cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long-term Quality-Adjusted Survival Following Therapeutic Bronchoscopy for Malignant Central Airway Obstruction

Background While therapeutic bronchoscopy has been used to treat malignant central (CAO) airway obstruction for >25 years, there are no studies quantifying the impact of therapeutic bronchoscopy on long-term quality-adjusted survival. Methods We conducted a prospective observational study of consecutive patients undergoing therapeutic bronchoscopy for CAO. Patients had follow-up at 1 week and monthly thereafter until death. Outcomes included technical success (ie, relief of anatomic obstruction), dyspnoea, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and quality-adjusted survival. Results Therapeutic bronchoscopy was performed on 102 patients with malignant CAO. Partial or complete technical success was achieved in 90% of patients. At 7 days postbronchoscopy, dyspnoea improved (mean ∆Borg-day-7=−1.8, 95% CI −2.2 to −1.3, p Conclusions Therapeutic bronchoscopy improves HRQOL as compared with baseline, resulting in approximately a 5.8% improvement in HRQOL per day of life. The risk-benefit profile in these carefully selected patients was very favourable. Trial registration number Results; NCT03326570.
Heart Rate Equivalency of the Fitbit Charge HR During Continuous Aerobic Exercise

Purpose: Consumer-grade wrist-worn activity monitors frequently include photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors for estimating heart rate (HR). The Fitbit Charge HR is marketed specifically for tracking fitness; therefore, HR accuracy is critical, especially during exercise. This study examined HR equivalency of the Fitbit Charge HR during continuous aerobic exercise. Method: Participants (N = 19) concurrently wore a Polar H1 and Fitbit Charge HR during a measurement visit that included seated rest (5 minutes), warm-up (5 minutes), continuous treadmill exercise (30 minutes), and cool-down (5–10 minutes). Mean HR differences were examined by protocol phase, total activity (i.e., warm-up, exercise, and cool-down combined), and the first, middle, and last 5 minutes of continuous exercise. Mean absolute percent error (MAPE), Bland-Altman plots, and 95% equivalence testing explained overall and individual HR agreement between devices. Results: The Fitbit Charge HR significantly underestimated HR for all measurement...
Usefulness of Blood Pressure Variability Indices Derived From 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring in Detecting Autonomic Failure.

Background Increased blood pressure (BP) variability and nondipping status seen on 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring are often observed in autonomic failure (ATF). Methods and Results We assessed BP...
Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy

Posterior cervical foraminotomy was first described in the mid-twentieth century as a treatment for symptomatic neural foraminal stenosis. This technique is best used in cases of posterior or lateral compression of the nerve root. Because of its high rate of success in alleviating symptoms and relatively low risk of complications, it is employed frequently. Approximately 50 years after the introduction of the open approach, minimally invasive adaptations of the technique were developed. The open and minimally invasive approaches allow comparable decompression of the nerve root and similar rates of successful symptom improvement. The minimally invasive approach is associated with decreased blood loss, decreased hospital stay, and reduced postoperative muscle spasm and pain. This chapter reviews the indications, surgical planning considerations, optimal positioning, relevant anatomy, and surgical technique for the open and minimally invasive approaches to the posterior cervical foraminotomy. We also address the potential pitfalls of this technique and identify prophylactic measures to prevent them from occurring.
Phononic pathways towards rational design of nanowire heat conduction

Thermal conduction in semiconductor nanowires is controlled by the transport of atomic vibrations also known as thermal phonons. The ability of nanowires to tailor the transport of thermal phonons stems from their precise atomic scale growth coupled with high structural surface to volume ratios. Understanding and manipulating thermal transport properties at the nanoscale is central for progress in the fields of microelectronics, optoelectronics, and thermo-electrics. Here, we review state-of-the-art advances in the understanding of nanowire thermal phonon transport and the design and fabrication of nanowires with tailored thermal conduction properties. We first introduce the basic physical mechanisms of thermal conduction at the nanoscale and details recent developments in employing nanowires as thermal materials. We discuss and provide insight on different strategies to modulate nanowire thermal properties leveraging the underlying phonon transport processes occurring in nanowires. We also highlight challenges and key areas of interest to motivate future research and create exceptional capabilities to control heat flow in nanowires.
Effects of Petrophysical Properties on Array-Induction Measurements Acquired in the Presence of Oil-Base Mud-Filtrate Invasion

