cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Amphiphilic silicones prepared from branched PEO‐silanes with siloxane tethers

Amphiphilic silicones were prepared by the covalent incorporation of branched polyethylene oxide (PEO) via a siloxane tether. This was achieved by using six novel branched PEO-silanes with varying siloxane tether lengths and PEO molecular weight (Mn). Each PEO-silane was crosslinked via acid-catalyzed sol–gel condensation with α,ω-bis(Si-OH)polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) (Mn = 3000 g/mol) to yield six amphiphilic silicone films. Film surface hydrophilicity increased with siloxane tether length, particularly after exposure to an aqueous environment, indicating that the PEO segments were more readily driven to the surface. This effect was more pronounced for films prepared with PEO-silanes containing lower Mn PEO segments. AFM was used to study surface reconstruction of films upon exposure to an aqueous environment. Adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human fibrinogen (HF) proteins decreased with siloxane tether length, particularly after first exposing films to an aqueous environment. For a given siloxane tether length, relatively less BSA adsorbed onto films prepared with PEO-silanes with lower Mn PEO segments whereas less HF adsorbed onto films prepared with PEO-silanes with higher Mn PEO segments. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 4108–4119, 2010
An Analytical Cross-Layer Model for the Goodput and Delay of IEEE 802.11e Enhanced Distribution Coordination Function

An analytical cross-layer model for the saturation goodput and delay of IEEE 802.lie wireless local area networks (WLANs) operating simultaneously under the enhanced distributed coordination function (EDCF) basic access (BA) and request-to-send/clear-to-send (RTS/CTS) medium access control (MAC) protocols is derived. A comparison between numerical and simulation results is carried out assuming the IEEE 802.11a physical (PHY) layer.
The Global Environment and the Knowledge Revolution

Markets are a dominant force in the world economy, in many ways a force for change and progress. During the course of this century market economies have led the race for industrialization, overcoming planned economies and traditional agricultural societies. The rapid expansion of international trade during the second part of the 20th century has led to an extensive extraction of resources in developing nations, resources that are exported and consumed mostly in industrial nations and traded often at prices which are below replacement costs. This pattern of North-South trade in resources underlies the main global environmental problems we face today: biodiversity destruction and the risk of climate change. As the century turns, the market itself is evolving. Two major trends, the knowledge revolution and global environmental stress, lead to new and different types of markets involving a combination of private and public features and to new global challenges. Environmental markers and markets for knowledge-based products will play a pivotal role in the new century.
Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy: Male

Robot-assisted radical cystoprostatectomy will be covered in this chapter. A stepwise approach is covered with emphasis on important steps as well as tips and tricks to avoid complications. The combined experience of the authors dates back to 2005 when they began applying robotic techniques in the management of invasive bladder cancer. Perioperative and postoperative care is covered in this chapter providing the reader a foundation for developing a clinical pathway of their own.
A statewide teleradiology system reduces radiation exposure and charges in transferred trauma patients.

Abstract Background Trauma transfer patients routinely undergo repeat imaging because of inefficiencies within the radiology system. In 2009, the virtual private network (VPN) telemedicine system was adopted throughout Oregon allowing virtual image transfer between hospitals. The startup cost was a nominal $3,000 per hospital. Methods A retrospective review from 2007 to 2012 included 400 randomly selected adult trauma transfer patients based on a power analysis (200 pre/200 post). The primary outcome evaluated was reduction in repeat computed tomography (CT) scans. Secondary outcomes included cost savings, emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS), and spared radiation. All data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U and chi-square tests. P less than .05 indicated significance. Spared radiation was calculated as a weighted average per body region, and savings was calculated using charges obtained from Oregon Health and Science University radiology current procedural terminology codes. Results Four-hundred patients were included. Injury Severity Score, age, ED and overall LOS, mortality, trauma type, and gender were not statistically different between groups. The percentage of patients with repeat CT scans decreased after VPN implementation: CT abdomen (13.2% vs 2.8%, P P P Conclusions Implementation of a statewide teleradiology network resulted in fewer total repeat CT scans, significant savings, decrease in radiation exposure, and decreased LOS in the ED for patients with less complex injuries. The potential for health care savings by widespread adoption of a VPN is significant.
Role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in evaluation of thermal ablation zone

