cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Future mainstream platform for online adaptive radiotherapy will be using on-board MR rather than on-board (CB) CT images.

As several major non‐inferiority phase 3 clinical trial studies published their promising results, 1 , 2 and as the reimbursement pattern is reforming from fee‐for‐service payment to episode‐based payment, 3 the radiation oncology field is undergoing a major paradigm shift, from a majority of standard fractionation treatments to more hypo‐fractionation and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). With this change, the need to verify daily radiotherapy dose and adapt the radiotherapy plan according to daily anatomy has become essential. 4 Currently, the most common platforms for online adaptive radiotherapy (ART) include MRI‐guided ART (MRgART) and CT (or cone‐beam CT)‐guided ART (CTgART), both of which have only been adopted by a handful of large‐scale hospital‐based cancer centers around the world. As more experience is collected and technology matures, one would hope that advanced online ART platforms should become more affordable and accessible to a larger community. That brings this month's debate topic: “Future mainstream platform for online adaptive radiotherapy will be using on‐board MR rather than on‐board (CB) CT images.” Herein, we invited Dr. Daniel Hyer and Dr. Bin Cai to join us for this debate. Parallel to this opinion is Dr. Daniel Hyer. Dr. Hyer received his PhD in Medical Physics from the University of Florida in 2010 and was certified by the American Board of Radiology in 2013. Dr. Hyer is currently an Associate Professor and the Director of Clinical Physics at the University of Iowa. His research interests include MRI‐guided radiotherapy and proton beam therapy. On the latter topic, Dr. Hyer currently holds a National Cancer Institute grant for the development of a proton collimator. Clinically, he is the technical director of the Elekta Unity program at the University of Iowa and has been involved with the project since 2017. Opposed to this opinion is Dr. Bin Cai. Dr. Cai is Associate Professor and Director of Advanced Physics Service in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Cai received his Ph.D. in Physics from Ohio University and completed his medical physics residency training at Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Cai stayed as a faculty member for 6 years at Washington University after residency. In 2021, he joined UT Southwestern to help develop the adaptive radiotherapy program as well as to lead the implementation of biology‐guided radiotherapy. Dr. Cai is one of the key team members that led the clinical implementation of the world's first MRgART platform. Later he also led the clinical development and implementation of the first CBCT‐guided online adaptations in the United States. Therefore Dr. Cai has extensive and balanced experience on both CTgART and MRgART platforms.
Natural History of Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy in Children: A 2-Year Follow-up.

Background and Objectives Data on the natural history of facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) in childhood are limited and critical for improved patient care and clinical trial readiness. Our objective was to describe the disease course of FSHD in children. Methods We performed a nationwide, single-center, prospective cohort study of FSHD in childhood assessing muscle functioning, imaging, and quality of life over 2 years of follow-up. Results We included 20 children with genetically confirmed FSHD who were 2 to 17 years of age. Overall, symptoms were slowly progressive, and the mean FSHD clinical score increased from 2.1 to 2.8 (p = 0.003). The rate of progression was highly variable. At baseline, 16 of 20 symptomatic children had facial weakness; after 2 years, facial weakness was observed in 19 of 20 children. Muscle strength did not change between baseline and follow-up. The most frequently and most severely affected muscles were the trapezius and deltoid. The functional exercise capacity, measured with the 6-minute walk test, improved. Systemic features were infrequent and nonprogressive. Weakness-associated complications such as lumbar hyperlordosis and dysarthria were common, and their prevalence increased during follow-up. Pain and fatigue were frequent complaints in children, and their prevalence also increased during follow-up. Muscle ultrasonography revealed a progressive increase in echogenicity. Discussion FSHD in childhood has a slowly progressive but variable course over 2 years of follow-up. The most promising outcome measures to detect progression were the FSHD clinical score and muscle ultrasonography. Despite this disease progression, an improvement on functional capacity may still occur as the child grows up. Pain, fatigue, and a decreased quality of life were common symptoms and need to be addressed in the management of childhood FSHD. Our data can be used to counsel patients and as baseline measures for treatment trials in childhood FSHD.
Prevalence of recombinant strains of potato virus Y in seed potato planted in Idaho and Washington states between 2011 and 2021.

