cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Maritime General Education Curriculum, Admission Policy and Faculty Status towards a Proposed Maritime Program

The Philippines Education Reform envisions the quality of Filipino graduates to be in parallel assessment along with competitors in regional and global employment communities and educational opportunities. Thus, the Maritime Educational Institutions are obliged to assess their present educational set-up and examine the necessary changes in its general education curriculum, admission policy and faculty status to ensure smooth transition with least disruption for the shift in AY 2018. Qualitative design using document analysis and interviews was utilized. Data revealed that subjecting the current maritime curriculum to the provisions of K+12 program and CHED Memo Order No 20. S.2013 will result to the reduction of general education courses from 64 units to 36 units. English Speech Communication with IMO SMCP, World Geography and Maritime Economics should be added. The current age requirement should be adjusted from 16-22 to 18-24 years old. Those from the STEM track and the maritime high school are best suited for the maritime courses. A bridging program should be given to graduates of other tracks. The current admission test should include Philippine History and Culture, and Economics. The Human Resource Department should identify any administrative positions GE faculty may qualify or empower them in research activities. The Maritime educational Institutions should revise the GE curriculum, admission policy and faculty status.
Automatic tandem and ring reconstruction using MRI for cervical cancer brachytherapy

Purpose The MRI-guided cervical cancer brachytherapy provides unparalleled soft-tissue contrast for target and normal tissue contouring, but eliminates the ability to use conventional metallic fiducials for radiation source path reconstruction as required for treatment planning. Instead, the source path is reconstructed by manually aligning a library model to the signal void produced by the applicator, which takes time intraoperatively and precludes fully automated treatment planning. The purpose of this study is to present and validate an algorithm to automatically reconstruct tandem and ring applicators using MRI for cervical cancer brachytherapy treatment planning. Methods Applicators were reconstructed using T2-weighted MR images acquired at 1.5 T from 33 brachytherapy fractions including 10 patients using a model-to-image registration algorithm. The algorithm involves (a) image filtering and maximum intensity projection to highlight the applicator, (b) ring center identification using the circular Hough transform, and (c) three-dimensional surface model registration, optimized by maximizing the image intensity gradient normal to the model surface. Two independent observers manually reconstructed all applicators, enabling the calculation of interobserver variability and establishing a ground truth. Algorithm variability was calculated by comparing algorithm results to each individual observer, and algorithm accuracy was calculated by comparing algorithm results to the ground truth. The algorithm variability and accuracy were compared to the interobserver variability using paired t-tests. Results Mean ± SD interobserver variability was 0.83 ± 0.31 mm and 0.78 ± 0.29 mm for the ring and tandem, respectively. The algorithm had mean ± SD variability and accuracy of 0.72 ± 0.32 mm (P = 0.02) and 0.60 ± 0.24 mm (P = 0.0005) for the ring, and 0.70 ± 0.29 mm (P = 0.11) and 0.58 ± 0.24 mm (P = 0.004) for the tandem, respectively. Conclusions The algorithm variability and accuracy were within the interobserver variability measured in this study. The algorithm accuracy and mean execution time of 10.0 s are sufficient for clinical tandem and ring reconstruction, and are a step toward fully automated tandem and ring brachytherapy treatment planning.
Copper-Catalyzed Desaturation of Lactones, Lactams, and Ketones under pH-Neutral Conditions.

