cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Iron Chelation by Deferoxamine Induces Autophagy

Deferoxamine (DFO) is a high affinity Fe (III) chelator produced by Streptomyces pilosus that is used clinically to remove systemic iron in secondary iron overload disorders. DFO cannot be absorbed through the intestine and must be injected. As shown previously, De Domenico et al. EMBO J (2006), expression of Ferroportin (Fpn), the only mammalian iron exporter, can deplete cells of ferritin by lowering cytosolic iron and by exporting iron from cells. Fpn-mediated iron loss induces ferritin degradation by the proteosome. In this study we show that permeable iron chelators, desferirax or deferriprone also induce the proteosomal degradation of ferritin. In contrast, DFO-mediated iron chelation at clinically useful concentrations, leads to ferritin degradation in lysosomes. Immunochemical analysis revealed that DFO-treated cells show increased levels of LC3B, a protein required for autophagy, suggesting that DFO induces autophagy. Treatment of cells with desferasirox or deferriprone did not lead to accumulation of LC3B. Studies using high molecular weight conjugates of DFO or inhibitors of endocytosis showed that the presence of DFO in lysosomes was responsible for the induction of autophagy. Incubation of DFO-treated cells with 3-methyladenine, an autophagy inhibitor, does not, however, prevent ferritin loss suggesting there may be an alternate route for ferritin degradation. This hypothesis was confirmed by examining the effect of the proteosome inhibitor, MG132, on DFOinduced autophagy in cells treated with DFO and 3-methyladenine. Addition of MG132 to 3-methyladenine treated cells prevents ferritin degradation. These results indicate that ferritin degradation occurs by two routes: a DFO-induced entry of ferritin into lysosomes and a cytosolic route in which iron is extracted from ferritin prior to degradation by the proteosome.
Towards an improved ensemble precipitation forecast: A probabilistic post-processing approach

Abstract Recently, ensemble post-processing (EPP) has become a commonly used approach for reducing the uncertainty in forcing data and hence hydrologic simulation. The procedure was introduced to build ensemble precipitation forecasts based on the statistical relationship between observations and forecasts. More specifically, the approach relies on a transfer function that is developed based on a bivariate joint distribution between the observations and the simulations in the historical period. The transfer function is used to post-process the forecast. In this study, we propose a Bayesian EPP approach based on copula functions (COP-EPP) to improve the reliability of the precipitation ensemble forecast. Evaluation of the copula-based method is carried out by comparing the performance of the generated ensemble precipitation with the outputs from an existing procedure, i.e. mixed type meta-Gaussian distribution. Monthly precipitation from Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFS) and gridded observation from Parameter-Elevation Relationships on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM) have been employed to generate the post-processed ensemble precipitation. Deterministic and probabilistic verification frameworks are utilized in order to evaluate the outputs from the proposed technique. Distribution of seasonal precipitation for the generated ensemble from the copula-based technique is compared to the observation and raw forecasts for three sub-basins located in the Western United States. Results show that both techniques are successful in producing reliable and unbiased ensemble forecast, however, the COP-EPP demonstrates considerable improvement in the ensemble forecast in both deterministic and probabilistic verification, in particular in characterizing the extreme events in wet seasons.
Cleavage of rutile SiO2 hemi-crystals: Insights from first-principles investigations

Abstract In the current study, less-explored low-index surfaces of rutile-like SiO2 have been examined through first-principles electronic structure calculations. This work reports on the surface energies of the (110), (100), (101) and (001) facets of high-pressure SiO2 polymorph, also referred to stishovite. Surface-induced atomic displacements with respect to bulk were computed using a periodic slab approach. A multitude of density functional approximations, both dispersion-free and dispersion-corrected, were applied to perform the necessary calculations. Anomalously, the (100) plane was discovered to be the most energetically favorable low-index facet. It also turned out that the (001) was the least stable cut. In addition, the level of agreement between our computed surface energies and atomic shifts for rutile SiO2(110) and the results of the investigation prior to the present work was found to be acceptable.
Cell-Free DNA in Oncology: Gearing up for Clinic

In the past several years, interest in the clinical utility of cell-free DNA as a noninvasive cancer biomarker has grown rapidly. Success in the development of plasma genotyping assays and other liquid biopsy assays has widened the scope of cell-free DNA use in research and the clinic. Already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in the narrow context of epidermal growth factor receptor-mutated non-small cell lung cancer, plasma genotyping assays are currently being investigated in a wide array of clinical settings and modalities. These include plasma genotyping as a tool for early diagnosis, the detection of minimal residual disease, and the evaluation of treatment response/progression. In this review, we assess the clinical landscape of plasma genotyping assays and propose strategies for their further expansion into routine clinical care.
Night‐time care routine interaction and sleep disruption in adult cardiac surgery