Thermal ablation has emerged as a mainstay therapy for primary and metastatic liver malignancy. Percutaneous thermal ablation is usually performed under CT and/or ultrasound guidance. CT guidance frequently utilizes iodinated contrast for tumor targeting, with additional radiation and contrast required at the end of the procedure to ensure satisfactory ablation margins. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an imaging technique utilizing microbubble contrast agents to demonstrate blood flow and tissue perfusion. In this study, we performed a retrospective review to assess the utility of CEUS in the immediate post ablation detection of residual tumor. Sixty-four ablations were retrospectively reviewed. 6/64 ablations (9.4%) had residual tumor on the first follow-up imaging after thermal ablation. There were two groups of patients. Group 1 underwent standard protocol thermal ablation with CT and/or ultrasound guidance. Group 2 not only had thermal ablation with a protocol identical to group 1, but also had CEUS assessment at the conclusion of the procedure to ensure satisfactory ablation zone. The residual tumor rate in group 1 was 16.7% and the residual tumor rate in group 2 was 0%. The difference between the groups was statistically significant with a p value of 0.023. The results suggest that using CEUS assessment immediately after the ablation procedure reduces the rate of residual tumor after thermal ablation. CEUS evaluation at the end of an ablation procedure is a powerful technique providing critical information to the treating interventional radiologist, without additional nephrotoxic contrast or ionizing radiation.
Merging Empiricism and Humanism: Role of Social Validity in the School-Wide Positive Behavior Support Model.

Criteria for evaluating behavior support programs are changing. Consumer-based educational and behavioral programs, such as School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS), are particularly influence...
Nucleolar proteins and cancer: The roles of aurora a-interacting nucleolar proteins in mitosis and cancer

Nucleolar proteins have been in the limelight due to their involvement in multiple cellular processes other than their well-studied functions in maintaining the structural integrity of the nucleolus and ribosome synthesis. Many of these nucleolar proteins have now been shown to play roles in the processes of mitosis as well as tumorigenesis. In this book chapter, we have discussed the contribution of three such Aurora A-interacting nucleolar proteins: NuSAP, Arpc1b and Eg5, to mitosis and tumor progression. Importantly, we have also brought into light several unanswered questions pertaining to the function and regulation of these nucleolar proteins in both mitosis as well as cancer. Finally, we have attempted to reason why several nucleolar proteins have now been implicated as important players in mitosis.
Indications For Hospital Admissions and Outcomes Of Hospitalization Among Multiple Myeloma Patients In The U.S: Data From National Inpatient Sample

Introduction A recent Spanish study suggested an impact of the type of hospital (teaching versus non-teaching) on survival of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Such data, as well as other hospitalization parameters such as indications, length of stay (LOS), in-hospital mortality (IHM) in MM patients admitted to hospitals in the U.S are lacking. We have explored the National Inpatient sample (NIS) data to address the indications for hospitalization in MM patients and their survival outcomes of the hospitalization. Methods We obtained the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) data for the years 01/2001 until 12/2010 from Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database (HCUP) database. The 2010 NIS contains all discharge data located in 45 States, approximating a 20% stratified sample of the U.S hospitals. Teaching hospital was defined as a hospital supported by AMA-approved residency program, is a member of the council of teaching hospitals or has a ratio of full-time equivalent interns and residents to beds of ≥0.25. Results A total of 178354 admissions reported to NIS were analyzed. Majority of admissions were to teaching hospitals (61.7% admissions: 45.8% for non-SCT and 15.9% for SCT indications) ([Table 1][1]). Among the patients that were admitted for non-SCT indications, significantly younger patients were admitted to teaching hospitals. Complicated procedures such as cancer chemotherapy were admitted to teaching hospitals (teaching vs. non-teaching: 8.3% vs. 3.4%; p=<0.0001) and simple procedures such as blood transfusions were admitted to non-teaching hospitals (teaching vs. non-teaching: 13% vs. 19.2%; p=<0.0001). The IHM is significantly increased in non-teaching hospitals (teaching vs. non-teaching: IHM: 9.8 vs. 12.5%; p=<0.0001). Among the patients that were admitted for SCT as the primary procedure, IHM for autologous SCT is 1.64% and for allogeneic SCT is 5.94%. Conclusions This analysis suggests inferior survival outcomes in MM patients admitted to non-teaching hospitals. Despite the difference in severity of admissions, IHM is significantly increased in non-teaching hospitals. This effect is at least partially attributable to older patient admissions. IHM in SCT admissions is similar to published literature, validating our findings. View this table: Disclosures: Kaufman: Onyx: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Merck: Research Funding. Boise: Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy. Lonial: Millennium: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy; Onyx: Consultancy. [1]: #T1
The Complementary Model in Continuous/Discrete Smoothing

We consider the problem of smoothing a continuous-time random process using irregularly spaced noisy samples. If the random process to be smoothed is generated by a linear state model, the relevant Hamiltonian system can be easily derived using the concept of complementary model, introduced by Weinert and Desai [1]. All smoothing algorithms can then be obtained via various changes of variables in the Hamiltonian system.
Critical Care Air Transport Team severe traumatic brain injury short-term outcomes during flight for Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom.