A copper-catalyzed desaturation method that is suitable for converting lactones, lactams, and cyclic ketones to their α,β-unsaturated counterparts is reported. The reaction does not require strong base/acid or sulfur/selenium reagents and can be carried out through a simple one-step operation. The protocol uses inexpensive catalysts and reagents and exhibits excellent scalability and functional group tolerance. Notably, tert-butyl alcohol is the only stoichiometric byproduct produced, and overoxidation is not observed. The reaction mechanism has been investigated through control experiments, deuterium labeling, radical clock, electron paramagnetic resonance, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and kinetic studies. The data obtained are consistent with a reaction pathway involving reversible α-deprotonation by a Cu(II)-OtBu species followed by further oxidation of the resulting Cu enolate.
Zinc Oxide Nanowires Exposure Induces a Distinct Inflammatory Response via CCL11-Mediated Eosinophil Recruitment

High aspect ratio zinc oxide nanowires (ZnONWs) have become one of the most important products in nanotechnology. The wide range applications of ZnONWs have heightened the need for evaluating the risks and biological consequences to these particles. In this study, we investigated inflammatory pathways activated by ZnONWs in cultured cells as well as the consequences of systemic exposure in mouse models. Confocal microscopy showed rapid phagocytic uptake of FITC-ZnONWs by macrophages. Exposure of macrophages or lung epithelial cells to ZnONWs induced the production of CCL2 and CCL11. Moreover, ZnONWs exposure induced both IL-6 and TNF-α production only in macrophages but not in LKR13 cells. Intratracheal instillation of ZnONWs in C57BL/6 mice induced a significant increase in the total numbers of immune cells in the broncho alveolar lavage fluid (BALFs) 2 days after instillation. Macrophages and eosinophils were the predominant cellular infiltrates of ZnONWs exposed mouse lungs. Similar cellular infiltrates were also observed in a mouse air-pouch model. Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α as well as chemokines CCL11, and CCL2 were increased both in BALFs and air-pouch lavage fluids. These results suggest that exposure to ZnONWs may induce distinct inflammatory responses through phagocytic uptake and formation of soluble Zn2+ ions.
Perovskite-sensitized β-Ga2O3 nanorod arrays for highly selective and sensitive NO2 detection at high temperature

Amongst various gaseous pollutants, NO2 is one of the major exhausts originating from fossil fuel and gas combustions in vehicle engines and power plants at high temperature. Under such a scenario, in situ and real-time gas detection and monitoring solutions are largely limited, which hinders the energy-efficient and resource-saving operations of these advanced energy systems. In this report, a new type of perovskite-sensitized β-Ga2O3 nanorod-array has been successfully fabricated to detect NOx at high temperature selectively and sensitively. The demonstrated gas sensors are highly sensitive to NO2 at 800 °C, with excellent reversible and reproducible response characteristics. Through the surface decoration of perovskite-type La0.8Sr0.2CoO3 (LSCO) nanoparticles, the sensitivity of β-Ga2O3 nanorod array gas sensors is enhanced by nearly an order of magnitude, along with much faster response dynamics. A remarkable selectivity toward oxidative gases was also demonstrated with the robust differentiation of NO2.
Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty in Octogenarians versus Younger Patients: A Comparison of 30-Day Outcomes.

As the United States' octogenarian population (persons 80-89 years of age) continues to grow, understanding the risk profile of surgical procedures in elderly patients becomes increasingly important. The purpose of this study was to compare 30-day outcomes following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in octogenarians with those in younger patients. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried. All patients, aged 60 to 89 years, who underwent UKA from 2005 to 2016 were included. Patients were stratified by age: 60 to 69 (Group 1), 70 to 79 (Group 2), and 80 to 89 years (Group 3). Multivariate regression models were estimated for the outcomes of hospital length of stay (LOS), nonhome discharge, morbidity, reoperation, and readmission within 30 days following UKA. A total of 5,352 patients met inclusion criteria. Group 1 status was associated with a 0.41-day shorter average adjusted LOS (99.5% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-0.16 days shorter, p < 0.001) relative to Group 3. Group 2 status was not associated with a significantly shorter LOS compared with Group 3. Both Group 1 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.15, 99.5% CI: 0.10-0.23) and Group 2 (OR = 0.33, 99.5% CI: 0.22-0.49) demonstrated significantly lower adjusted odds of nonhome discharge following UKA compared with Group 3. There was no significant difference in adjusted odds of 30-day morbidity, readmission, or reoperation when comparing Group 3 patients with Group 1 or Group 2. While differences in LOS and nonhome discharge were seen, octogenarian status was not associated with increased adjusted odds of 30-day morbidity, readmission, or reoperation. Factors other than age may better predict postoperative complications following UKA.
“She Blinded Me with Science”: The Use of Science Frames in Abortion Litigation before the Supreme Court