Aims and objectives To explore the context and the influence of night-time care routine interactions (NCRIs) on night-time sleep effectiveness (NSE) and daytime sleepiness (DSS) of patients in the cardiac surgery critical-care and progressive-care units of a hospital. Background There exists a paucity of empirical data regarding the influence of NCRIs on sleep and associated outcomes in hospitalised adult cardiac surgery patients. Methods An exploratory repeated-measures research design was employed on the data provided by 38 elective cardiac surgery patients (mean age 60.0 ± 15.9 years). NCRI forms were completed by the bedside nurses and patients completed a 9-item Visual Analogue Sleep Scale (100-mm horizontal lines measuring NSE and DSS variables). All data were collected during postoperative nights/days (PON/POD) 1 through 5 and analysed with IBM SPSS software. Results Patient assessment, medication administration and laboratory/diagnostic procedures were the top three NCRIs reported between midnight and 6:00 a.m. During PON/POD 1 through 5, the respective mean NSE and DSS scores ranged from 52.9 ± 17.2 to 57.8 ± 13.5 and from 27.0 ± 22.6 to 45.6 ± 16.5. Repeated-measures ANOVA showed significant changes in DSS scores (p .05). Finally, of 8 NCRIs, only 1 (postoperative exercises) was significantly related to sleep variables (r > .40, p Conclusion and relevance to clinical practice Frequent NCRIs are a common occurrence in cardiac surgery units of a hospital. Further research is needed to make a definitive conclusion about the impact of NCRIs on sleep/sleep disruptions and daytime sleepiness in adult cardiac surgery. Worldwide, acute and critical-care nurses are well positioned to lead initiatives aimed at improving sleep and clinical outcomes in cardiac surgery.
Twin-Slip Interaction at Low Stress Stage Deformation in an AZ31 Mg Alloy

Extruded magnesium alloys with strong basal texture present tension and compression asymmetry. Dislocation slip dominates plastic deformation during tension along the extrusion direction (ED), whereas twinning is the main contributor to plastic strain when compressed along the ED. In this work, an extruded AZ31 Mg alloy was prestrained by tension along the ED to 5 and 10% of total strain, followed by compression, in order to investigate twin-slip interaction. The results show that the yield stress in compression only slightly increases with increasing prestrain. Notably, the hardening rate at the low stress stage during compression remains almost unchanged, compared to specimens without prestrain. Our results suggest that the contribution of twin-slip interaction to hardening is negligible in deformation of Mg alloys.
ETFs, ETNs and Statistical Anomalies

We overview exchange-traded funds and notes mechanism and market. We consider different classes of ETFs: long, short, unleveraged, leveraged. We show tables and graphs of leveraged and short ETF behaviors for up and down moves for educational purposes. We describe historical behavior of several benchmark portfolios constructed using leveraged ETFs and describe their behaviors in different bull and bear markets. We describe implementation of constant proportion portfolio insurance strategy of Black, Jones, Perold using leveraged ETFs. Finally we describe different statistical anomalies: equal weighted ETFs anomaly and mispriced factors anomaly.
Characterization of ion exchange functionalized cyclic olefin polymer open tubular columns.

Abstract We describe both the cation-exchange (CEX) and anion-exchange (AEX) capacity measurements of functionalized cyclic olefin polymer (COP) open tubular (OT) columns. COP capillaries were sulfonated to provide CEX functionality and then coated with AEX latex to provide AEX functionality. We measure functionalization uniformity along the column by (a) separately measuring capacities of two halves of a column, (b) measuring retention factors for several ions in successive 10 cm segments of a column in multiple injections and (c) measuring retention variance of a single ion in different segments of a column from a single injection. Data were collected in both flow directions. Errors in CEX capacity determination arises primarily from uncertainties in titration end point location. AEX capacities are typically 10x higher, reducing the relative measurement error. In the AEX case, both titration end point location error and variations in column internal diameter contribute to the overall uncertainty. Although sulfonation of COP results in nonuniform CEX functionalization, AEX latex coating of this surface results in uniform AEX coverage. Frontal displacement chromatography (using both admittance and optical detection) and acid-base titrimetry were compared for capacity measurement. In a pooled standard deviation based t-test for the data on 8 columns, at the 95% confidence level, CEX capacity differed significantly between two halves of a column. But AEX capacity of AEX columns prepared by coating the same CEX columns with AEX latex did not.
Abstract P38: Re-arrest is Rare During Air Ambulance Transport of Post-Cardiac Arrest Patients

Background: Patients successfully resuscitated from cardiac arrest (CA) can benefit from integrated multidisciplinary care. This care may be volume and resource-dependent. Short transfer delays from scene to tertiary care hospitals have not been shown to adversely affect outcome following CA. Our objectives were to determine the rate of re-arrest and the rate of other critical events during air ambulance transport of resuscitated CA patients. Methods: Retrospective chart review of CA patients transported via air ambulance to a single tertiary care facility between 1–1–2001 and 10 –23–2008. Data abstracted included demographics, presumed etiology, arrest rhythm, re-arrest, in-flight critical events and medications, hospital interventions, and outcome. Critical events were classified as hypotension (SBP Results: We reviewed 206 charts; 59 were excluded for trauma. Of the remaining 147 patients, the average age was 61±15 years and 97 (65%) were male. VF/VT was the most common rhythm (54%); 73% of patients were comatose (GCS ≤8). Transport infusions included vasopressors (53%), anti-arrhythmics (42%), heparin (42%) and nitroglycerin (15%). Eight patients (5%) re-arrested in flight; however, three of these patients had good outcomes. Forty-one (28%) experienced a critical event. Cardiac interventions were common: 84 (59%) patients received coronary catheterization, 51 (36%) received a stent, and 21 (15%) received AICD. Hypothermia was administered to 24 patients (17%). Seventy-one patients (49%) survived and 59 (41%) had a good outcome. Conclusion: Critical events during transfer of CA patients to specialty care are common, including a 5% incidence of re-arrests. Rapid transport using air ambulance capable of in-transport critical care may optimize patient safety.
Prolonged Hyperoxia and Oligomycin have Similar Effects on Cat Carotid Body Chemoreceptors