Potato virus Y (PVY) has emerged as the main reason for potato seed lot rejections, seriously affecting seed potato production in the United States throughout the past 20 years. The dynamics of PVY...
ELASTIC BUCKLING IN TWO-COMPONENT COLUMNS

The initial buckling loads of two-component columns with four different end conditions are investigated. The two components of a column are assumed to be rigidly connected with one component on top of the other. The centroidal axes of the two components are coincident but their principal planes are offset by an arbitrary angle. The shear center of the column cross section is assumed to coincide with its centroid. The effects of the height ratio of the two components and the offset angle are assessed for the initial buckling load of the column.
The stratigraphic filter and bias in measurement of geologic rates

[1] Erosion and deposition rates estimated from the stratigraphic record frequently exhibit a power-law dependence on measurement interval. This dependence can result from a power-law distribution of stratigraphic hiatuses. By representing the stratigraphic filter as a stochastic process called a reverse ascending ladder, we describe a likely origin of power-law hiatuses, and thus, rate scaling. While power-law hiatuses in certain environments can be a direct result of power-law periods of stasis (no deposition or erosion), they are more generally the result of randomness in surface fluctuations irrespective of mean subsidence or uplift. Autocorrelation in fluctuations can make hiatuses more or less heavy-tailed, but still exhibit power-law characteristics. In addition we show that by passing stratigraphic data backward through the filter, certain statistics of surface kinematics from their formative environments can be inferred.
A design of automatic-test universal supported platform

Signal-oriented software architecture is a trend for universal automatic test system development, and the establishment of a platform providing unifying external signal interface and testing services function is a key techniques for signal-oriented programming. Automatic-test universal supported platform isolates the use of resources and control details, hides the concrete realization of the relevant method of measurement and control technology, and thus greatly reduce the difficulty of automatic test program development, and enhance the robustness of automatic test systems and reusability.
Verifying propositional unsatisfiability: pitfalls to avoid

The importance of producing a certificate of unsatisfiability is increasingly recognized for high performance propositional satisfiability solvers. The leading solvers develop a conflict graph as the basis for deriving (or "learning") new clauses. Extracting a resolution derivation from the conflict graph is theoretically straightforward, but it turns out to have some surprising practical pitfalls (as well as the unsurprising problem that resolution proofs can be extremely long). These pitfalls are exposed, solutions are presented, and analyzed for worse cases. Dramatic improvements on industrial benchmarks are demonstrated.
Semester, Trimester or Block Plan? Retention of Economics Principles by Undergraduates on Alternative Curricular Structures

This paper investigates whether the curricular structure of an Economics course (semester, trimester, or compressed block schedule) has an effect on an undergraduate's subsequent retention of course material. We test separately for theoretical/process comprehension and for graphical construction/interpretation, while separating micro from macro content as well. We use an instrument to address the no stakes testing problem, and our Heckman two-stage estimations present some interesting results for educators and institutional policymakers alike.
Abstract P4-14-03: Household net worth is associated with racial disparities in hormonal therapy adherence among women with early stage breast cancer

Background: Non-adherence to adjuvant hormonal therapy is common and has been associated with both increased copayment amount and black race. Studies suggest controlling for wealth may eliminate racial disparities for a variety of medical condition. We investigated the impact of personal finance on disparities in adherence rates. Patients and Methods: Using de-identified, integrated pharmacy and medical claims data from the Optum insurance claims database, we identified women >50 years old on hormonal therapy for early breast cancer with at least 2 mail order prescription refills between 1/1/07 and 12/31/11. Variables evaluated included demographic and clinical information, annual household income, estimated household net worth ( $750,000), insurance type, and monthly copayment amounts ( $20). Non-adherence was defined as a medication possession ratio Results: We identified 15,522 subjects who initiated hormonal therapy; 25% were non-adherent during the study period. Adherence was 67% with net worth $750,000 (p Conclusions: We have shown that financial factors, and in particular net worth, partially explain the lower hormone therapy adherence rate in black women compared to white women. These results suggest economic factors may contribute significantly to disparities in the quality of breast cancer care. Citation Format: Dawn L Hershman, Jennifer Tsui, Jason D Wright, Ellie J Coromilas, Wei Yann Tsai, Alfred I Neugut. Household net worth is associated with racial disparities in hormonal therapy adherence among women with early stage breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-14-03.
Equals of the King: The Balance of Power in Early Acadia

EARLY IN THE SUMMER OF 1613, Samuel Argali and the English ship Treasurer arrived off the coast of New England in response to reports that a French expedition was trying to settle on land claimed by the Virginia Company. Cruising the waters off what is now central Maine, Argali and his crew searched in vain for signs of the interlopers until a local Indian pointed them in the right direction. Their target, the fledgling mission settlement of Saint Sauveur, opposite Mount Desert Island, was totally unprepared for the attack. Though the French had been at Saint Sauveur for several weeks, they had done nothing to defend the place, and though they had known for days that English ships were in the area they had taken no steps either to fight or to flee. When Argali attacked, most of the French were on shore, and those still on the ship had turned its sails into a canopy to protect themselves from the sun. "The English ship came on swifter than an arrow", wrote one of the French, "...[with] the banners of England flying, and three trumpets and two drums making a horrible din". It also came with cannons blazing and with 60 musketeers, and it quickly overwhelmed the French, i To the combatants at Saint Sauveur the context in which their battle occurred was obvious; it was part of an Anglo-French conflict that had started centuries before and might continue for centuries to come. And a similar ethnocentric bias has long marked histories of the event. To most scholars, Saint Sauveur was a "salvo of imperial conflict" in which Native Americans played only an incidental role. The French accepted, and most historians have repeated, the anguished confession of a Kennebec native that he mistook the English ship for a French one and directed it to Saint Sauveur.2 There is, however, an alternative scenario that
The Reaction of Oxygen with Hemoglobin and the Kinetic Basis of the Effect of Salt on Binding of Oxygen

