cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Locations and Length of Entrances and Exits of an Automated Truck Lane on a U.S. Freeway

Automated Truck Lanes (ATLs) are most likely to be constructed in the median of a highway. Among the important design considerations of an ATL are the locations and lengths of the entrances and exits. These decisions are critical for automated trucks that to enter the freeway and join the ATL and for automated trucks to leave the ATL to exit the freeway. This research presents, through VISSIM microscopic traffic simulation, a series of scenarios that tested the possible locations and lengths of entrances and exits for an ATL relative to the locations of on-ramps and off-ramps. The simulation testbed was along a major truck corridor intersected by two closely spaced interchanges. The corridor consisted of an ATL in the median and three general purpose lanes in the same direction. The design year was 2045. Based on the results of the simulation runs, the recommended distance between the on-ramp from an upstream interchange to the ATL entrance was 10,560 ft (3,220 m). A similar distance is also recommended between the exit of the ATL and the downstream off-ramp. The recommended length of the ATL’s entrance or exit was 2,400 ft (730 m).
Disparities in refusal of surgery for gynecologic cancer

Objectives: To characterize socioeconomic and clinical factors associated with refusal of gynecologic cancer surgery. Methods: The National Cancer DataBase (NCDB) was surveyed for patients with uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer treated at participating Commission on Cancer sites between 2004 and 2017. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted, descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi squared tests performed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to examine the association between variables and refusal of surgery, with the threshold for two-sided significance set at p Results: Of the 938 773 patients with gynecologic cancer included in the NCDB, 5875 patients (0.6%) did not undergo surgery and had documented refusal. On univariate analysis, age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, rural residence, lower median household income, regional high school graduation rate, facility type (academic vs community), geographic location and distance to treating hospital, disease site, stage, and increasing Charlson comorbidity index were all associated with refusal of surgery (p 3 (OR 1.34 95% CI 1.16-1.56). Clinical trial enrollment was not associated with refusal. Conclusions: Multiple social, racial, economic, and systematic factors that impact marginalized members of society are independently associated with refusal of NCCN guideline-indicated surgery. Refusal of surgery is more common in underserved patients and may represent another aspect of healthcare disparity that deserves closer attention.
Genome-wide association studies identify the role of caspase-9 in kidney disease.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified hundreds of genetic risk regions for kidney dysfunction [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)]; however, the causal genes, cell types, ...
Diversity and Distribution of Dendrobium Species of Orchidaceae in Darjeeling District of Eastern Himalaya of India

Diversity and distribution of 34 species of Dendrobium Orchid species of Darjeeling district of Eastern Himalaya of India is reported. The current ecological studies were carried out and based on the findings, it is proposed that out of 34 species, 8 species should be placed as rare; 1 threatened; 2 species endangered; other 2 species frequent; 11 species sparse, 1 abundant and remaining 9 species are planted by local people. Besides these, 4 of them were found to be medicinal and ethnobotanical importance. The studies indicated the immediate need of formulation of conservation strategy to save these plants from being vanish forever.
Penetrating Convection Electric Field, Plasma Injection and Plasmasphere Disturbances

One of the most important processes which takes place in the magnetosphere during the magnetospheric substorm is the ‘injection’ of energized plasma particles from the plasma sheet into the Van Allen belt, the trapping region. It has generally been believed that the plasma ‘injection’ arises simply from an enhanced plasma flow caused by the southward turning of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) vector. However, it was shown in Section 4.4.5 that the plasma injection does not occur simply as a result of the southward turning of the IMF vector and that other processes are involved in causing it.
Neurogenesis in zebrafish embryos.

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the unique features of the zebrafish embryo that make it attractive for the study of early neural development, and examines how experimental manipulation of this system has contributed to the understanding of key events in neurogenesis and the patterning of neural tissue. Vertebrates such as zebrafish and other anamniotes including Xenopus are characterized by the presence of an early population of neurons called primary neurons. These neurons are part of a relatively simple nervous system that differentiates early to coordinate the activity of the free living larvae. The simplicity of the early neuronal network facilitates the examination of the distribution and definition of the axonal projections of primary neurons. This chapter illustrates how a combination of experimental approaches has been used in this system to answer specific developmental questions related to neurogenesis using selected examples rather than providing an exhaustive account of the subject. A combination of different approaches has allowed the investigation of cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurogenesis in the zebrafish embryo.
The Role of the Terminal Carboxyl Group in Peptide Transport in Escherichia coli

Abstract In order to assess the importance of the terminal carboxyl group to the process of peptide transport in bacteria, a series of peptides without carboxyl groups has been synthesized. The compounds prepared are lysylcadaverine oligopeptides, which are analogues of lysine oligopeptides. It was observed that an Escherichia coli lysine auxotroph can use lysyl- and dilysylcadaverine as sources of lysine. However, the higher oligomers do not support growth. A mutant was selected that had lost the ability to transport lysine oligopeptides; the mutant was also unable to transport the lysylcadaverine peptides, indicating that both series use a common transport system and that this system does not manifest a requirement for the carboxyl group. Evidence from the use of this mutant points to the existence of distinct transport mechanisms for dipeptides and oligopeptides, the former having a requirement for the carboxyl group.
Amine Analysis Using AlexaFluor 488 Succinimidyl Ester and Capillary Electrophoresis with Laser-Induced Fluorescence.

