cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of nearby objects on fading and coupling in Line-Of-Sight environments

Frequency-agile wideband radios may be susceptible to non-linear effects from strong electromagnetic signals coupled from co-site or nearby emitters. Also, such signals can impact spectrum sensing capability of Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) systems. Therefore, it is important to understand the characteristics of the coupling channel between nearby systems due to Line-of-Sight (LOS) propagation and reflections from nearby objects, such as buildings in the urban environment or hills in the rural environment. The presence of nearby objects can cause significant variations in the strength of the coupling leading to enhancement or fading of the coupled signal. Significant fading or variation in coupling may inadvertently cause DSA radios or other systems that have spectrum sensing capability to make erroneous decision on the selection of the operating frequency. In this paper we define a channel model for coupling among nearby systems. Our analysis considers two-ray and six-ray propagation models to define the nearby LOS coupling channel. We investigate the variation of the coupling as a function of frequency and the arrangement of the surrounding obstructions. We aggregate this data to provide a comprehensive channel model that can be used by radio designers and system integrators to help analyze the electromagnetic environment caused by nearby emitters.
The electron trigger based on transition radiation detectors

We present the Transition Radiation Detectors (TRD), coupled with the electron trigger, which were designed and built for selecting rare decays of neutral kaons in the KTeV experiment at Fermilab. The TRD is a powerful detector for identification of electrons in off-line analysis. A pion-electron rejection factor of 300:1 can be achieved with the KTeV TRD system. The electron trigger also uses signals from the TRD to discriminate electrons on-line. A system of programmable LeCroy 2366 modules runs a pattern recognition algorithm on TRD output with applied pulse height thresholds. A decision on the number of electrons which passed through TRDs is made in less than 500 nanoseconds. A desirable trigger rate suppression or signal efficiency can be achieved by choosing initialization constants for particular experimental conditions. During the experimental run the TRD trigger provided a required trigger rate suppression factor of 1.7-6 with signal efficiency of 97%-85%. In this summary paper we describe briefly the TRD, the main trigger components, and ifs functions. The performance of the TRD and the electron trigger in the KTeV experiment is also summarized.
A colorimetric method for assay of erythrocytic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.

SummaryA colorimetric method for estimation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity of erythrocytic hemolysates is described. The method reported employs phenazine methosulfate as an electron...
Tail docking in pigs: acute physiological and behavioural responses

Tail docking of piglets is a routine procedure on farms to control tail-biting behaviour; however, docking can cause an acute stress response. The objectives of this research were to determine the stress responses to tail docking in piglets and to compare two methods of tail docking; cautery iron (CAUT) and the more commonly used blunt trauma cutters (BT). At approximately 6 days of age, piglets were tail docked using CAUT (n = 20), BT (n = 20) or sham tail docked with their tails remaining intact (CON; n = 40). Blood samples were taken prior to tail docking and at 30, 60 and 90 min after tail docking to evaluate the effect of tail docking on white blood cell (WBC) measures and cortisol concentrations. The above experiment was repeated to observe behaviour without the periodic blood sampling, so as not to confound the effects of blood sampling on piglet behaviour. Piglet behaviour was recorded in the farrowing crate using 1 min scan-samples via live observations for 60 min prior to and 90 min after tail docking. Total WBC counts were reduced (P > 0.05) among BT and CAUT compared with CON piglets 30 min after tail docking. Cortisol concentrations were higher (P < 0.01) among BT compared with CON and CAUT piglets 60 min after tail docking. Cautery and BT-docked piglets spent more (P < 0.05) time posterior scooting compared with CON piglets between 0 and 15 min, and 31 and 45 min after tail docking. Piglets tail docked using CAUT and BT tended to spend more (P < 0.07) time sitting than CON piglets between 0 and 15 min post tail docking. Elevated blood cortisol can be reduced by the use of the CAUT rather than the BT method of tail docking. Although the tail docking-induced rise in cortisol was prevented by using CAUT, the behavioural response to BT and CAUT docking methods was similar.
Emergence of Smooth Muscle Cell Endothelin B–Mediated Vasoconstriction in Lambs With Experimental Congenital Heart Disease and Increased Pulmonary Blood Flow

Background—Endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension. In 1-monthold lambs with increased pulmonary blood flow, we have demonstrated early alterations in the ET-1 cascade. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of potential later alterations of the ET cascade in the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension secondary to increased pulmonary blood flow. Methods and Results—Eighteen fetal lambs underwent in utero placement of an aortopulmonary vascular graft (shunt) and were studied 8 weeks after spontaneous delivery. Compared with age-matched control lambs, lung tissue ET-1 levels were increased in shunt lambs (317.2113.8 versus 209.861.8 pg/g, P0.05). In shunt lambs (n9), exogenous ET-1 induced potent pulmonary vasoconstriction, which was blocked by the ETA receptor antagonist PD 156707 (n3). This pulmonary vasoconstriction was mimicked by exogenous Ala 1,3,11,15 ET-1 (4 Ala ET-1), the ETB receptor agonist, and was blocked by the ETB receptor antagonist BQ 788 (n3). However, in control lambs (n7), ET-1 and 4 Ala ET-1 did not change pulmonary vascular tone. In contrast to 4-week-old shunt lambs, immunohistochemistry revealed the emergence of ETB receptors on smooth muscle cells in the vasculature of 8-week-old shunt lambs. Conclusions—Over time, increased pulmonary blood flow and/or pressure results in the emergence of ETB-mediated vasoconstriction, which coincides with the emergence of ETB receptors on smooth muscle cells. These data suggest an important role for ETB receptors in the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension in this animal model of increased pulmonary blood flow. (Circulation. 2003;108:1646-1654.)
Electric field modulation of theta and gamma rhythms: probe into network connectivity