The reaction of hemoglobin with oxygen has been studied by stopped flow methods, and, under suitably restricted conditions, it can be adequately represented by a system of four consecutive reversible reactions. The numerical values given to the eight rate constants permit a satisfactory fit to combination and dissociation velocity data, and yield an equilibrium curve of the appropriate form. The distribution of rates among the various steps in the reaction requires that cooperativity in oxygen binding be attributed primarily to deviations of the successive dissociation velocity constants from their statistical values, and is consistent with the idea that the major change in reactivity occurs after 1 ligand molecule has dissociated from saturated hemoglobin. The difference in affinity between hemoglobin in phosphate buffers and hemoglobin freed from salts is due to reduction in the rate of dissociation of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th molecules leaving oxyhemoglobin. The rate of dissociation of the 1st molecule from saturated hemoglobin is not changed.
Phenotypic subpopulations of metastatic colon cancer stem cells: genomic analysis.

Background: Human cancer is characterized by high heterogeneity in gene expression, varieties of differentiation phenotypes and tumor-host interrelations. Growing evidence suggests that tumor-initiating, or cancer stem cells (CSCs), may also represent a heterogeneous population. The present study was undertaken to isolate and characterize the different phenotypic subpopulations of metastatic colon cancer and to develop a working colon CSC model for obtaining highly tumorigenic and clonogenic cells in sufficient numbers. Materials and Methods: Different phenotypic cell subpopulations were isolated based on differential levels and patterns of expression of several stemness markers, including CD133, CD44, CD166 and CD49b. Stemness properties of isolated cells were tested by analysis of their ability to form floating colonospheres in vitro, to induce tumors in NOD/SCID mice after transplantation at relatively low cell numbers, and to produce progenitors of different phenotypes. Results: The metastatic colon cancer HCT116 cell line, which expressed a majority of known CSC markers, closely resembling the patterns of expression in exfoliated peritoneal cells from several metastatic colon cancer patients, was selected as a reference material. Genome-wide microarray analysis (Affymetrix; DAVID) of CD133 high CSC-enriched versus CSC-depleted cell populations revealed 4,351 differentially expressed genes with an overrepresentation of those responsible for apoptosis resistance, regulation of cell cycle, proliferation, stemness and developmental pathways. Simultaneous analysis of 84 stem cell- and metastasis-related genes with corresponding PCR arrays identified genes differentially expressed in several colon CSC phenotypic populations versus bulk tumor cells, and in relation to each other. It was found that colonospheres induced by tumorigenic cells with the highest expression of CD133 and those which were induced by CD133/CD44- negative cells possessed profoundly different stem cell-related gene expression profiles. Conclusion: The proposed approaches allow for reliable isolation and propagation of highly tumorigenic and clonogenic cells of different phenotypes. Genomic analysis of several candidate CSC phenotypic populations may contribute to the identification of novel targets for colon cancer stem cell-targeted drug development and treatment. The limited effectiveness of standard anticancer therapies has been attributed to the existence of rare, highly drug resistant cells within tumors, operationally called cancer stem cells
Influences of LIN-12/Notch and POP-1/TCF on the Robustness of Ventral Uterine Cell Fate Specification in Caenorhabditis elegans Gonadogenesis

The prospective ventral uterus of the hermaphrodite gonad primordium consists of two pairs of sister cells, with each pair consisting of a proximal "α" cell and a distal "β" cell. All four cells initially are competent to become the anchor cell (AC), a unique cell type that acts as the organizer of subsequent uterine and vulval development. However, the β cells soon lose this competence and always become ventral uterine precursor cells (VUs), whereas the α cells maintain their AC competence longer, until lin-12/Notch-mediated interactions between them specify one as the AC and the other as a VU. Here, we investigate this asymmetry in developmental potential and VU fate specification between the α and β sister cells. We find evidence that lin-12 activity contributes to the robustness of βVU fate at elevated temperature, that the Caenorhabditis elegans Notch paralog glp-1 is not functionally redundant with lin-12 in specifying βVU fate, and that the activity of POP-1, the sole C. elegans TCF ortholog, influences βVU fate. We propose a model for how Wnt and LIN-12/Notch signaling together lead to robust specification of the βVU fate.
Quality of Life Outcomes for Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Bladder Preservation with Radiotherapy

For patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, the decision to undergo radical cystectomy or bladder preservation treatment must incorporate survival differences, toxicity, and quality of life. Our objective was to review patient-reported outcomes for bladder preservation treatment with a focus on patients eligible for radical cystectomy, for whom a comparison of patient-reported outcomes is most relevant. Peer-reviewed, English-language manuscripts in MEDLINE and PubMed databases were examined from 1996 through 2014. Subject headings included quality of life, bladder cancer, bladder sparing, bladder preservation, radiation, and radiotherapy. Prospective and retrospective studies of patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing bladder preservation with radiotherapy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer were included. Two prospective studies and four retrospective studies were identified. Several weaknesses from these studies were identified including small sample sizes, variable time points of assessment, variation in treatment regimens, and failure to use validated or condition-specific questionnaires. From the available data, bladder preservation appears to result to similar or better general quality of life compared to radical cystectomy with satisfactory urinary and sexual function reported in most series. In general, bladder preservation resulted in more gastrointestinal symptoms than radical cystectomy. This is one of the first reviews on the subject of patient-reported outcomes for bladder preservation in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Although the data are limited, this review may provide a framework for developing well-designed, prospective comparisons of treatment for this patient cohort.
Base-rate neglect and coarse probability representation

We believe that when assessing the likelihood of uncertain events, statistically unsophisticated people utilize a coarse internal scale that only has a limited number of categories. The success of the nested sets hypothesis may lie in its ability to provide an appropriate set structure of the problem by reducing the computational demands.
Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-1 activity by the soybean Bowman–Birk inhibitor

Inductively coupled plasma analysis of soybean Bowman-Birk inhibitor (BBI) indicated that BBI was a metalloprotein which contained magnesium, calcium, and zinc at 0.40, 0.43 and 0.008 atom/mol BBI, respectively. Heparin-enhanced gelatin zymography, quenched fluorescence substrate hydrolysis analysis, and the Biotrak assay of the interaction of BBI with the matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) demonstrated that demineralized BBI at 30 nM inhibited MMP-1 activity whereas mineralized BBI was inhibitory at 115 nM.
Organization of endogenous opioids in the rostral agranular insular cortex of the rat.

The rostral agranular insular cortex (RAIC) of rats has opioid receptors and has been implicated in the analgesic and reinforcing effects of opiates. To help in understanding the function of endogenous opioids in this structure, we sought to identify and describe the opioid peptides intrinsic to the RAIC by using immunohistochemical methods. Immunolabeling for proopiomelanocortin (POMC), the precursor to beta-endorphin, and endomorphin 1 and 2 on sectioned rat forebrain revealed limited labeling consisting of individual varicose fibers. Immunolabeling for prodynorphin and enkephalin revealed numerous immunopositive cell bodies and fibers with distribution and morphology unique to each. Prodynorphin-immunopositive cell bodies consisted of two types: large, lightly labeled, pyramidal-shaped cell bodies in lamina V and more intensely labeled, small, ovoid cell bodies scattered in other lamina. Axonal fibers immunolabeled for prodynorphin varied in size and were found in all lamina. Immunolabeling for the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) was rarely found in dynorphin-containing cell bodies (6%, 10/167) but was visible within a subpopulation of axons. Enkephalin immunolabeling was detected within a single morphological subpopulation of nonpyramidal neurons located predominantly in lamina II/III, 30% (33/109) of which were also GABA immunopositive. Axons immunolabeled for enkephalin were also abundant in lamina II/III. These results suggest that dynorphin and enkephalin peptides are the predominant endogenous opioids in the RAIC and their distinct distributions suggest divergent functional roles. The localization of prodynorphin immunoreactivity to pyramidal cells suggests the possibility that this neuropeptide may be used in RAIC projection neurons, whereas enkephalin distribution was more characteristic of a role in local networks. J. Comp. Neurol. 500:530–541, 2007. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
DAMAGE RATE AND RECOVERY MEASUREMENTS ON ZIRCONIUM AFTER ELECTRON IRRADIATION AT LOW TEMPERATURES.

Abstract Resistivity change as a function of electron irradiation near 8 °K and of annealing after irradiation has been measured on zirconium. Damage rates were measured as a function of incident electron energy from 0.70 to 1.9 MeV. A value of 24 eV for the displacement threshold energy was determined by extrapolation of the damage rate curve to zero damage production. A fit between the theoretical and experimental values of displacement cross section was achieved with an effective threshold energy of 28 eV, yielding 35 × 10−4 Ω-cm/fractional concentration for the Frenkel resistivity. The damage-rate curve indicates no tailing due to subthreshold displacements. Recovery in Zr is analogous to that of fcc and bcc elements studied, but with six substages in Stage I. Substage If (analogous to I e in other materials) was analyzed by using the serpentine plot, which gives an indication of long-range migration of an interstitial between 120 and 150 °K, with an activation energy of 0.26 eV (second order kinetics...
Sequential epoxide fragmentation/radical cyclizations mediated by samarium(II) iodide

