cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Correlation between liver histology and novel magnetic resonance imaging in adult patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease - MRI accurately quantifies hepatic steatosis in NAFLD.

SummaryBackground Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques that measure hepatic steatosis are limited by T1 bias, T2* decay and multi-frequency signal-interference effects of protons in fat. Newer MR techniques such as the proton density-fat fraction (PDFF) that correct for these factors have not been specifically compared to liver biopsy in adult patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Aim To examine the association between MRI-determined PDFF and histology-determined steatosis grade, and their association with fibrosis. Methods A total of 51 adult patients with biopsy-confirmed NAFLD underwent metabolic-biochemical profiling, MRI-determined PDFF measurement of hepatic steatosis and liver biopsy assessment according to NASH-CRN histological scoring system. Results The average MRI-determined PDFF increased significantly with increasing histology-determined steatosis grade: 8.9% at grade-1, 16.3% at grade-2, and 25.0% at grade-3 with P ≤ 0.0001 (correlation: r2 = 0.56, P < 0.0001). Patients with stage-4 fibrosis, when compared with patients with stage 0–3 fibrosis, had significantly lower hepatic steatosis by both MRI-determined PDFF (7.6% vs. 17.8%, P < 0.005) and histology-determined steatosis grade (1.4 vs. 2.2, P < 0.05). NAFLD patients with grade 1 steatosis were more likely to have characteristics of advanced liver disease including higher average AST:ALT (0.87 vs. 0.60, P < 0.02), GGT (140 vs. 67, P < 0.01), and INR (1.06 vs. 0.99, P < 0.01), higher stage of fibrosis and hepatocellular ballooning. Conclusions MRI-determined proton density-fat fraction correlates with histology-determined steatosis grade in adults with NAFLD. Steatosis is non-linearly related to fibrosis progression. In patients with NAFLD, a low amount of hepatic steatosis on imaging does not necessarily indicate mild disease.
The Sytek to Ethernet IP-router: an example of how to incorporate a connection-oriented LAN into an internet

A project was conceived to research and develop gateway systems which will help incorporate new LANs into the campus internet. The research presented is from the first stage of this project, which involved the design, development, implementation and testing of a generic gateway prototype to incorporate a selected campus LAN into the campus internet. The candidate LAN selected was the University of Arizona Sytek broadband network, which includes the Sytek LocalNet 20 and System 2000 networks. How this connection-oriented LAN was incorporated into an IP internet using a router is outlined. >
Conductance of tetra-ehtylammonium and sodium trifluoracetate and trifluoracetic acid in acetonitrile solutions

Conductance data for tetra-ethylammonium trifluoracetate in acetonitrile yield a limiting conductance of 183.5 and an ion-pair dissociation constant of 7 × 10−3. At electrolyte concentrations above about 3 × 10−4 normal, however, the data deviate extensively from prediction for simple dissociation, probably because of triple-ion formation. Conductance data on trifluoracetic acid yield an acid dissociation constant of 4 × 10−8 and prove that the anomalies in data for Et4NTFA are not caused by hydrolysis of the TFA− anion. Data on sodium trifluoracetate, Kd = 1 × 10−3 and Λ0 = 176.1 ± 0.6, show no triple-ion formation and consequently suggest that the negative triple ion is formed in Et4NTFA solutions.
Oceans measurements for engineering design

Oceans Ltd. will present the technology being used to collect current and wave data offshore Newfoundland. The company has designed a data transmission system where current data collected by ADCP's are transmitted acoustically to the surface by acoustic modems to a telemetry buoy which retransmits the data via RF communication link to the oil drilling platforms. The advantage and challenges of this system will be presented. The quality of the current data stored in the ADCP's will be discussed with respect to the data gaps and the ocean environment, and the challenges it presents with respect to engineering design. Engineering design criteria also requires good measurements of the wave climate and utilized methodologies such as extremal analysis and peak enhancement factors. These parameters are being modified as more information becomes available.
Using radiation thermography and thermometry to evaluate crop water stress in soybean and cotton

Abstract The use of digital infrared thermography and thermometry to investigate early crop water stress offers a producer improved management tools to avoid yield declines or to deal with variability in crop water status. This study used canopy temperature data to investigate whether an empirical crop water stress index could be used to monitor spatial and temporal crop water stress. Different irrigation treatment amounts (100%, 67%, 33%, and 0% of full replenishment of soil water to field capacity to a depth of 1.5 m) were applied by a center pivot system to soybean ( Glycine max L.) in 2004 and 2005, and to cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) in 2007 and 2008. Canopy temperature data from infrared thermography were used to benchmark the relationship between an empirical crop water stress index (CWSI e ) and leaf water potential ( Ψ L ) across a block of eight treatment plots (of two replications). There was a significant negative linear correlation between midday Ψ L measurements and the CWSI e after soil water differences due to irrigation treatments were well established and during the absence of heavy rainfall. Average seasonal CWSI e values calculated for each plot from temperature measurements made by infrared thermometer thermocouples mounted on a center pivot lateral were inversely related to crop water use with r 2 values >0.89 and 0.55 for soybean and cotton, respectively. There was also a significant inverse relationship between the CWSI e and soybean yields in 2004 ( r 2 = 0.88) and 2005 ( r 2 = 0.83), and cotton in 2007 ( r 2 = 0.78). The correlations were not significant in 2008 for cotton. Contour plots of the CWSI e may be used as maps to indicate the spatial variability of within-field crop water stress. These maps may be useful for irrigation scheduling or identifying areas within a field where water stress may impact crop water use and yield.
Synaptic vesicles really do kiss and run.