Introduction Our understanding of the expertise and equipment required to air transport injured soldiers with severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) continue to evolve. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of characteristics, interventions required and short-term outcomes of patients with severe TBI managed by the US Air Force Critical Care Air Transport Teams (CCATTs) deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom between 1 June 2007 and 31 August 2010. Patients were cared for based on guidelines given by the Brain Trauma Foundation and the Joint Theater Trauma System by non-neurosurgeon physicians with dedicated neurocritical care training. We report basic characteristics, injuries, interventions required and complications during transport. Results Intracranial haemorrhage was the most common diagnosis in this cohort. Most injuries were weapon related. During this study, there were no reported in-flight deaths. The majority of patients were mechanically ventilated. There were 45 patients who required at least one vasopressor to maintain adequate tissue perfusion, including four patients who required three or more. Some patients required intracranial pressure (ICP) management, treatment of diabetes insipidus and/or seizure prophylaxis medications. Conclusions Air transport personnel must be prepared to provide standard critical care but also care specific to TBIs, including ICP control and management of diabetes insipidus. Although these patients and their potential complications are traditionally managed by neurosurgeons, those providers without neurosurgical backgrounds can be provided this training to help fill a wartime need. This study provides data for the future development of air transport guidelines for validating and clearing flight surgeons.
On the Average Achievable Rate of QPSK and DQPSK OFDM Over Rapidly Fading Channels

Motivated by recent experimental observations, where differentially coherent detection outperforms coherent detection on certain underwater acoustic channels, we revisit the performance of these two methods with respect to the achievable rate in orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing systems. Our comparison is based on a class of time-varying channels, where coherent quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) detection requires channel estimation through a set of designated pilot symbols, while differentially coherent QPSK (DQPSK) enjoys an almost pilot-free detection. We show that given the cost of pilot overhead and channel estimation errors, the average rate achievable with DQPSK can be higher than that of QPSK. We use analytical results to identify channels for which this is the case, and expand the results to larger constellation sizes such as 8PSK, 16PSK, and 16QAM. In addition to acoustic channels, wireless radio channels with unusually long delay spread or high Doppler spread, such as those found in unmanned aerial systems and high-speed trains, may also benefit from using differentially coherent detection. In general, differentially coherent detection is favored in rapidly time-varying channels which require large pilot overhead and/or whose bit error rate performance is dominated by channel estimation errors. Our analysis includes the results for array receivers and soft detectors, showing that the favorable parameter range for differentially coherent detection expands significantly in both cases.
Strong correlation of downregulated genes related to synaptic transmission and mitochondria in post-mortem autism cerebral cortex

Genetic studies in autism have pinpointed a heterogeneous group of loci and genes. Further, environment may be an additional factor conferring susceptibility to autism. Transcriptome studies investigate quantitative differences in gene expression between patient-derived tissues and control. These studies may pinpoint genes relevant to pathophysiology yet circumvent the need to understand genetic architecture or gene-by-environment interactions leading to disease. We conducted alternate gene set enrichment analyses using differentially expressed genes from a previously published RNA-seq study of post-mortem autism cerebral cortex. We used three previously published microarray datasets for validation and one of the microarray datasets for additional differential expression analysis. The RNA-seq study used 26 autism and 33 control brains in differential gene expression analysis, and the largest microarray dataset contained 15 autism and 16 control post-mortem brains. While performing a gene set enrichment analysis of genes differentially expressed in the RNA-seq study, we discovered that genes associated with mitochondrial function were downregulated in autism cerebral cortex, as compared to control. These genes were correlated with genes related to synaptic function. We validated these findings across the multiple microarray datasets. We also did separate differential expression and gene set enrichment analyses to confirm the importance of the mitochondrial pathway among downregulated genes in post-mortem autism cerebral cortex. We found that genes related to mitochondrial function were differentially expressed in autism cerebral cortex and correlated with genes related to synaptic transmission. Our principal findings replicate across all datasets investigated. Further, these findings may potentially replicate in other diseases, such as in schizophrenia.
Compare-by-hash: a reasoned analysis

Compare-by-hash is the now-common practice used by systems designers who assume that when the digest of a cryptographic hash function is equal on two distinct files, then those files are identical. This approach has been used in both real projects and in research efforts (for example rysnc [16] and LBFS [12]). A recent paper by Henson criticized this practice [8]. The present paper revisits the topic from an advocate's standpoint: we claim that compare-by-hash is completely reasonable, and we offer various arguments in support of this viewpoint in addition to addressing concerns raised by Henson.
The Large Hadron Collider and the ATLAS Detector