Abstract A sequential reductive coupling process promoted by samarium(II) iodide is described. Cascade epoxide ring opening and two sequential radical cyclizations lead to a variety of bicyclo[m.n.0] systems as mixtures of diastereomers.
Application of Forced Unsteady Aerodynamics to a Forward Swept Wing X-29 Model

Abstract : Numerous studies have hinted at possible use of controlled unsteady separated flows for lift enhancement on maneuvering aircraft. To verify these hypotheses and demonstrate application potential, an experimental study of forced unsteady flow fields about a 1/10 scale, reflection-plane model of the X- 29 aircraft was conducted. Orthogonal view flow visualization was conducted with model angle of attack between zero and ten degrees and the canard angle of attack with respect to the model centerline between plus and minus 40 degrees. Static tests exhibit canard and wing stall characteristics and the upwash and downwash flow patterns. The dynamic (oscillating canard) tests demonstrate reduction of canard stall tendencies and decreased effective angles of attack at the wing root. Also, three-dimensional dynamic interactions were observed between the canard-generated leading edge vortices and the unsteady canard tip vortices. These complex flows convect downstream and impinge upon the wing. The interactions appear reproducible and controllable. Keywords: Flow visualization; Sweptforward wings; Angle of attack; Canard configurations; Wind tunnel models; Vortices; Dynamic tests.
The reclamation concept in regulation of gravel mining in California

Abstract Mining of gravel for construction aggregate in California is regulated under the concept of ‘reclamation’, borrowed from open‐pit coal mines, which are recontoured and returned to productive use (such as agriculture) after mine closure. The concept works for dry terrace pits and can be adapted to creation of wildlife habitat in wet terrace pits. However, the state's regulatory structure also applies the concept to gravel extraction in the active channel, a dynamic system where the extraction site cannot be isolated from the surrounding environment. In this paper, I review reclamation in terrace and floodplain deposits but question the appropriateness of extending the traditional notion of reclamation to instream mining operations.
Strategies for detection of transfusion-transmitted viruses eluding identification by conventional serologic tests. I. Radioimmunoassay for picogram quantities of DNA

Abstract The unavailability of serological tests for detection of several not yet characterized infectious agents transmitted by blood transfusion or by blood products prompted the development of alternative tests based on utilization of labeled nucleic acid probes specific for genomes of each of these agents. The prerequisite for the preparation of such probes is the demonstration in human plasma of nucleic acid sequences distinct from those present in host DNA or in genes of already characterized viruses occurring in plasma of infected individuals. To accomplish this, ultrasensitive tests for nucleic acids not dependent on their base sequence are needed. We describe here a radioimmunoassay (RIA) for picogram quantities of DNA. Plasma (serum) specimens are treated with proteinase K in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and extracted with phenol. Nucleic acids are precipitated with ethanol in the presence of dextran (mol. wt.≈5 × 105) as carrier. Subsequently, DNA from the redissolved samples is adsorbed onto polylysine-coated wells of microtiter plates and detected by a double-antibody RIA using anti-DNA autoantibodies from NZB/NZW mice and 125I-labeled antibodies to mouse immunoglobulins. DNA which did not hybridize with human DNA was detected by this method in sera containing hepatitis B virus used as a model system.
Integrating Physical and Digital Assemblies

Computer-based tools have changed the focus and modes of design thinking in architecture. While often criticized for its overemphasis on formal expressions and its pursuit of the spectacular, digital creativity has begun to take into account a multiplicity of design factors that define architecture. These factors relate to performance simulation and analysis, constructability, and building information modeling (BIM). This paper discusses the use of physical and digital mock-ups in the context of building technology courses. It uses these mock-ups as an important vehicle that provides students with a feedback mechanism regarding often digitally idealized creative thinking.
Residual bounds for discrete-time Lyapunov equations

This paper presents a novel backward error criterion together with a sensitivity measure for assessing the solution accuracy of discrete-time Lyapunov equations. The conventional method involves standard perturbation and sensitivity results for certain associated linear systems. Such an approach, however, ignores the structure of the linear system and is often inconclusive. The method considered in this paper takes full account of the underlying structure of the problem and provides a meaningful measure of accuracy. >
Management of intraretinal Metallic Foreign Bodies without Retinopexy in the Absence of Retinal Detachment