Introduction and background Subthreshold electric fields are effective in suppressing epilepsy [1], modulating the state of single neurons via polarization [2], and affecting neuronal synchronization [3]. Here we employ detailed computational modeling to test the use of global and local electric fields as a tool for dissecting neural population dynamics and connectivity. For example, modulation of cellular firing by theta rhythms plays an important role in hippocampal cognitive functions. It has been proposed that theta modulation can synchronize cell assemblies across the hippocampus; that place cell firing phase can code for the animal position; and that different phases of theta correlate with learning vs. recall. To demonstrate control of theta and gamma rhythms by electric field (EF), we developed a simplified 2-dimensional CA1 network based on [4] showing theta-modulated high frequency activity of pyramidal neurons [5]. Application of EF alone was able to shift the firing mode of the simplified network in the theta-gamma range.
Trade, Distribution, and Economic Growth in Colonial America

The purpose of this paper is to present some of the findings and contentions of our forthcoming study of shipping, distribution, and overseas trade in colonial America from the middle of the seventeenth century to the American Revolution, with emphasis upon the later years. In order to provide an explanation of the contribution of overseas trade to colonial growth, we begin the study by proposing a simple theoretical framework for viewing economic development in the colonies. Then, to provide some perspective for the study, we examine the long-term trends in output, population, and overseas trade (subject to fairly severe data limitations, which allow us to make only tentative statements about these long-term trends, and which largely limit us to the eighteenth century). Next we examine the costs of shipping and distributing commodities in overseas trade and show that these costs declined over the long run. The increased productivity in shipping is explicitly measured, and the sources of these advances analyzed. Finally, a balance-of-payments study is presented for 1768 through 1772, the only years in the colonial period for which we have statistics of all legal overseas trade.
Stripping Analysis at Bismuth Electrodes: A Review

For many years mercury electrodes were the transducer of choice in stripping voltammetry of trace metals owing to their high sensitivity, reproducibility, and renewability. However, because of the toxicity of mercury, alternative (‘environmentally friendly’) electrode materials are highly desired for both centralized and field applications. Recently introduced bismuth electrodes offer a very attractive alternative to commonly used mercury electrodes. Such electrodes display well-defined, undistorted and highly reproducible response, favorable resolution of neighboring peaks, high hydrogen evolution, with good signal-to-background characteristics comparable to those of common mercury electrodes. The attractive stripping behavior of bismuth electrodes reflects the ability of bismuth to form ‘fused’ multicomponent alloys with heavy metals. Bismuth stripping electrodes thus hold great promise for decentralized metal testing, with applications ranging from continuous remote sensing to single-use measurements. Fundamental studies aimed at understanding the behavior of bismuth film electrodes should lead to rational preparation and operation of reliable alternative (‘non–mercury’) stripping electrodes that would have a major impact upon electroanalysis of trace metals. This article reviews the development, behavior, scope and prospects of bismuth electrodes for stripping-based electrochemical measurements of trace metals.
Effects of apoA-V on HDL and VLDL metabolism in APOC3 transgenic mice

Apolipoprotein A-V (apoA-V) and apoC-III are exchangeable constituents of VLDL and HDL. ApoA-V counteracts the effect of apoC-III on triglyceride (TG) metabolism with poorly defined mechanisms. To better understand the effects of apoA-V on TG and cholesterol metabolism, we delivered apoA-V cDNA into livers of hypertriglyceridemic APOC3 transgenic mice by adenovirus-mediated gene transfer. In response to hepatic apoA-V production, plasma TG levels were reduced significantly as a result of enhanced VLDL catabolism without alternations in VLDL production. This effect was associated with reduced apoC-III content in VLDL. Increased apoA-V production also resulted in decreased apoC-III and increased apoA-I content in HDL. Furthermore, apoA-V-enriched HDL was associated with enhanced LCAT activity and increased cholesterol efflux. This effect, along with apoE enrichment in HDL, contributed to HDL core expansion and α-HDL formation, accounting for significant increases in both the number and size of HDL particles. As a result, apoA-V-treated APOC3 transgenic mice exhibited decreased VLDL-cholesterol and increased HDL-cholesterol levels. ApoA-V-mediated reduction of apoC-III content in VLDL represents an important mechanism by which apoA-V acts to ameliorate hypertriglyceridemia in adult APOC3 transgenic mice. In addition, increased apoA-V levels accounted for cholesterol redistribution from VLDL to larger HDL particles. These data suggest that in addition to its TG-lowering effect, apoA-V plays a significant role in modulating HDL maturation and cholesterol metabolism.
The System Sc2O3-WO3