While much of the work on amicus briefs focuses on whether such briefs affect Supreme Court outcomes or doctrine, much less is known about the content of these briefs, particularly how groups opt t...
Antibacterial and Osteoinductive Implant Surface Using Layer-by-Layer Assembly:

Osseointegration of dental, craniofacial, and orthopedic implants is critical for their long-term success. Multifunctional surface treatment of implants was found to significantly improve cell adhe...
Adaptive Linear Interference Suppression for Packet DS-CDMA

The performance of adaptive linear interference suppression is studied in the context of packet DS-CDMA. A multi-cell system is assumed with stochastic arrivals and departures of asynchronous users, and additive Gaussian noise as the only channel impairment. Interference suppression is achieved with a tapped-delay line filter, where the filter spans a single symbol interval. Adaptive algorithms considered include the stochastic gradient (LMS), exponentially-weighted Least Squares (LS), block LS, and a reduced-rank LS algorithm. The reduced-rank LS algorithm first projects the received signal onto a signal sub-space spanned by eigenvectors of the averaged outer product matrix of received vectors. The purpose of the projection is to eliminate low-level background interference and noise. Both decision-directed and blind algorithms, which do not require a training sequence, are compared. Computer simulation is used to obtain error rates as a function of traffic load, and algorithm and system parameters (including timing offset). Results indicate that the adaptive algorithms offer a significant increase in capacity (nearly a factor of two at moderate error rates), and are insensitive to variations in received power over the user population.
Long term impairment of CD4 T cell responses after sepsis (HUM8P.327)

Patients that survive the acute stages of sepsis tend to have severely compromised T cell immunity and increased susceptibility to infection. Interestingly, little is known about the mechanism(s) behind decreased CD4 T cell function after sepsis. Using a cecal-ligation and puncture (CLP) model of sepsis, we utilized p:MHCII tetramers to track the recovery of Ag-specific CD4 T cell populations after septic injury, and to probe responses to infection during or after recovery. In agreement with previously published data, we observed a systemic loss of CD4 T cells early on (48h after CLP), but there was no discernible numerical difference in the CD4 T cell compartment of sham- and CLP-treated animals after 30d. Despite this seemingly complete recovery, we detected changes in the distribution of Ag-specific CD4 T cell precursor pools, with quantitative reductions in some populations persisting up to 30d after surgery. Importantly, incomplete recovery of Ag-specific precursor numbers correlated with impaired primary expansion and decreased Ag sensitivity after infection. Moreover, Vβ clonotype composition analysis demonstrated changes intrinsic to an Ag-specific population’s heterogeneity. Our results reiterate the stochastic nature of CD4 lymphopenia during sepsis, and suggest that recovery is accompanied by deleterious alterations to the Ag-specific CD4 T cell repertoire. These findings may explain why patients are disparately predisposed to opportunistic infections after sepsis.
Brazing of Stainless Steel to YSZ Using Silver‐Base Brazes

Three silver braze alloys (PalCuSi-10, PalCuSil-15, and TiCuSil) were evaluated for oxidation behavior, and their effectiveness in joining YSZ to steel. TGA, SEM and EDS were used to evaluate the braze oxidation behavior,and structure and chemistry of the joint Chemical interdiffusion led to compositional changes, and yielded metallurgically sound joints. The effect of the braze and joining process on the interfacial microstructure and composition is discussed.
Feasibility studies of applying Kalman Filter techniques to power system dynamic state estimation

