suffered a setback with the recent release of the results from Phase III randomized clinical trial using MSCs for treatment of steroid refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), which failed to meet its primary efficacy endpoint. In this review, we will address the current knowledge of the immunosuppressive mechanisms of MSCs from in vitro studies to animal models and then look upon the results obtained from human clinical trials in order to provide failure analysis of negative studies. We will conclude by proposing future directions which could help address this issue and allow rational development of MSCs as an effective and useful cell-based immunotherapeutic. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3535–3538, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic Interdependence in Jet Fuel Prices and Air Carrier Revenues

Volatility in fuel prices and its impact on air carrier firms has drawn interest from the air transport industry and financial markets. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global airline industry’s fuel cost is estimated to be $207 billion in 2012, constituting 33 % of operating expenses at $110/barrel Brent of oil. This is an increase of $31 billion over 2011 and is almost five times the $44 billion fuel expenses in 2003. Our paper is motivated by three issues. First, transportation economists, as well as policy makers, are interested in sources and causes of efficiency in the air carrier industry. Second, the volatility in financial and commodities markets, including crude oil and its distillates, has triggered interest in applying nonlinear methodologies, including chaos theory, to these markets. Third, developments in the econometrics of nonlinearity in the last three decades offer researchers powerful tools for detecting relationships that are inherently nonlinear and may not be conducive to various methodologies that are seeking to impose linear modeling on nonlinear relationships. This paper investigates the effects of shocks to jet fuel price per gallon on the yield for the air carrier industry as measured by dollars per passenger revenue miles. We suggest that previous research might have overlooked the possibilities of nonlinear dynamics between the two series. Drawing on existing tests of nonlinearities and chaos, we first investigate the existence of chaotic behavior as the source of nonlinearities in themonthly prices of jet fuel and a measure of yield in the air carrier industry, dollars per revenue passenger miles. To accomplish this task, we estimate AR (1) and GARCH (1,1) models Atl Econ J (2014) 42:473–474 DOI 10.1007/s11293-013-9388-9
The role of excitons and substrate temperature in low-energy (5–50 eV) electron-stimulated dissociation of amorphous D2O ice

Abstract We have studied the interaction of low-energy (5–50 eV) electrons with nanoscale (∼10 ML) ice films by probing the yields and quantum-state distributions of the neutral dissociation products using laser resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization spectroscopy. In particular, we have observed the electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) of D (2S), O (3P2) and O (1D2) from amorphous D2O films. These products are observed at threshold energies (relative to the vacuum level) between ∼6.5–7 eV and desorb with low kinetic energies (∼60–85 meV) which are independent of the incident electron energy. We associate the ESD of atomic fragments from ice with dissociation of Frenkel-type excitons of 4a1 character which are near the bottom of the ice conduction band. These excitons are created either directly or via electron-ion recombination. Changing the surface temperature from 88 to 145 K results in an increase in the thermal component of the time-of-flight (kinetic energy) distributions and an overall increase in the neutral fragment yield. We suggest that the change in neutral yield with substrate temperature results from a combination of: (1) increased electron-ion recombination; (2) exciton transport to the near-surface region; and (3) dissociation followed by inelastic scattering and desorption.
Spectroscopic study of liquid crystalline N-[4-(4-n-alkoxybenzoyloxy)2-hydroxybenzylidene]hydroxyanilines

New homologous series of N-[4-(4-n-alkoxybenzoyloxy)-2-hydroxybenzylidene]hydroxyanilines were synthesized. All 4-hydroxyaniline derivatives exhibited a nematic phase, while 3-hydroxyaniline and 2-hydroxyaniline derivatives exhibited only a nematic phase as the terminal alkoxy group was lengthened. Infrared spectra suggest that the 4-hydroxyaniline derivatives form intermolecular hydrogen bonding of the single bridge type, while the 3-hydroxy and 2-hydroxy derivatives form the polymer type. The Raman band at around 1360 cm-1 exhibited large differences in intensity among these derivatives. This can be explained by the effect of intermolecular or hydrogen bonding molecular conformation.
Isolation of radioactive amino acids and derivatives from peripheral nerve.