Fluorescent probes enable detection of otherwise nonfluorescent species via highly sensitive laser-induced fluorescence. Organic amines are predominantly nonfluorescent and are of analytical interest in agricultural and food science, biomedical applications, and biowarfare detection. Alexa Fluor 488 N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester (AF488 NHS-ester) is an amine-specific fluorescent probe. Here, we demonstrate low limit of detection of long-chain (C9 to C18) primary amines and optimize AF488 derivatization of long-chain primary amines. The reaction was found to be equally efficient in all solvents studied (dimethylsulfoxide, ethanol, and N,N-dimethylformamide). While an organic base (N,N-diisopropylethylamine) is required to achieve efficient reaction between AF488 NHS-ester and organic amines with longer hydrophobic chains, high concentrations (>5 mM) result in increased levels of ethylamine and propylamine in the blank. Optimal incubation times were found to be >12 hrs at room temperature. We present an initial capillary electrophoresis separation for analysis using a simple micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) buffer consisting of 12 mM sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) and 5 mM carbonate, pH 10. Limits of detection using the optimized labeling conditions and these separation conditions were 5–17 nM. The method presented here represents a novel addition to the arsenal of fluorescent probes available for highly sensitive analysis of small organic molecules.
Cold sensitivity and other phenotypes resulting from mutation in pyrA gene.

Abstract A strain of Salmonella typhimurium, cold sensitive for arginine biosynthesis (i.e. able at 37° but unable at 20° to synthesize arginine), has been shown to be a consequence of a mutation in the pyrA gene. The form of carbamyl phosphate synthetase synthesized by this strain has altered allosteric properties which preclude its functioning for both arginine and pyrimidine biosynthesis at 20°. The other four known phenotypes which can result from mutations in pyrA are considered on a similar basis.
Jurisprudence: A Beginner's Simple and Practical Guide to Complex Legal Theory

An introduction to jurisprudence, the part of legal studies that attempts to construct a theory of law: what it is, how it functions, and what it should be. Jurisprudence deals with the history, philosophy, and sociology of the law. Legal authorities-cases and statutes-are written and interpreted, consciously or unconsciously, with the use of jurisprudential concepts. Jurisprudence is a theoretical subject, but it can provide practical insights on how to read and understand these authorities.
Design and performance of a high-stability water vapor radiometer

[1] The design of two new high-stability microwave water vapor radiometers is presented along with a performance evaluation. The radiometers operate next to a spacecraft tracking station at NASA's Goldstone facility in California, where they will be used to calibrate tropospheric path delay fluctuations during an upcoming gravity-wave search experiment (GWE) involving the Cassini spacecraft. Observing frequencies of the radiometers are 22.2, 23.8, and 31.4 GHz, and the antenna beam width is 1°. The instruments are room temperature Dicke radiometers with additive noise injection for gain calibration. Design highlights include: (1) a practical temperature control system capable of stabilizing the entire receiver to a few millikelvin from day to night; (2) redundant noise diode injection circuits with 30 ppm RF power stability; and (3) a voice coil actuated waveguide vane attenuator which is used as a high-performance Dicke switch. Performance of the radiometers is evaluated from intercomparisons of the two radiometers and from continuous tip curve calibrations spanning nearly 1 year. Structure function analysis of the intercomparison data indicates that the brightness temperature stability of these radiometers is better than 0.01 K on 1000–10,000 s timescales. Analysis of tip curve calibrations indicates RMS errors of ∼0.05 K on 30-day timescales and 0.15 K on 1-year timescales.
Pulmonary artery occlusion pressure may overdiagnose pulmonary artery hypertension in sickle cell disease.

Background A high prevalence of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) in sickle cell disease (SCD) has been reported in several studies. However, few studies that describe the hemodynamics have actually measured pulmonary artery occlusive pressure (PAOP). Furthermore, even PAOP has been shown to be unreliable in discriminating pulmonary artery hypertension from pulmonary venous hypertension. We prospectively examined the accuracy of PAOP using simultaneous left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) measurement as the gold standard. Hypothesis In patients with SCD, PAOP may not reflect LVEDP leading to over-diagnosis of PAH. Methods We prospectively examined hemodynamic data on 26 patients with SCD, at a large academic center, from 2009 through 2011. These patients underwent simultaneous PAOP and LVEDP measurements. Results We tested 106 adult SCD patients with 2-D Echocardiography for evaluation of PH. Of the 106 patients, 43 (41%) were found to have a tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity ≥ 2.5 m/sec. Of these 43, 26 patients underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) and simultaneous measurement of LVEDP. Twelve patients among the 106 (11.1%) patients were found to have PH. Eight of these (7.5 %) had PAH by PAOP criteria but only 4/106 (3/7%) had PAH by LVEDP criteria. PAOP significantly underestimated the LVEDP in both the PH group and group with normal hemodynamics (p=0.00004). BNP, and creatinine levels significantly increased in PAH group (p< 0.02, 0.01, 0.03). PAOP misclassified 50% of patients in this sickle cell disease cohort. In conclusion, PAOP may underestimate LVEDP in sickle cell patients with pulmonary hypertension and can lead to misclassification.
Modeling of data bus structures using numerical methods