The lack of dynamic information in the operation of power systems can be attributed to the use of steady state estimators, which generate the input values for many operational tools. This paper investigates the feasibility of applying Kalman Filtering techniques to include dynamic state variables in the state estimation process. The proposed Kalman Filter based dynamic state estimation is tested on a multi-machine system with both large and small disturbances. Sensitivity studies of the dynamic state estimation performance with respect to sampling rate and noise level are presented as well. The study results show that there is a promising path forward for the implementation of Kalman Filter based dynamic state estimation in conjunction with the emerging phasor measurement technologies.
Body size and premolar evolution in the early-middle eocene euprimates of Wyoming

The earliest euprimates to arrive in North America were larger-bodied notharctids and smaller-bodied omomyids. Through the Eocene, notharctids generally continued to increase in body size, whereas omomyids generally radiated within small- and increasingly mid-sized niches in the middle Eocene. This study examines the influence of changing body size and diet on the evolution of the lower fourth premolar in Eocene euprimates. The P4 displays considerable morphological variability in these taxa. Despite the fact that most studies of primate dental morphology have focused on the molars, P4 can also provide important paleoecological insights. We analyzed the P4 from 177 euprimate specimens, representing 35 species (11 notharctids and 24 omomyids), in three time bins of approximately equal duration: early Wasatchian, late Wasatchian, and Bridgerian. Two-dimensional surface landmarks were collected from lingual photographs, capturing important variation in cusp position and tooth shape. Disparity metrics were calculated and compared for the three time bins. In the early Eocene, notharctids have a more molarized P4 than omomyids. During the Bridgerian, expanding body size range of omomyids was accompanied by a significant increase in P4 disparity and convergent evolution of the semimolariform condition in the largest omomyines. P4 morphology relates to diet in early euprimates, although patterns vary between families.
The prognostic role of non-critical lactate levels for in-hospital survival time among ED patients with sepsis.

Abstract Objective This study describes emergency department (ED) sepsis patients with non-critical serum venous lactate (LAC) levels (LAC Methods An ED based retrospective cohort study accrued September 2010 to August 2014. Inclusion criteria were ED admission, LAC sampling, >2 systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria with an infectious source (sepsis), and in-hospital mortality. Kaplan-Meier curves were used for survival estimates. An a priori sub-group analysis for patients with repeat LAC within 6 hours of initial sampling was undertaken. The primary outcome was time to in-hospital death evaluated using rank-sum tests and regression models. Results One hundred ninety-seven patients met inclusion criteria. Pulmonary infections were the most common (44%) and median LAC was 1.9 mmol/L (1.5, 2.5). Thirteen patients (7%) died within 24 hours and 79% by ≤28 days. Median survival was 11 days (95% CI, 8.0-13). Sixty-two patients had repeat LAC sampling with 14 (23%) and 48 (77%) having decreasing increasing levels, respectively. No significant differences were observed in treatment requirements between the LAC subgroups. Among patients with decreasing LAC, median survival was 24 days (95% CI, 5-32). For patients with increasing LAC median survival was significantly shorter (7 days; 95% CI, 4-11, P = .04). Patients with increasing LAC had a non-significant trend toward reduced survival (HR = 1.6 95% CI, 0.90-3.0, P = .10). Conclusions In septic ED patients experiencing in-hospital death, non-critical serum venous lactate may be utilized as a risk-stratifying tool for early mortality, while increasing LAC levels may identify those in danger of more rapid deterioration.
Derivatives Safe Harbors in Bankruptcy and Dodd-Frank: A Structural Analysis

Harvard Law School 2013 Student Writing Prize: Irving Oberman Memorial Award -- Bankruptcy
Hoes, Bitches, and the Search for Enlightened Witnesses: Gangsta Rap Lyrics and the Real Truth of Black Mother-Son Love