Oligomycin, an inhibitor of mitochrondrial oxidative phosphorylation, in small doses, has profound effects on carotid chemoreceptor activity. After oligomycin, the chemoreceptors are active and respond to changes in PCO2 but show little or no response to changes in PO2 (Mulligan and Lahiri, 1982). Similarly, carotid chemoreceptors in cats exposed to prolonged hyperoxia show blunted chemoreceptor PO2 responses while maintaining their PCO2 responses (Lahiri et al., 1985). In this study, we compare the effects of oligomycin and the effects of prolonged hyperoxia on the carotid chemoreceptor responses to the natural stimuli, hypoxia and hypercapnia, as well as to pharmacological agents (Mulligan and Lahiri, 1985).
Auswirkungen von Schichtarbeit auf die Work-Life-Balance

Eine balanceorientierte Personalpolitik wird in den letzten Jahren zunehmend von Seiten der Beschaftigten wie auch von Seiten der Unternehmen als unerlasslich erkannt. Immer mehr Personalverantwortliche versuchen gemeinsam mit den Beschaftigten, die unterschiedlichen Problemlagen und Anspruche im Zusammenspiel von Arbeits- und Privatleben moglichst im Gleichgewicht zu halten. In dem Projekt SCHICHT werden die Spannungen und Konflikte zwischen Flexibilitat und Stabilitat bei Schichtarbeit durch Mitarbeiterbefragungen empirisch untersetzt und gemeinsam mit Betrieben nach Losungen fur unterstutzende Dienstleistungen, beispielsweise in Form von Serviceburos, gesucht (vgl. Bottcher, in diesem Band).
Fast Distributed Method of Multiplier for Coupled Lagrangian Problems: A Control Approach

In this paper, we propose a method for solving the distributed optimization problem in which the objective function is the sum of separable convex functions with linear constraints. We modify the distributed Method of Multiplier algorithm based on [16] by looking it as a potential Proportional Integral (PI) controller. This enables us to obtain the algorithm in which the convergence speed is greatly improved due to different proportionality constants of PI compensator. The relation between these proportionality constants is determined by the positive real property of the algorithm when viewed as a dynamical system.
Sensorimotor uncertainty modulates corticospinal excitability during skilled object manipulation

The relative contribution of predictive and feedback mechanisms for scaling digit forces to position during dexterous manipulation depends on the predictability of where the object will be grasped....
High-Spin Diradical Dication of Chiral π-Conjugated Double Helical Molecule.

We report an air-stable diradical dication of chiral D2-symmetric conjoined bis[5]diazahelicene with an unprecedented high-spin (triplet) ground state, singlet triplet energy gap, ΔEST = 0.3 kcal mol-1. The diradical dication possesses closed-shell (Kekule) resonance forms with 16 π-electron perimeters. The diradical dication is monomeric in dibutyl phthalate (DBP) matrix at low temperatures, and it has a half-life of more than 2 weeks at ambient conditions in the presence of excess oxidant. A barrier of ∼35 kcal mol-1 has been experimentally determined for inversion of configuration in the neutral conjoined bis[5]diazahelicene, while the inversion barriers in its radical cation and diradical dication were predicted by the DFT computations to be within a few kcal mol-1 of that in the neutral species. Chiral HPLC resolution provides the chiral D2-symmetric conjoined bis[5]diazahelicene, enriched in (P,P)- or (M,M)-enantiomers. The enantiomerically enriched triplet diradical dication is configurationally stable for 48 h at room temperature, thus providing the lower limit for inversion barrier of configuration of 27 kcal mol-1. The enantiomers of conjoined bis[5]diazahelicene and its diradical dication show strong chirooptical properties that are comparable to [6]helicene or carbon-sulfur [7]helicene, as determined by the anisotropy factors, |g| = |Δe|/e = 0.007 at 348 nm (neutral) and |g| = 0.005 at 385 nm (diradical dication). DFT computations of the radical cation suggest that SOMO and HOMO energy levels are near-degenerate.
Arthroscopic Versus Open Bankart Repairs in Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review of the Association Between Publication Date and Postoperative Recurrent Instability in Systematic Reviews.

