cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low-Latency Communication on the IBM RISC System/6000 SP

The IBM SP is one of the most powerful commercial MPPs, yet, in spite of its fast processors and high network bandwidth, the SP's communication latency is inferior to older machines such as the TMC CM-5 or Meiko CS-2. This paper investigates the use of Active Messages (AM) communication primitives as an alternative to the standard message passing in order to reduce communication overheads and to offer a good building block for higher layers of software. The first part of this paper describes an implementation of Active Messages (SP AM) which is layered directly on top of the SP's network adapter (TB2). With comparable bandwidth, SP AM's low overhead yields a round-trip latency that is 40% lower than IBM MPL's. The second part of the paper demonstrates the power of AM as a communication substrate by layering Split-C as well as MPI over it. Split-C benchmarks are used to compare the SP to other MPPs and show that low message overhead and high throughput compensate for SP's high network latency. The MPI implementation is based on the freely available MPICH version and achieves performance equivalent to IBM's MPI-F on the NAS benchmarks.
Three-dimensional human running

This paper describes the control of a simulated three-dimensional model of a human runner. The rigid body model has seventeen segments and thirty controlled degrees of freedom. The dynamic parameters of the simulation were computed using data measured from humans to produce a model that is biomechanically realistic within the constraints of a rigid body approximation. We developed locomotion control algorithms that allow the model to run at a variety of speeds and turn to face in an arbitrary direction on the plane. The realism of the simulation is evaluated by comparing the computed motion to that of humans performing similar maneuvers. We perform the comparison qualitatively with real video images and quantitatively with biomechanical data.
A situation-based approach to approximate truth

The authors have been exploring an alternative approach to fuzzy logic which preserves the standard conception of set membership. Similarity between situations is used to construct a theory of approximate truth. The theory is embedded in a first-order logical framework, and an attempt is made to provide an intuitive understanding of its leading ideas. An algorithm is described for determining the approximate truth-value of predicate logic sentences in a given situation. >
Long Memory Processes ( 1 / f α Type) in Human Coordination

The wide occurrence of 1yf a type of long memory (long range correlated) processes in electrical systems and in solid state devices has long posed a challenging problem for physics [1]. A number of mechanisms, ranging from the superposition of many independent relaxation processes [2] to self-organized criticality [3], are proffered to explain this phenomenon. In this Letter we report the manifestation of long memory processes in a human sensorimotor coordination experiment in which a subject synchronizes his finger tapping with an external periodic stimulus. Using an array of diagnostic tools including rescaled range analysis and the spectral maximum likelihood estimator, we show that the error time series, defined as the time between a predetermined point in the tapping cycle and the onset of the stimulus, exhibits long memory of 1yf a type, and can be modeled as fractional Gaussian noise [4]. The average value of a is found to be about 0.5. This result adds the present human sensorimotor coordination system to a growing list of biological examples in which one observes long range correlated random fluctuations [5‐ 7]. In addition, we report our attempt at modeling the experimental findings using stochastic delay differential equations. Our motivation is to present a unifying mechanism for a diverse set of long memory processes, observed under a variety of sensorimotor conditions [7], by incorporating both the inevitable occurrence of noise (white) in the nervous system and delay feedback networks involved in controlling the motor output. Experiment and data collection.—Five right-handed male subjects ranging in age from 25 to 35 took part in the synchronization experiment. Seated in a sound attenuated chamber, each subject was instructed to cyclically press his index finger against a computer key in synchrony with a periodic series of auditory beeps, delivered through a headphone. Two frequency conditions, F1 › 2 Hz (T1 › 500 ms) and F2 › 1.25 Hz (T2 › 800 ms), were studied. These frequencies were chosen such that the subject was able to perform the required tapping motion continuously
General Aspects and Optimization of Enantioselective Biocatalysis in Organic Solvents: The Use of Lipases [New Synthetic Methods (76)]

Enantioselective biocatalysis in nonaqueous media is becoming increasingly important in preparative synthetic chemistry. This article discusses (1) the general catalytic properties of enzymes in nonaqueous environments, (2) the basic principles that govern lipase-catalyzed enantioselective esterification and transesterification reactions in organic media for the preparation of optically active acids and alcohols, (3) the determination of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters, and (4) the quantitative analysis of published data.
Tutorial: temperature as an input to microelectronics-reliability models

This tutorial discusses various modeling methodologies for temperature acceleration of microelectronic-device failures; there are situations in which some methodologies give-misleading results. The aim is to raise the level of understanding of the impact of temperature on reliability and to define the objectives of physics-based temperature modeling. There are alternatives to both the Arrhenius relation and the MilHdbk-217 approach to reliability. In Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia, a physics-of-failure approach is used by most companies. Philips in the Netherlands and the CADMP Alliance in the USA have developed methods and software to conduct physics-based reliability assessments.
Changes in Swallowing-Related Quality of Life after Parathyroidectomy for Hyperparathyroidism: A Prospective Cohort Study