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN (the European Center for Nuclear Research) is a 26.7 km long particle accelerator outside of Geneva, Switzerland [1]. It lies below-ground in the tunnel previously inhabited by the LEP machine. It is capable of colliding particles at four different experimental sites, which are occupied by the ATLAS, ALICE, CMS, and LHCb detectors.
Correlations and interactions in the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in human blood mononuclear cells: IL-6 suppresses IL-1 and TNF.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) shares several biologic properties with IL-1, including hematopoietin-1 activity and stimulation of T cells. Because many of their biologic activities overlap, we developed and used a specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) for IL-6 to compare production of this cytokine on a molar basis with that of IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)alpha. The RIA correlated well with the hybridoma bioassay for IL-6 (r = .87, P less than .001). Freshly isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultured in the absence of stimuli did not produce IL-6 in most cases. Kinetics of secretion and cell-association of IL-6 were studied. In contrast to IL-1 alpha but similar to TNF, IL-6 was almost entirely secreted into the extracellular fluid. Incubation with different stimuli (lipopolysaccharide [LPS], phytohemagglutinin [PHA], Staphylococcus epidermidis, or IL-1 alpha) resulted in production of IL-6. However, on a molar basis PBMC produced approximately two to three times less IL-6 than IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, or TNF, regardless of the stimulus. The amount of IL-6 produced from PBMC was consistent when measured in the same subjects six time during a 12-week period. In a cohort of 38 donors, the coefficient of variation for IL-6 production was .32, compared with .92 for IL-1 beta and .96 for TNF. Comparing cytokine production by PBMC, there was a significant correlation between IL-6 and IL-1 beta (r = .72) and between IL-6 and TNF (r = .66). IL-6 did not stimulate IL-1 beta or TNF production, but suppressed IL-1 beta and TNF production induced by LPS or PHA by 30% (P less than .01). This suppression of IL-1 beta and TNF by IL-6 appears to be on the level of transcription.
Aging, melatonin biosynthesis, and circadian clockworks in the gastrointestinal system of the laboratory mouse.

The gastrointestinal (GI) system is vital in its capacities for nutrient and water uptake, immune function, metabolism and detoxification, and stem-cell derived regeneration. Of significance to hum...
Blind Survival: Disability and Horror in Josh Malerman's Bird Box

Josh Malerman’s 2014 apocalyptic horror novel, Bird Box, reverses Gothic depictions of disability as monstrous or metaphor for ignorance or weakness by presenting disability as protection. Creatures roam the earth, the mere sight of which causes immediate insanity, violence, and suicide. This unexplained event introduces blindness as a necessary choice, complicating the dichotomy between blindness and sight by making sight a fatal disability. I argue that this novel pushes the boundaries of ocularcentric thought through both a version of horror independent of visual spectacle and a depiction of a community that thrives by revising attitudes towards visual impairment. Despite the significant exposure and punishment of ocularcentrism that the novel presents, its main character struggles to surpass her old, societal judgment of blindness when outside the community that helps her relearn new ways to navigate the world. The nonlinear narrative highlights a tension between blindness as life-saving and blindness as monstrous. The novel closes with the dread-filled reminder that true revision of ableist attitudes requires more than horror—even inclusive horror—to overcome fear-inspired stigma.
A network-based response to the two-factor theory of delusion formation.

In response to Dr. Corlett’s paper regarding the two factor theory of delusional misidentifications, I discuss further evidence that VMPFC damaged patients do not have an isolated factor 1 ...
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the breast - Discordant size on imaging and pathology: A case report and review of literature.

Abstract Introduction Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an uncommon tumour of the breast. It is known for its rare lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. A triple-negative breast cancer that has a favorable prognosis compared to other triple negative ductal carcinomas, it accounts for approximately 0.1–1% of all breast cancers. Presentation of case We report a case of a 69-year-old female with a palpable left breast mass who underwent multiple imaging modalities with significant size variance between the studies. Breast conserving therapy (BCT) was performed with axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) followed by radiation therapy (RT). Pathological examination confirmed the tumour as ACC. Discussion ACC, known as an persistent if low-grade malignant tumour of salivary gland, is considered to have low-malignant potential in the breast. It is a very rare subtype and from this scant data, there is minimal mention about size discrepancy between imaging modalities such as ultrasound and MRI. No consistent MRI features have been demonstrated, with the exception of T2 hyperintensity in larger lesions and T2 iso-intensity in smaller lesions. Ultrasound demonstrates primarily a hypoechoic or heterogenous mass with minimum vascularity, consistent with our radiographic findings. Conclusion ACC is a rare entity in breast cancer pathology. Its size can be highly variable as measured by various radiographic modalities, and final Pathology from the surgical specimen is, as always, required for an accurate tumoral diameter. With that caveat, careful utilization of pre-operative imaging modalities is critical in pre-surgical planning to choose the appropriate surgery.
Zeros of Partial Sums of the Riemann Zeta-Function

We investigate the distribution of the zeros of partial sums of the Riemann zeta- function, ∑ n≤X n −s , estimating the number of zeros up to height T, the number of zeros to the right of a given vertical line, and other aspects of their horizontal distribution.
‘Did Not Finish’: A Phenomenology of Failure

This paper explores what it means to fail in an ultramarathon—be marked DNF, or Did Not Finish—through hermeneutic phenomenology. In today’s popular culture, failure holds a paradoxical position: P...
Similar rotational band structures in doubly-odd 136Pm and 134Pr