Modern consumers realize that recycling is a good practice but that reusing products is even better. Scientists have long debated the relative contributions of vesicle recycling and reuse after neurotransmitter release as well. In the classic mechanism, dubbed ‘allor-none’ exocytosis (Fig. 1a), a synaptic vesicle fuses with the presynaptic membrane and releases its contents into the synapse; the vesicle membrane is then recycled. Alternately, a synaptic vesicle can form a transient fusion pore in the presynaptic membrane and release only part of its contents; in such ‘kiss-and-run’ exocytosis, the vesicle is then reused. In this issue, Staal and coworkers 1 clearly establish that small synaptic vesicles in dopaminergic neurons almost exclusively use the kiss-and-run mechanism of exocytosis.
Reductive dechlorination and degradation of mirex and kepone with vitamin B12s

Vitamin B12s effects the reductive dechlorination of mirex (dechlorane) in protic solvent systems, under both catalytic and stoichiometric conditions, mainly to yield compounds of composition C10Cl12-nHn, with n = 1-8, in which the basic dihomocubane cage structure is retained; the formation of cage-opened, reductively dehalogenated derivatives of 4,7-methanoindene occurs only to a very minor extent. The corresponding reactions of kepone (chlordecone), in contrast, occur with predominant formation of indene derivatives. Under certain mild conditions, vitamin B12s induces a fragmentation of kepone leading to the destruction of the dihomocubane moiety and the formation of an isolable organocobalamin having a C3Cl3H2 residue attached to the cobalt atom. In strongly alkaline media, the reaction of kepone with vitamin B12s may in addition yield high-molecular-weight condensation products of unknown constitution. Reactions of this type are of interest as prototypes of soil-decontamination processes.
Observations of Driver Behavior During Overtaking of Bicycles on Rural Roads

The interaction between motorized and nonmotorized road users has been an issue of contention for many years. Drivers complain that bicyclist behavior ranges from annoying to dangerous to illegal. Bicyclists complain that driver behavior ranges from annoying to dangerous to illegal. Many studies have observed these interactions on urban roads. However, only anecdotal evidence existed for the interactions on rural roads. When looking at driver and bicyclist behavior, specifically during interactions on rural roads, researchers have not had independent data to review. The study underlying this paper collected real-time interaction data between bicycles and motorized vehicles on rural roads, with Dane County, Wisconsin, as a field laboratory. Researchers collected video and sensor data for 1,151 interactions between bicycles and motorized vehicles. This paper provides initial observations drawn from these interactions. This study found that drivers, in fact, operated in a technically unsafe manner by frequently performing passing maneuvers outside designated areas. This study also found that despite the frequent comment from bicyclists that drivers passed too closely, these actions were actually quite rare and accounted for only 0.5% of all the observed interactions (six of 1,151). Drivers were far more likely to give bicyclists more room than required and risked a centerline violation, even when conditions were not safe to do so. Bicycle lanes (paved shoulders) directly affected the likelihood of a driver committing a moving violation, with violation rates four to six times lower when a paved shoulder was available.
Pompholyx and eczematous reactions associated with intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.

Introduction Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is used to treat many inflammatory and autoimmune disorders and although generally well tolerated, cutaneous side effects occur. Objective We reviewed reports of pompholyx and eczematous reactions associated with IVIG. Methods A literature search was performed using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases with the search terms "intravenous immunoglobulin pompholyx," "intravenous immunoglobulin eczema," "intravenous immunoglobulin cutaneous adverse effects," "intravenous immunoglobulin cutaneous effects," "intravenous immunoglobulin skin effects," and "intravenous immunoglobulin adverse effects." Relevant English-language articles or articles in other languages cited in English-language articles were included. Results We identified 64 cases of eczematous reactions associated with IVIG therapy, including a patient treated on our inpatient consult service. In reported cases, the majority of patients (62.5%) had pompholyx alone or a combination of pompholyx on the hands or feet and two or fewer additional body surfaces involved. The majority of reported cases (75%) experienced the eczematous reaction after their first IVIG treatment. Neurologic conditions were the most common (85.9%) diseases for which IVIG was used. Most patients responded well to topical steroids or did not require treatment. Limitations Some reported cases had insufficient descriptions to be included in this review. A literature review may underestimate the frequency of eczematous reactions to IVIG because these reactions are often limited and may not be reported. Conclusions With the use of IVIG increasing, it is important for dermatologists to recognize this cutaneous side effect of IVIG.
The training of house officers in the emergency department