Objective.To prospectively evaluate the impact of parathyroidectomy on swallowing-related quality of life using the Swallowing Quality Of Life (SWAL-QOL) validated outcomes assessment tool. Background. Many patients with primary hyperparathyroidism report nonspecific symptoms, such as fatigue, irritability, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, and dysphagia. To date, there have been no prospective studies evaluating swallowing function before and after parathyroid surgery. Methods. Patients undergoing parathyroidectomy from September 2007 to January 2009 completed the SWALQOL questionnaire before and one year after surgery. Data were collected on demographic and clinicopathologic variables. Comparisons were made to determine the effect of surgery on patients’ perceptions of swallowing function. Results. Of 151 eligible patients, 102 (68%) completed the study. The mean patient age was 60 years, and 79% werefemale.Atotalof73patients(67%)hadminimallyinvasive parathyroidectomies, whereas the remainder had bilateral explorations. In all, 83 patients (81%) had a parathyroid adenoma, 16 patients (16%) had hyperplasia, and 3 patients (3%) had a double adenoma on final pathologic interpretation. Mean preoperative SWAL-QOL scores were<90for4ofthe11domains,indicatingtheperception of oropharyngeal dysphagia and diminished quality of life. Following parathyroidectomy, significant improvements were demonstrated in eight SWAL-QOL domains. Conclusions. Many patients with parathyroid disease have the perception of abnormal swallowing function. In these patients with symptoms of dysphagia, parathyroid surgery leads to significant improvements in many aspects of swallowing-related quality of life measured by the SWAL-QOL instrument. This study represents the first useofacondition-specificinstrumenttoassessswallowingrelated quality of life for patients with parathyroid disease before and after parathyroid surgery. The Oncologist 2012; 17:000–000
Leaders or Managers: Who Will Define a New Vision for Dental Education?

Leaders and managers are vital to any organization; however, each possesses intrinsic characteristics ideally suited to produce entirely different outcomes. Modern dental education finds itself in a predicament as it assesses new ways to meet the ever-changing demands of its profession and the superimposed mega-issues and global concerns of the new millennium—all competing in an organization and curriculum imprisoned in the first two-thirds of the twentieth century. The purpose of this article is to highlight the role of leadership in dentistry and more specifically dental education. It compares and contrasts charac - teristics commonly found in leaders who seek long-term, outward-looking organizational changes and managers who work with short-term, inward-looking changes. Both are needed in dental education; however, only leaders can provide a clear vision of our future. Having leaders will allow dental education to begin to address its professional and educational challenges not only today, but in the decades to come.
Development of a plant bioassay to assess toxicity of chemical stressors to emergent macrophytes

A static renewal bioassay has been proposed to evaluate the effects of chemical stressors on the growth of emergent macrophytes. Bioassay methods were developed using Oryza sativa L. (domestic rice) as the test species and boron as the test compound. After culturing O. sativa in a natural sediment for 2 weeks, the plants were continuously exposed to various concentrations of boron dissolved in the dilution water. At the end of the exposure period the plants were evaluated. Endpoints included visual observations, dry weight, residue, and chlorophyll concentration in the leaf tissue. Dose-response relationships were established for each endpoint; however, dry weight appears to be the least sensitive endpoint. Exposure duration also significantly influenced toxic values. The bioassay procedure was then used to screen several other emergent macrophytes for toxicity to boron. Visual observations and residue indicated treatment differences for each of these species; however, dry weight and chlorophyll concentration did not confirm the differences. Oryza sativa plants exposed to water naturally contaminated with boron accumulated similar concentrations of boron in their leaf tissue as plants exposed to laboratory-prepared solutions of boron. Based on the data presented here, this bioassay appears to be useful in evaluating the potential toxicity of chemicalmore » stressors to emergent macrophytes.« less
Recursion and complexity

My purpose in this lecture is to explain how the representation of algorithms by recursive programs can be used in complexity theory, especially in the derivation of lower bounds for worst-case time complexity, which apply to all—or, at least, a very large class of—algorithms. It may be argued that recursive programs are not a new computational paradigm, since their manifestation as Herbrand-Godel-Kleene systems was present at the very beginning of the modern theory of computability, in 1934. But they have been dissed as tools for complexity analysis, and part of my mission here is to rehabilitate them.
An elaborate pathway required for Ras-mediated epigenetic silencing