The level structures of the doubly-odd nuclei $^{136}\mathrm{Pm}$ and $^{134}\mathrm{Pr}$ have been studied to high spin following the reactions $^{114}\mathrm{Cd}$${(}^{27}$Al,5n${)}^{136}$Pm, $^{116}\mathrm{Sn}$${(}^{24}$Mg,p3n${)}^{136}$Pm, and $^{114}\mathrm{Cd}$${(}^{27}$Al,\ensuremath{\alpha}3n${)}^{134}$Pr. The two nuclei show very similar collective features. In both nuclei a rotational band built on the \ensuremath{\pi}${h}_{11/2}$\ensuremath{\bigotimes}\ensuremath{\nu}${h}_{11/2}$ configuration has been observed. This band shows a constant signature splitting of \ensuremath{\sim}50 keV with no backbend in both cases. In addition, a sideband built on the \ensuremath{\pi}${[413](5/2}^{+}$\ensuremath{\bigotimes}\ensuremath{\nu}${h}_{11/2}$ configuration has been observed in $^{136}\mathrm{Pm}$. This band becomes yrast at high spins and shows a gain in alignment of \ensuremath{\sim}8\ensuremath{\Elzxh} at a frequency of \ensuremath{\Elzxh}\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\sim}0.28 MeV due to the decoupling of a pair of ${h}_{11/2}$ protons. In $^{134}\mathrm{Pr}$ the sideband was only observed above the band crossing. Experimental ratios of reduced transition probabilities, B(M1)/B(E2), have been extracted from transitions within the bands and compared to theoretical values obtained from a semiclassical model.
Gigabit broadband measurement workshop report

On July 24-25, 2018, MIT hosted an invitation-only workshop for network researchers from academia, industry, and the policy community engaged in the design and operation of test schemes to measure broadband access, in order to address the measurement challenges associated with highspeed (gigabit) broadband Internet access services. The focus of the workshop was on assessing the current state-of-the-art in gigabit broadband measurement tools and practices, the technical and policy challenges that arise, and possible strategies for addressing these challenges. A goal of this initial workshop was to provide a level-setting and networking opportunity among representatives of many of the leading research and operational efforts within academia, industry, and the government to collect, analyze, and make use of broadband and Internet performance measurement data and in the design of the measurement methods and tools.
Heroin Seeking and Extinction From Seeking Activate Matrix Metalloproteinases at Synapses on Distinct Subpopulations of Accumbens Cells.

Abstract Background Seeking addictive drugs is regulated by synaptic plasticity in the nucleus accumbens core and involves distinct plasticity in D1 and D2 receptor–expressing medium spiny neurons (D1/2-MSNs). However, it is unknown how differential plasticity between the two cell types is coordinated. Synaptic plasticity and seeking behavior induced by drug-paired cues depends not only on plasticity in the canonical pre- and postsynapse, but also on cue-induced changes in astrocytes and the extracellular matrix adjacent to the synapse. Drug cue–induced signaling in the extracellular matrix is regulated by catalytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2,9. We hypothesized that the cell type–specific synaptic plasticity is associated with parallel cell-specific activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Methods Transgenic rats were trained on a heroin self-administration protocol in which a light/tone cue was paired with heroin delivery, followed by 2 weeks of drug withdrawal, and then reinstated to heroin-conditioned cues. Confocal microscopy was used to make morphological measurements in membrane reporter–transduced D1- and D2-MSNs and astrocytes, and MMP-2,9 gelatinase activity adjacent to cell surfaces was quantified using in vivo zymography. Results Presenting heroin-paired cues transiently increased MMP-9 activity around D1-MSN dendritic spines and synapse-proximal astroglial processes. Conversely, extinction training induced long-lasting increases in MMP-2 activity adjacent to D2-MSN synapses. Moreover, heroin-paired cues increased tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases TIMP-1,2, which caused transient inhibition of MMP-2 activity around D2-MSNs during cue-induced heroin seeking. Conclusions The differential regulation of heroin seeking and extinguished seeking by different MMP subtypes on distinct cell populations poses MMP-2,9 activity as an important mediator and contributor in heroin-induced cell-specific synaptic plasticity.
A review of therapeutic strategies for phase I-II trials in genitourinary cancer.