Abstract The small molecule fraction isolated from peripheral nerves has been partially characterized. Five to 24 hours after radioactive amino acids were presented to the animal as much as 90% of the isotope in the nerve was recovered in the small molecule fraction. The radioactivity in this fraction was found to be distributed between the original amino acid and several of its metabolic derivatives. The results show that peripheral nerve maintains a large pool of amino acids and suggest that the tissue contains enzymes necessary for the degradation and interconversion of amino acids.
A Microfluidic-Colorimetric Sensor for Continuous Monitoring of Reactive Environmental Chemicals

Colorimetry is a powerful sensing principle that detects a target analyte based on a reaction-induced color change. The approach can be highly sensitive and selective when a sensing material that reacts specifically with the analyte is found, but the specific reaction is usually accompanied by slow recovery and irreversibility, making continuous monitoring of air quality difficult. Consequently, colorimetry is often one-time only and single-point measurement. To overcome the difficulty, the present work reports a combined microfluidic and colorimetric approach that measures time evolution of a color gradient along a microfluidic channel via a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) imager. The change of the color gradient provides continuous monitoring of the analyte concentration over many hours, and the principle and capability of the approach is demonstrated by theoretical simulation, and experimental validation with real samples.
TriM: An Ultra-Accurate High-Speed Six Degree-of-Freedom Manipulator Using Planar Stepper Motors

In this paper, we propose a novel six degree-of-freedom positioning system. This mechanism is a tripod structure with inextensible limbs actuated at the base by two-dimensional linear stepper motors (other types of actuators may also be utilized). This manipulator has a closed-chain kinematic structure. Both the direct and the inverse kinematics of the manipulator are presented in detail. While the inverse kinematics are obtained in closed form, the direct kinematics can not be solved in closed form and an algorithm is provided for numerically computing the direct kinematic solution. A detailed dynamic model of the positioning system is also provided. The dynamics of the actuators (Sawyer motors) are also included in the dynamic modeling. The design of the tripod manipulator (TriM) included a kinematic optimization of the system parameters to maximize the manipulator workspace. The proposed manipulator achieves large range of motion in all the 6 degrees of freedom. Furthermore, high resolution and high speed motion may be achieved in all axes due to the actuators used and the direct-drive nature of the manipulator.
The validity generalization of skinfolds as measures of body density

Validity generalization was used to ascertain the generalizability of skinfolds as measures of body density. A literature search was conducted to locate studies employing skinfolds as predictors of body density using hydrostatic weighing as the criterion test. The sites examined included the triceps, subscapula, suprailiac, abdomen, front thigh, midaxillary, and the log sum of the biceps, triceps, suprailiac, and subscapula. Results indicated that no single sites were generalizable across all subjects; however, the log sum of the four sites was generalizable. For adult males, the suprailiac and midaxillary sites were generalizable, while the subscapular site was generalizable for women. No sites were generalizable for boys, while the triceps site was generalizable for girls. Suggestions are provided for additional research.
The Mediating Role of Self-Regulation Between Intrafamilial Violence and Mental Health Adjustment in Incarcerated Male Adolescents

This article investigates the relation between history of intrafamilial violence and self-regulatory capacity, cognitive processing, and mental health adjustment in incarcerated adolescents. Adolescents were incarcerated at the time of the study for various violent offenses, ranging from persistent delinquency to sexual assault (n = 115). A model is proposed that posits that self-regulation, cognitive ability, and cognitive processing are integral to the relation between intrafamilial violence and mental health function. The primary hypothesis of the study tests this mediation model. The relations between mental health, cognitive processing, self-regulation, and intrafamilial violence are also examined. The study was conducted during two sessions at a juvenile facility in the Midwest using survey measures, academic and intelligence testing, and cognitive tasks. Youth were between the ages of 13 and 20. Approximately 70% were previously diagnosed with a disability. Significant Pearson’s correlations were f...
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and depression: a review of the preclinical and clinical literature