A genome-wide RNAi screen identifies several genes required for Ras-mediated epigenetic silencing that encode cell signalling molecules, chromatin modifiers, transcriptional activators and repressors, and the DNA methyltransferase DNMT1. The conversion of a normal cell to a cancer cell occurs in several steps and typically involves the activation of oncogenes and the inactivation of tumour suppressor and pro-apoptotic genes1. In many instances, inactivation of genes critical for cancer development occurs by epigenetic silencing, often involving hypermethylation of CpG-rich promoter regions2,3. It remains to be determined whether silencing occurs by random acquisition of epigenetic marks that confer a selective growth advantage or through a specific pathway initiated by an oncogene4,5,6. Here we perform a genome-wide RNA interference (RNAi) screen in K-ras-transformed NIH 3T3 cells and identify 28 genes required for Ras-mediated epigenetic silencing of the pro-apoptotic Fas gene. At least nine of these RESEs (Ras epigenetic silencing effectors), including the DNA methyltransferase DNMT1, are directly associated with specific regions of the Fas promoter in K-ras-transformed NIH 3T3 cells but not in untransformed NIH 3T3 cells. RNAi-mediated knockdown of any of the 28 RESEs results in failure to recruit DNMT1 to the Fas promoter, loss of Fas promoter hypermethylation, and derepression of Fas expression. Analysis of five other epigenetically repressed genes indicates that Ras directs the silencing of multiple unrelated genes through a largely common pathway. Last, we show that nine RESEs are required for anchorage-independent growth and tumorigenicity of K-ras-transformed NIH 3T3 cells; these nine genes have not previously been implicated in transformation by Ras. Our results show that Ras-mediated epigenetic silencing occurs through a specific, complex, pathway involving components that are required for maintenance of a fully transformed phenotype.
Macro- and Microstructural Magnetic Resonance Imaging Indices Associated With Diabetes Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

OBJECTIVE To better understand the association between diabetes and cognitive impairment, we evaluated macro- and microstructural brain MRI measures for the total brain and regions of interest (ROIs) in a group of community-dwelling elders with and without diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS MRI measures were obtained on 308 elders (mean age 83.3 years; n = 85 with diabetes) from the Health ABC Healthy Brain Substudy. We performed a series of linear regressions and used standardized β values to estimate the cross-sectional association between diabetes and macrostructural (gray matter volume [GMV] and white matter hyperintensities [WMHs]) and microstructural (mean diffusivity [MD] and fractional anisotropy [FA]) measures for the total brain and ROIs. Models were adjusted for age, race, and sex; GMV values for ROIs were also adjusted for total brain volume (TBV). RESULTS In multivariate-adjusted models, diabetes was associated with lower total GMV ( P = 0.0006), GMV in the putamen ( P = 0.02 for left and right), and TBV ( P = 0.04) and greater cerebral atrophy ( P = 0.02). There was no association with WMHs. On microstructural measures, diabetes was associated with reduced FA for total white matter ( P = 0.006) and greater MD for the hippocampus ( P = 0.006 left; P = 0.01 right), dorsolateral prefrontal cortex ( P = 0.0007, left; P = 0.002, right), left posterior cingulate ( P = 0.02), and right putamen ( P = 0.02). Further adjustment for stroke, hypertension, and myocardial infarction produced similar results. CONCLUSIONS In this cross-sectional study, elders with diabetes compared with those without had greater brain atrophy and early signs of neurodegeneration. Further studies are needed to determine whether these structural changes associated with diabetes predict risk of cognitive decline.
Oxidative degradation of 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin by microorganisms

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) was metabolized by pure cultures of Nocardiopsis spp. and Bacillus megaterium. The degree of metabolism was strongly dependent on the solvent used, with ethyl acetate giving the best results. TCDD metabolism by B. megaterium increased when the concentration of soybean extract was reduced from 1.6% to 0.8%. Two TCDD-degrading bacteria were isolated from farm soil that consistently showed a low level of TCDD-degrading activity.
Dissecting the heterogeneity of rheumatoid arthritis through linkage analysis of quantitative traits.