In order to discuss phase I and II trials in patients with genitourinary (GU) cancers, it is necessary to first review the general aspects of these types of studies and then the particular aspects of the current chemotherapy of GU malignancies. By carefully defining the exact goals and requirements for phase I and II studies we can integrate these scientific requirements into the clinical management of specific diseases. Also, by assessing our current clinical successes and failures we can select the appropriate disease settings in which new agents can be best tested.
Multiple Schwannomas of the Median Nerve: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Introduction Schwannomas are rare benign tumors affecting the peripheral nerves. They can grow in clusters when associated with neurofibromatosis Type II or with schwannomatosis. Typically, patients present with a palpable painless mass. However, some patients, on the other hand, present with symptomatic lesions that resemble a focal nerve compression caused by the encapsulating nature of these tumors. Surgical excision is an excellent solution for solitary symptomatic lesions. However, multiple schwannomas affecting the same nerve add another level of complexity to the surgery since these secondary masses can be too small to be detected on physical examination. A high index of suspension for schwannomatosis complemented with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ensures a more efficient pre-operative workup that can save the patient potentially an additional visit to the operating room. Case report This is a case of a 36-year-old right-handed female presented to our clinic with a several-years history of a painful mass in her forearm. On physical examination, she had a palpable painful mass that was Tinel positive with pain and paresthesia radiating distally over the median nerve distribution. A subsequent MRI scan showed a second smaller mass distally adjacent to the main lesion along with the median nerve, both appearing to be schwannomas of the median nerve. In this case report, we discuss the patient presentation, diagnostic workup and radiographic finding, surgical technique, and pathological findings in addition to a review of the literature regarding multiple schwannomas affecting the upper extremity. Conclusion Schwannomas are rare benign tumors affecting the peripheral nerves. Despite their solitary nature, a handful of cases are reported in the literature that describes multiple masses encapsulating the same nerve. MRI is utilized to allow proper pre-operative planning and more accurate localization of these tumors to avoid an unplanned return to the operating room.
Lifeblood of the Parish: Men and Catholic Devotion in Williamsburg, Brooklyn: Alyssa Maldonado-Estrada, 2020. New York: New York University Press. pp. 296. ISBN: 9781479830497

The annual Catholic Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Paulinus in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is perhaps one of the most examined religious celebrations in the United States. Over the past four...
Electron microscopic analysis of the leading edge in migrating cells.

Publisher Summary The knowledge of the structural organization of actin filaments in protrusive organelles—lamellipodia and filopodia—is instrumental for understanding the mechanisms of leading edge protrusion and of actin polymerization-based motility, in general. This chapter reviews the contribution of electron microscopy (EM) to the progress in this field. It focuses on the first step of the motility cycle—the extension of a pseudopod—and the role of EM in understanding the mechanisms of pseudopodia protrusion. The chapter also describes an approach to study the cytoskeleton at the leading edge of cultured cells by platinum replica EM after detergent extraction, triple fixation, critical point drying, and shadowing with platinum and carbon. This method provides a three-dimensional (3D) view of cytoskeletal architecture and is compatible with the immunostaining and polarity determination of the actin filaments. Most importantly, the high quality and robustness of this EM technique makes it easily compatible with light microscopy (LM) and allows correlating the organization of the cytoskeleton with both the behavior of a living cell and the localization of ectopically expressed proteins in the same cells.
An automatic failure isolation and reconfiguration methodology for fiber distributed data interface (FDDI)

An automatic failure isolation and reconfiguration methodology for the fiber distributed data interface (FDDI) is described. The authors categorize physical-related errors into several types such as link failure at the primary ring, link failure at the secondary ring, cable failure, and subsequent failures after ring reconfiguration. A reconfiguration algorithm was designed to locate and bypass both single and multiple link failures as well as cable failures. By introducing several flags and management frames, the network is capable of locating the errors and can carry out different ring reconfiguration strategies based on the type of errors. Each node stores the knowledge of the ring status by using these flags. This technique is capable of providing the maximum possible connectivity among the nodes and avoiding any unnecessary extension of transmission length. The new reconfiguration methodology is explained by using pseudocode. >
Licensing as a Means of Providing Affordability and Accessibility in Digital Markets: Alternatives to a Digital First Sale Doctrine

The last decade has been characterized by a shift from works disseminated primarily as tangible objects to a market in which purely digital works are prevalent. This movement has led many scholars to consider whether the doctrine of first sale – well-established in the world of physical goods – should be extended to cover digital works. Although the first sale doctrine creates affordability and accessibility for tangible copyrighted works, it would not necessarily affect the digital world in a similar fashion. This paper discusses the relevant differences that create a need for an alternative to a digital first sale doctrine in the digital world and proposes a framework in which licenses applied to digital goods may be evaluated in order to provide social benefit.
Multiple snapshot matching pursuit for direction of arrival (DOA) estimation

The Matching Pursuit (MP) algorithm may be used to give a low complexity method of obtaining a solution to the directions of arrival (DOA) problem which arises in a large number of application areas. We present a novel estimation of the DOA in which we incorporate multiple snapshots of the received signal into each run of the MP algorithm. A tree based search is used in combination with MP to expand the search space. This new method, MSMPDOA, gives a substantial performance improvement over running the MP algorithm on each snapshot separately before the results are aggregated to give the DOA estimate. In a series of simulations, it is shown that the success rate in accurately determining arrival directions at low values of SNR is improved by 10–30% by utilizing the MSMPDOA algorithm.
Generalized Response Function Approach to Strongly Coupled Plasmas