We quantify the influence of petrophysical properties on array-induction resistivity measurements acquired in the presence of oil-base mud (OBM) filtrate invasion. To simulate OBM-filtrate invasion, we consider a simple two-component formulation for the oil phase (OBM and reservoir oil) wherein the components are first-contact miscible. Simulations also include the presence of irreducible, capillary-bound, and movable water. The dynamic process of OBM invasion causes the component concentrations to vary with space and time. In addition, the relative mobility ofthe oil phase varies during the process of invasion given that oil viscosity and oil density are both dependent on component concentrations. This behavior in turn conditions the spatial distribution of electrical resistivity and, consequently, the borehole array-induction measurements. We use an implicit pressure, explicit concentration (IMPEC) reservoir simulator with a two-component formulation to reproduce the invasion process in axial-symmetric rock formations penetrated by a vertical well. Simulations of the process of OBM-filtrate invasion yield two-dimensional spatial distributions of water and oil saturation that are transformed into spatial distributions of electrical resistivity using Waxman-Smits' saturation-resistivity equations. Subsequently, we simulate array-induction measurements with a numerical mode-matching method. Simulation of induction measurements in the presence of OBM are compared against the corresponding measurements acquired in the presence of water-base mud (WBM) using field measurements from a deepwater Gulf-of-Mexico reservoir. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to quantify the effect of OBM-filtrate invasion on array-induction logs, including different values of formation porosity-permeability, movable water zone, capillary pressure, relative permeability, mud-filtrate invasion rates, and fluid viscosity. In addition, we quantify the effect of changes of rock wettability due to OBM invasion on field measurements. Our study indicates that relative permeability, capillary pressure, and flow rate of invasion control the radial length of invasion of OBM and, consequently, the values and relative separation of apparent resistivity curves. Porous rock formations saturated with movable water entail smooth radial distributions of water saturation which, in turn, result in deep (1.5 ft - 2 ft) radial invasion profiles and relatively large separation of apparent resistivity curves. By contrast, null or marginal separation of apparent resistivity curves occurs when the invaded rock is at irreducible water saturation.
Failure to close the gap: Concomitant superior canal dehiscence in otosclerosis patients.

Objective Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) causing conductive hearing loss with present reflexes is a known reason for stapes surgery failure. However, concomitant SSCD and otosclerosis occur rarely. We present a case series of SSCD diagnosed in positively identified otosclerosis patients. Methods Retrospective review of clinical case series in two tertiary-referral neurotologic practices was performed. Clinical histories, operative findings, audiograms, and computed tomography (CT) images were reviewed for patients diagnosed with both SSCD and otosclerosis. Patients with present stapedial reflexes were excluded. Comprehensive literature review was performed. Results Four cases were identified. Three reported improved hearing with partial or complete closure of the air-bone gap (ABG), including one patient with far-advanced otosclerosis. One patient had no improvement in pure tone average or ABG. One patient reported worsening of preoperative autophony and pulsatile tinnitus, but none developed new postoperative third-window symptoms. CTs demonstrated both SSCD and otosclerosis. Conclusion Failure to close the ABG in patients with positively identified otosclerosis intraoperatively may be due to SSCD as an occult concomitant diagnosis. SSCD should be considered as a possible cause of persistent conductive hearing loss after stapes surgery. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 130:1023-1027, 2020.
Living with multiple myeloma: A life disrupted.

95Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) an incurable cancer of the plasma cells is the second most common hematologic malignancy. Over 30,000 new diagnoses and over 12,000 deaths are attributed to MM a...
An Inhospitable World: Exploring a Model of Objectification Theory With Trans Women:

In this study, we investigated key tenets of objectification theory, a prominent model of body image disturbance, as it relates to trans women’s disordered eating and intention to obtain silicone i...
Multidimensional variables influencing program completion: A three-year cohort study of associate degree and practical nursing students

Abstract Student retention to program completion is an international concern for administrators and faculty in schools of nursing. The purpose of this study was to examine multidimensional variables that might influence retention to completion of a Practical Nursing certificate or Associate Degree in Nursing. Age, motivation, learning strategies, and program completion, as operationalized as cumulative grade point average (GPA) were examined. Participants representing three cohorts of associate degree and practical nursing students (n = 228) completed the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire when they started in a Midwestern U. S. community college. Statistically significant relationships were found with both age and motivation scale, and five subscales. The cumulative GPA was statistically significant, with five MSLQ subscales. The results indicate that a relationship between several variables may facilitate or interfere with program completion.
Abstract 3298: Eosinophilia and improved survival in non-hematologic malignancies treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become a mainstay treatment of a variety of advanced malignancies, prolonging survival. There are no serologic markers to predict response to ICI, but some small series have suggested eosinophilia predicts improved survival. Methods This is an IRB approved single-center retrospective observational study including all patients (n= 80) from 2014-2019 who received ICI for non-hematologic malignancies at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Data were collected via chart review. Clinically significant increase of absolute eosinophil count was defined as a count > 0.5 bil/L on at least two occasions during treatment. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were used to estimate overall survival. Results In non-small cell lung cancer (n= 35), patients with eosinophilia (n=5) had no death events compared to the median survival of 17.6 months in those without eosinophilia (p = 0.02). Similarly, in patients with renal cell carcinoma (n=11), those with eosinophilia (n=2) had no death events while the median survival for those without was 16.9 months (p= 0.24). In the metastatic melanoma cohort (n=9), those with eosinophilia (n= 5) had a median overall survival of 45.4 vs 9.9 months in those without (p= 0.02). Conclusions In both NSCLC and metastatic melanoma, eosinophilia during ICI therapy was associated with significantly increased overall survival, while in RCC there was a trend towards improved survival. Interestingly, there were no death events in those with eosinophilia in either NSCLC or RCC cohorts. Citation Format: Jasmine L. Mitchell, Justin Moyers, Huynh Cao. Eosinophilia and improved survival in non-hematologic malignancies treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 3298.
Optimal budget allocation for bridge portfolios with element-level inspection data: a constrained integer linear programming formulation