Objective To dissect the heterogeneity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through linkage analysis of quantitative traits, specifically, IgM rheumatoid factor (IgM-RF) and anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) autoantibody titers. Methods Subjects, 1,002 RA patients from 491 multiplex families recruited by the North American RA Consortium, were typed for 379 microsatellite markers. Anti-CCP titers were determined based on a second-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and IgM-RF levels were quantified by immunonephelometry. We used the Merlin statistical package to perform nonparametric quantitative trait linkage analysis. Results For each of the quantitative traits, evidence of linkage, with logarithm of odds (LOD) scores of >1.0, was found in 9 regions. For both traits, the strongest evidence of linkage was for marker D6S1629 on chromosome 6p (LOD 14.02 for anti-CCP and LOD 12.09 for RF). Six other regions with LOD scores of >1.0 overlapped between the 2 traits, on chromosomes 1p21.1, 5q15, 8p23.1, 16p12.1, 16q23.1, and 18q21.31. Evidence of linkage to anti-CCP titer but not to RF titer was found in 2 regions (chromosomes 9p21.3 and 10q21.1), and evidence of linkage to RF titer but not to anti-CCP titer was found in 2 regions (chromosomes 5p15.2 and 1q42.3). Several covariates were significantly associated with 1 or both traits, and linkage analysis exploring the covariate effects revealed striking effects of sex in modulating linkage signals for several chromosomal regions. For example, sex had a striking impact on the linkage results for both quantitative traits on chromosome 6p (P = 0.0007 for anti-CCP titer and P = 0.0012 for RF titer), suggesting a sex–HLA region interaction. Conclusion Analysis of quantitative components of RA is a promising approach for dissecting the genetic heterogeneity of this complex disorder. These results highlight the potential importance of sex or other covariates that may modulate some of the genetic effects that influence the risk of specific disease manifestations.
CELL CONTACT REFORMATION OF DISSOCIATED CELLS FROM EMBRYONIC CELLS OF STRONGYLOCENTROTUS PURPURATUS

Disaggregated single cells from the gastrula of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus were studied as they reaggregated and reformed quasi-normal embryos. In this investigation emphasis was placed on the structural events involved during the reformation of cell contacts vis-a-vis cell migration. The early cell contacts are non-junctional cell appositions, which are characterized by non-parallel apposing membranes. Between post-migratory epithelial cells, there is a shift from non-parallel to parallel apposing membranes. These cell appositions are found between the overlapping lamellapodia along the apical margins of the epithelial cells during blastocoel enlargement. Incipient continuous junctions are formed by the deposition of an electron dense material in the intermembrane space. As the junction develops, electron dense plaques form in the cytoplasm immediately subjacent to the junction and septa form between the apposing membranes.
A note on the parasitisation of the pupa of Glossina palpalis (R.-D.) by Anastatus Motsch. sp. (Hym., Eupelmidae)

Anastatus sp. (Eupelmidae) is recorded for the first time parasitising a puparium of Glossina palpalis (R.-D.) in West Africa. Hitherto, the only records of Eupelmids parasitising tsetse flies have been of A. viridiceps Wtstn. and Eupelmella tarsata (Wtstn.) from G. morsitans Westw. in eastern and southern Africa. The parasite emerged through a large hole anterior to the polypneustic lobes. Parasitic Eupelmids do not normally utilise tsetse flies as hosts.
Role of Thailand Remote Sensing Center in data service for global environment monitoring

Thailand Remote Sensing Center (TRSC) has operated a ground receiving station since late 1981 with the capability of acquiring Landsat MSS data and the high resolution Landsat TM and SPOT HRV data since 1987. TRSC presently has a large archive which can serve users worldwide. Since the user community is steadily increasing, multi-level satellite data is therefore needed. TRSC has tried its best to fulfil this requirement. In mid-1992, TRSC completed a system to receive NOAA-AVHRR data, and in December 1992, in the cooperation with the European Community, Thailand ground station was able to acquire SAR ERS-1 data. Moreover, the Japanese JERS-1 data will also be available in the very near future. The multi-level satellite data from TRSC can be used in many multi-disciplinary applications especially global environment monitoring. >
A parser generation tool for micro-computers

An automated tool to generate fast parsers for a variety of micro-computers has been developed and tested using two modern languages, Pascal and C. We use the LALR(I) technology with some new techniques to realize considerable space savings. Parse tables and lexical scanner tables for Pascal and C occupy only about 2K of 8-bit bytes. The algorithms to drive these tables require another 2K when the 8080 micro-processor is used.
Aided and automatic target recognition based upon sensory inputs from image forming systems

This paper systematically reviews 10 years of research that several Army Laboratories conducted in object recognition algorithms, processors, and evaluation techniques. In the military, object recognition is applied to the discrimination of military targets, ranging from human-aided to autonomous operations, and is called automatic target recognition (ATR). The research described here has been concentrated in human-aided target recognition applications, but some attention has been paid to automatic processes. Definitions and performance metrics that have been developed are described along with performance data showing the present state-of-the-art. The effects of signal-to-noise and clutter parameters are indicated in the data. Multisensor fusion and model-based algorithms are discussed as the latest techniques under consideration by the military research community. The results demonstrate that useful performance can be achieved, and tools are evolving to understand and improve the performance under real-world conditions. The referenced research strongly indicates the need for the development of image science, as described in the paper, to support the theoretical underpinnings of ATR.
Simplified modeling of thermal storage tank for distributed energy heat recovery applications