The difficulties associated with the method of moments (MOM) analysis of a bus-type structure are analyzed. The bus structures are evaluated with round wire models. The MOM code MININEC was used for the majority of the analysis. The limitations of the moment method formulation are discussed, and the problem areas associated with the bus geometry are identified. The sensitivities with respect to wire radius, wire separation, and segment length are investigated. Nonphysical asymmetries in current due to segmentation are also discussed. Guidelines are presented for geometry and frequency restrictions necessary to maintain the accuracy of MOM predictions for the data bus structures. >
A randomized controlled trial targeting alcohol use and sexual assault risk among college women at high risk for victimization

Sexual assault risk reduction programs do not target alcohol use despite the widespread knowledge that alcohol use is a risk factor for being victimized. The current study assessed the effectiveness of a web-based combined sexual assault risk and alcohol use reduction program using a randomized control trial. A total of 207 college women between the ages of 18 and 20 who engaged in heavy episodic drinking were randomized to one of five conditions: full assessment only control condition, sexual assault risk reduction condition, alcohol use reduction condition, combined sexual assault risk and alcohol use reduction condition, and a minimal assessment only condition. Participants completed a 3-month follow-up survey on alcohol-related sexual assault outcomes, sexual assault outcomes, and alcohol use outcomes. Significant interactions revealed that women with higher severity of sexual assault at baseline experienced less incapacitated attempted or completed rapes, less severity of sexual assaults, and engaged in less heavy episodic drinking compared to the control condition at the 3-month follow-up. Web-based risk reduction programs targeting both sexual assault and alcohol use may be the most effective way to target the highest risk sample of college students for sexual assault: those with a sexual assault history and those who engage in heavy episodic drinking.
Gibbs-sampling-based optimization for the deployment of small cells in 3G heterogeneous networks

The growing popularity of mobile data services has placed great demands for wireless cellular networks to support higher throughput. One way to meet the rapidly growing traffic demand is through heterogeneous network (HetNet) deployment, which uses a mixture of macro cells and small cells (also known as micro- or pico-cells) to further enhance the spatial reuse and thus improves network throughput. In this paper, we propose a Gibbs-sampling based optimization method for the deployment of small cells in 3G networks. To our best knowledge, this work is the first to optimize the locations of multiple small cells with the goal of maximizing a given network utility function. The Gibbs sampling based (GSB) method intelligently balances two potentially conflicting considerations: (i) placing small cells close to congested areas; and (ii) minimizing interference with the existing macro cells and other small cells. We also describe two low-complexity algorithms, the greedy EcNo and the greedy hotspot algorithms. Both algorithms are widely used in industry and will be used as the performance benchmark. Extensive simulations have been conducted based on real traffic traces from the 3G data network. The numerical results show that the GSB placement leads to 10% higher throughput and 30% higher off-loading factor than the greedy solutions. Since the cost of deploying small nodes could be expensive and each city may need a large number of small nodes, the proposed results represent significant cost savings compared to greedy solutions.
Data clustering: principal components, Hopfield and self-aggregation networks

We present a coherent framework for data clustering. Starting with a Hopfield network, we show the solutions for several well-motivated clustering objective functions are principal components. For MinMaxCut objectives motivated for ensuring cluster balance, the solutions are the nonlinearly scaled principal components. Using scaled PC A, we generalize to multi-way clustering, constructing a self-aggregation network, where connection weights between different clusters are automatically suppressed while connection weights within same clusters are automatically enhanced.
A multi-scale computational model for multiphase flow in porous media

Abstract Computational models of multiphase flow in porous media can be developed to describe processes at several different length scales. These include traditional continuum-scale models, ranging in application from the laboratory scale to the field scale, and pore-scale models. Each of these models may be seen as part of a scale hierarchy. As such, they may be used in a hierarchical sequence with output from smaller-scale models serving as input to larger-scale models. This gives rise to the concept of multi-scale computational models. A combination of pore-scale and field-scale models may be seen as an example of a multi-scale model. Such a model fits naturally into parallel computing environments, and may provide a computationally feasible approach for realistic incorporation of material heterogeneities in multiphase flow simulations.
Inference for Local Autocorrelations in Locally Stationary Models