For nearly a decade, theorists in the area of strongly coupled plasmas have been in search of approximation schemes for determining the physical characteristics of the system without recourse to the usual perturbation expansion in the plasma parameter γ (\(\gamma = k_D^3/4\pi \pi n,k_D^{ - 1}\) is the Debye length) when γ is not small. The more successful schemes which have emerged from this search can be classified according to whether they are based on the first Bogoliubov-Born-Green-Kirkwood-Yvon (BBGKY) kinetic equation or on the second BBGKY static equation. The former approach, basically a dynamical one, contemplates the introduction of a weak electric field perturbation into the equilibrium system. In this approach, the wave vector- and frequency-dependent dielectric response function can be considered to be the central object and one arrives at an expression for it by combining the first BBGKY kinetic equation with one or more fluctuation-dissipation theorems (FDTs). This method has been pursued in different ways by Singwi et al (STLS) [Singwi Tosi, Land and Sjolander, 1968; Singwi, Sjolander, Tosi and Land, 1969, 1970; Vashishta and Singwi, 1973] and by Golden, Kalman and Silevitch (GKS) [1974]. The latter approach, basically a static one, does not contemplate the introduction of a weak field perturbation into the plasma.
A simple derivation of the general redshift formula

In an arbitrary space-timep let two observers i t 2 be located at events PI' P2 which can be connected by a null geodesic (see figure). Let UI, U 2 be the 4-velocities of the observers~ and let K be tangent to the null geodesic and covariant constant (i.e.~ K is transported parallel along the null geodesic). E. SchrDdlnger [I ] has given a simple formula for the "frequency shift" between the two observers for any signal propagated along null geodesics:
RHIC data correlation methodology

A requirement for RHIC data plotting software and physics analysis is the correlation of data from all accelerator data gathering systems. Data correlation provides the capability for a user to request a plot of multiple data channels vs. time, and to make meaningful time-correlated data comparisons. The task of data correlation for RHIC requires careful consideration because data acquisition triggers are generated from various asynchronous sources including events from the RHIC Event Link, events from the two Beam Sync Links, and other unrelated clocks. In order to correlate data from asynchronous acquisition systems a common time reference is required. The RHIC data correlation methodology will allow all RHIC data to be converted to a common wall clock time, while still preserving native acquisition trigger information. A data correlation task force team, composed of the authors of this paper, has been formed to develop data correlation design details and provide guidelines for software developers. The overall data correlation methodology is presented.
Objective space approach for analyzing a multiple criteria capital budgeting model

The important application of capital budgeting plays a central role in many financially based applications. Capital budgeting by nature is a multiple criteria decision making problem. There are many studies of the capital budgeting problem using the concepts of multicriteria decision making and/or solution by applying multiple objective linear programming. The multiple objective linear program has several objectives, as mentioned, to be optimized over a convex polytope X. A number of authors approach this problem with techniques that are based on analyzing all the extreme points or edges of X that are efficient for the objective. However, in capital budgeting X is in a large dimensional space defined by many constraints. In these application the constraint set has a large number extreme points. On the other hand, the set of all budgeting objective values is frequently in a space of small dimension reflecting the number of goals in the problem. This leads naturally looking at the objective space approach discussed in this paper.
Intramolecular diels-alder reactions of 2-alkenyl-1,2-dihydropyridines. An approach to the synthesis of the cis-decahydroquinoline ring system.

Abstract In refluxing decalin 2-alkenyl-1-alkoxycarbonyl-1,2-dihydropyridines undergo an intramolecular Diels-Alder reaction to provide novel polycyclic compounds. The cis -decahydroquinoline ring system can be prepared from the appropriate Diels-Alder product utilizing a ring-opening reverse Mannich reaction.
State of the audiotape art: Amateurs and professionals find their favorite tape formats enhanced by better electronics, mechanics, and magnetic oxides

Amateurs and professionals find their favorite tape formats enhanced by better electronics, mechanics, and magnetic oxides.
Testing continuum descriptions of low-Mach-number shock structures

Numerical experiments have been performed on normal shock waves with Monte Carlo Direct Simulations (MCDS's) to investigate the validity of continuum theories at very low Mach numbers. Results from the Navier-Stokes and the Burnett equations are compared to MCDS's for both hard-sphere and Maxwell gases. It is found that the maximum-slope shock thicknesses are described equally well (within the MCDS computational scatter) by either of the continuum formulations for Mach numbers smaller than about 1.2. For Mach numbers greater that 1.2, the Burnett predictions are more accurate than the Navier-Stokes results. Temperature-density profile separations are best described by the Burnett equations for Mach numbers greater than about 1.3. At lower Mach numbers the MCDS scatter is too great to differentiate between the two continuum theories. For all Mach numbers above one, the shock shapes are more accurately described by the Burnett equations.
John (Jack) Parker

Of the three founders of the Society for the History of Discoveries, John (Jack) Parker was the only one born in the United States. His date of birth: 15 May 1923; place of birth, Nekoma, North Dak...
Polymorphonuclear leukocytes isolated from umbilical cord blood as a useful research tool to study adherence to cell monolayers