A simplified mathematical model was developed to analyze a storage tank containing a stationary fluid with hot and cold heat exchanger coils. The model is to be used as a screening tool for determining tank size and configurations for operation with a given power generation unit in a combined cooling, heating and power (CCHP) system. As such, the model was formulated so that it requires minimal information about the thermo-physical properties of the fluids and design parameters in order to determine the temperature profiles of the stored fluid and the heat transfer fluid for turbulent flow inside the heat exchangers. The presented model is implemented computationally with varying number of nodes, before comparing it with a more detailed model that take into account the variation of thermo-physical properties, as well as the effects of thermal de-stratification and heat loss to the ambient. The simplified model provided accurate temperature predictions that could subsequently be used to design a stratified tank system for a given CCHP application.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Hot photocarrier dynamics in organic solar cells

An optically excited electrical current flows through an organic solar cell by charge transfer between electron donors and acceptors. Here, the authors use terahertz photoconductivity measurements to show that any energy in excess of that needed to create these carriers can influence charge mobility
Failure Identification for Mission Analysis for Complex Systems

This paper presents a new method for complex system failure analysis that provides both an overall failure analysis on a system’s functionality as well as a mission-based failure analysis. The Failure Identification for Complex Mission Analysis (FICMA) method presented here uses physics-based governing equations to identify the system’s overall behavior during both nominal and faulty conditions. The FICMA method is unique in that it first identifies a specific failure, or combination of failures, within a system and determines how each failure scenario will affect the system’s overall functional capabilities. Then, FICMA uses this failure information to assess and optimize various mission plans that the system may be asked to perform. The FICMA method is designed to identify all potential functional failures of a given system, and then, depending on the types of failures that have occurred, to identify the optimal functional approach needed to successfully complete its current mission. First, the FICMA method employs MATLAB/Simulink software along with multiple unique metrics to simulate various potential failure scenarios. Then, based on how these failure scenarios affect the functionality of the system components, the mission plans are automatically optimized. This optimization is based on finding the mission plan that experiences the fewest total effects from a given failure scenario, i.e. the most robust mission plans. Also, by using the FICMA method, each component of a system can be simulated anywhere from 0–100% of its original functionality without the specific failure mechanisms being required, which allows for this method to be implemented early in the design process while still providing valuable and unique failure information. To demonstrate this new method, a theoretical case study of a 3-linkage robot arm was chosen. Through simulations of multiple failure scenarios and mission plans, the FICMA method’s unique assessment and optimization techniques will demonstrate how to determine the optimal plan for completing a mission after a failure scenario has occurred.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Critical security history and Hiroshima

This essay re-examines the causal narratives that surround ‘Hiroshima’ that engage the United States and its sense of Self. It calls for a critical security history (CSH) to engage such narratives and their causal logics that not only shape collective memory, but also the political landscapes of the present day.
Cosmetic Surgical Procedures for the Body

As the popularity of cosmetic surgery has grown, so has the literature on the pre- and postoperative psychological characteristics of patients. Most of the research in this area has been conducted on women who undergo cosmetic breast augmentation. Lipoplasty and abdominoplasty are common procedures, but the psychological characteristics of the patients who underwent these procedures have been studied with less frequency. This article focuses on these cosmetic procedures of the body. Other body enhancement procedures such as body contouring implants and ‘genital enhancement’ surgery are briefly discussed. This article concludes with a discussion of the relationship between psychopathology and cosmetic surgeries of the body.
Current Role and Future Directions of Hybrid Repair of Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Hybrid procedures were introduced as a less invasive alternative to open conventional repair, avoiding thoracotomy, single-lung ventilation, and in many patients, aortic cross-clamping. Despite these potential advantages over open repair, results of hybrid repair have varied in the literature, with several reports indicating high morbidity and mortality rates. It is likely that once fenestrated and branched endografts receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration for clinical use, indications for hybrid repair of complex aortic aneurysms will further diminish. This article summarizes the current state of the art on patient selection, techniques, and results of hybrid procedures for the treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
Loss of algicidal chemicals in swimming pools.