For nonstationary processes, the time-varying correlation structure provides useful insights into the underlying model dynamics. We study estimation and inferences for local autocorrelation process in locally stationary time series. Our constructed simultaneous confidence band can be used to address important hypothesis testing problems, such as whether the local autocorrelation process is indeed time-varying and whether the local autocorrelation is zero. In particular, our result provides an important generalization of the R function acf() to locally stationary Gaussian processes. Simulation studies and two empirical applications are developed. For the global temperature series, we find that the local autocorrelations are time-varying and have a “V” shape during 1910–1960. For the S&P 500 index, we conclude that the returns satisfy the efficient-market hypothesis whereas the magnitudes of returns show significant local autocorrelations.
The post‐modern presidency and the grammar of electronic electioneering

Candidate‐centered U.S. political campaigns increasingly reflect the broader cultural preoccupation with unraveling the tensions between appearance and reality. In a television age, people are suspicious of image making, and campaign discourse necessarily becomes mired in a futile interrogation of candidates. This preoccupation ensures that all candidates will fail to measure up to the standard of the mythical “real”; leader. Under these conditions, ironically, the electorate tends to settle on those candidates who are most comfortable performing a symbolic role. The 1988 presidential campaign in general and the Bentsen‐Quayle vice‐presidential debate in particular illustrate this “grammar of electronic electioneering”; and how it contributes to the acceptance of a symbolic post‐modern presidency.
Possible particle measurements in the high- latitude magnetosphere.

Particle measurements in magnetosphere near equatorial plane and in auroral zone by particle detectors on ESRO satellites
The number of summands in v1-periodic homotopy groups of SU(n)☆

Abstract The v 1 -periodic homotopy groups can be roughly described as the portions of the actual homotopy groups localized at a prime p that are detected by K -theory. In 1991 Davis showed that if p is an odd prime, v 1 −1 π 2 k ( SU ( n ) ; p ) is cyclic, gave the formula for its order, and proved that v 1 −1 π 2 k − 1 ( SU ( n ) ; p ) has the same order, but is not always cyclic. In this work we determine the number of summands of v 1 −1 π 2 k − 1 ( SU ( n ) ; p ) for all values of p , k , and n , where p is an odd prime. The method being used involves finding the rank of a family of matrices generated by the Adams operations. Determining the group structure of v 1 −1 π 2 k − 1 ( SU ( n ) ; p ) groups still remains an open question.
The metaphysics of words

Soulevant le probleme de l'indetermination semantique appliquee aux mots comme aux choses, l'A. montre que la logique deviante est soumise a un nombre infini de theoremes concernant les predicats impossibles. Par analogie avec les theoremes de la logique classique concernant les predicats vagues, l'A. conclut au caractere ontologique ad hoc de la logique deviante
Information-seeking behavior of women in their path to an innovative alternate treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to discover how women found out about uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. Methods: The study retrospectively tracked women from the beginning of their illnesses and analyzed their information-seeking behaviors. Twenty-eight women who had the procedure at the Detroit Medical Center were interviewed using a standard script. Median values and frequencies were calculated to represent information needs, information sources, and perceived helpfulness. Spearman correlations were calculated to find relationships between demographics and information needs. Results: Although the women expressed a great need for almost all types of information (median = 5), those with higher levels of education indicated a greater need to know the reasons that their doctors had for suggesting treatments (r = 0.55). The gathered frequencies indicated that friends, magazines, television, and the Internet were important information sources. A preliminary model of information seeking showed that while friends, magazines, and television made several of the women aware of the new procedure, the Internet was heavily utilized for learning about treatment options. Conclusions: Health sciences librarians may inform women about their health and treatment options by guiding women to easily readable, authoritative, and reliable information sources, including Web information sites.
Effects of Clustered Epitopes in Multivalent Ligand−Receptor Interactions†

Many biological ligands are composed of clustered binding epitopes. However, the effects of clustered epitopes on the affinity of ligand-receptor interactions in many cases are not well understood. Clustered carbohydrate epitopes are present in naturally occurring multivalent carbohydrates and glycoproteins, which are receptors on the surface of cells. Recent studies have provided evidence that the enhanced affinities of lectins, which are carbohydrate binding proteins, for multivalent carbohydrates and glycoproteins are due to internal diffusion of lectin molecules from epitope to epitope in these multivalent ligands before dissociation. Indeed, binding of lectins to mucins, which are large linear glycoproteins, appears to be similar to the internal diffusion mechanism(s) of protein ligands binding to DNA, which have been termed the "bind and slide" or "bind and hop" mechanisms. The observed increasing negative cooperativity and gradient of decreasing microaffinity constants of a lectin binding to multivalent carbohydrates and glycoproteins result in an initial fraction of lectin molecules that bind with very high affinity and dynamic motion. These findings have important implications for the mechanisms of binding of lectins to mucins, and for other ligand-biopolymer interactions and clustered ligand-receptor systems in general.
Phase I clinical and pharmacokinetic investigation of didemnin B, a cyclic depsipeptide