Purpose To systematically review the results of systematic studies regarding open versus arthroscopic Bankart repairs for recurrent anterior shoulder instability and quantitatively analyze the effect of primary-literature publication dates on reported outcomes in these systematic studies. Methods A systematic search was conducted to identify systematic studies reporting outcomes of both arthroscopic and open Bankart repairs for recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Patient-reported outcome measures, recurrent instability rates, definitions of instability, and procedure types reported by included study characteristics were qualitatively analyzed. Correlation coefficient analyses were performed to investigate if a systematic study’s proportion of included primary literature published after 1999, 2000, 2001, or 2002 affected that study’s reported mean difference in instability recurrence between open and arthroscopic procedures. The Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews criteria were used to assess the risk of bias of the included studies. Results Of 130 identified articles, 6 met the inclusion criteria. Patient-reported outcome measures were poorly reported. Among mean differences in instability recurrence rates, the results were indeterminate: Although 5 studies reported arthroscopic surgical procedures as having a higher recurrence rate, only 1 reported a statistically significant difference. Within the 5 included systematic reviews reporting the number of included studies, 37 of 56 observations were published after 2000. The proportion of studies published after 2000 (Pearson r = 0.88, P = .052) was positively associated with differences in instability recurrence rates between open and arthroscopic procedures. Conclusions Systematic studies that included newer studies (published after 2000) were associated with more favorable arthroscopic outcomes. Level of Evidence Level IV, systematic review of Level III and IV studies.
Chapter 6 – Multiprocessor Software

Publisher Summary While real-time operating systems provide apparent concurrency on a single processor, multiprocessor platforms provide true concurrency. The concurrency and performance provided by multiprocessors can be very powerful but also harder to analyze and debug. Many of the techniques developed for uniprocessor operating systems apply to multiprocessors as well. It is harder to determine how fast multiprocessor software will run, but it is possible to make accurate estimates. Software stacks help to abstract the underlying platform, but it is important to ensure that the software layers are not too inefficient. Embedded multiprocessor software must meet timing, energy, and size constraints. It must do so while executing on a heterogeneous platform. Several methods are available to estimate the real-time performance of multiple processes running on multiprocessors. Software stacks and middleware help designers develop efficient, portable embedded software, with middleware managing resources in the system. Middleware can be designed around standards or it can be customized to the hardware platform. Design verification should consider timing and performance as well as functionality.
MULTI-DIMENSIONAL MODELS FOR DOUBLE DETONATION IN SUB-CHANDRASEKHAR MASS WHITE DWARFS

Using two-dimensional and three-dimensional simulations, we study the "robustness" of the double detonation scenario for Type Ia supernovae, in which a detonation in the helium shell of a carbon-oxygen white dwarf induces a secondary detonation in the underlying core. We find that a helium detonation cannot easily descend into the core unless it commences (artificially) well above the hottest layer calculated for the helium shell in current presupernova models. Compressional waves induced by the sliding helium detonation, however, robustly generate hot spots which trigger a detonation in the core. Our simulations show that this is true even for non-axisymmetric initial conditions. If the helium is ignited at multiple points, then the internal waves can pass through one another or be reflected, but this added complexity does not defeat the generation of the hot spot. The ignition of very low-mass helium shells depends on whether a thermonuclear runaway can simultaneously commence in a sufficiently large region.
Video observations of the acute effects of dredged sediment deposition on mobile epifauna

Abstract The “beneficial uses” of dredged sediment are increasingly being explored for habitat restoration and beach nourishment. At ocean and nearshore deposition sites, any beneficial use must be tempered by evaluating impacts to the benthos. We studied a site at the mouth of the Columbia River where a “thin-layer” sediment deposition method was employed to minimize mounding and disperse sediment within a prescribed area. We used baited benthic video landers (BVLs) in a Before-After Control-Impact (BACI) experimental design to test the acute effects of sediment deposition on the Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) and dog whelk (Nassarius spp). We considered the acute effects of both sediment deposition depths and the lateral surge (the turbidity front transiting the seafloor). Observations revealed sedimentation levels were limited (
Consumption over the life cycle: How different is housing?

Abstract Micro data over the life cycle show different patterns for consumption for housing and non-housing goods: The consumption profile of non-housing goods is hump-shaped, while the consumption profile for housing first increases monotonically and then flattens out. These patterns hold true at each consumption quartile. This paper develops a quantitative, dynamic, general equilibrium model of life-cycle behavior, that generates consumption profiles consistent with the observed data. Borrowing constraints are essential in explaining the accumulation of housing stock early in life, while transaction costs are crucial in generating the slow downsizing of the housing stock later in life.
Supervising Authoritarian Rule Online: Citizen Participation and State Responses in China

This essay examines citizen participation in and state responses to online supervision in China. It argues that the internet has only empowered Chinese citizens in selective ways by enabling them more to expose individual cases of corruption and official misconduct than to pursue systematic changes. Such ‘selective-empowerment’ effects allow the state to differentiate its responses, eliminating more threatening forms of citizen activism while bringing less threatening forms under control. Such a ‘selective-empowerment and differentiated-response’ model helps explain why the authoritarian state can preserve its power in setting the agenda, means, and goals of online supervision despite the empowering effects of the internet.
The feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of a remotely delivered, financial-incentive intervention to initiate vaping abstinence in young adults.