The training of residents and Interns in the Emergency Department has been largely a hit-or-miss matter in most teaching hospitals, according to the results of a study conducted among 467 university-affillated hospitals. Of the 118 Institutions which responded to the survey questionnaire, there was little commonality of training programs for house staff In the Emergency Department. Most interns and residents enter the Emergency Department with little medical school training in the field and find, in the majority of cases, a poorly organized training experience. The study shows that even in hospitals having full-time emergency physicians on duty in the ED, the supervision and review of house staff was not placed in the emergency physicians' control in one-third of the hospitals. The difficulty of providing a worthwhile learning experience without the ability of controlling the teaching environment clearly spells out the need for emergency services to achieve departmental status.
Social desirability response bias as one source of the discrepancy between subjective weights and regression weights

Abstract This study of the judgment process investigated whether social desirability response bias is more closely associated with directly weighted subjective weights than less directly assessed regression weights. Graduating college students indicated their preferences for 11 job characteristics in four different tasks: (a) a statistical weighting task completed honestly, (b) a statistical weighting task completed to “look good” to a recruiter, (c) a subjective weighting task completed honestly, and (d) a subjective weighting task completed to “look good” to a recruiter. Predicted judgments were calculated from the weights obtained in each condition. Pearson correlation coefficients using these predicted judgments were computed between conditions; the relationship between the honest and positive impression predicted judgments derived from subjective weights was significantly greater than the relationship between honest and positive impression predicted judgments derived from regression weights for 19 of 23 participants. It was concluded that social desirability response bias was more closely related to subjective weights than to regression Weights.
Applying the Australian Series system to the management of current records

The Australian Series system is an archival control or metadata system, used primarily to describe records in the custody of archival institutions. However, the article explains how concepts and descriptive model embodied in the system can also be usefully employed to document the content, context and management requirements of current records, including electronic records, at an aggregate level. This can assist in situations where records have been undermanaged, where the functionality of existing systems is limited, or where there are multiple localised systems. The system can be used as a basis to gather and present structured evidence of the need to improve existing practices. It can also assist the management of legacy records, once improved systems have been established.
Digital Total Variation Filtering as Postprocessing for Radial Basis Function Approximation Methods

Digital total variation (DTV) filtering techniques, that originated in the field of image processing, are adapted to postprocess radial basis function approximations of piecewise continuous functions. Through numerical examples, we show that DTV filtering is a fast, robust, postprocessing method that can be used to remove Gibbs oscillations while sharply resolving discontinuities. The method is applicable for arbitrarily located data points. A postprocessing method for scattered data had not been given previously.
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures detected by implantable loop recorder devices: Diagnosing more than cardiac arrhythmias

Background Both syncope and seizures are important causes of recurrent, unexplained episodes of loss of consciousness. Implantable loop recorders have identified serious arrhythmias in patients with repeated syncope; however, implantable loop recorder detection of seizures is less well established. Objectives The purpose of this study was to provide in-depth analysis of a characteristic myopotential pattern recorded by implantable loop recorders during generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Methods Fourteen patients with refractory, video-EEG–documented epilepsy (complex partial, atonic, tonic, or generalized tonic-clonic seizures) underwent implantable loop recorder placement as part of a study protocol evaluating cardiac rhythm abnormalities in patients at high risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. Results Twelve generalized tonic-clonic seizure episodes were detected by the implantable loop recorder in six patients. Implantable loop recorder and EEG recordings of generalized tonic-clonic seizures were identical and revealed a tonic phase (sustained, rapid, high-frequency myopotentials) transitioning to a clonic phase (periodic bursts of high-frequency myopotentials with a decelerating burst frequency from 3–6 Hz to 1–2 Hz) prior to seizure termination. With the nonprogrammable bandpass filter of 0.85 to 32 Hz in the implantable loop recorder, all generalized tonic-clonic seizure episodes had escaped automatic detection and required activation by family members. None of the 76 nongeneralized tonic-clonic seizure episodes recorded on the implantable loop recorder in the 14 patients exhibited the stereotypical tonic-clonic pattern that defines generalized seizures. Conclusion Recognizing this specific myopotential pattern on an implantable loop recorder might help diagnose generalized tonic-clonic seizures as a cause of recurrent, unexplained episodes of loss of consciousness. Having a programmable bandpass filter in the implantable loop recorder might increase its diagnostic yield for such patients.
The Value of Value Judgments in Sociology