In the management of intraocular metallic foreign bodies impacting or embedded in the posterior retina but without retinal detachment, retinopexy can be difficult or dangerous because of surrounding retinal, subretinal, or choroidal hemorrhage, or the proximity of the foreign body to the optic disc and macula. The authors prospectively managed five such cases by pars plana vitrectomy and foreign body removal without intraoperative or postoperative retinopexy. Fluid gas exchange was performed in only one case. No attempt was made to create a posterior vitreous detachment in any of the cases. After follow-up, ranging between 8 and 35 months, all cases had attached retinas and chorioretinal adhesion around the foreign body site. None of the cases had preretinal macular fibrosis. Four of the five cases had a best corrected visual acuity of 20/20 or better. The other, an aphakic 3-year-old patient, was amblyopic. Spontaneous chorioretinal adhesion appears to obviate the need for retinopexy in these selected cases. The avoidance of retinopexy and fluid gas exchange may decrease the risk of retinal detachment and preretinal macular fibrosis.
Spatially explicit tools for understanding and sustaining inland water ecosystems

In response to worldwide environmental crises driven by declines in the availability or quality of freshwater, ecologists and water resource economists are searching for ways to collaborate in order to guide the difficult choices facing the public, land managers, and politicians. Scientists are challenged to detect and quantify both the drivers of ecosystem change and ecosystem responses, including positive and negative feedbacks that will determine the future states of inland waters. Predicting ecosystem shifts over large temporal and spatial scales has proven difficult or impossible, even in well-studied systems, where the drivers of change are known. New remote-sensing, monitoring, and tracer technologies, however, offer glimpses of watershed processes at unprecedented spatial and temporal scales. Several interdisciplinary groups, including scientists, information specialists, and engineers, are exploring the best ways to design sampling schemes using these new technologies, to interpret the extensive,...
Metamorphism of pelitic rocks in the Snow Peak area, northern Idaho: Sequence of events and regional implications

Effects of two episodes of regional metamorphism are recorded in pelitic rocks in the Snow Peak area of northern Idaho. The first event (M1) produced a strong foliation and large porphyroblastic minerals. Metamorphic grade during M1 increased to the south. The second metamorphic episode (M2) occurred under relatively static conditions. Complete equilibration of metamorphic minerals to M2 conditions occurred, although pseudomorphs of M1 minerals are common. The progressive sequence of M2 mineral assemblages ranges from chlorite-biotite to kyanite grade via a low-variance transition zone in which some samples contain chlorite, biotite, garnet, staurolite, kyanite, muscovite, quartz, ilmenite, and graphite. This second metamorphic episode occurred after thrusting of Prichard over Wallace Formation rocks. M2 metamorphism occurred at moderate pressure but lacks evidence of penetrative deformation. It is suggested that formation of kyanite in the Goat Mountain area to the southwest was contemporaneous with Snow Peak M2, and that M2 was closely associated with deep-seated Cretaceous plutonic activity in the Idaho batholith. During Tertiary plutonic activity and uplift, rocks in the Goat Mountain area remained hot, and kyanite inverted to andalusite. The Snow Peak area cooled more rapidly and was affected only by minor retrograde hydration of staurolite. In the Snow Peak samples, therefore, assemblages produced during the moderate pressure event, M2, are preserved.
The Sertoli cell membrane body in the skink.

Abstract The structure of the Sertoli cell and its physical relationship with the germ cells was studied in laboratory maintained skinks, Eumeces laticeps (Schneider) in January, and September, corresponding to the periods of prenuptial and postnuptial spermatogenesis respectively. Light micrographs obtained using 1 μm thick plastic sections, show the Sertoli cell to have a large polymorphic nucleus located in the basal portion of the cell, and a darkly staining juxtanuclear body. In ultrathin sections, this body consists of a complex array of thin, electron dense membranous structures resembling the endoplasmic reticulum. The lumina of these membranous channels appear empty. Between the channels, there are structures that resemble the expanded cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum. In some sections, these dilated cisternae are confluent with the channels, indicating that the channels and the cisternae are parts of the same structure. Three organelles, namely, mitochondria, lysosomes and microfilaments are found among the elements of the membrane body. There is no structural modification of the channels where they come in contact with mitochondria, but they are dilated in proximity to lysosomes. In some sections bundles of microfilaments are clearly visible within the diamond shaped region of contact between two channels, suggesting that these organelles are involved in structural or functional organization of the membrane body.
TU‐FF‐A1‐01: Electron Spectra Unfolding From Open Field Depth Dose Curves