Many patients with depression fail to derive sufficient benefit from available treatment options, with up to a third never reaching remission despite multiple trials of appropriate treatment. Novel antidepressant agents are needed, and drugs targeting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) appear to hold promise in this regard. nAChRs are involved in a variety of neurobiological systems implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. In addition to their role in cholinergic neurotransmission, they modulate dopamine function and influence inflammation and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity. Preclinical studies have suggested antidepressant-like effects of drugs targeting nAChRs, with the most consistent results observed with α4β2 nAChR modulators such as varenicline and nonspecific nAChR antagonists such as mecamylamine. These agents appear to offer the most potential antidepressant-like efficacy when used in conjunction with other established antidepressant treatments. nAChR modulators also influence neural processes that appear to mediate the behavioral effects of antidepressants, such as hippocampal cell proliferation. Clinical evidence, while limited, shows preliminary efficacy for mecamylamine and varenicline. Taken together, the preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that drugs targeting nAChRs may represent an important new approach to the treatment of depression.
Tumour seeding as a result of intraperitoneal perforation during transurethral resection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

The goals of transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) for urothelial carcinoma are pathological staging and the removal of all visible tumour tissue. Typically, a deep and extensive resection beyond the basement membrane, including some muscularis propria, is performed. However, this also carries a risk of perforating the bladder wall, creating the ideal circumstances to facilitate peritoneal or abdominal metastases. Small, asymptomatic bladder perforations occur frequently and are associated with gender: female, decreasing body mass index, higher tumour stage, deeper infiltration and higher resection weight. Since many of these perforations are extraperitoneal, heal spontaneously and do not elicit any significant perioperative symptoms, they remain undiagnosed. Even in cases of intraperitoneal perforation, peritoneal tumour recurrence has been rarely reported. We report on the unusual case of a 61-year-old woman who underwent TURBT for non-muscle invasive urothelial carcinoma that was complicated by intraperitoneal bladder perforation requiring open repair.
Peak current-mode control for a boost converter using an 8-bit microcontroller

In a current-mode control (CMC) system, the inductor current has a fundamental frequency equal to the switching frequency that far exceeds the maximum sampling rate of most microcontroller A/D converters. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of a microcontroller-based CMC DC-DC converter, a peak current controller for a boost converter operating in the continuous conduction mode has been designed and implemented using a PIC16C782 microcontroller. Practical issues in designing a digital CMC converter are briefly discussed. Experimental results are presented, and encouragingly demonstrate the performance that a microcontroller-based CMC DC-DC converter can achieve. The digital controller has been compared to an analog controller based on a UC3842.
Urban sustainability: science, technology, and policies

A key long-term problem facing our species is sustainability, that is, in a well known, but somewhat simplified definition, a world development, “which meets present needs without compromising the ...
An Examination of Four Traditional School Physical Activity Models on Children's Step Counts and MVPA

Schools have been identified as primary societal institutions for promoting children's physical activity (PA); however, limited evidence exists demonstrating which traditional school-based PA models maximize children's PA. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) across 4 traditional school PA modules. Method: Step count and MVPA data were collected on 5 consecutive school days from 298 children (Mage = 10.0 ± 0.6 years; 55% female) in Grade 5. PA was measured using the NL-1000 piezoelectric pedometer. The 4 models included (a) recess only, (b) multiple recesses, (c) recess and physical education (PE), and (d) multiple recesses and PE. Results: Children accumulated the greatest PA on days that they had PE and multiple recess opportunities (5,242 ± 1,690 steps; 15.3 ± 8.8 min of MVPA). Children accumulated the least amount of PA on days with only 1 recess opportunity (3,312 ± 445 steps; 7.1 ± 2.3 min of MVPA). Across all models, childre...