DAVID J. GRAY, in a recent issue of this journal (1968), expresses a number of value judgments about the current practice of sociology and its dominant ideology. I wish to expand some of his points and to issue a cautionary note. Mr. Gray urges sociologists to follow the example of Weber and Durkheim in addressing themselves to problems which are important and not refusing to make judgments about what needs to be done (1968:176-178). Sociologists who attempt to be value free, he maintains, do violence to their vocation in two ways: First, they bind themselves over to the values of others. At the least, they sell their service to those with the most power and money as distinguished from those with the greatest need. Mr. Gray mentions the flowering of lucrative specialties such as industrial and medical sociology and the withering of sociological theory, history of social thought, and the sociology of religion (1968:179). Mr. Gray raises the spectre that this relatively venal prostitution may so debase the profession that "value free" sociologists will come to serve any master no matter how vile, just as physical scientists and engineers served the Nazis (1968:179). In the second place, scientists who abstain from value judgments are prone to glorify method at the expense of substance (1968:182-183). Quantitative and experimental methods are best wherever they can be applied, but they cannot be applied to all the most important questions. To insist that only those inquiries are scientific which use ideal methods condemns sociology to triviality. Mr. Gray suggests that many sociologists, especially those who look upon their work as an occupation rather than a calling, deliberately choose minuscule problems because they are easy to solve by "scientific" methods (1968:184). They provide a quick road to advancement in the institutional hierarchy. The wages of sin are death--in this case, the death of a discipline, a death by irrelevance and triviality-the assassins of sociology its very body guards, the advocates of value-free detachment.
Instrumentation for subsurface imaging in a clinical environment

The aim of this effort is to test the feasibility to develop endoscopic optical imaging technology for cancer screening inside the human body. The degree of success of such optical imaging instrumentation depends on the presence of optical differences among the various tissue components of interest of a body part or organ. Our research approach involves the utilization of the spectral polarization difference imaging technique incorporated into endoscopic imaging modalities. To establish methodology for optimum operation, we have built a compact imaging system for in vitro studies of human tissue samples of interest in a clinical environment.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A high-low Kolmogorov complexity law equivalent to the 0-1 law

Abstract It is shown that the 0–1 Law for recursive logics on finite structures admits an equivalent formulation in terms of Kolmogorov complexity. The new formulation opens the possibility of using the Kolmogorov complexity apparatus to easily derive various properties for finite structures satisfying a given properties. Examples that illustrate this point are provided.
The role of correlated factors in factor analysis

The fundamental factor theorem is developed in matrix form for the case of correlated factors. The properties of the correlated factor system are discussed, and some effects of sampling error considered. The psychological meaning of correlated factors is discussed, and several mechanisms by which general factors may operate in the factorial system are indicated.
Crystalline quartz as a far-infrared beam splitter for Fourier transform spectroscopy

We show that room-temperature, crystalline quartz is a useful material for a beam splitter for spectroscopy in the far infrared, ∼60-µm wavelength and longer. We compare such a beam splitter with the traditional far-infrared candidates: Mylar, polarizing, and lamellar beam splitters.
SNS Target Systems initial operating experience

Abstract The SNS mercury target started operation with low beam power when commissioned on April 28, 2006. The beam power has been following a planned ramp up since then and has reached 340 kW as of February 2008. The target systems supporting neutron production include the target and mercury loop, the cryogenic and ambient moderator systems, reflector and vessel systems, bulk shielding and shutters systems, utility systems, remote handling systems and the associated instrumentation and controls. Availability for these systems has improved with time and reached 100% for the first 2000 hour neutron production run in fiscal year 2008. An overview of the operating experience and the planning to support continued power increases to 1.4 MW for these systems will be given in this paper.
Form of relativistic dynamics with world lines

In any Hamiltonian relativistic theory there are ten generators of the Poincare group which are realized canonically. The dynamical evolution is described by a Hamiltonian which is one of the ten generators in Dirac's generator formalism. The requirement that the canonical transformations reproduce the geometrical transformation of world points generates the world-line conditions. The Dirac identification of the Hamiltonian and the world-line conditions together lead to the no-interaction theorem. Interacting relativistic theories with world-line conditions should go beyond the Dirac theory and have eleven generators. In this paper we present a constraint dynamics formalism which describes an eleven-generator theory of N interacting particles using 8(N+1) variables with suitable constraints. The (N+1)th pair of four-vectors is associated with the uniform motion of a center which coincides with the center of energy for free particles. In such theories dynamics and kinematics cannot be separated out in a simple fashion.
Transition state structure for the intramolecular catalysis by carboxylate of phenyl hydrogen malonate hydrolysis

Abstract The intramolecular catalysis by carboxylate of phenyl hydrogen malonate hydrolysis has been shown to involve a single water molecule in a 6-membered ring transition state.
Effect of D-thyroxine on serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), testosterone, and pituitary-thyroid function in euthyroid subjects