Electronic cigarette use (i.e., vaping) has become increasingly popular, especially among youth. Although vaping nicotine is thought to be safer than smoking combustible cigarettes, vaping cessation has become a topic of interest because of health concerns and the potential risk of electronic cigarette use leading to the use of other substances. The current study is the first to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a remotely delivered intervention using financial incentives to reinforce vaping abstinence among young adults. A secondary purpose of the study was to compare two cotinine measures, NicAlert and Alere iScreen, for remotely monitoring vaping abstinence. Using a single-case design, college students (N = 8) were given NicAlert and iScreen saliva cotinine tests to verify vaping abstinence. During a baseline condition, financial incentives were delivered contingent on submitting cotinine samples during live telemedicine calls (across varying baseline durations, consistent with multiple-baseline designs), whereas during an abstinence condition, escalating financial bonuses were delivered contingent on negative cotinine samples only. All participants attended 100% of their scheduled telemedicine calls and all participants quit vaping nicotine during the 2-week intervention, following the introduction of abstinence-contingent bonuses. Participants also rated the intervention favorably on a number of dimensions. Participants liked the iScreen cotinine tests, and found them easier to use, than NicAlert. Future research should focus on exploring strategies for promoting long-term sustainability of incentive-based interventions for vaping abstinence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
A pooled analysis of response to selective RET inhibitors among patients with medullary thyroid cancer with M918T versus non-M918T RET mutations.

6078Background: Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) accounts for 1 to 2% of thyroid cancers in the United States; RET alterations occur in >95% of hereditary and 50% of sporadic forms. Up to 80% of pati...
Distant-Dependent Capture Probabilities of Mediterranean and Oriental Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in a Food-Based Trap in a Hawaiian Mango Orchard

Certain species of true fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are worldwide pests of fruits and vegetables, and many countries operate trapping programs to detect and monitor invasions. Food-based traps are an important component of detection programs because they are general attractants that are neither sex- nor species-specific. Torula yeast borax solution is a food bait that is used widely, but little is known regarding its attractiveness in terms of distant-dependent capture rates in field settings. The goal of the present study, which was conducted in a Hawaiian mango (Mangifera indica L.; Anacardiaceae) orchard, was to measure capture probabilities of oriental fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), and Mediterranean fruit flies, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae), released at 5, 10, or 20 m from a centrally located trap baited with torula yeast borax solution. For both species, capture probabilities were relatively low and decreased with increasing release distance from the trap. Trap captures were female-biased strongly in B. dorsalis, while the sex ratio of captured C. capitata was more variable and differed among the release distances. Based on data pooled over the sexes, B. dorsalis was captured at significantly higher rates than C. capitata for release distances of 5 and 10 m, and a marginally significantly higher rate (P = 0.053) for the 20 m releases. These findings are compared with other release-recapture studies of tephritids that involved food baits, and the relative attractiveness of torula yeast borax solution and male lures are noted for B. dorsalis and C. capitata.
Solar thermal process heating with the external compound parabolic concentrator (XCPC) – 45 m2 experimental array performance, annual generation (kWh/m2-year), and economics

Abstract In this paper, the experimental performance of a 45 m2 solar field of non-tracking external compound parabolic (XCPC) collectors installed at the University of California, Merced is described. The solar field was operated during July-August 2020 in both clean and dirty conditions and at varying operating temperatures (70, 135, 170 °C) while operating an air heater, thermal evaporator, and double effect absorption chiller. Performance data was used to develop an instantaneous solar field performance model which was then incorporated into an annual performance model using TMY3 data to estimate yearly production from the solar field. The model predicts an annual generation of ∼1100 kWh/m2-year at 80 °C, ∼1000 kWh/m2-year at 100 °C, ∼900 kWh/m2-year at 120 °C, ∼800 kWh/m2-year at 140 °C, and ∼700 kWh/m2-year at 160 °C in California. The XCPC technology is currently expected to have an installed cost of $300/m2 and an annual operations and maintenance cost of $6.5/m2-year. Over a 25 year lifetime it provides a levelized cost of heat at 2–4 cents per kWhth delivered. This is below the cost of commercial natural gas in California and at temperatures ≤ 120 °C below the cost of industrial natural gas, which highlights the potential of the XCPC technology for decarbonizing thermal applications such as water and space heating, drying, sterilization, desalination, evaporation, low pressure steam, double effect absorption chilling, process heating, and more. The lifetime cost of emissions reductions is ∼$169 per metric ton of avoided CO2 when replacing natural gas, ∼$137/MT CO2 when replacing propane, and ∼$83/MT CO2 when replacing electric heating.
Analysis of R50% location dependence on LINAC-based VMAT cranial stereotactic treatments.