Didemnin B (NSC-325319), a cyclic depsipeptide isolated from a marine tunicate, has been evaluated in a Phase I trial. The drug was administered in a single intravenous infusion in 150 cm3 of normal saline every 30 min given every 28 days. Forty-three patients received 80 courses of the drug at doses ranging from 0.14 to 4.51 mg/m2. The dose-limiting toxicity was nausea and vomiting which began during or shortly after the infusion and was of variable duration. This toxicity was somewhat ameliorated by pretreatment with an aggressive antiemetic regimen. Mild hepatic toxicity also occurred with mild elevations of transaminases and bilirubin. One patient experienced an allergic reaction during his second infusion, characterized by chills, diaphoresis, flushing and hypotension. No objective anti-tumor response was seen during this trial. The recommended dose for Phase II studies on a single-dose schedule is 2.67 mg/m2 without prophylactic antiemetics and 3.47 mg/m2 if an antiemetic regimen is used. Preliminary pharmacokinetics suggest that didemnin B is sequestered or rapidly converted to a metabolite not identified by the antibody used in the radioimmunoassay. Further evaluation will be performed during Phase II studies.
Care Experiences of Managed Care Medicare Enrollees Near the End of Life

Objectives: To compare reports about care experiences of individuals who died within 1 year of survey with reports of those who did not. Design: Medicare Advantage (MA) Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) surveys asked about care experiences. Survey completion dates were linked to Social Security Administration death records to identify enrollees dying within 1 year of survey completion. Propensity-score weighting combined with regression-based case-mix adjustment was used to compare these individuals� experiences with experiences of those who were alive 1 year later. Setting: Nationally representative sample of MA enrollees. Participants: Four hundred two thousand five hundred ninety-three MA enrollees responding to 2008 and 2009 CAHPS Surveys. Measurements: Outcomes were five care ratings (plan, prescription drug coverage, doctor, specialists, care) and five composite measures of care (getting needed care, getting care quickly, doctor communication, getting drugs, getting drug information). Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, race and ethnicity, education, Medicaid status, geographic region, and several health status measures. Results: Twelve thousand one hundred two enrollees (3%) died within 1 year of survey completion (near-end-of-life group). Those enrollees reported slightly better experiences than other enrollees with respect to getting care quickly (+2%, P < .001) and gave slightly higher ratings for their plans (+1%, P = .02) and prescription drug coverage (+1%, P < .001). There were no measures of participant experience for which the near-end-of-life group reported worse experiences than other enrollees. Conclusion: Contrary to analyses based on retrospective reports from surviving relatives after an individual's death, MA enrollees� reports about care within 1 year of death were as good as or better than reports of other MA enrollees. Future research might investigate whether results are similar in other Medicare populations.
Dual‐indexed mortgages in reforming socialist economies: Evaluating the risks and institutional requirements

Abstract Although housing finance systems in reforming socialist economies have attempted to increase their market orientation, the high inflation rates accompanying the reform process have introduced new distortions. Mortgage instruments designed for high‐inflation economies, such as the dual‐indexed mortgage (DIM), can reduce these distortions. However, the introduction of new financial instruments should not be undertaken lightly. Both the performance of the instruments under various macroeconomic conditions and the technical requirements for implementation must be examined carefully. Such an analysis was performed for the hypothetical introduction of a DIM in Hungary. In the Hungarian example, the risks of losses on a DIM portfolio are minimal and are considerably less than the risk faced by traditional fixed‐rate mortgages. An examination of the institutional and technical issues associated with the DIM shows that reforming socialist economies face special difficulties. In the Hungarian case, as the ...
Effect of nonhomogeneous intrinsic layer in a thin-film amorphous-silicon solar cell

The intrinsic layer in an amorphous-silicon solar cell is usually several orders of magnitude thicker than the p - and n -layers to increase the electron-hole pair generation in the intrinsic layer and to decrease the recombination losses in the p - and n -layers. We hypothesized that a nohomogeneous intrinsic layer may trap the incident light better and increase the generation rate of charge carriers. The nonhomogeneity can be introduced by varying the composition of amorphous silicon alloys during chemical vapor deposition. The effect of intrinsic layer nonhomogeneity of various schemes was studied theoretically on the short-circuit current of a single-junction thin-film amorphous-silicon solar cell. The absorption of light was calculated using the rigorous coupled-wave approach for an AM1.5 solar irradiance spectrum for a wavelength range of 400-1100 nm. An antireection coating consisting of two layers of homogeneous dielectric materials was also used. The backing metallic layer of the solar cell was taken to be periodically corrugated. The short-circuit current of the solar cell with nonhomogeneous intrinsic layer was found to be higher than the solar cell with a homogeneous intrinsic layer.
Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations Should Be Treated Conservatively Yes