Existing bridge performance metrics are limited in their ability to objectively reflect the safety and serviceability of bridges and identify effective Maintenance, Repair and Replacement (MR&R) ac...
The mitochondrial dicarboxylate carrier prevents hepatic lipotoxicity by inhibiting white adipocyte lipolysis

Background & Aims We have previously reported that the mitochondrial dicarboxylate carrier (mDIC [SLC25A10]) is predominantly expressed in the white adipose tissue (WAT) and subject to regulation by metabolic cues. However, the specific physiological functions of mDIC and the reasons for its abundant presence in adipocytes are poorly understood. Methods To systemically investigate the impact of mDIC function in adipocytes in vivo, we generated loss- and gain-of-function mouse models, selectively eliminating or overexpressing mDIC in mature adipocytes, respectively. Results In in vitro differentiated white adipocytes, mDIC is responsible for succinate transport from the mitochondrial matrix to the cytosol, from where succinate can act on the succinate receptor SUCNR1 and inhibit lipolysis by dampening the cAMP- phosphorylated hormone-sensitive lipase (pHSL) pathway. We eliminated mDIC expression in adipocytes in a doxycycline (dox)-inducible manner (mDICiKO) and demonstrated that such a deletion results in enhanced adipocyte lipolysis and promotes high-fat diet (HFD)-induced adipocyte dysfunction, liver lipotoxicity, and systemic insulin resistance. Conversely, in a mouse model with dox-inducible, adipocyte-specific overexpression of mDIC (mDICiOE), we observed suppression of adipocyte lipolysis both in vivo and ex vivo. mDICiOE mice are potently protected from liver lipotoxicity upon HFD feeding. Furthermore, they show resistance to HFD-induced weight gain and adipose tissue expansion with concomitant improvements in glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Beyond our data in rodents, we found that human WAT SLC25A10 mRNA levels are positively correlated with insulin sensitivity and negatively correlated with intrahepatic triglyceride levels, suggesting a critical role of mDIC in regulating overall metabolic homeostasis in humans as well. Conclusions In summary, we highlight that mDIC plays an essential role in governing adipocyte lipolysis and preventing liver lipotoxicity in response to a HFD. Lay summary Dysfunctional fat tissue plays an important role in the development of fatty liver disease and liver injury. Our present study identifies a mitochondrial transporter, mDIC, which tightly controls the release of free fatty acids from adipocytes to the liver through the export of succinate from mitochondria. We believe this mDIC-succinate axis could be targeted for the treatment of fatty liver disease.
Impaired Coronary Vasodilator Reserve and Adverse Prognosis in Patients With Systemic Inflammatory Disorders

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of quantitative myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR), reflecting the integrated effects o...
Open Droplet Microfluidics for Testing Multi-Drug Resistance and Antibiotic Resilience in Bacteria

New combinations of existing antibiotics are being investigated to combat bacterial resilience. This requires detection technologies with reasonable cost, accuracy, resolution, and throughput. Here, we present a multi -drug screening platform for bacterial cultures by combining droplet microfluidics, search algorithms, and imaging with a wide field of view. We remotely alter the chemical microenvironment around cells and test 12 combinations of resistant cell types and chemicals. Fluorescence intensity readouts allow us to infer bacterial resistance to specific antibiotics within 8 hours. The platform has potential to detect and identify parameters of bacterial resilience in cell cultures, biofilms, and microbial aggregates.
Automatic passive recovery of 3D from images and video

This paper gives a summary of automatic passive reconstruction of 3D scenes from images and video. Features are tracked between the images. Relative camera poses are then estimated based on the feature tracks. Both the feature tracking and the robust method used to estimate the camera poses has recently been shown to provide robust real-time performance. Given the camera poses, a more elaborate method is used to derive dense textured surfaces. The dense reconstruction method was originally part of the authors thesis [D. Nister (2001)]. It first computes depth maps using graph cuts, optimizing a Bayesian formulation. The graph cut operation is used to let depth map hypotheses from various sources compete in order to optimize the cost function. The hypothesis generators used are feature based surface triangulation, plane fitting and multihypothesis multiscale patch-based stereo. The requirements for a cost function to fit into the graph cut framework were already given in [D. Nister (2001)], along with a procedure for constructing the graph weights corresponding to any cost function that satisfies the requirements. Depth maps from many different viewpoints are then robustly fused to give a consistent global result using a process called median fusion. The robustness of the median fusion is important. It departs from the too common practice of fusing results by either using the union of free-space constraints as the resulting free-space, or the union of all predicted surfaces as the resulting surfaces, which is tremendously error-prone, since it essentially corresponds to taking either the minimum or maximum of the individual results.
Maximum likelihood estimator image reconstruction for emission tomography in nuclear medicine