Abstract Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) techniques are used to deliver high doses per fraction to various types of intra-cranial targets. LINAC-based solutions are growing in prevalence due to recent advances in technologies such as high-definition multi-leaf collimators and volumetric arc therapy radiation delivery. A wide variety of clinical pathologies including intracranial metastases, meningioma, glioblastoma, arteriovenous malformation, acoustic neuroma, and trigeminal neuralgia have been successfully treated using SRS/SRT techniques. These lesions can be in virtually at any location within the cranium. Several publications have shown a wide dispersion of intermediate dose conformality (intermediate dose spill) indices such as the Paddick Gradient Index or R50% for lesions of a specific volume. A complete explanation of this dispersion is lacking but location has been suggested as a contributing factor. While prior studies of PTV location in SRS/SRT are retrospective in nature, we have conducted a prospective study to ascertain the potential effects of location within the cranium on plan intermediate dose conformality as measured by R50% while controlling for lesion volume, lesion shape, prescription (Rx) dose, and Rx isodose surface. Lesion volumes utilized in this study are consistent with metastatic disease presentation. Results indicate only a weak relationship between intermediate dose conformality as measured by R50% and the lesion location when considering nine different, strategically placed lesions. Close proximity to critical structures can reduce the degree of conformality, but the effect appears to be minimal. Single isocenter multiple target cases were studied in addition to single target plans. All critical structure doses observed in this study were found to be within the recommendations of AAPM Task Group report 101. Lesion location does not appear to be a significant contributing factor to the observed variation of dose conformality seen in several SRS/SRT publications.
Measuring Geographic Sentiment toward Police Using Social Media Data

Using Twitter messages published online from October 2018 to June 2019, and opinion mining (OM) technology, the current study analyzes the geographic sentiments toward police in 82 metropolitan areas within the United States. Building on the frameworks of the neighborhood social contextual models, the construct validity of “sentiment toward the police” is assessed via its relationship with the features of various metropolitan areas. Results of the regression analysis indicate that the violent crime rate, racial heterogeneity, and economic disadvantage significantly affect sentiment toward the police. Our results suggest that opinion mining of social media can be an important instrument to understand public sentiment toward the police.
Imaging of Magnetic Excitations in Nanostructures with Near-Field Microwave Microscopy

Abstract We present images of spin-wave excitations in a patterned yttrium iron garnet (YIG) thin film obtained by use of near-field microwave microscopy, which can achieve spatial resolution as high as 50 nm. Visualization of magnetic excitations is an enticing prospect for high-speed, high-density magnetic logic and storage applications. This has spurred the development of new magnetic microscopy and imaging techniques in recent years. Here we present a novel approach for local imaging of magnetic modes excited at room temperature with sub-diffraction-limited spatial resolution. This approach is based on a special atomic force microscope with broadband GHz capability for imaging the spatial distribution of dynamic magnetic excitations in patterned magnetic structures. Due to the inherent sub-wavelength, nanometer-scale spatial resolution of near-field scanning probe techniques, this approach has potential for a significant improvement in spatial resolution over optical techniques.
How to Maximize the Use of a Teacher's Aide

(1987). How to Maximize the Use of a Teacher's Aide. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 60, The Play of Words: Issues in Writing, pp. 331-331.
Language Constructs for Modeling Stochastic Linear Programs

This paper introduces two tokens of syntax for algebraic modeling languages that are sufficient to model a wide variety of stochastic optimization problems. The tokens are used to declare random parameters and to define a precedence relationship between different random events. It is necessary to make a number of assumptions in order to use this syntax, and it is through these assumptions, which cover the areas of model structure, time, replication, and stages, that we can attain a deeper understanding of this class of problem.
Chinese Room Argument, The

The Chinese room argument is a refutation of ‘strong artificial intelligence’ (strong AI), the view that an appropriately programmed digital computer capable of passing the Turing test would thereby have mental states and a mind in the same sense in which human beings have mental states and a mind. Strong AI is distinguished from weak AI, which is the view that the computer is a useful tool in studying the mind, just as it is a useful tool in other disciplines ranging from molecular biology to weather prediction. Keywords: artificial intelligence; brain; computational theory of the mind; semantics; syntax
A simulation study of high power detonator production transition

Due to changes in production requirements the current facility was no longer adequate. A simulation study was conducted to help quantify the impacts of additional capacity, when that capacity should be brought online, and how to manage production in the interim before the new facility is available.
Essential Role of PDL1 Expression on Nonhematopoietic Donor Cells in Acquired Tolerance to Vascularized Cardiac Allografts

The PD1:PDL1 pathway is an essential negative costimulatory pathway that plays a key role in regulating the alloimune response. PDL1 is expressed not only on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) but also cardiac endothelium. In this study, we investigated the importance of PDL1 expression on donor cardiac allograft in acquired transplantation tolerance in a fully MHC-mismatched model. We generated PDL1 chimeric mice on B6 background that expressed PDL1 on either hematopoietic cells or nonhematopoietic cells of the heart. Sham animals were used as controls. These hearts were then transplanted into BALB/c recipients and treated with CTLA4-Ig to induce tolerance. Cardiac endothelium showed significant expression of PDL1, which was upregulated upon transplantation. While the absence of PDL1 on hematopoietic cells of the heart resulted in delayed rejection and prevented long-term tolerance in most but not all recipients, we observed an accelerated and early graft rejection of all donor allografts that lacked PDL1 on the endothelium. Moreover, PDL1-deficient endothelium hearts had significant higher frequency of IFN-γ-producing alloreactive cells as well as higher frequency of CD8(+) effector T cells. These findings demonstrate that PDL1 expression mainly on donor endothelium is functionally important in a fully allogeneic mismatched model for the induction of cardiac allograft tolerance.
Detection of Salmonella in Eggs and Egg Products With Fluorescent Antibody