Phase relations in the system Sc2O3-WO3 were characterized. Two stable binary compounds were, found. The 1:3 compound, SC2(WO4)3, melts congruently at 1640°±10°C and forms a simple eutectic with WO3 at ∼90 mol% WO3 and 1309°+10°C. The 3 : 1 compound, Sc6WO12, forms a simple eutectic with the 1:3 compound at -69 mol% WO2, and 1580°+10°C. The melting temperature of SC6WO12 was >1600°C.
Cost-effective integration of plastic optical fiber and total internal reflection mirrors in printed circuit boards for parallel optical interconnects

A novel method of integrating a total internal reflection (TIR) mirror into an optical waveguide embedded in a printed circuit board (PCB) was demonstrated for application in chip-to-chip optical interconnects. Plastic optical fiber (POF) was placed into channels that were mechanically machined into FR-4 composite plates. The TIR mirror was created by a second mechanical machining. The mirror loss was measured to be approximately −1.6 dB per reflection. The use of POF resulted in attenuation losses in the waveguide over an order of magnitude lower than what is obtainable with typical planar waveguides that are integrated into PCBs. Monte Carlo ray tracing was used to determine the theoretical efficiency of the system as well as cross talk between channels due to optical device alignment tolerances.
Local Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor Type 1 Overexpression in Rat Carotid Artery Enhances Thrombosis and Endothelial Regeneration While Inhibiting Intimal Thickening

Elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) are found in advanced atherosclerotic plaque compared with normal vessel and may contribute to plaque progression and complications associated with plaque rupture. Increased expression of PAI-1 probably contributes to the thrombotic properties of advanced atherosclerotic plaque by impeding plasmin generation and degradation of fibrin. To test this hypothesis, we have deliberately created synthetic neointimas by seeding onto the denuded luminal surface of rat carotid arteries smooth muscle cells transduced with replication-defective retrovirus encoding rat PAI-1. This cell-based gene transfer method results in stable, long-term, and localized gene expression. PAI-1 overexpression increases mural thrombus accumulation at 4 days but decreases neointimal area by 30% and 25% at 1 week and 2 weeks, respectively. PAI-1 overexpression accelerates reendothelialization of injured arteries compared with control arteries at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month. PAI-1 overexpression does not alter matrix accumulation at 1 week. Increased PAI-1 expression in the rat carotid artery enhances thrombosis and endothelial regeneration while inhibiting intimal thickening. These results suggest that PAI-1 could play a direct role in the development of advanced atherosclerotic plaque and in the repair of the diseased vessel after fibrous cap disruption.
Chronic ethanol ingestion modulates proanxiety factors expressed in rat central amygdala

Withdrawal anxiety following chronic ethanol exposure is often associated with relapse in recovering alcoholics. It is likely that brain regions regulating anxiety-like behaviors adapt during chronic ethanol exposure to ultimately regulate such behaviors. The central amygdala contains numerous neurotransmitter systems that have been implicated in the regulation of anxiety-like behavior, including corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and NMDA-type glutamate receptors. Chronic ethanol exposure causes functional adaptations in both CRF and NMDA receptors that are likely to regulate anxiety-like behaviors expressed during withdrawal. However, the molecular mechanisms governing these adaptations remain unexplored. We therefore evaluated these neurotransmitter systems in Sprague-Dawley rats during chronic ingestion of an ethanol-containing liquid diet. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR demonstrated that preproCRF mRNA was significantly upregulated by chronic ethanol exposure, whereas mRNA expression of CRF binding protein did not change. There were also no significant changes observed in any of the NMDA subunit mRNAs, although there was a trend toward greater NR2A mRNA expression during chronic ethanol exposure. Using Western blotting analysis we measured NMDA receptor subunit protein expression. Chronic ethanol exposure did not affect protein levels of the NR1 and NR2B subunits. Like the mRNA measures, chronic ethanol exposure did influence NR2A protein levels but the effects were modest. Our results demonstrate that NMDA receptor subunit mRNA and protein expressions are not strongly influenced by exposure to chronic ethanol. This suggests that the functional NMDA receptor adaptations identified in previous studies [Roberto, M., Schweitzer, P., Madamba, S. G., Stouffer, D. G., Parsons, L. H., & Siggins, G. R. (2004). Acute and chronic ethanol exposure alter glutamatergic transmission in rat central amygdala: an in vitro and in vivo analysis. J Neurosci 24, 1594-1603] are likely to be mediated by post-translational events. In contrast, enhanced levels of CRF during/after chronic ethanol exposure are likely to be mediated by increased levels of prepro CRF mRNA. Together, our findings suggest that adaptations to chronic ethanol exposure by proanxiety factors expressed in the central nucleus appear to be mediated by distinct cellular and molecular mechanisms.
Using memory in the cedar system