One of the initial steps in the inflammatory process involves the adherence and transmigration of circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) across the endothelial cell monolayer. One of the main constituents of the neutrophil phagosome that contributes to bacterial killing is myeloperoxidase (MPO) which can be measured spectrophotometrically, using hydrogen peroxide as a substrate, and hence can be used as an index to quantify neutrophil adherence. To evaluate whether PMN isolated from umbilical cord blood could be used for in vitro experiments to monitor neutrophil adherence, we compared the adherence to confluent endothelial and epithelial cell monolayers using PMN isolated from umbilical cord and adult peripheral blood. The extent of PMN adherence was assessed by measuring MPO activity. In initial experiments, we isolated PMN from umbilical cord and adult peripheral blood and measured MPO activity with respect to cell number and assay incubation times. Our data demonstrate that PMN obtained from either source had similar MPO activity and similar adherence to endothelial or epithelial cells. In conclusion, our data suggest that umbilical cord blood is a suitable source of leukocytes to examine PMN adherence in the setting of inflammation in a variety of disease processes.
Identification of a mammalian mitochondrial homolog of ribosomal protein S7.

Abstract Bovine mitochondrial small subunit ribosomal proteins were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis. The region containing the most basic protein(s) was excised and the protein(s) present subjected to in-gel digestion with trypsin. Electrospray tandem mass spectrometry was used to provide sequence information on some of the peptide products. Searches of the human EST database using the sequence of the longest peptide analyzed indicated that this peptide was from the mammalian mitochondrial homolog of prokaryotic ribosomal protein S7 (MRP S7human). MRP S7human is a 28-kDa protein with a pI of 10. Significant homology to bacterial S7 is observed especially in the C-terminal half of the protein. Surprisingly, MRP S7human shows less homology to the corresponding mitochondrial proteins from plants and fungi than to bacterial S7.
Radiative Transport Reconsidered

We describe situations where coherent and incoherent effects take place in a disordered medium illuminated by a coherent source. We illustrate the transition from coherence to incoherence by considering the propagation of a scalar wave in a medium of point, isotropic scatterers. We note how a traditional transport equation evolves and that it is enriched by a boundary layer in which coherence decays and the intensity is of damped oscillatory nature.
Numerical study of buoyancy effects on the structure and propagation of triple flames

The structure and propagation properties of diffusion neutral triple flames subject to buoyancy effects are studied numerically using a high-accuracy scheme. A wide range of gravity conditions, heat release, and mixing widths for a scalar mixing layer are computed for downward-propagating (in the same direction as the gravity vector) and upward-propagating (in the opposite direction to the gravity vector) triple flames. These results are used to identify non-dimensional quantities, which parametrize the triple flame responses. Results show that buoyancy acts primarily to modify the overall span of the premixed branches in response to gas acceleration across the triple flame. The impact of buoyancy on the structure of triple flame is less pronounced than its impact on the topology of the branches. The trailing diffusion branch is affected by buoyancy primarily as a result of the changes in the overall flame size, which consequently modifies the rates of diffusion of excess fuel and oxidizer from the premix...
Hyperplastic Response of Adipose Tissue to Caloric Overconsumption in Sexually Mature Chickens

Two experiments were conducted to determine the hyperplastic response of adipose tissue from sexually mature chickens in response to caloric overconsumption. In the first experiment, birds were either force-fed or allowed to consume feed ad libitum, whereas in the second experiment, a feed-restriction regimen was also implemented. In both experiments feeding treatments were applied for 19 consecutive days, and a diet high in energy and low in protein was fed to all birds to promote lipogenesis. To monitor adipocyte dynamics, birds in Experiment 1 received an intramuscular injection of [methyl-3H]thymidine on Day 15, whereas in Experiment 2 birds were injected on Days 1 and 10. In both Experiments 1 and 2, body weight gain and percentage weight gain were greater in the force-fed birds. Furthermore the retroperitoneal (abdominal), and right sartorial fat depots increased in weight as a result of force-feeding, and there were concomitant increases in total adipocyte DNA content and total radiotracer uptake by these tissues. The results indicate that expansion of adipose tissue in sexually mature chickens is not restricted solely to cellular hypertrophy, but periodic hyperplastic activity also occurs in response to caloric overconsumption.
Response of Melanocytes of Dermis and Epidermis to Lightening Agents

THE frog has been prominent in investigations of hormonal control of human skin colour. The excised skin of Rana pipiens is sensitive to α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH); less than 10−11 g added to 20 ml. of Ringer's solution containing the specimen produces darkening. The responsiveness of frog skin to MSH led to its use in an in vitro frog skin assay1 which played an important part in the isolation and identification of α- and β-MSH2. These peptides when administered systemically darken human skin3,4. The use of the frog skin assay led also to the isolation of an indole, melatonin, which is synthesized in the pineal5. When added to frog skin previously darkened with MSH, melatonin was found to be a very potent lightening agent. Other compounds sharing this ability to lighten MSH darkened frog skin are nor-epinephrine and acetylcholine6.
A Program for Computing the Reliability and Maximum Reliability of a Weighted Composite

This paper describes a program, written in BASIC and PASCAL, for computing the reliability of a sum of weighted parts of a test composite and determining the maximum reliability and the corresponding weights.