Organisms of the genus Salmonella are detected in eggs and egg products within 24 hr in the presence of Pseudomonadaceae and other Enterobacteriaceae by combining selective cultural methods with fluorescent-antibody techniques. These techniques are specific for Salmonella when H antibodies are used. Absorption techniques are necessary before the O antibodies give specific reactions for Salmonella. No cross-reactions appear when H antiserum is used. Absorption and interference techniques indicate the test is specific for Salmonella.
Particle Migration at Melting and Solidification Fronts

This paper reports on particle pushing and engulfment by solidification fronts and on respective microgravity experiments. The absense of thermal convection and of sedimentation under microgravity conditions renders possible a direct observation of the relevant forces and the corresponding critical growth rates.
Effect of mandated nurse-patient ratios on patient wait time and care time in the emergency department.

Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the effect of mandated nurse–patient ratios (NPRs) on emergency department (ED) patient flow. Methods: Two institutions implemented an electronic tracking system embedded within the electronic medical record (EMR) of two EDs (an academic urban, teaching medical center—Hospital A; and a suburban community hospital—Hospital B), with a combined census of 60,000/year, to monitor real-time NPRs and patient acuity, such that compliance with state-mandated ratios could be prospectively monitored. Data were queried for a 1-year period after implementation and included patient wait times (WTs), ED care time (EDCT), patient acuity, ED census, and NPR status for each nurse, patient, and the ED overall. Median WT and EDCT with interquartile ranges (IQRs) were analyzed to determine the effect of NPR status of each patient, nurse, and the ED overall. To control for factors that could affect the “within the mandated ratio” and the “outside of the mandated ratio” status, including patient volume and acuity, log-linear regression models were used controlling for specified factors for each hospital facility and combined. Results: There were a total of 30,404 (50.9%) patients who waited in the waiting room prior to being placed in an ED bed (53.8% at Hospital A and 46.4% at Hospital B). Patients who waited at Hospital A waited a median duration of 55 minutes (IQR = 15–128 minutes), compared with 32 minutes (IQR = 12–67 minutes) at Hospital B with a combined median WT of 44 minutes (IQR = 13–101 minutes). In the log-linear regression analysis, WTs were 17% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 10% to 25%, p < 0.001) longer at Hospital A and 13% (95% CI = 3% to 24%, p = 0.008) longer at Hospital B (combined 16% [95% CI = 10% to 22%, p < 0.001] longer at both sites) when the ED overall was out-of-ratio compared to in-ratio. There were a total of 45,660 patients discharged from both EDs during the study period, from which EDCT data were collected (26,894 in Hospital A and 18,766 in Hospital B). Median EDCT was 184 minutes (IQR = 97–311 minutes) at Hospital A, compared to 120 minutes (IQR = 63–208 minutes) at Hospital B, for a combined median EDCT of 153 minutes (IQR = 81–269 minutes). In the log-linear regression analysis, the EDCT for patients whose nurse was out-of-ratio were 34% (95% CI = 30% to 38%, p < 0.001) longer at Hospital A and 42% (95% CI = 37% to 48%, p < 0.001) longer at Hospital B (combined 37% [95% CI = 34% to 41%, p < 0.001] longer at both sites) when compared to patients whose nurse was in-ratio. Conclusions: In these two EDs, throughput measures of WT and EDCT were shorter when the ED nurse staffing were within state-mandated levels, after controlling for ED census and patient acuity. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:545–552 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Molecular Genetics of Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a nonAlzheimer's form of dementia. Onset age lies in the mid-to-late 50s. FTD affects the frontal and/or the temporal lobes and is clinically divided into two main categories: behavioural variant (bvFTD) and language variant. FTD is characterised by heterogeneous pathology defined by pathogenic protein inclusions: microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT), ubiquitin/transactive responses (TAR) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-binding protein 43 (TDP)-43, fused in sarcoma (FUS) and p62. MAPT, progranulin (PGRN) and, recently, C9orf72 genes represent the three main genetic markers associated with FTD. In addition, genetic variability in TDP-43, charged multivesicular body protein 2B (CHMP2B), valosin-containing protein (VCP), FUS and TMEM106B genes contribute to ⩽5% of cases. Research tools such as genome-wide association studies and exome and genome sequencing hold promise to further uncover the genetic underpinnings of this complex disorder. Key Concepts: Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a nonAlzheimer's form of dementia; it affects behaviour, cognition and language, while memory (in the early phases). The anatomical areas of the brain that are affected by atrophy are the frontal and the temporal lobes; based on this fact FTD is considered part of the spectrum called frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). FTD is a complex disease with insidious onset; no therapeutic measures are available as yet. Behavioural variant FTD (bvFTD) is the most common syndrome of FTD, which is associated with gradual deterioration of behaviour and cognition. Different protein inclusions in the brain are used to classify the pathology associated with FTLD. TDP-43 and tau pathology represent the most common (∼90%) types of pathological signatures associated with FTLD. MAPT, PGRN and C9orf72 are the major (∼95%) genetic markers associated with familial FTD. TMEM106B regulates granulin protein levels. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and next-generation sequencing technologies whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) hold promise for dissecting the genetic aetiology of complex diseases; in molecular genetics these technologies help in screening a wide range of genetic variabilities from SNPs to CNVs in large cohorts across different populations. Keywords: frontotemporal dementia; frontotemporal lobar degeneration; bvFTD; PPA; MAPT; PGRN; C9orf72; TMEM106B; tau pathology; TDP-43 pathology
A comprehensive dosimetric study of pancreatic cancer treatment using three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), volumetric-modulated radiation therapy (VMAT), and passive-scattering and modulated-scanning proton therapy (PT).