The design of the virtual memory system for the Cedar multiprocessor under construction at the University of Illinois is discussed. The Cedar architecture features a hierarchy of memory, some shared by all processors, and some shared by subsets of processors. The Xylem operating system is based on Alliant Computer Systems CONCENTRIXTM operating system, which is based on 4.2BSD UNIXTM. Xylem supports multi-tasking and demand paging of parts of the memory hierarchy into a linear virtual address space. Memory may be private to a task or shared between all the tasks. The locality and attributes of a page may be modified during the execution of a program. Examples of how these mechanisms can be used are discussed.
Imidization reaction in polyvinylamides

Depending on their method of preparation, polyvinylamides can have nitrogen contents which vary from the theoretical value to considerably lower values. Cyanamer P-250, a polyacrylamide, manufactured by American Cyanamid Corporation, had a nitrogen content of 17.67% compared to the theoretical value of 19.7%. A polyacrylamide prepared in dioxane at 60°C and initiated by benzoyl peroxide, had a nitrogen content of only 15.5%. These low values are ascribed to loss of ammonia via intramolecular imide formation. We have found that when the intramolecular imidization reaction in poly acrylamide and in polymethacrylamide is driven to completion by heating the polymers in dilute solution, very close to 33% of the amide groups remain unreacted. Thus, unlike poly(methyl vinyl ketone) and poly(vinyl chloride), the poly-vinylamides do not obey Flory's statistical calculation for the random reaction of 1,3 groups in a head-to-tail polymer which predicts isolation of only 13.53% of the vinyl residues. Of the various possible explanations, the hypothesis of larger ring formation seems the most plausible, since specific interactions have been shown to exist between widely spaced amide groups in low molecular weight diamides. The infrared spectra of polyacrylimide and polymethacrylimide are presented and compared with those of the corresponding polyvinylamides. When the nitrogen content of polyacrylamide falls to the 14.9–15.4% N range due to imide formation, the polymer becomes water-insoluble. Because imidization stiffens the polymer chain and introduces weakly acidic groups, the imide content of a polyvinylamide should affect its compatibility with other polymeric systems.
Enhancements of branch and bound methods for the maximal constraint satisfaction problem

Two methods are described for enhancing performance of branch and bound methods for overconstrained CSPs. These methods improve either the upper or lower bound, respectively, during search, so the two can be combined. Upper bounds are improved by using heuristic repair methods before search to find a good solution quickly, whose cost is used as the initial upper bound. The method for improving lower bounds is an extension of directed arc consistency preprocessing, used in conjunction with forward checking. After computing directed arc consistency counts, inferred counts are computed for all values based on minimum counts for values of adjacent variables that are later in the search order. This inference process can be iterated, so that counts are cascaded from the end to the beginning of the search order, to augment the initial counts. Improvements in time and effort are demonstrated for both techniques using random problems.
Role for E2F in Control of Both DNA Replication and Mitotic Functions as Revealed from DNA Microarray Analysis

We have used high-density DNA microarrays to provide an analysis of gene regulation during the mammalian cell cycle and the role of E2F in this process. Cell cycle analysis was facilitated by a combined examination of gene control in serum-stimulated fibroblasts and cells synchronized at G(1)/S by hydroxyurea block that were then released to proceed through the cell cycle. The latter approach (G(1)/S synchronization) is critical for rigorously maintaining cell synchrony for unambiguous analysis of gene regulation in later stages of the cell cycle. Analysis of these samples identified seven distinct clusters of genes that exhibit unique patterns of expression. Genes tend to cluster within these groups based on common function and the time during the cell cycle that the activity is required. Placed in this context, the analysis of genes induced by E2F proteins identified genes or expressed sequence tags not previously described as regulated by E2F proteins; surprisingly, many of these encode proteins known to function during mitosis. A comparison of the E2F-induced genes with the patterns of cell growth-regulated gene expression revealed that virtually all of the E2F-induced genes are found in only two of the cell cycle clusters; one group was regulated at G(1)/S, and the second group, which included the mitotic activities, was regulated at G(2). The activation of the G(2) genes suggests a broader role for E2F in the control of both DNA replication and mitotic activities.
Family Variation of Four Year Old White Plymouth Rock Males to Heat Stress

Abstract Wilson et al. (1966) listed a literature review showing the differences between breeds in their ability to withstand heat stress. Their research also indicated a significant difference in survival time between families of 4 week old Leghorn chicks subjected to 40.83°C. 75% RH. The literature review of Boone (1968) showed breed and inbred line differences in semen quality. His research also showed highly significant family differences in semen quality in one year old males. However, family differences in semen quality of old chicken males undergoing heat stress has not been shown. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-one, 4 year old Clemson Strain W.P.R. males were used in this trial. These males were from a closed flock of 12 years and with no inbreeding for at least 5 generations. Six sire families were represented in this trial. Each family was composed of ¾ sibs or better. The males were housed in individual cages…
PREPARATION OF TANTALUM BY ELECTRO DEOXIDATION IN A CaCl_2-NaCl MELT