The case for treatment of asymptomatic cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM) is based on the premise that the morbidity and mortality of treatment should be less than the expected morbidity and mortality associated with the untreated AVM for the remainder of the patient’s expected lifetime—in other words the natural history of a treated AVM must be better than that of an untreated AVM. The literature contains a wide range of data on this subject, and by taking examples from across this spectrum one can easily support any viewpoint. Therefore, for the purposes of this discussion, published data from the Columbia AVM Databank will be used because this data are relatively “modern,” are prospectively acquired and are frequently used to support a position of nonintervention for asymptomatic AVM. For many years, intracranial AVM were generally considered to carry a bleed risk of about 2% per year for asymptomatic AVM and around 4% per year for symptomatic lesions, with each hemorrhage having an associated neurological morbidity of 20% to 30% and mortality of 10% to 30%.1–6 Based on a combination of retrospective and prospective studies, sometimes without a clear distinction between symptomatic and asymptomatic AVM, and with some studies performed in the …
Critical adsorption at silicon surfaces in binary liquid mixtures.

In critical binary liquid mixtures the preferential adsorption that occurs at liquid-vapor or liquid-solid surfaces is expected to be described by a universal surface scaling function. In this paper, we show that aniline strongly adsorbs at an oxide-coated Si wafer surface from a critical mixture of aniline + cyclohexane where this solid-liquid adsorption can be described by the same universal function found at liquid-vapor surfaces. For a tetrabromoethane + $n$-dodecane critical mixture the $n$-dodecane adsorption on an alkylsilane coated Si wafer cannot be described by previously determined adsorption functions. We speculate that this discrepancy is caused by chemical heterogeneities at the alkylsilane surface due to differing surface distributions of $\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ and $\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ groups within the silane layer.
Illuminance-based slat angle selection model for automated control of split blinds

Abstract Venetian blinds play an important role in controlling daylight in buildings. Automated blinds overcome some limitations of manual blinds; however, the existing automated systems mainly control the direct solar radiation and glare and cannot be used for controlling innovative blind systems such as split blinds. This research developed an Illuminance-based Slat Angle Selection (ISAS) model that predicts the optimum slat angles of split blinds to achieve the designed indoor illuminance. The model was constructed based on a series of multi-layer feed-forward artificial neural networks (ANNs). The illuminance values at the sensor points used to develop the ANNs were obtained by the software EnergyPlus™. The weather determinants (such as horizontal illuminance and sun angles) were used as the input variables for the ANNs. The illuminance level at a sensor point was the output variable for the ANNs. The ISAS model was validated by evaluating the errors in the calculation of the: 1) illuminance and 2) optimum slat angles. The validation results showed that the power of the ISAS model to predict illuminance was 94.7% while its power to calculate the optimum slat angles was 98.5%. For about 90% of time in the year, the illuminance percentage errors were less than 10%, and the percentage errors in calculating the optimum slat angles were less than 5%. This research offers a new approach for the automated control of split blinds and a guide for future research to utilize the adaptive nature of ANNs to develop a more practical and applicable blind control system.
The removal and restoration of stimulus control.

When a well-learned circle versus ellipse discrimination was made impossibly difficult for the subjects (rhesus monkeys), the controlling stimulus-response topographies were replaced by competing topographies. The identification of two training conditions sufficient to reinstate the original discrimination permitted the following inferences: the original controlling topography had merely decreased in probability of occurrence, whereas the “strength” of the stimulus-response relation remained unchanged; discriminations along the apparently continuous circle-ellipse dimension actually involved several distinct stimulus-control topographies.
Midgut of Lepidopteran pupae is a major depot of sequestered, mobilizable, ecdysteroids

Extirpation of endocrine organs - a classic maneuver in hormonal research - has been difficult or impossible in the case of the prothoracic glands (PG) of insects. In larval and pupal Lepidoptera the glands are virtually inaccessible unless one sacrifices the insect. Even then, the PG are not easy to remove in their entirety. Consequently, in order to obtain viable preparations lacking PG, one costomarily makes use of abdomens isolated by litigation or surgery.
Constructive Cross-Validation in Linear Prediction