Emission tomography is a technique which allows the three-dimensional representation of radioisotope labelled chemical compounds that have been inroduced into the human body for the purpose of studying metabolic processes, for the detection of tumors and/or the diagnosis of a variety of diseases. There are two principal methodologies: single photon emission tomography (SPET) and positron emission tomography (PET). Both methods of emission tomography can benefit from a new method of image reconstruction. This method, the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) method of reconstruction, has the practical advantage that the image noise is smaller in regions of low radioisotope concentration, instead of the rather uniformly distributed noise obtained with conventional filtered backprojection (FBP) reconstruction methods. The author describes the most important mathematical ideas underlying the MLE method and show some results obtained with it, in comparison with FBP results. >
Immersive environment technologies for planetary exploration with applications for mixed reality

Immersive environments are successfully being used to support mission operations at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This technology contributed to the Mars Pathfinder Mission in planning sorties for the Sojourner rover. Results and operational experiences with these tools are being incorporated into the development of the second generation of mission planning tools. NASA’s current plan includes two rovers being deployed to Mars in 2003, landing in early 2004. The next generation Rover Sequencing and Visualization Program (RSVP) utilizes existing technologies from Pathfinder, and more, to provide a multimodal, collaborative, partially immersive environment for mission planning. This system includes tools for planning long range sorties for highly autonomous rovers, tools for building the three-dimensional (3D) models of the terrain being explored, and advanced tools for visualizing telemetry from remote spacecraft and landers. These tools comprise a system for immersing the operator in the environment of another planet, body, or space to make the mission planning function more intuitive and effective. This paper describes the set of tools that will be utilized to provide the immersive capability within the RSVP, including terrain modelling, visualization with overlaid iconosymbology, simulation and rehearsal capability, and integration of actual rover telemetry. Applications of these technologies to mixed reality environments are discussed.
A University Worksite Health Promotion and Wellness Education Program Model.

Abstract During the 1980s, worksite health promotion and wellness education programs became increasingly prevalent in business and industry. A similar pattern currently is emerging among institutions of higher education. To assist in development of college and university programs, this article presents philosophy, delineates goals and objectives, and describes interventions applied and components included within the Missouri University Health Education and Lifestyle Promotion (H.E.L.P.) Program. Unlike most other college and university wellness efforts, the MU H.E.L.P. Program utilizes a carefully structured, “comprehensive package” approach. This article emphasizes benefits of networking existing campus resources and personnel and the importance of effective program design, implementation, and evaluation. The MUH.E.L.P. Program serves as an excellent example of how a multidisciplinary approach to employee health promotion and wellness education programming can be cost-effective, time-efficient, and highl...
Transvaginal sonography of cervical width and length during pregnancy

Transvaginal ultrasonography has been proposed as a reliable method of assessing dimensions of the cervix. The purpose of the current investigation was to establish normative data for cervical width and length during pregnancy. This information may be helpful in predicting patients at risk for preterm birth. A transvaginal 5 or 7.5 MHz transducer was used on 132 consecutive low-risk pregnant women undergoing evaluation for gestational dating purposes. Even in cases of patient obesity or an empty bladder, high resolution was possible and permitted cervical measurement in all but one case. The external cervical width at the vaginal fornices was found to increase with advancing gestation (R = 0.512, P < 0.005). The cervical length from internal os to external os was found not to change with advancing gestation (R = 0.11, P = 0.30). Using these normative data, investigation is recommended to determine whether measuring cervical width and length is useful in predicting preterm labor and delivery.
Risk Factors for Resistance to β-Lactam/β-Lactamase Inhibitors and Ertapenem in Bacteroides Bacteremia

The objective of this study was to determine risk factors for the development of resistance to β-lactams/β-lactamase inhibitors (βL/βLIs) and ertapenem among Bacteroides species bacteremia. We conducted a retrospective case-control study of 101 adult patients with Bacteroides species bacteremia at a 1,051-bed tertiary care medical center. The duration of exposure to βL/βLIs (odds ratio [OR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08 to 2.31) was the only independent risk factor for resistance.
Detecting anomalies in constraint-based systems