Tantalum was prepared by electro-deoxidation from Ta2O5 in a CaCl2-NaCl melt at 800℃. Ta2O5 powders were compacted into pellets and sintered at 1000 ℃for 4 h, and then conducted as a cathode, while a high-density graphite rod as an anode. The micro-structural features of the Ta2O5 pellets before and after sintering were investigated experimentally, and the products of the electro-deoxidation were examined by XRD. The oxygen contents in the prepared products were determined by weighing the metal samples before and after re-oxidation in oxygen atmosphere. The results showed that high porosity in the sintered pellets can enhance the rate and extent of electro-deoxidation. It was found that the diffusion played an important role in the reduction process.
A modified model of a single rock joint’s shear behavior in limestone specimens

Abstract The shear behavior of a single rock joint in limestone specimens, under a constant normal load (CNL), was analyzed in this study. Test specimens with different asperity roughness were prepared and tested. Goodman’s model of a rock joint’s shear behavior, under CNL, was modified to render a better representation of the data obtained. The model’s applicability was validated. The proposed model showed better correlation with experimental data. It also, requires fewer variables. The steps to calculate all the necessary variables for the model are discussed.
Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy and Pleural Effusion

Two infants with congenital myotonic dystrophy complicated by pleural effusions and hydrops fetalis are reported from the Valley Children’s Hospital, Fresno, CA, and the Royal Alexandra Hospitals, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Mitochondrial genome of an Atlantic white shark (Carcharodon carcharias).

Here we report the first full mitochondrial genome sequence for a white shark caught in the Atlantic Ocean. The mitochondrial genome is 16,745 bp in length and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a non-coding control region. The base composition of this mtDNA lineage is A: 30.7%, C: 26.9%, G: 13.8%, and T: 28.6%. In concordance with previous population genetic studies, the Atlantic caught individual forms a separate lineage from individuals caught on either side of the Pacific Ocean.
Title: Promoter Methylation of Selected Genes and Response to Azacitidine (AZ) Therapy in Patients with Non-BCR-ABL Myeloproliferative Disorders (MPDs)

Abstract 4625 Background: Gene silencing via methylation of CpG islands in the promoter regions of many genes but specifically of APAF1 , p15 INK4B , p16 INK4A , RARB , and CDH1 appears to play a role in pathogenesis of myeloid malignancies. Azacitidine (AZ) causes demethylation by inhibiting DNA methyltransferase and has already been shown to be an effective therapy for myelodysplastic syndromes. The demethylation induced by AZ is detectable in about 48 hours and increases significantly after 5 days of therapy. After that, the effect tends to plateau. Methods: We initiated a Phase 2 study of patients with non-BCR-ABL MPDs to determine clinical response to AZ therapy and correlate it with promoter DNA methylation and gene re-expression. The protocol was approved by the institutional IRB. Patients received AZ 75mg/m2 s/c for days 1–7 and repeated every 28 days for a minimum of 4 cycles. Responders were allowed to continue treatment until disease progression. Pretreatment and D 7 peripheral blood samples were analyzed for promoter methylation status and expression of the 5 genes mentioned above. Bisulfite conversion of DNA was followed by quantitative PCR using primers specific for methylated or for unmethylated promoter regions. For gene re-expression analysis, quantitative RT-PCR was performed with RNA isolated from the same patient samples and the same time points as the DNA methylation analyses. Results: Seven patients were enrolled before the study closed due to lack of accrual. The diagnoses were: Myelofibrosis (MF) 4, essential thrombocythemia 1, unclassified MPD with dysplasia 2. One patient with MF and one with unclassified MPD responded, the latter with normalization of marrow karyotype. Both responses were accompanied by significant decrease in APAF1 promoter methylation and surprisingly, an increase in promoter methylation of RARB . In three of the non-responders, APAF1 methylation increased. In patients with decreased Apaf1 methylation, a statistically significant increase in mRNA expression was observed. Conclusions: Within its limitations, this small trial shows that the methylation status of selected genes, particularly of APAF1 and RARB (inversely) is associated with response to treatment with azacitidine in patients with MPDs. In non-responders, Apaf1 methylation appears to increase. A larger study will be necessary to confirm these preliminary observations. Disclosures: Smith: Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding; Cephalon: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Spectrum: Consultancy; GSK: Speakers Bureau. Nand: Celgene Corporation: Research Funding.
Stereodivergent Coupling of Aldehydes and Alkynes via Synergistic Catalysis Using Rh and Jacobsen’s Amine

We report an enantioselective coupling between α-branched aldehydes and alkynes to generate vicinal quaternary and tertiary carbon stereocenters. The choice of Rh and organocatalyst combination allows for access to all possible stereoisomers with high enantio-, diastereo-, and regioselectivity. Our study highlights the power of catalysis to activate two common functional groups and provide access to divergent stereoisomers and constitutional structures.
Salvage of locally recurrent prostate cancer after external beam radiation using reduced-dose brachytherapy with neoadjuvant plus adjuvant androgen deprivation.