Concentrations of serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and free testosterone (T) were examined in 10 euthyroid subjects (5 men and 5 women) before, during and after 30 days of the daily ingestion of 1 or 4 mg D-thyroxine (D-T4), the thyroxine analog that has only 1–15% of the calorigenic effect of L-thyroxine (L-T4). No changes in serum L-T4 or triiodothyronine (T3), serum cholesterol, SHBG, T, progesterone, estradiol-17β, or free T concentrations were observed in response to the 1 mg dose, but there was a slight elevation in the free thyroxine index (FTI) and a significant (p < 0.02) suppression of the thyrotropin (TSH) response to thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH). The 4 mg dose of D-T4 induced an increase in SHBG levels in all but one man. There was a significant negative correlation between the SHBG and percent free T (p < 0.05) although the mass of free T did not change. As a group, the women responded with a greater increase in SHBG and decrease in percent free T than the men. Serum cholesterol decreased (p < 0.01), all serum thyroid hormone values measured by RIA were increased (p < 0.01), and the TSH response to TRH was completely suppressed. Despite these changes, the subjects remained clinically euthyroid. Concentrations of testosterone, progesterone and estradiol-17β remained unchanged. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), which was evaluated in the men only, also did not change during the daily administration of 4 mg D-T4.
Rescattering corrections to spin-dependent proton-deuteron total cross sections

Formulas for rescattering corrections to spin-dependent proton-deuteron total cross sections are derived within the framework of the Glauber model. The standard "Glauber correction formula" is shown to generalize in a simple way to differences of spin-dependent cross sections. Present knowledge of nucleonnucleon scattering amplitudes is used to evaluate the rescattering corrections.
Some non-linear effects in diffusive shock acceleration

I briefly describe nonlinear effects that result when shock acceleration is efficient and present some examples where these effects may be required to explain observations.
Foresight for smart globalization

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present the concept of smart globalization and identify links with the Rockefeller Foundation's philanthropic activities in a number of areas, including health, climate change, urbanization, economic insecurities, and basic survival needs.Design/methodology/approach – The paper addresses how a new conceptualization of globalization intersects with the field of foresight by describing the Rockefeller Foundation's approach to addressing complex issues of human development.Findings – A forward looking research component is a valuable organizational structure that can add value by tracking and monitoring current and emerging trends relevant to the Foundation's strategic framework, operational initiatives, and areas of work.Practical implications – The paper suggests a closer interaction of foresight and development experts and practitioners by suggesting that individuals in both disciplines need to work more closely together to coherently address the multitude, interl...
A Solar Aspect System for the HEROES mission

A new Solar Aspect System (SAS) has been developed to provide the ability to observe the Sun on an existing balloon payload HERO (short for High Energy Replicated Optics). Developed under the HEROES program (High Energy Replicated Optics to Explore the Sun), the SAS aspect system provides solar pointing knowledge in pitch, yaw, and roll. The required precision of these measurements must be better than the HEROES X-ray resolution of ∼20 arcsec Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) so as to not degrade the image resolution. The SAS consists of two separate systems: the Pitch-Yaw Aspect System (PYAS) and the Roll Aspect System (RAS). The PYAS functions by projecting an image of the Sun onto a screen with precision fiducials. A CCD camera takes an image of these fiducials, and an automated algorithm determines the location of the Sun as well as the location of the fiducials. The spacing between fiducials is unique and allows each to be identified so that the location of the Sun on the screen can be precisely determined. The RAS functions by imaging the Earth's horizon in opposite directions using a silvered prism imaged by a CCD camera. The design and first results of the performance of these systems during the HEROES flight which occurred in September 2013 are presented here.
Comparison of pulp stump wounds created by profile rotary root canal instruments and small-diameter fine diamond burs.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this investigation was to evaluate and compare the pulp stump wounds created by the following root canal instruments: ProFile rotary files and small-diameter fine diamond burs. Methods Extracted mandibular premolars from adult patients with vital pulps and fully formed root canals were collected and stored in formalin. Within 48 hours of extraction, the periapical tissue was fixated to the root with a double coating of ethyl cyanoacrylate, and the pulp chambers were accessed with a #4 round carbide bur and high-speed handpiece in a traditional fashion. The pulp tissue of 10 specimens per group was extirpated at a level approximately 5 mm from the apex by using standard endodontic techniques. The specimens were then examined at ×100 magnification under a digital microscope. Grading criteria were developed, and the wounds were scored. Results Wounds created by diamond burs were significantly smoother that those created by ProFile rotary files; the mean wound score for diamond burs was 1.4 versus a mean wound score of 3 for ProFiles. After the author's scoring of the wounds, 2 endodontist graders were shown photos of each specimen in a double-blind fashion and instructed to score each specimen as being smooth or rough. To validate the developed scoring system and remove potential observer bias of the author, the data from the double-blind observations were used to complete a cross-tabulation for a Cohen kappa test. Conclusions Kappa values demonstrated substantial inter-rater agreement for both groups.
Straddle carrier radiation portal monitoring