An interest in the field of algicides for swimming pools has led to a survey of the problems involved in this field. A study of the bactericidal and algicidal properties of some of the chemicals used has been reported (Fitzgerald, 1959) in which it was pointed out that some of the products available show remarkable properties in laboratory tests. The present studies demonstrate how the activity of some chemicals used in swimming pools for algicidal purposes can be affected by the physical and chemical conditions in the swimming pool environment and management. The factors that have been considered are the adsorptive properties of diatomaceous filter media and the precipitation of copper compounds under different conditions in the water. From an understanding of the problems involved in the maintenance of algicidal conditions in swimming pools, it is hoped that the need for the proper application of the excellent algicides available will be appreciated.
Effect of Health Education on Improvement of Walking Safety among Children

[Objective]To observe the effect of health education on improving walking safety among children,to explore the content and teaching materials of preventing children damage,and provide a theoretical basis on improving children injury prevention awareness and self-protection ability. [Methods]A total of 500 children from 2 primary schools were randomly selected for self-designed questionnaire survey.The knowledge of walking safety,degree of following safety behavior and injury occurrences were investigated before and 1 month,1year after health education intervention about child pedestrian safety. [Results]After the health education,the knowledge of walking safety,including recognizing and obeying traffic signals,crossing the roads when waiting at crossroads and getting off the car were increased significantly(P0.05),the dangerous behaviors such as pushing each other into the roads,or running across roads without looking were significantly decreased(P0.05),the injury occurrences like crashing with vehicles or the non-motorized were significantly decreased(P0.05).One year after health education,the knowledge of walking safety was still at a high level.Yet there was no significant difference in the degree of following safety behavior and the injury occurrences compared with those data before health education(P0.05). [Conclusion]The short-term effect of health education on walking safety among children is obvious,yet it is necessary to innovative forms and content of health education,and carry it out regularly for long-term goals.
Estimation of the tumor size at cure threshold among aggressive non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs): evidence from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) program and the national lung screening trial (NLST).

The National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) demonstrated that non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) mortality can be reduced by a program of annual CT screening in high-risk individuals. However, CT screening regimens and adherence vary, potentially impacting the lung cancer mortality benefit. We defined the NSCLC cure threshold as the maximum tumor size at which a given NSCLC would be curable due to early detection. We obtained data from 518,234 NSCLCs documented in the U.S. SEER cancer registry between 1988 and 2012 and 1769 NSCLCs detected in the NLST. We demonstrated mathematically that the distribution function governing the cure threshold for the most aggressive NSCLCs, G(x|Φ = 1), was embedded in the probability function governing detection of SEER-documented NSCLCs. We determined the resulting probability functions governing detection over a range of G(x|Φ = 1) scenarios and compared them with their expected functional forms. We constructed a simulation framework to determine the cure threshold models most consistent with tumor sizes and outcomes documented in SEER and the NLST. Whereas the median tumor size for lethal NSCLCs documented in SEER is 43 mm (males) and 40 mm (females), a simulation model in which the median cure threshold for the most aggressive NSCLCs is 10 mm (males) and 15 mm (females) best fit the SEER and NLST data. The majority of NSCLCs in the NLST were treated at sizes greater than our median cure threshold estimates. New technology is needed to better distinguish and treat the most aggressive NSCLCs when they are small (i.e., 5-15 mm).
The Audiologic Evaluation of Cerebellopontine Angle Tumor Suspects: A Review of Tumor and Non-Tumor Suspects:

In an initial study from January 1981 through December 1983, audiologic data were gathered on 41 patients with proven cerebellopontine angle (CPA) tumors and 82 tumor suspects who revealed no tumor...
Noise Separation and MDL Modeling of Chaotic Processes

The noise separation problem is one in which observed data are expressed as the sum of two parts, a ‘smooth’ signal generated by a chaotic dynamical system, and the ‘noise’. The optimally smooth signal is defined as that chaotic process which permits encoding of the observed data, including the signal generating dynamical system and the noise distribution, with the fewest number of bits. A numerical solution is described, where successive approximations are computed with a powerful algorithm Context, capable of recovering any Markov process from the data it generates.
Delay dependent stability of scalar discrete delay systems

Abstract Necessary and sufficient conditions for the delay dependent stability of a linear difference-delay equation are derived. In particular, the delay dependent stability of a scalar delay delay system is related to the existence of a positive Markov parameter sequence for an associated fixed second order system.
Functional Evolution of Gastrointestinal Hormones

The gastrointestinal tracts of vertebrates are useful systems in which to study the functional evolution of chemical regulatory systems because they provide a rich substrate of anatomical and physiological variability upon which selection pressures may act. The physiological problem of acquiring food and rendering it usable by incorporating it into the body of the organism is fundamental to all forms of life. Food is not available for nutrition until it has been absorbed across the wall of the intestine and enters the circulatory system. Topographically, food in the intestinal lumen is outside of the body. Vertebrates, including primitive fishes, have evolved systems for ensuring that ingested foods are processed efficiently in the various regions of the gut so that they are available at the appropriate times, in the appropriate gut segments, and in the appropriate chemical and physical forms to be absorbed and serve as the nutrients required for supporting the metabolic and behavioral activities of the organism.
PÉREZ ARRAIZ, Javier. La prueba en los procedimientos tributarios tras la aprobación de la nueva Ley General Tributaria (Ley 58/2003, de 17 de diciembre), Bilbao Servicio Editorial, Universidad del País Vasco / Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, España, 2010.