Abstract Purpose Local recurrence (LR) of prostate cancer after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is a serious problem. Our purpose was to determine if reduced-dose salvage brachytherapy could achieve high rates of biochemical control with acceptable toxicity if combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Methods and Materials Thirty-three consecutive patients with LR after EBRT were treated with salvage brachytherapy plus ADT from 1998 to 2013. All had pathologically confirmed LR, disease-free interval ≥18 months after EBRT, no distant/nodal metastasis, and International Prostate Symptom Score ≤15. Whole-gland salvage treatment was delivered using low-dose-rate (median 100 Gy with 103 Pd, n = 25) or high-dose-rate brachytherapy (30 Gy in 6 fractions over 4 weeks, n = 8) plus 4–6 months of neoadjuvant plus adjuvant ADT. Results Fifty-five percent had high-risk disease at diagnosis. Median EBRT dose was 70.2 Gy; median prostate-specific antigen nadir was 0.8 ng/mL. Median time to recurrence was 56 months; median presalvage prostate-specific antigen was 5.0 ng/mL. Median postbrachytherapy followup was 61 months (range 7–150 months). Five and 7-year relapse-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and overall survival were 79% and 67%; 93% and 86%; and 94% and 85%, respectively. Freedom from late Grade 3 GU toxicity at 5 years was 85%. There were no late Grade ≥2 GI toxicities. Conclusions This is the largest series of salvage brachytherapy combined with neoadjuvant plus adjuvant ADT and uses reduced-dose brachytherapy. Results suggest that reduced-dose salvage brachytherapy is feasible and reasonably well tolerated when combined with ADT. Compared to prior series, this approach was associated with favorable relapse-free survival. Prospective studies of reduced-dose salvage brachytherapy plus ADT are warranted.
The impact of installing an MR scanner in the emergency department for patients presenting with acute stroke-like symptoms.

Abstract Purpose We examined the impact of an MR scanner in the emergency department (ED) on ED length of stay (LOS), hospital (H) LOS, hospital admission rate, hospitalization costs, and ED re-presentation rate of patients presenting with stroke-like symptoms (SLS). We hypothesized that the ED MR would increase efficiency of patient care. Methods The number of MRIs performed in the ED vs. inpatient setting, EDLOS, HLOS, hospitalization charges, admission rate, discharge diagnoses, and 30–60-day ED re-presentation rates were determined for ED patients with SLS six months before (2011) and after (2012) ED MR installation. Results 362 and 448 patients with SLS presented to the ED, and 196 and 176 patients were admitted in 2011 and 2012 respectively. In 2011, 36 (18.4%) admitted patients, and, in 2012, 68 (38.6%) had MRIs in the ED, p Conclusions With the ED MR, more admitted patients 1) got scanned in the ED and 2) were diagnosed with stroke. Because this led to more patients on the stroke service actually suffering from strokes (and not other diagnoses), the overall HLOS and charges of patients presenting with SLS were not reduced by ED MR screening. Discharge after a negative ED MR did not incur risk of TIAs or strokes over the ensuing 60 days. Therefore, not only does a dedicated MR scanner in the ED aid in the acute diagnosis of a CVA or other neurologic disorder, but it does so without the risk of under-diagnosing TIAs or evolving strokes in the presence of a negative MRI.
Rosie the Riveter

With the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the United States entered World War II; as a result, the country had to move quickly into a wartime production mode. The subsequent mass of men enlisting in the armed services left vacancies in crucial war industries such as airplane, ship, and munitions production. Many employers who had been indifferent or opposed to employment of women suddenly reconsidered their positions, and the federal government began to encourage women, especially housewives, to join the work force, emphasizing their patriotic duty. The wartime training program that targeted female workers was propagandized by the government’s Rosie the Riveter campaign, a fictional female icon created by the US government to draw women to working for the war industries.
From the Lab to the Road: Lessons from Connected Vehicle Testbeds

Safety messaging for connected vehicles imposes both challenging workloads and stringent robustness requirements on wireless networks. In particular, the design and validation of communication protocols that can operate under high node densities has been a key research focus. The higher robustness requirements for safety communication call for more rigorous validation of such protocols. This has led to the opportunity to experiment and test not just on general purpose wireless testbeds such as ORBIT but also on custom vehicular platforms that have operated both on test tracks and on public roadways. This talk will describe our work to validate such protocols and reflect on the experience gained. Based on having both contributed to the design of such wireless testbeds and gathered experience as a testbed user, the talk will draw lessons for future wireless testbed design and experimental research.
Measurement of Gas Released during Blast Densification