Abstract With traditional photon therapy to treat large postoperative pancreatic target volume, it often leads to poor tolerance of the therapy delivered and may contribute to interrupted treatment course. This study was performed to evaluate the potential advantage of using passive-scattering (PS) and modulated-scanning (MS) proton therapy (PT) to reduce normal tissue exposure in postoperative pancreatic cancer treatment. A total of 11 patients with postoperative pancreatic cancer who had been previously treated with PS PT in University of Pennsylvania Roberts Proton Therapy Center from 2010 to 2013 were identified. The clinical target volume (CTV) includes the pancreatic tumor bed as well as the adjacent high-risk nodal areas. Internal (iCTV) was generated from 4-dimensional (4D) computed tomography (CT), taking into account target motion from breathing cycle. Three-field and 4-field 3D conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT), 5-field intensity-modulated radiation therapy, 2-arc volumetric-modulated radiation therapy, and 2-field PS and MS PT were created on the patients’ average CT. All the plans delivered 50.4 Gy to the planning target volume (PTV). Overall, 98% of PTV was covered by 95% of the prescription dose and 99% of iCTV received 98% prescription dose. The results show that all the proton plans offer significant lower doses to the left kidney (mean and V 18 Gy ), stomach (mean and V 20 Gy ), and cord (maximum dose) compared with all the photon plans, except 3-field 3DCRT in cord maximum dose. In addition, MS PT also provides lower doses to the right kidney (mean and V 18 Gy ), liver (mean dose), total bowel (V 20 Gy and mean dose), and small bowel (V 15 Gy absolute volume ratio) compared with all the photon plans and PS PT. The dosimetric advantage of PT points to the possibility of treating tumor bed and comprehensive nodal areas while providing a more tolerable treatment course that could be used for dose escalation and combining with radiosensitizing chemotherapy.
Tricritical behavior in the dilute Ising ferromagnet

Abstract The thermodynamically dilute Ising model is equivalent to the Blume-Capel model and thus exhibits both first-order phase separation and a tricritical point.
The Diffusion of Democracy, 1946–1994

We examine the relationship between the temporal and spatial aspects of democratic diffusion in the world system since 1946. We find strong and consistent evidence of temporal clustering of democratic and autocratic trends, as well as strong spatial association (or autocorrelation) of democratization. The analysis uses an exploratory data approach in a longitudinal framework to understand global and regional trends in changes in authority structures. Our work reveals discrete changes in regimes that run counter to the dominant aggregate trends of democratic waves or sequences, demonstrating how the ebb and flow of democracy varies among the world's regions. We conclude that further analysis of the process of regime change from autocracy to democracy, as well as reversals, should start from a “domain-specific” position that dis-aggregates the globe into its regional mosaics.
Suspended carbon nanotube nanocomposite beams with a high mechanical strength via layer-by-layer nano-self-assembly

The fabrication and characterization of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) composite thin film micropatterns and suspended beams prepared by lithography-compatible layer-by-layer (LbL) nano-self-assembly are demonstrated. Negatively charged SWCNTs are assembled with a positively charged polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride, and the composite thin film is patterned by oxygen plasma etching with a masking layer of photoresist, resulting in a feature size of 2 µm. Furthermore, the SWCNT nanocomposite stripe pattern with a metal clamp on both ends is released by etching a sacrificial layer of silicon dioxide in the hydrofluoric acid vapor. I–V measurement reveals that the resistance of SWCNT nanocomposite film decreases by 23% upon release, presumably due to the effect of reorientation of CNTs caused by the deflection of about 50 nm. A high Young's modulus is found in a range of 500–800 GPa based on the characterization of a fixed–fixed beam using nanoindentation. This value is much higher than those of the other CNT–polymer composites reported due to organization of structures by self-assembly and higher loading of CNTs. The stiff CNT–polymer composite thin film micropattern and suspended beam have potential applications to novel physical sensors, nanoelectromechanical switches, other M/NEMS devices, etc.