PEREZ ARRAIZ, Javier. La prueba en los procedimientos tributarios tras la aprobacion de la nueva Ley General Tributaria (Ley 58/2003, de 17 de diciembre), Bilbao Servicio Editorial, Universidad del Pais Vasco / Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Espana, 2010, 171 paginas.
Design of Non-Deterministic Quasi-random Nanophotonic Structures Using Fourier Space Representations

Despite their seemingly random appearances in the real space, quasi-random nanophotonic structures exhibit distinct structural correlations and have been widely utilized for effective photon management. However, current design approaches mainly rely on the deterministic representations consisting two-dimensional (2D) discretized patterns in the real space. They fail to capture the inherent non-deterministic characteristic of the quasi-random structures and inevitably result in a large design dimensionality. Here, we report a new design approach that employs the one-dimensional (1D) spectral density function (SDF) as the unique representation of non-deterministic quasi-random structures in the Fourier space with greatly reduced design dimensionality. One 1D SDF representation can be used to generate infinite sets of real space structures in 2D with equally optimized performance, which was further validated experimentally using light-trapping structures in a thin film absorber as a model system. The optimized non-deterministic quasi-random nanostructures improve the broadband absorption by 225% over the unpatterned cell.
Thermal-fluids laboratory project: first and second law analysis of a thermoelectric cooler

A thermal engineering laboratory/design project is presented .The objective of the project was toconstruct an experiment to measure the performance of a heat pump based on first and second lawprinciples .A thermoelectric device drove the heat pump .A student lab group selected, analyzed,designed, planned, built, instrumented, and tested this experiment .The students calculated thecoefficient of performance of the system and compared it to the Carnot COP .In addition theycalculated a second law efficiency based on entropy generation .The aim of this senior levellaboratory project was not only to strengthen their understanding of principles, but also to initiatecritical thinking on their own .The experiment was a success, because they applied knowledge fromtheir undergraduate education: thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, electric circuits,instrumentation and design principles.
The Environmental Legacies of Colonialism in the Northern Neotropics: Introduction to the Special Issue

The arrival and settlement of Europeans throughout the Americas led to unprecedented demographic and environmental transformations (Crosby 2003). The voluntary and forced migration of peoples from ...
Allosteric Coupling of Drug Binding and Intracellular Signaling in the A2A Adenosine Receptor

Summary Signaling across cellular membranes, the 826 human G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) govern a wide range of vital physiological processes, making GPCRs prominent drug targets. X-ray crystallography provided GPCR molecular architectures, which also revealed the need for additional structural dynamics data to support drug development. Here, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with the wild-type-like A 2A adenosine receptor (A 2A AR) in solution provides a comprehensive characterization of signaling-related structural dynamics. All six tryptophan indole and eight glycine backbone 15 N– 1 H NMR signals in A 2A AR were individually assigned. These NMR probes provided insight into the role of Asp52 2.50 as an allosteric link between the orthosteric drug binding site and the intracellular signaling surface, revealing strong interactions with the toggle switch Trp 246 6.48 , and delineated the structural response to variable efficacy of bound drugs across A 2A AR. The present data support GPCR signaling based on dynamic interactions between two semi-independent subdomains connected by an allosteric switch at Asp52 2.50 .
Best Friends for Now: Friendship Network Stability and Adolescents’ Life Course Goals

Finishing school and starting a family are among the most important life goals for young adults, with long term consequences for the life course. The cultural transmission of these goals is so widespread as to be nearly universal. Yet some adolescents fail to embrace them. This chapter advances the argument that the stability of friendship networks is positively related to the adoption of these life goals. The authors test this hypothesis using a large longitudinal social network study of middle and high school students. The chapter reports results indicating that youth who sustain friendships over time are relatively uncommon, and that friendship network stability is robustly and positively associated with educational and familial aspirations.
Journeys Beyond the Ivory Tower: Building Bridges Between Academia and K-12 Classrooms

In this opening, Kathy Cabe Trundle, President of the Association of Science Teacher Education, provides an invitation to the reader, raising interest in these writings on science teacher educators in K-12 science teaching roles. Dr. Trundle affirms the importance of this book in relation to current reform initiatives, science teacher education, and the ongoing professional development of the contributing authors.
Chronic Hemolytic Anemia Due to Cold Agglutinins: A 20-Year History of Benign Gammopathy With Response to Chlorambucil