The introduction of nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases into the ground during blasting increases pore fluid compressibility and thus affects the postblast mechanical behavior of densified sand. This study presents the techniques used to sample pore fluid in situ with the BAT probe at a full-scale blast densification site. Special emphasis is given to the importance of preparing sample containers prior to collecting pore fluid. In addition, a methodology to evaluate gas concentrations and the degree of saturation in situ is provided. Measurements of postblast gas concentrations reveal that gas generated by explosives significantly increases both nitrogen gas and carbon dioxide concentrations relative to preblast levels. In addition, groundwater flow is likely responsible for increased gas concentrations outside the zone after a blast. However, nitrogen gas is responsible, almost exclusively, for the saturation of groundwater with dissolved gas and introduction of free gas into the soil matrix.
Phosphorylation of Aspergillus fumigatus PkaR impacts growth and cell wall integrity through novel mechanisms

Protein kinase A (PKA) signaling is essential for growth and virulence of the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Little is known concerning the regulation of this pathway in filamentous fungi. Employing liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy, we identified novel phosphorylation sites on the regulatory subunit PkaR, distinct from those previously identified in mammals and yeasts, and demonstrated the importance of two phosphorylation clusters for hyphal growth and cell wall-stress response. We also identified key differences in the regulation of PKA subcellular localization in A. fumigatus compared with other species. This is the first analysis of the phosphoregulation of a PKA regulatory subunit in a filamentous fungus and uncovers critical mechanistic differences between PKA regulation in filamentous fungi compared with mammals and yeast species, suggesting divergent targeting opportunities.
THREE TYPES OF INTRAHEPATIC SHUNTS PRESENTING IN A SINGLE PATIENT WITH HEREDITARY HEMORRHAGIC TELANGIECTASIA

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is characterized by mucocutaneous telangiectasias and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) leading to pulmonary and liver shunting. Liver shunts from the hepatic artery (HA) to hepatic vein (HV) cause high output heart failure, from portal vein (PV) to HV
Technical Note: Feasibility of MRI-based estimation of water-equivalent path length to detect changes in proton range during treatment courses.

Purpose To evaluate the feasibility of using on-treatment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect proton range changes during treatment courses. Methods MRI-based virtual computed tomography (vCT) was generated to calculate water-equivalent path length (WEPL) at the distal surface of a clinical target volume. T2-weighted MR images with and without fat suppression were processed by thresholding and fuzzy c-mean clustering to assign a bulk HU (Hounsfield Unit) to each segment of fat, water, and air. Bony tissues in vCT were transferred from planning CT via a region-based registration. We validated this method using images from three patients (aged 9, 12, and 17 yr old) with pelvic sarcomas who underwent proton therapy. MRI-based WEPL was evaluated against those of repeat CT (rCT) and cone beam CT (CBCT). Results The vCT agreed well with the rCT, wherein the use of bulk HU and imperfect bone registration contributed to discrepancies. The 99th percentile error of the MRI-based WEPL was up to 3.3 mm for posterior fields when we compensated the effect of mobile air. The gamma index (2-mm WEPL/2-mm pixel distance) was greater than 99% for those fields. We observed larger errors for anterior fields, which were due to bowel gas movement, mismatched respiratory motion, and differences in patient posture between the vCT and rCT. Applied to multiple on-treatment MRI of a patient, the estimated WEPL demonstrated an underrange trend, which was consistent with the CBCT results and the increased patient body circumference. Conclusions The MRI-based vCT produced highly accurate WEPL estimates, demonstrating the potential of using on-treatment MRI for detecting changes in proton ranges.
Approximate Dynamic Programming for Building Control Problems with Occupant Interactions

The goal of this paper is to study potential applicability and performance of approximate dynamic programming (ADP) for building control problems. It is well known that occupants' stochastic behavior affects the thermal dynamics of building spaces. Incorporating occupant interactions in building control system designs is the main focus of this work. We apply ADP to stochastic optimal control designs for illustrative scenarios of occupant-building interactions and demonstrate its validity through a simulation study.
Calculation of Electromagnetic Power Deposition

In hyperthermia therapy, the ideal objective is to heat all tumor tissue to a specified temperature without heating any normal tissue. In practical situations, this seems impossible. Even heating tumor tissue along with some surrounding normal tissue to therapeutic temperatures seems to be more difficult than perhaps was anticipated a few years ago. Another difficulty lies in measuring temperature to know whether a tumor has reached a therapeutic temperature. Presently it is practical to measure the temperature at only a few points. It would therefore be desirable to have the ability to calculate temperature distributions, both from the standpoint of evaluating hyperthermia generating systems and planning and evaluating treatment. This would require also calculating electromagnetic (EM) power deposition.
Cultural Memory, Affect, and Countermonuments

This chapter addresses to role of public monuments and their role in the cultural memory of slavery in the United States Through a comparative analysis of the memorialization of slavery in the United States versus the Caribbean, and a historical look at monuments and race in the United States, the chapter concludes with a close reading of Kara Walker’s 2014 monumental sugar sculpture, “A Subtlety.” A site-specific, temporary installation that no longer exists, the piece spoke to the dearth of monuments to the enslaved in the United States. By examining the sculpture’s status as a countermonument, I present a full account of its reception and the violently varied feelings of viewers—feelings that live on as an affective archive of the topics it introduced into public space.
Microphysical and Dynamical Effects of Mixed-Phase Hydrometeors in Convective Storms Using a Bin Microphysics Model: Melting