Abstract This paper addresses the problem of the automated verification of constraint-based systems. This issue has not been adequately covered in the research literature, as current expert-system verification methodologies and tools have largely focused on rule-based systems. As a result, these tools do not incorporate the methodologies necessary to verify constraint-based reasoning systems. However, there is great similarity as well as commonality of terms between rule-based systems and constraint-based systems. This suggests that verification techniques for rule-based expert systems can be successfully modified for application to constraint-based systems. The paper presents the authors' experience in verifying the internal consistency of a constraint-based reasoning system knowledge base. The approach is based on automatically identifying several anomalies in a constraint-based system knowledge base without having to execute the system. Many of these types of anomalies are derived directly or indirectly from those that are also found in traditional rule-based expert systems, but new ones specific to constraint-based systems are identified. Detection methods and possible repair strategies are discussed, and a test example is described and evaluated.
Retroactive Indexing of Relevance: The Use of Well in Third Position

Using conversation analysis, this article describes the use of well-prefacing in third position after a question-response sequence. Well as a discourse marker has been examined extensively from various perspectives. In conversation analysis, well is described as indexing “dispreferredness” (Pomerantz, 1984) and “unstraightforwardness” (Schegloff & Lerner, 2009) in second position (e.g., responses to assessments and questions). By examining American and British English conversations, the present study investigates the use of well in a previously unexamined sequential position, third position, and demonstrates that the well: (a) retroactively marks the prior action (i.e., the question) as having been preliminary to the impending turn and (b) prospectively marks the impending turn as the reason for the question.
Nonlinear wave interaction with a vertical circular cylinder. Part I: Diffraction theory

Abstract A closed-form solution is developed for the velocity potential resulting from the interaction of second-order Stokes waves with a large vertical circular cylinder. At first-order, the solution is the usual linear diffraction theory. At second-order, the solution consists of forced wave motions, due to nonlinear wave-wave interactions in the free surface boundary condition, plus scattered free wave motions, due to the interaction of the forced waves with the fixed cylinder. The velocity potentials are then used to determine the theoretical free surface elevations around the cylinder consistent to second-order. Second-order terms are found to significantly alter wave envelopes around the cylinder as a result of nonlinear diffraction. For example, the maximum wave crest run-up on the cylinder from the nonlinear theory is found to exceed that predicted by the linear diffraction theory by up to 50%. A brief comparison of the nonlinear theory with the measured run-up data is found to largely confirm the theoretical solution.
Algorithm for Independence

In the development of public policy there apparently exists a lack of appreciation with regard to the effect of technology on society. This threatens to impose an involuntary state of dependency. An approach to a solution of this problem is suggested in this paper.
Swann's Way: The School Busing Case and the Supreme Court

Never has what goes on behind the red velour curtain--the give-and-take between the Supreme Court Justices in an important case--been described in such detail. Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education was the first case to decree extensive busing as part of a school desegregation plan; it established the framework for all future busing decisions. This behind-the-scenes account traces the Swann case from its origins in Charlotte, North Carolina, to the decision announced by Chief Justice Warren Burger in a packed Supreme Court Chamber. Bernard Schwartz, a leading legal scholar, draws on confidential papers and extensive interviews with justices, law clerks and others involved in the case to provide the first detailed presentation of the decision process in the Court. When Chief Justice Burger undertook to write the Swann opinion himself, Schawrtz notes, he departed from more than a century of Court tradition, for he held the minority view, leaning toward overturning the district court's pro-busing position. The book reconstructs the secret conferences and discussions in which the majority of the Justices ultimately induced the Chief Justice to give way. Schwartz traces the revisions in the opinion through six drafts and redrafts and shows how even at the last minute a strong dissent from Justice Black almost frustrated the effort. A fascinating work of microhistory, the book will be of compelling interest not only to Court-watchers but also to anyone interested in the history of civil rights.
The Conditions for the Convergence of Power Scaled Matrices and Applications

For an invertible diagonal matrix D , the convergence of the power scaled matrix sequence N N D A  is investigated. As a special case, necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the convergence of NN D T  , where T is triangular. These conditions involve both the spectrum as well as the diagraph of the matrix T . The results are then used to privide a new proof for the convergence of subspace iteration.
Effect of Contrast Concentration, Tube Potential and Reconstruction Kernels on MDCT Evaluation of Coronary Stents: an in Vitro Study

Introduction To evaluate effect of different kVp, reconstruction kernels and contrast concentrations on stent luminal diameter measurements and luminal contrast attenuation values.
Kate Bateman: Sanitizing the Beautiful Jewess

During the late 19th century, the first portrayal of a Jewish woman on the American stage occurred in Leah the Forsaken. This successful production subjugated the Jewess by filling the title role with Kate Bateman, a non-Jewish actress, thus presenting a sanitized and palatable Jew for the middle-class Christian audience.
Controlled polymerization chemistry to graft architectures that influence cell-material interactions.