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the primary enforcement agency protecting the nation’s ports of entry. CBP is enhancing its capability to interdict the illicit import of nuclear and radiological materials and devices that may be used by terrorists. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is providing scientific and technical support to CBP in their goal to enable rapid deployment of nuclear and radiation detection systems at U. S. ports of entry to monitor 100% of the incoming international traffic and cargo while not adversely impacting the operations or throughput of the ports. The U.S. ports of entry include the following vectors: land border crossings, seaports, airports, rail crossings, and mail and express consignment courier facilities. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) determined that a screening solution was needed for Seaport cargo containers being transported by Straddle Carriers (straddle carriers). A stationary Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) for Straddle Carriers (SCRPM) is needed so that cargo containers can be scanned while in transit under a Straddle Carrier. The Straddle Carrier Portal operational impacts were minimized by conducting a time-motion study at the Port, and adaptation of a Remotely Operated RPM (RO-RPM) booth concept that uses logical lighting schemes for traffic control, cameras, Optical Character Recognition, and wireless technology.
Ultrastructure of spermatozoa of the wooly opossum Caluromys philander.

The fine structure of spermatozoa of the wooly opossum was analyzed with particular attention paid to morphological changes attending pairing of the spermatozoa during passage through the epididymis. Before pairing, the spermatozoa are shaped something like a carpet tack. The flat anterior face of each spermatozoon is covered by an acrosome. The sperm pair in a specific manner with their acrosomal surfaces closely applied to one another. Although the intercellular space between the membranes of the coupled cells is 150 A or greater over most of the apposed surface area, a closer junction seals the periphery of the paired sperm heads. Though the appearance of the dense fibers is unique in sperm of Caluromys, the intimate relationship of the 9 dense fibers to the flagellar doublets, the relative diameters and lengths of these fibers with respect to one another, and the fusion of dense fibers number 3 and 8 with the fibrous sheath in the anterior of the principal piece fall into a pattern which is emerging as characteristic of mammalian sperm generally. This suggests that the relationship of the dense fibers and fibrous sheath to the 9 + 2 tubule pattern of the flagellum may be a specific consequence of its mode of formation or an important prerequisite for successful fertilization, or both.
Advanced age is associated with worsened outcomes and a unique genomic response in severely injured patients with hemorrhagic shock.

We wished to characterize the relationship of advanced age to clinical outcomes and to transcriptomic responses after severe blunt traumatic injury with hemorrhagic shock. We performed epidemiological, cytokine, and transcriptomic analyses on a prospective, multi-center cohort of 1,928 severely injured patients. We found that there was no difference in injury severity between the aged (age ≥55, n = 533) and young (age <55, n = 1395) cohorts. However, aged patients had more comorbidities. Advanced age was associated with more severe organ failure, infectious complications, ventilator days, and intensive care unit length of stay, as well as, an increased likelihood of being discharged to skilled nursing or long-term care facilities. Additionally, advanced age was an independent predictor of a complicated recovery and 28-day mortality. Acutely after trauma, blood neutrophil genome-wide expression analysis revealed an attenuated transcriptomic response as compared to the young; this attenuated response was supported by the patients’ plasma cytokine and chemokine concentrations. Later, these patients demonstrated gene expression changes consistent with simultaneous, persistent pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive states. We concluded that advanced age is one of the strongest non-injury related risk factors for poor outcomes after severe trauma with hemorrhagic shock and is associated with an altered and unique peripheral leukocyte genomic response. As the general population’s age increases, it will be important to individualize prediction models and therapeutic targets to this high risk cohort.
Source contributions to atmospheric fine carbon particle concentrations

A Lagrangian particle-in-cell air quality model has been developed that facilitates the study of source contributions to atmospheric fine elemental carbon and fine primary total carbon particle concentrations. Model performance was tested using spatially and temporally resolved emissions and air quality data gathered for this purpose in the Los Angeles area for the year 1982. It was shown that black elemental carbon (EC) particle concentrations in that city were dominated by emissions from diesel engines including both on-highway and off-highway applications. Fine primary total carbon particle concentrations (TC=EC+organic carbon) resulted from the accumulation of small increments from a great variety of emission source types including both gasoline and diesel powered highway vehicles, stationary source fuel oil and gas combustion, industrial processes, paved road dust, fireplaces, cigarettes and food cooking (e.g. charbroilers). Strategies for black elemental carbon particle concentration control will of necessity need to focus on diesel engines, while controls directed at total carbon particle concentrations will have to be diversified over a great many source types.
Morbidity and Mortality in Rural Community-Dwelling Elderly With Low Total Serum Cholesterol