Approaches for regressor construction in the linear prediction problem are investigated in a framework similar to partial least squares and continuum regression, but weighted to allow for custom specification of an evaluative scheme. A cross-validatory continuum regression procedure is proposed, and shown to compare well with ordinary continuum regression in empirical demonstrations.
Gender Differences in Associations Between Body Mass Index and DSM-IV Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine gender differences in associations between body mass index (BMI) and affective disorders. Methods We used logistic regression to examine the effects of BMI and gender on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) mood and anxiety disorders in a sample of 40,790 adults. Results Obesity (BMI >30.0) was associated with increased risk for any mood disorder, major depressive disorder, and dysthymic disorder, in both men and women (odds ratios [ORs], 1.35–1.88). Risk of bipolar I and II disorders was elevated in obese women (ORs, 1.70–2.41) but not men. Overweight (BMI = 25.0–29.9) predicted increased risk for any mood disorder and bipolar I disorder in women but not in men (ORs, 1.16–1.44). Obesity was associated with increased odds of any anxiety disorder and specific phobia in men and women (ORs, 1.35–1.79). Obese women were additionally at increased risk for social phobia. Overweight predicted increased risk of social phobia and specific phobia for women but not for men (ORs, 1.27–1.37). Conclusions Obese individuals of both genders are at increased risk for a range of mood and anxiety disorders, but women who are even moderately overweight experience increased risks for some disorders as well.
Risk of hematologic toxicities in patients with solid tumors treated with everolimus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of hematologic toxicities associated with everolimus, an oral mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor. Eligible studies included phase II and III trials of patients with solid tumors on 10 mg of everolimus daily describing events of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia or lymphopenia. The incidence of everolimus-associated all-grade and high-grade (Grade 3–4) hematologic toxicities were, respectively: neutropenia: 21.7% and 3.6%; thrombocytopenia: 36.0% and 4.7%; anemia: 61.2% and 8.4% and lymphopenia: 40.9% and 14.9%. Everolimus was associated with an increased risk of all-grade neutropenia (RR = 2.24, [95% CI 1.51–3.32]), all-grade (RR = 9.19, [95% CI 4.51–18.70]) and high-grade (RR = 7.46, [95% CI 2.58–21.61]) thrombocytopenia, all-grade (RR = 1.58, [95% CI 1.25–1.99]) and high-grade (RR = 3.92, [95% CI 1.46–10.52]) anemia and all-grade (RR = 1.72, [95% CI 1.50–1.97]) and high-grade (RR = 2.70, [95% CI 1.86–3.93]) lymphopenia.
The sorption of mixtures under linear equilibrium partitioning and chemical transformation

We consider the flow of a mixture, whose components are undergoing temporally and spatially varying linear equilibrium sorption partitioning and, possibly nonlinear, chemical transformations. We are able to generate an evolution system of parabolic type on the space of uniformly continuous functions and thus obtain classical solutions for arbitrary initial values.
The effect of a rating change announcement on bond price

Abstract This paper examines the behavior of corporate bond prices during the period surrounding the announcement of a rating change. We find some evidence of price change during the period from 18 to 7 months before the rating change is announced. We find no evidence of any reaction during the 6 months prior to the rating change. We also find little reaction, if any, during the month of the change or for 6 months after the change. This evidence contradicts the recent findings of Katz and Grier and Katz.
Postoperative immunotherapy of murine C1300-neuroblastoma.

Abstract Low-dose cyclophosphamide (CY) is an immunomodulating agent that down-regulates T suppressor cell function. This study investigates postoperative immunotherapy with CY as an alternate treatment for advanced immunogenic tumors such as neuroblastoma that typically respond poorly to traditional high-dose chemotherapy. A/J mice with 1.5-cm subcutaneous C1300-neuroblastoma (C1300-NB) tumors were divided into the following treatment groups: I, untreated (n = 14); II, 85% tumor resection (n = 18); III, sham-operated (n = 18); IV, multiple-dose CY (n = 6); V, 85% resection and single-dose CY (n = 14); VI, 85% resection and multiple-dose CY (n = 14). CY (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was given initially 24 hours post-operatively to groups IV, V, and VI. Groups IV and VI also received weekly maintenance doses of 25 mg/kg CY. Results showed significantly increased survival (log-rank test) in CY-treated groups (IV, V, VI) compared with control groups (I,II,III). Cures were observed only in groups receiving partial resection plus CY (V, 7%; VI, 29%). Although surgical debulking of tumor alone (II) did not enhance survival, the procedure normalized depressed total lymphocyte counts and the subpopulation of Lyt 2,3 + (T suppressor/cytolytic cells) in the immediate postoperative period during which immunotherapy with CY was instigated. This may have contributed to the success of CY immunotherapy. To characterize the tumor-host immune interaction, additional studies were performed. Results showed the following. (1) Mice cured by debulking plus CY (from groups V and VI) could not be successfully reimplanted with C1300-NB, demonstrating immunologic mediation by CY. (2) Injection of antithymocyte serum abrogated the therapeutic effects of CY in tumor-bearing mice, indicating that CY action is T cell-mediated. (3) T cell Concanavalin-A blastogenesis assay demonstrated suppression of T cell stimulation in tumor-bearing mice. This tumor-associated suppression was eradicated by CY treatment (100 mg/kg) of tumor-bearing mice. (4) Treatment of tumor-bearing mice with intravenous anti-IJ K serum significantly delayed tumor growth ( P = .002), demonstrating a role of IJ K cells in C1300-NB growth. These IJ K cells are part of the T suppressor network. (5) An increased polymorphonuclear cell count in the peripheral blood was a marker for the presence of tumor tissue, even before the gross tumor was noted. Because this evidence suggests that tumor-associated T suppressor populations contribute to experimental neuroblastoma growth, a trial of treatment of neuroblastoma patients with low-dose CY to inactivate these populations and support host antitumor mechanisms may be indicated, especially in the face of treatment failures with high-dose CY.
Amphotericin-B Phospholipid Interactions Responsible For Reduced Mammalian Cell Toxicity