Purpose: To evaluate a new algorithm to unfold the energy spectrum of a large field electron beam from a central axis depth dose curve. Methods and Materials: As previously reported unfolding of the spectrum of electron beams is best done (1) based on large open field depth dose measurements, (2) incorporating the air space between source and phantom in the simulation of the response matrix and (3) using an inverse geometry with a pencil beam, large scoring voxels. Here an algorithm by Chvetskov based on a special form of the general Tichonov regularization function has been tested. The response matrix was created through EGSsnrc Monte Carlo Simulations of pencil beam depth doses in 0.1 MeV steps and including the air between source and phantom. The depth dose curve to be unfolded was also created through a Monte Carlo simulation which was in excellent agreement with the measurement on a clinical machine. The advantage of using a Monte Carlo based depth dose as the input is that the spectrum is precisely known. In addition it was possible to subtract the head photon component from the depth dose data and perform the algorithms on the electron only data. For later practical implementation, this approach presents a challenge, which however can be met. The Chvetskov algorithm used for the unfolding contains one smoothing parameter the impact of which was explored. For comparison, a generic set of depth dose curves was also used in the response matrix. Results and conclusions: The algorithm identifies the main energy component well. The smoothing factor impacts the waviness of the curve substantially. Optimizing this factor will be an important task. The comparison with the generic response functions shows that the use of specific response functions,including the air improves the unfolding. Support from NIH R01 CA104777‐01A2.
Cardiovascular Events Associated With Ipratropium Bromide in COPD

Background Studies have suggested an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality associated with the use of ipratropium bromide. We sought to examine the association between ipratropium bromide use and the risk of cardiovascular events (CVEs). Methods We performed a cohort study of 82,717 US veterans with a new diagnosis of COPD between 1999 and 2002. Subjects were followed until they had their first hospitalization for a CVE (acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, or cardiac dysrhythmia), they died, or the end of the study period (September 30, 2004). Cumulative anticholinergic exposure was calculated as the number of 30-day equivalents (ipratropium bromide) within the past year. We used Cox regression models with time-dependent covariates to estimate the risk of CVE associated with anticholinergic exposure and to adjust for potential confounders, including markers of COPD severity and cardiovascular risk. Results We identified 6,234 CVEs (44% heart failure, 28% acute coronary syndrome, 28% dysrhythmia). Compared with subjects not exposed to anticholinergics within the past year, any exposure to anticholinergics within the past 6 months was associated with an increased risk of CVE (hazard ratio [95% CI] for≤four and>four 30-day equivalents: 1.40 [1.30–1.51] and 1.23 [1.13–1.36], respectively). Among subjects who received anticholinergics more than 6 months prior, there did not appear to be elevated risk of a CVE. Conclusions We found an increased risk of CVEs associated with the use of ipratropium bromide within the past 6 months. These findings are consistent with previous concerns raised about the cardiovascular safety of ipratropium bromide.
Topical delivery of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) by 3-alkylcarbonyloxymethyl-5-FU prodrugs

The 3-alkylcarbonyloxymethyl-5-fluorouracil (3-ACOM-5-FU) prodrugs have been characterized by their solubilities in isopropyl myristate (S(IPM)) and partition coefficients between IPM and pH 4.0 buffer (K(IPM:AQ)). Estimated S(AQ) values have been obtained from S(AQ) = S(IPM)/K(IPM:AQ.) The abilities of the prodrugs to deliver total 5-FU species from IPM suspensions through hairless mouse skin (J(i)) have been evaluated in diffusion cell experiments. All of the prodrugs were much more soluble in IPM than 5-FU, and the propionyloxymethyl (C2) member of the series was almost twice as soluble in pH 4.0 buffer. Except for the acetyloxymethyl (C1) member of the series, the 3-ACOM-5-FU prodrugs exhibited greater S(IPM) and S(AQ) values than the corresponding 1-alkylcarbonyloxymethyl (1-ACOM-5-FU) prodrugs. The 3-ACOM-5-FU prodrugs that exhibited greater S(IPM) and S(AQ) values than the 1-ACOM-5-FU prodrugs also exhibited greater J(i) values, except for the C2 member. The C2 member also gave the largest error in predicting J(i) using the transformed Potts-Guy equation. All of the 3-ACOM-5-FU prodrugs delivered more 5-FU as a percentage of J(i) than the 1-ACOM-5-FU prodrugs but were not more effective as a series at targeting dermal as opposed to transdermal delivery.
Phenomenological approach to the design of highly tunable pressure-broadened gas lasers

Recently published measurements of the gain in continuous‐wave CO2 waveguide lasers have indicated that the small‐signal gain decreases exponentially with pressure in the range beyond about 70 Torr. In the present paper, the observed dependence of the gain on pressure has been incorporated into the general theory of homogeneously broadened gas lasers to form a phenomenological model of the waveguide laser. The model is then used to generate a series of curves intended to aid in the selection of gas mixture, operating pressure, discharge length, and mirror reflectivities when tunability is the primary design goal. The operating parameters are chosen on the basis of the desired laser characteristics (bandwidth and output power) and a small number of molecular parameters. Although the discussion emphasizes CO2 waveguide systems, the design curves are applicable to all homogeneously broadened gas lasers. It is found that, although there exists a critical pressure beyond which the laser should not be operated for reasons of efficiency, the tunability can be increased indefinitely by incorporating a longer discharge and an appropriate tunable internal etalon.
Tobacco use and perceived financial strain among junior enlisted in the U.S. Military in 2002.