BACKGROUND: Low serum cholesterol has been associated with morbidity and mortality in the elderly. This study compared the health, functional status, and two-year mortality rates of community-dwelling rural elderly with serum cholesterol < 150 mg/dl to age- and sex-matched controls with serum cholesterol 200-240 mg/dl. METHODS: Self-reported disease history, disability, health habits, and cognitive function data were collected at a health risk appraisal interview. A single blood sample was also collected and analyzed for total serum cholesterol at a central lab. RESULTS: Of the 3,874 participants, 109 (2.8%) had total cholesterol levels < 150 mg/dl. Seventy-five percent of the low cholesterol group were male compared to 44% in the main study population. The low cholesterol group had significantly greater smoking history, current cigarettes smoked, diabetes history, angina and COPD symptoms, and assistance needed for heavy and light work. Men in the low cholesterol group had significantly lower blood pressure. After two years, 14 (12.8%) of the low cholesterol group had died vs 16 (7.3%) in the control group. There was no relationship to specific causes of death and cholesterol level. CONCLUSION: A very low cholesterol level in older individuals should be evaluated carefully to determine whether it is due to genetic or life-style factors such as diet or, more likely, is a marker of disease.
Expert Panel Workshop Consensus Statement on the Role of the Environment in the Development of Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases include 80 or more complex disorders characterized by self-reactive, pathologic immune responses in which genetic susceptibility is largely insufficient to determine disease onset. In September 2010, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) organized an expert panel workshop to evaluate the role of environmental factors in autoimmune diseases, and the state of the science regarding relevant mechanisms, animal models, and human studies. The objective of the workshop was to analyze the existing data to identify conclusions that could be drawn regarding environmental exposures and autoimmunity and to identify critical knowledge gaps and areas of uncertainty for future study. This consensus document summarizes key findings from published workshop monographs on areas in which “confident” and “likely” assessments were made, with recommendations for further research. Transcribed notes and slides were reviewed to synthesize an overview on exposure assessment and questions addressed by interdisciplinary panels. Critical advances in the field of autoimmune disease research have been made in the past decade. Collaborative translational and interdisciplinary research is needed to elucidate the role of environmental factors in autoimmune diseases. A focus on exposure assessment methodology is needed to improve the effectiveness of human studies, and more experimental studies are needed to focus on causal mechanisms underlying observed associations of environmental factors with autoimmune disease in humans.
The Ambulatory Long-Block: An Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Educational Innovations Project (EIP)

Introduction Historical bias toward service-oriented inpatient graduate medical education experiences has hindered both resident education and care of patients in the ambulatory setting.
Percolation in a lattice system with particle interaction

Abstract The site percolation density in a three-dimensional Ising system with nearest-neighbor interaction is calculated. The interaction lowers the critical particle density, where percolation occurs. A percolation temperature is defined with corresponding critical percolation exponents.
Interpretation of generalized cluster wave functions

Abstract It is shown that the indistinguishability of the nucleons has a large influence upon the correlation nature of a generalized cluster wave function. To interpret the physical meaning of such a wave function correctly, one needs in general to know the degree of cluster overlap implied by this wave function.
Mikroerscheinungen bei der Rißausbreitung in Hochpolymeren und ihre Beziehung zur Kontinuumsmechanik

Risausbreitung ist eine Folge des Versagens der Molekulstruktur unter den Kraften, die das Material an der Risspitze belasten. Bei solch lokaler und hoher Belastung wird ein relativ kleiner Bereich des Materials einer Metamorphose unterworfen; die Krafte, die diesen kleinen Bereich beanspruchen, werden uber die makroskopische Probe ubertragen: Eine einen Ris enthaltende Zugprobe kann daher als eine (weiche) Mikrozerreismaschine angesehen werden, die einen Teil der uber ihre Oberflache eingefuhrten Arbeit in das Zerreisen der Mikroprobe (Risspitzenmaterial) umsetzt. Es entsteht so eine Wechselwirkung zwischen der Festigkeit des Risspitzenmaterials und der Verformbarkeit der Probe als Mikrozerreismaschine. Die Grose des hoch beanspruchten Bereichs an der Risspitze ist von Material zu Material auf Grund der Molekulstruktur verschieden. Beispiele wurden diskutiert anhand von Polypropylen (Folie) und Polybutylacrylsaure (1), Polycarbonat (2) und Polymethylmethacrylat (3):
Evolution: Fitness tracking for adapting populations

A method for tracking the descendants of hundreds of thousands of yeast cells in an evolving population reveals that thousands of individuals contribute to early increases in population-wide fitness. See Article p.181
Stable steady-state pattern formation on isothermal catalyst surfaces

A general class of reaction-diffusion systems is considered; this includes a large family of models for chemical activity on isothermal catalyst surfaces. Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for when a stable, spatially nonuniform solution can bifurcate from a steady uniform solution as parameters in the equations are varied. In particular, such a bifurcation occurs for the Dirichlet problem but not for the Neumann problem. A rather complete description is given concerning the stability properties, direction of bifurcation, and global continuation of the branch of bifurcating solutions.
Complexity of Bezout's theorem V: polynomial time