A male, 47, developed chronic hemolytic anemia in association with high titers of cold agglutinins in 1966. His symptoms of the cold agglutinin syndrome began in 1951 with cyanosis of the extremities and face after exposure to cold. In 1956, hemoglobinuria was first noted after chilling. In 1962, the cold agglutinin titer was 1:16,000, and his red cells were coated with complement globulins. In 1966, he developed chronic hemolytic anemia and a macroglobulin M component appeared in the serum protein electrophoresis. The titer of cold agglutinins was 1:64,000. The hemolytic anemia responded to chlorambucil with a decrease in cold agglutinin titer and the level of macroglobulin. Serum complement (C) values returned toward normal. Cessation of chlorambucil was followed by relapse. There was a second response to chlorambucil, but reactivation of the hemolytic anemia occurred following a respiratory infection, despite the reduced titer of cold agglutinin. Chlorambucil was discontinued and has not been administered since. There have been remissions and exacerbations of the hemolytic anemia and a return of the macroglobulin and cold agglutinins toward pretreatment levels. During the past 2 yr there has been spontaneous improvement in his symptoms, and the level of macroglobulin has decreased. Despite the appearance of a monoclonal macroglobulin having kappa light chain and with cold agglutinin activity, there is reason to classify his abnormal immunoglobulin production as benign.
Solving the Weighted Parity Problem for Gammoids by Reduction to Graphic Matching

It is shown that the weighted parity problem for gammoids, with matching and transversal matroids as special cases, can be reduced to the weighted graphic matching problem. Since the cycle matroids of a series parallel graph is a gammoid, this means that it is possible to solve the weighted parity problem for the cycle matroid of a series parallel graph by graphic matching.
Navigating for Noah: Setting New Directions for Endangered Species Protection in the 21st Century

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) recognizes the impact of human activities on animals and plants and expresses Congress’ intent to halt extinction and restore species to their natural abundance. Although the goals of the ESA include conserving the ecosystems upon which endangered species depend, none of the statute’s implementation provisions directly address ecosystem protection. Rather, they are focused on the individual species themselves. Saving species one at a time is not a successful strategy for saving wildlife, especially in the face of climate change. Habitat loss is the primary threat to species; habitat conservation is the best way to address the problem of species extinction. Vitalizing the ecosystem goal of the ESA and creating a biological diversity land conservation system in the United States are two ways to assure long term species survival.
Conductive Polymer Protonated Nanocellulose Aerogels for Tunable and Linearly Responsive Strain Sensors

Strong and highly conductive aerogels have been assembled from cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) protonated with conductive poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) complex at equal mass or less. Protonating CNF surface carboxylates and hydrogen-bonding CNF surface carboxyls with PSS in PEDOT/PSS generated PEDOT/PSS/CNF aerogels that were up to ten times stronger while as conductive as neat PEDOT/PSS aerogel, attributed to the transformation of PEDOT benzoid structure to the more electron transfer-preferred quinoid structure. Ethylene glycol vapor annealing further increased the conductivity of PEDOT/PSS/CNF aerogels by 2 orders of magnitude. The poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)-infused conductive PEDOT/PSS/CNF aerogel (70 wt % CNF) transform a resistance-insensitive PDMS-infused PEDOT/PSS aerogel (gauge factor of 1.1 × 10-4) into a stretchable, sensitive, and linearly responsive strain sensor (gauge factor of 14.8 at 95% strain).
Spatiotemporal patterns of forest damage and disturbance in the northeastern United States: 2000–2016

Abstract Forest damage and disturbance can have significant influences on tree vigor, species composition, biodiversity, and associated ecosystem services. Recognizing the importance of monitoring spatiotemporal patterns of forest health, federal and state agencies in the United States (US) have conducted aerial insect and disease surveys (IDS) annually to quantify the extent of forest damage by type and causal agent. Although agencies have collected these geospatial data for decades, long-term trends and patterns have not been synthesized across the predominantly forested region of northern New England and New York. Here, we utilized a novel, online forest damage and disturbance mapping portal, the Northeastern Forest Health Atlas, to investigate inter-annual and long-term patterns (2000–2016). Our analysis indicated that ∼11.0 million ha of forestland (10% of the study region) experienced at least one damage event (i.e., an IDS polygon) over the 17-year period, averaging 647,425 ± 215,482 ha (3.4 ± 1.1% of the region’s forestland) annually. While there were no detectable linear, long-term trends in annual extent or relative abundance of damage by agent category, we found that some ecoregions experienced relatively higher damage rates (e.g., Acadian Plains and Hills, Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens). Across the region, insects were the most extensive damage agent category mapped (∼8 million ha), with a relatively small number of invasive insects (19 species) accounting for half of this damage. Because climate change may alter the type, severity, and frequency of forest disturbance, quantifying baseline patterns of forest damage is critical for detecting shifts in forest dynamics and developing adaptive management strategies.