Abstract Acrylate monomers were photografted from polymer substrates to create cell responsive chemically and biologically active surfaces that manipulate cell response. Three monomers, polyethylene glycol monoacrylate (MW 375 g/mol) (PEG375A), a monomeric extra-cellular matrix protein, and a cell-cleavable fluorescent monomer, were spatially photopatterned from a base substrate. The base substrate consisted of a dithiocarbamate (DTC) functionalized urethane diacrylate/tri(ethylene glycol)diacrylate copolymer and was shown to non-specifically support NIH 3T3 fibroblast cell adhesion. The DTC-containing polymer was further modified by grafting PEG375A to demonstrate selective blocking of cell-material interactions. Next, acrylated collagen type I was patterned onto polymer substrates to further promote specific cell interactions (i.e. by presenting cell-adhesive moieties). Hydrophilic PEG375A grafted patterns were shown to prevent 3T3 fibroblast adhesion to polymer in spatially grafted regions, while biologically active acrylated collagen type I promoted cell-surface interactions. Collagen type I was grafted at varying densities (0–7.5 pmol/grafted square), and the extent of cell adhesion and spreading were evaluated for each of these graft densities using fluorescence microscopy. Finally, methacrylated carboxyfluorescein diacetate (CFDA) was synthesized and photografted onto a cell-adhesive substrate as a cell sensing mechanism. The acetate groups found in the structure of CFDA cleave in the presence of cells. This cell-responsive substrate results in fluorescence indicative of acetate-group cleavage associated with cell interactions that occurs in patterned regions on polymer surfaces. Collectively, the results herein show the utility and application of a spatially and temporally controlled photografting process for designing cell responsive polymer surfaces.
The new ground-penetrating radar regulatory environment

By its very nature, ground penetrating radar (GPR) is an ultra-wideband device (UWB), requiring a large range in frequency to penetrate the ground and image with sufficient resolution to solve practical problems. The increasing scarcity of electromagnetic spectrum and the proposed use of other UWB devices in 1998 caused the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to initiate an inquiry (NOI ET Docket 98-153) to investigate permitting the operation of ultra-wideband devices (including ground penetrating radar) on an unlicensed basis under Part 15 of the FCC rules. Through 14 February 2002, the FCC had received over 910 comments in the inquiry (NOI 98-153) and on the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM 00-163) issued in June, 2000. The First Report and Order (R&O 02-48) was issued on 14 February 2002. Before this, ground penetrating radar use was only officially permitted for those who had received waivers from the FCC or NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration), who jointly regulate radio spectrum use in the United States. Legal waivers to manufacture ground penetrating radar were issued to U.S. Radar Inc., Time Domain Inc. and Zircon Corp. in June, 1999, and expiring with the R&O. Waivers to build or use ground penetrating radar were issued to the U. S. Geological Survey, U. S. Army and U. S. DOE by NTIA (or predecessors) from about 1976. The R&O issued on 14 February 2002 ...provides for the operation of GPRs and other imaging devices under Part 15 of the Commission's rules subject to certain frequency and power limitations. The operators of imaging devices must be eligible for licensing under Part 90 of our rules... At the request of NTIA, the FCC will notify or coordinate with NTIA prior to the operation of all imaging systems. GPRs must be operated below 960 MHz or in the frequency band 3.1-10.6 GHz. The FCC ...intends within the next six to twelve months to review the standards for UWB devices and issue a further notice of proposed rule making to explore more flexible standards and address the operation of additional types of UWB operations and technology. This FCC rule impacts ground penetrating radar manufacture, sale and use in the United States (and in other countries whose rules are linked to FCC regulations).
TH‐D‐AUD B‐07: Evaluation of Accuracy of Inhomogeneity Corrections in IMRT Planning

Purpose: Inhomogeneity corrections are commonly employed in computerized treatment planning. Among the methods of validating the accuracy of these corrections are measurements made in phantoms containing slabs of inhomogeneity using static fields. IMRT fields, because of presence of small segments, require a more robust inhomogeneity correction algorithm. The AAPM task group 65 report discusses the degree of accuracy of different algorithms employed in treatment planning systems in correcting for inhomogeneity. We have evaluated the accuracy of Philips Pinnacle3 system in modeling the dose within and at the interface of inhomogeneities for IMRT plans. Method and Materials: The phantom used for evaluation is a modified IMRT QA phantom made by Civco. The phantom was modified by milling slots for TLD chips within the lung and bone‐equivalent inserts, and near the interfaces with solid water. A seven‐field IMRT plan was generated by optimizing to a spherical target within the phantom, between the lung and bone inserts. Three additional avoidance structures where added in order to achieve a realistic IMRT plan with significant modulation. The inhomogeneities were not used as constraints in the optimization. The planned IMRT was then delivered to phantom with calibrated TLD chips placed in a number of slots. The TLD readings for each location were then compared to the dose predicted at that point by Pinnacle. Results: The preliminary results of these measurements indicate satisfactory agreement between the measured and Pinnacle‐predicted doses with some differences between the results for lung and bone. Conclusion: This work demonstrates the degree of accuracy of inhomogeneity correction for highly modulated fields in Pinnacle3 system. More measurements are planned for other TLD points and additional work undertaken will compare the homogeneous and inhomogeneous plans in actual patients for different sites.
Drei neue Patristica