Abstract Objective The detrimental health effects of tobacco use have long been documented and accepted. Recent research has begun to explore the financial strain that tobacco places on those who use it (e.g. Mokdad, A.H., Marks, J.S., Stroup, D.F., Gerberding, J.L., 2004. Actual causes of death in the United States, 2000. J. Am. Med. Assoc. 291, 1239–1245). The issue of this financial burden is particularly salient for young enlisted in the military who often struggle with financial issues and who continue to use tobacco at relatively high rates. Methods Using the 2002 Department of Defense Survey of Health Related Behaviors among Military Personnel, the current study examines the percentage of income young military members spend on tobacco given varying levels of consumption. In addition, a representative sample of junior enlisted (E1–E4) from all four military branches were surveyed about their tobacco use and their experiences of financial strain and experienced stress from financial problems. Results Adjusted logistic models demonstrated that smokers reported substantially higher amounts of both financial strain and stress from financial problems then those who did not smoke. Conclusions This study suggests there is a relationship between financial stress and tobacco use among junior military members.
The Dilemmas of Economic Liberalism in Poland

(1993). The Dilemmas of economic liberalism in Poland. Europe-Asia Studies: Vol. 45, No. 2, pp. 237-257.
Equation of state at ultrahigh densities and the speed of sound

We consider a system of baryons interacting through the exchange of massive neutral vector mesons at densities of $\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\ge}{10}^{15}$ g/${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$, where they form a lattice. For densities ${10}^{16}\ensuremath{\ge}\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\ge}{10}^{15}$ g/${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$ we show that $\ensuremath{\epsilon}g3P$ and ${v}_{s}l1$ even though the interaction energy dominates the kinetic energy. We discuss the practicality of this model and its implications for the neutron-star mass limit. We also consider its relation to the work of Zel'dovich and of Bludman and Ruderman.
Displaying employee testimonials on recruitment web sites: Effects of communication media, employee race, and job seeker race on organizational attraction and information credibility.

This study investigated participants' reactions to employee testimonials presented on recruitment Web sites. The authors manipulated the presence of employee testimonials, richness of media communicating testimonials (video with audio vs. picture with text), and representation of racial minorities in employee testimonials. Participants were more attracted to organizations and perceived information as more credible when testimonials were included on recruitment Web sites. Testimonials delivered via video with audio had higher attractiveness and information credibility ratings than those given via picture with text. Results also showed that Blacks responded more favorably, whereas Whites responded more negatively, to the recruiting organization as the proportion of minorities shown giving testimonials on the recruitment Web site increased. However, post hoc analyses revealed that use of a richer medium (video with audio vs. picture with text) to communicate employee testimonials tended to attenuate these racial effects.
Corrinoid and thiol dependent threonine decarboxylation

Summary A novel system for the decarboxylation of L-threonine requiring the presence of certain aquocorrinoids, preferably diaquocobyric acid, and of a thiol is described. The reaction shows a marked optimum at a pH value of about 8. Other L-amino acids, with the exception of L-serine, are much less reactive. Optical data point to a ligand attachment of L-throenonine, or of a substance derived from L-threonine, to the corrinoid cobalt. It is proposed that such a ligand attachment precedes incorporation of (R)-1-amino-2-propanol in amide linkage into corrinoid at the “f” propionic acid side chain, and that the present system serves as a model for this part of the cobalamin biosynthetis pathway.
Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism During Germination of Uredospores of Puccinia graminis tritici

Uredospores of Puccinia graminis (Pers.) tritici (Eriks. and Henn.) were uniformly labeled with (14)C by permitting the host (Triticum aestivum L.) to carry out photosynthesis in (14)CO(2) during the process of spore production by the obligate parasite. The use of (14)C labeled spores provided advantages in a study of the utilization of endogenous substrates at frequent intervals with small amounts of spores under conditions conducive to germination.Because of previous uncertainties about the nature of the substrates of importance to germination, a detailed study of carbohydrate and lipid components, both in the spores and in the germination medium, was made during the first 7 hours after placing the spores on aqueous media. Diethyl ether and 80% ethanol soluble metabolites each constituted approximately 20% of the total spore carbon. During the first hour nearly 60% of the 80% alcohol solubles disappeared from the spores while the total ether soluble material did not change appreciably. A significant part of the 80% ethanol soluble materials appeared in the germination medium.During germination and germ tube extension, there was rapid utilization of trehalose, arabitol and mannitol even though appreciable amounts of these materials were present as exogenous pools in the germination medium. Although the total amounts of ether soluble components did not change as drastically as the carbohydrate fraction, there was extensive utilization of palmitic, oleic, linolenic and 9,10-epoxyoctadecanoic acids.The results indicate that the germination process in spores of obligate parasites is not based solely on the utilization of lipids and some possible roles of the changes in internal and external pools of soluble carbohydrates are discussed.