Abstract We show that there are algorithms which find an approximate zero of a system of polynomial equations and which function in polynomial time on the average. The number of arithmetic operations is cN4s, where N is the input size and c a universal constant.
Phonon Energies in Germanium from Phonon-Assisted Tunneling

The line shapes of the peaks in the bias dependence of the second derivative of the phonon-assisted tunnel current with respect to voltage were measured for Sb-doped germanium tunnel junctions between 4.2 and 1.15\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The antimony concentration was 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{18}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$. The phonon energies at the point $L$ in the Brillouin zone, determined to an accuracy of \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1%, are $E(\mathrm{TA})=7.766$, $E(\mathrm{LA})=27.58$, $E(\mathrm{LO})=30.62$, and $E(\mathrm{TO})=36.15$ in meV. This accuracy verifies the assumptions made in determining the pressure dependence of these phonon energies previously reported by the author. The major contribution to the line shapes is $\mathrm{kT}$ broadening. Minor contributions arise from a small bias dependence of the tunnel current per energy interval and from the phonon dispersion near $L$. Approximate values for the curvatures of the phonon spectrum at $L$ were determined. A lower limit of 1.6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}11}$ sec was found for the lifetimes of these phonons. From double phonon emission processes the energy of the optic phonon at $\ensuremath{\Gamma}$ was found to be 37.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2 meV.
The influence of implantation site on tumor growth and blood flow

Abstract A study was made of the differences in tumor growth and their relationship to tumor blood flow in several different tissues. A suspension of V2 carcinoma cells was implanted in the liver, spleen, kidney, testicle and ear of 34 New Zealand white rabbits. Two weeks after implantation, V2 carcinoma and surrounding normal host tissue blood flow was determined with radioactive microspheres. Total tumor weight was found to be related to the site of implantation: liver (8.7 g), spleen (8.4 g), kidney (2.9 g), testicle (1.2 g) and ear (0.4 g). The amount of gross caseous necrosis in the V2 carcinoma was also related to implantation site. The organ with the largest proportion of grossly non-necrotic tumor was the liver (5% necrotic) and that with the least was the spleen (62% necrotic). V2 blood flow also varied with implantation site, the highest being found in the kidney (1.3 ml/g/min) and the lowest in the ear (0.14 ml/g/min). Regression analysis revealed that tumor blood flow was directly related to resting blood flow in the surrounding host parenchyma. However, no relationship existed between tumor perfusion and either tumor size or the amount of central necrosis.
“As Tame as the Ladies”: Politics and Gender in The Changeling

In their recent books on seventeenth-century drama, Margot Heinemann and Jonathan Dollimore have characterised Thomas Middleton as a Puritan writing ‘opposition drama’ and a playwright composing ‘radical tragedy’. Heinemann sees Middleton appealing to and encouraging ‘“anti-establishment”, generally Parliamentary Puritan sympathies’. Dollimore understands Jacobean dramatists to be engaged in the ‘demystification of state power and ideology’, and a ‘contemporary critique of power relations’. Both encourage critics to identify drama during this period as potentially subversive, and to recognise the extent to which plays by Middleton and others actively stimulated, as Dollimore puts it, ‘the crisis in confidence in the integrity of those in power’.1
Good for a national cemetery: questions of land use and an 1888 Botanical Expedition across Northern Michigan.

In the second half of the nineteenth century, lumbermen logged the virgin pine forests of northern Michigan. The assumption was that the "plow would follow the axe," and agriculture would dominate the region as it did in the southern half of the state. When farming did not quickly take root, William James Beal and Liberty Hyde Bailey led an expedition of scientists and journalists on a trip across northern Michigan in June 1888 to collect botanical samples, to find a site for a state forest reserve, and to recommend appropriate farming enterprise. This essay contends that without a key reforestation advocate in Charles Garfield the explorers focused too much on the questions related to botany and agriculture. While agriculture would ultimately thrive in some parts of the cutover, much of the region was unsuitable for intensive farming. The failure of the scientists to convey these limits adequately in newspaper articles and subsequent reports allowed for their work to be used by agricultural boosters throughout the region. The result was a cycle of erosion, fire, and farm abandonment that proved to be a political problem in Michigan for the first three decades of the twentieth century.
The Kaccanov method for some nonlinear problems

Abstract The Kacanov method is an iteration method for solving some nonlinear partial differential equation problems. In each iteration, a linear problem is solved. In this paper, we discuss the use of the Kacanov method in the context of two model problems. We show the convergence of the Kacanov iteration sequences, and derive a posteriori error estimates for the Kacanov iterates. Numerical examples are given showing the convergence of the method and the effectiveness of the a posteriori error estimates.