In this paper I discuss (1) the language of Lactantius; (2) the textual criticism and language of Rufinus; (3) the textual criticism and language of Verecundus Iuncensis.
Reduction of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Causes Obesity and Hyperactivity: Implications for WAGR Syndrome

Reduction of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Causes Obesity and Hyperactivity: Implications for WAGR Syndrome
Probing the Reaction Kinetics of the Charge Reactions of Nonaqueous Li–O2 Batteries

Understanding the reaction mechanism of nonaqueous oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is key to increase the low round-trip efficiency and power capability of rechargeable Li-air batteries. Here we show that the ORR kinetics are much faster than OER kinetics and OER occurs in two distinct stages upon Li-air battery charging. The first OER stage occurs at low overpotentials (<400 mV) with a slopping voltage profile, whose kinetics are relatively insensitive to charge rates and catalysts. This OER stage could be attributed to the delithiation of the outer part of Li2O2 forming lithium-deficient Li2–xO2, which is chemically disproportionate to evolve O2. The second stage takes place at high overpotentials (400–1200 mV), whose kinetics are sensitive to discharge/charge rates and catalysts, which can be attributed to the oxidation of bulk Li2O2 particles. Our study provides insights into bridging current two schools of thought on the OER mechanism.
Cefoperazone: Spectrum of Antibacterial Activity and Disc Diffusion Testing

Cefoperazone is a new cephalosporin with a very wide spectrum of antibacterial activity, including Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococci, streptococci (other than serological group D strains), Neisseria and Haemophilus species (including β-lactamase positive strains) and some anaerobes. On testing more than 8700 clinical isolates, approximately 93% were inhibited by 16µg/ml of cefoperazone, 95% by 32µg/ml and 98% by 64µg/ml. The drug is less active on Acinetobacter and group D streptococci. We recommend that a disc containing 75µg of cefoperazone be used in the diffusion test with ‘breakpoints’ of ⩽ 14 mm for resistant, 15–17mm for intermediate, and ⩾ 18mm for susceptible bacteria.
Evaluation of an improved PCR diagnostic assay for human granulocytic ehrlichiosis

Background: Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) is a tick-borne disease caused by an agent similar to Ehrlichia equi. The etiologic agent has only recently been cultivated, and clinical and laboratory findings are nonspecific. Severity and fatal outcome are associated with delays in diagnosis and therapy. Methods and Results: The sensitivity of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique for HGE was enhanced at least 250-fold for identification of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of the HGE agent in blood by shortening cycle segments, using 35 rounds of amplification, employing eLONGase polymerase, and by using SYBR Green I for detection of amplified products. From 17 patients with suspected HGE, acute-phase blood was tested by PCR and for E. equi antibodies in acute and convalescent sera. The HGE PCR detected ehrlichial DNA in 1 ng of genomic leukocyte DNA and in as little as 0.6 infected leukocyte per microliter of blood. Of the 17 patients with suspected HGE, 7 (41%) were serologically confirmed, and six of these seven had positive PCRs (86% sensitivity). Ten seronegative patients had negative PCRs, and no patient had a positive PCR and negative serology (100% specificity). Conclusions: The polymerase chain reaction for the HGE agent 16S rRNA gene is a sensitive and specific method for the early confirmation of HGE at a time when therapeutic decisions are required.
InP-based MIR Avalanche Photodiodes: Current Status and Future Prospects

Our research goal is to develop InP-based devices as an alternative to QWIPs and HgCdTe for MIR detection. The approach we have pursued for longer wavelength detection on InP is a type-II superlattice consisting of GaxIn1-xAs and GaAsySb 1-y alloys. These structures provide two advantages for MIR detection: large (greater than 700 meV) direct band-gaps, which should lead to a lower thermal carrier generation rate and the ability to adjust the detection wavelength by changing the compositions of GaInAs and GaAsSb and their thickness in the superlattice
From optical spectroscopy to a concentration quenching model and a theoretical approach to laser optimization for Yb3+-doped YLiF4 crystals

A spectroscopic characterization was carried out to identify crystal-field levels for magnetic-dipole transitions of Yb3+ ions located in the Y3+ dodecahedral S4 crystallographic site in YLiF4 (YLF) crystals which were grown either by the Czochralski technique or by the laser heated pedestal growth (LHPG) technique. The concentration dependence of the measured decay time of the 2F5/2 excited level of Yb3+ was analysed in order to understand relevant concentration quenching mechanisms. Under Yb3+ ion infrared pumping, self-trapping and up-conversion non-radiative energy transfer to trace rare-earth impurities (Er3+, Tm3+) has been observed over the visible region and interpreted by a limited-diffusion process within the Yb3+ doping ion subsystem to the impurities. The principal parameters useful for a theoretical approach for potential laser applications of Yb3+-doped YLiF4 crystals have also been given.
A nail gun injury