AbstractThe dynamics of convective systems are inherently linked to microphysical processes through phase changes that result in warming or cooling. This is especially true of near-surface cooling ...
Integrated Decentralized Treatment for Improved N and K Recovery from Urine

AbstractUrine has been recognized as the main contributor of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) at wastewater treatment plants, yet it makes up less than 1% of the volume. This study a...
Twenty‐species and 15‐species chemical kinetic mechanisms for cyclohexane using the local self‐similarity tabulation method

The 1081 species cyclohexane‐oxidation elementary reaction mechanism of Silke et al. (DOI:10.1021/jp067592d) is reduced in the number of species by a O(10²) factor using the local self‐similarity tabulation (LS2T) method. Reduced‐species mechanisms of both 20 (R20) and 15 (R15) species are created in the high‐pressure combustion regime typical of diesel engines. To evaluate the performance of R20 and R15 against the elementary kinetics, simulations are performed for cyclohexane/air mixtures at initial temperatures of 1150, 900, 750, and 680 K and constant pressures of 20 and 40 bar for a variety of equivalence ratios Φ (Φ = 0.5, 1.0, and 2 for 1150 and 900 K; Φ = 1 for 750 K; Φ = 0.5 for 680 K). Very good agreement between R20 and R15 with the elementary kinetics mechanism is demonstrated at 1150 and 900 K for which the self‐similarity is very well obeyed; however, only fair agreement is obtained at 750 and 680 K, a fact which is traced to the less faithful adherence to the self‐similarity due to the one order of magnitude increase in ignition time over the range 750‐680 K. These results are found to be quasi‐independent of the tabulation grid. Future work is proposed to improve the reduction in the cold‐ignition, high‐pressure regime.
La Grama St. Augustine para Patios de Florida

La grama o cesped St. Augustine esta muy adaptada a las zonas calurosas y humedas (subtropicales) del mundo. Se cree que es nativa de las regiones costeras del Golfo de Mexico y del Mediterraneo. St. Augustine es la especie de grama mas usada en Florida. This is the Spanish-language version of ENH5/LH010, St. Augustinegrass for Florida Lawns. St. Augustinegrass is the most commonly-used lawn grass in Florida. This 10-page document describes its cultivation and management for Florida lawns. Written by L. E. Trenholm, J. B. Unruh, T. W. Shaddox, C. Balerdi, and H. Mayer and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Environmental Horticulture, January 2018. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep552
Initial Energy Dissipation Mechanism at Crack Tip on the Ductile to Brittle Transition

The objective of this study is to investigate energy dissipation mechanisms that operate at different length scales during fracture in ductile materials. A dimensional analysis is performed to identify the sets of dimensionless parameters which contribute to energy dissipation via dislocation-mediated plastic deformation at a crack tip. However rather than use phenomenological variables such as yield stress and hardening modulus in the analysis, physical variables such as dislocation density, Burgers vector and Peierls stress are used. It is then shown via elementary arguments that the resulting dimensionless parameters can be interpreted in terms of competitions between various energy dissipation mechanisms at different length scales, for example between dislocation nucleation from a crack tip and dislocation nucleation from a Frank-Read dislocation source in the material close to the crack tip. Criteria are established which are used to determine the initial, and perhaps dominant, energy dissipation mechanism at a crack tip.
A systematic review of mask disinfection and reuse for SARS-CoV-2

ABSTRACT We conducted a systematic review of hygiene intervention effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2, including developing inclusion criteria, conducting the search, selecting articles for inclusion, and summarizing included articles. We reviewed 104,735 articles, and 109 articles meeting inclusion criteria were identified, with 33 additional articles identified from reference chaining. Herein, we describe results from 58 mask disinfection and reuse studies, where the majority of data were collected using N95 masks. Please note, no disinfection method consistently removed >3 log of virus irrespective of concentration, contact time, temperature, and humidity. However, results show it is possible to achieve >3 log reduction of SARS-CoV-2 using appropriate concentrations and contact times of chemical (ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid), radiation (PX-UV, UVGI), and thermal (autoclaving, heat) disinfection on N95 masks. N95 mask reuse and failure data indicate that hydrogen peroxide, heat, and UV-GI are promising for mask reuse, peracetic acid and PX-UV need more data, and autoclaving and ethanol lead to mask durability failures. Data on other mask types is limited. We thus recommend focusing guidelines and further research on the use of heat, hydrogen peroxide, and UVGI for N95 mask disinfection/reuse. All of these disinfection options could be investigated for use in LMIC and humanitarian contexts. TOC Art Synopsis In resource-limited contexts, N95s are reused. We recommend using heat, hydrogen peroxide, or UVGI to disinfect and reuse N95 masks.
Writing Climate Change Assessments: Scientific Author Challenges and Rhetorical Negotiations:

The rhetorical challenges and deliberations of scientific authors writing climate change assessment reports have received scant scholarly attention. As our interviews with 21 authors reveal, author...