When interacting with phospholipid in an aqueous environment, amphotericin B forms unusual structures of markedly reduced toxicity (Janoff et al. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85, 6122-6126). These structures, which appear ribbon-like by freeze-fracture electron microscopy (EM), are found exclusively at amphotericin B to lipid mole ratios of 1:3 to 1:1. At lower mole ratios they occur in combination with liposomes. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra revealed two distinct modes of lipid-amphotericin B interaction, one for liposomes and one for the ribbon-like structures. In isolated liposomes, amphotericin B which comprised 3-4 mole percent of the bulk lipid was monomeric and exhibited a hemolytic activity comparable to amphotericin B suspended in deoxycholate. Above 3-4 mole percent amphotericin B, ribbon-like structures emerged and CD spectra indicated drug-lipid complexation. Minimal inhibitory concentrations for Candida albicans of liposomal and complexed amphotericin B were comparable and could be attributed to amphotericin a release as a result of lipid breakdown within the ribbon-like material by a heat labile extracellular yeast product (lipase). Negative stain EM of the ribbon-like structures indicated that the ribbon-like appearance seen by freeze-fracture EM arises as a consequence of the cross-fracturing of what are aggregated, collapsed single lamellar, presumably interdigitated, membranes. Studies examining complexation of amphotericin B with either DMPC or DMPG demonstrated that headgroup interactions played little role in the formation of the ribbon-like structures. With these results we propose that ribbon-like structures result from phase separation of amphotericin B-phospholipid complexes within the phospholipid matrix such that amphotericin B release, and thus acute toxicity, is curtailed. Formation of amphotericin B-lipid structures such as those described here indicates a possible new role for lipid as a stabilizing matrix for drug delivery of lipophilic substances, specifically where a highly ordered packing arrangement between lipid and compound can be achieved.
Plasmid vector for cloning in Streptococcus pneumoniae and strategies for enrichment for recombinant plasmids.

A new plasmid, pLS101, was constructed for use as a vector for cloning in Streptococcus pneumoniae. This plasmid carries two selectable genes, tet and malM, each of which contains two or more restriction sites for cloning. Insertional inactivation of the malM gene allowed direct selection of TcRMal- clones containing recombinant plasmids. Other means of enriching a recipient population for cells containing recombinant plasmids were examined. The effect of removing vector terminal phosphate in attempts to clone heterogeneous DNA fragments, such as those from chromosomal DNA, was to abolish recombinant plasmid establishment altogether, presumably because donor DNA processing during entry into the cell prevented establishment of the hemiligated molecule. However, with homogeneous DNA fragments, such as those from plasmid or viral DNA, vector phosphate removal allowed enrichment for recombinant plasmids. In the cloning of heterogeneous DNA that was homologous to the recipient chromosome (i.e. chromosomal DNA from S. pneumoniae), recovery of recombinant plasmids could be enriched tenfold (relative to the regenerated vector) by the process of chromosomal facilitation of plasmid establishment. This involved an additional passage of the mixed plasmids in which interaction with the chromosome of plasmids containing chromosomal DNA inserts (i.e. recombinant plasmids) increased their frequency of establishment relative to the vector plasmid. An overall strategy for cloning in S. pneumoniae, depending on the nature of the fragment to be cloned, is proposed.
Transient temperature distributions in geological media surrounding radioactive waste repositories

Abstract Closed form analytical solutions are presented for the transient temperature distributions resulting from underground radioactive waste disposal. The thermal source term is represented by point or spherical sources whose strength decreases exponentially with time. The transient temperature distributions can be determined above the disposal horizon over a time interval of houndreds of years.
First-principles thermal equation of state and thermoelasticity of hcp Fe at high pressures

We investigate the equation of state and elastic properties of hcp iron at high pressures and high temperatures using the first-principles linear-response linear-muffin-tin-orbital method in the generalized-gradient approximation. We calculate the Helmholtz free energy as a function of volume, temperature, and volume-conserving strains, including the electronic excitation contributions from band structures and lattice vibrational contributions from quasiharmonic lattice dynamics. We perform detailed investigations on the behavior of elastic moduli and equation of state properties as functions of temperature and pressure, including the pressure-volume equation of state, bulk modulus, the thermal-expansion coefficient, the Gr\"uneisen ratio, and the shock Hugoniot. Detailed comparison has been made with available experimental measurements and theoretical predictions.