A 36-year-old right-handed male construction worker presented 2 days after feeling a sudden pain in his right maxillary area while using a nail gun. At that time, he thought that the nail gun flew up and hit him in the face without discharging a nail. He noted only mild pain and a small abrasion on his right cheek. Over the subsequent days he developed progressively worse pain and swelling of his right maxilla and eye as well as a right visual field cut. He was seen by an ophthalmologist who referred the patient to our ED. On exam the patient had significant chemosis and right-sided palpebral edema with moderate ptosis. Further examination demonstrated decreased range of motion of the right eye in all directions and a right nasal hemianopsia. A CT scan of the head revealed a nail penetrating through the maxillary sinus and orbit missing the optic nerve and ophthalmic arteries and extending into the right frontal lobe (Figs. 1, ​,2,2, ​,33 and ​and4).4). He was taken to the operating room and had the nail removed by neurosurgery and plastic surgery. Follow-up ophthalmology examination on postoperative day 2 demonstrated temporal macular choroidal rupture responsible for the nasal hemianopsia with pre-retinal fibrosis and hemorrhage causing macular traction and retinal folds with vision 20/160 (compared to 20/25 of the unaffected eye) and a complaint of a mild headache. Fig. 1 Lateral skull X-ray showing a nail traversing through the maxillary sinus to the skull base Fig. 2 Sagittal head CT with the bone window showing the implanted nail Fig. 3 Coronal head CT with the brain window showing the implanted nail Fig. 4 Axial head CT with the brain window showing the nail in the right frontal lobe
Laser beam manifold and particle photography system for use in fluid velocity measurements

A laser beam manifold and particle photography system has been developed for use in fluid velocity measurements. The laser manifold is a device which transforms a single laser beam into several uniform parallel beams. By orienting two manifolds mutually perpendicular, an optical grid can be formed which acts as a reference for fluid velocity measurements. This optical grid is for all practical purposes totally nonperturbing to the flow. Tracer particles moving in the plane of the grid are then photographed to yield fluid velocities that can be measured relative to the optical grid. System construction and theory are presented.
On Perfect Invisibility and Cloaking

Perfect invisibility even to pulses is possible in principle using sensors and sources around a volume and a new calculation formula, though would always be challenging for broadband electromagnetic waves and usually discoverable quantum-mechanically.
Electronic versus thermal response for nonlinear prism coupling

Numerical studies of nonlinear prism coupling into thin-film organic material waveguides have been carried out. Results are presented showing that, for an undiluted, low absorption material, the electronic response dominates at pulse widths of tens of nanoseconds. The result of an increase in the absorption is that shorter pulses are necessary for access to the Kerr law nonlinearity alone. Guidelines are provided for distinguishing between electronic and thermal responses.
A family of approximations spanning the Born and Rytov scattering series

A new hybrid scattering series is derived that incorporates as special cases both the Born and Rytov scattering series, and includes a parameter so that the behavior can be continuously varied between the two series. The parameter enables the error to be shifted between the Born and Rytov error terms to improve accuracy. The linearized hybrid approximation is derived as well as its condition of validity. Higher order terms of the hybrid series are also found. Also included is the integral equation that defines the exact solution to the forward scattering problem as well as its Frechet derivative, which is used for the solution of inverse multiple scattering problems. Finally, the linearized hybrid approximation is demonstrated by simulations of inverse scattering off of uniform circular cylinders, where it is shown that the hybrid approximation achieves smaller error than either the Born or Rytov approximations alone.
POLYTHIOPHENE HYBRIDS OF TRANSITION-METAL BIS(SALICYLIDENIMINE)S : CORRELATION BETWEEN STRUCTURE AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES

The synthesis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopic behavior of tetradentate bis(salicylidenimine) transition metal complexes 5−9 are reported. Appending these complexes with 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) moieties allows for electrochemical polymerization at much lower potentials than the parent salen complexes. The resulting polymers display well-defined organic-based electrochemistry at potentials <0.5 V vs Fc/Fc+. The EDOT-modified N,N‘-ethylene bis(salicylidene), N,N‘-o-phenylene bis(salicylidene), and N,N‘-trans-cyclohexylene bis(salicylidene) complexes 5a−b, 6a−b, and 8a−b display cyclic voltammograms with four organic-based redox waves. Increasing the interchain separation through the use of nonplanar bis(salicylidene) ligands results in only two redox waves. The conductivity of the copper-based polymers decreases with increasing interchain spacing, with the maximum conductivity being 92 S cm-1 for poly(5a) and 16 S cm-1 for poly(7a). The nickel complexes were less sensitive to increased interch...