This critical essay argues that gangsta rap artists, especially through their lyrics, are seeking an unconscious way to express the truth about the maltreatment that they suffered in the earliest moments or years of their lives, and they do so through their lyrics, which are filled with what i called corrosive hate and murderous anger. While their hatred and anger are directed at black women, I argue that due to "emotional blindness" (or Freud's repression), which is Alice Miller's concept, such hatred and anger are really directed at the earliest biological parents or primary caregivers who used obedience training to maltreat them when they were infants and toddlers, arguably for their own good. Unfortunately, obedience training or what Miller calls "poisonous pedagogy" destroys these highly sensitive souls, who really want to know the truth of their earliest maltreatment and to share their existential narratives with others, so that these rappers can unconsciously draw to themselves enlightened witnesses who will help their heal. Yet, this approach to healing still leaves the rappers disconnected from their deepest emotions and hence their truth, and in the end, such rappers would consciously prefer to keep their deepest truths repressed and hidden in their gangsta lyrics by which they only symbolically attack their cruel and abusive parents and caregivers while broadly demeaning all women or black women through their vilifying lyrics.
Participation of Alkoxy Groups in Reactions of Acetals: Violation of the Reactivity/Selectivity Principle in a Curtin–Hammett Kinetic Scenario

Nucleophilic substitution reactions of acetals having benzyloxy groups four carbon atoms away can be highly diastereoselective. The selectivity in several cases increased as the reactivity of the nucleophile increased, in violation of the reactivity/selectivity principle. The increase in selectivity with reactivity suggests that multiple conformational isomers of reactive intermediates can give rise to the products.
Molecular Biology of Biotin Attachment to Proteins

Enzymatic attachment of biotin to proteins requires the interaction of a distinct domain of the acceptor protein (the biotin domain) with the enzyme, biotin protein ligase, that catalyzes this essential and rare post-translational modification. Both biotin domains and biotin protein ligases are very strongly conserved throughout biology. This review concerns the protein structures and mechanisms involved in the covalent attachment of biotin to proteins.
SU‐C‐BRA‐05: Commissioning of Rotational Total Skin Electron Irradiation on Trilogy Machine

Purpose: To commission 6MEV beam in HDTSe mode on a Varian Trilogy machine for rotational total skin treatment. Methods: HDTSe 6MEV beam with field size 40cm × 40cm at 380cm SSD was planned for total skin irradiation treatment. A custom designed flattening filter was added to improve beam uniformity. Rotational speed during treatment was to set at 3–5 revolution/minute. Beam calibration was at 100cm SSD following TG51 protocol. Beam parameters at extended distance were measured using GafChromic EBT2 films placed in solid water phantom. 30cm × 30cm square phantom and 33cm diameter round phantom were for stationary and rotational target respectively. Dose distribution during rotational treatment was verified by GafChromic films sandwiched inside a Rando phantom. Beam uniformity was verified using Kodak EDR2 ready pack films on a ½” thick, 4′×8′ plexiglas hanging perpendicular to the beam at distance. Results: At SSD of 380cm, with filter in place, stationary beam output was 89.6cGy/1000mu; dmax is at 0.9 cm; R50 is 1.82 cm and Rp is2.4cm. With rotational target, dmax is shifted to surface with R50 at 1.54 cm and output at surface was 38.8cGy/1000mu. Measured rotational factor was 0.433. X‐ray contamination is of the order of 3% for rotational target. Dose uniformity along the vertical axis from −90 cm to about 80cm is within +/− 5%, and within +/−10% from ‐95cm to 95cm. For the horizontal axis, the entire range is covered with the dose of better than 95%. Dose distribution using the rotational technique was shown to be uniform at different levels of a Rando phantom Conclusions: Dosimetric properties of the modified HDTSe 6MEV beam on a Varian Trilogy machine are verified to be optimal for rotational total skin irradiation treatment.
Measuring physical activity in midlife, older, and minority women: issues from an expert panel.

ABSTRACT This article summarizes the findings of an exploratory meeting of 53 experts brought together under the aegis of the Women's Health Initiative to identify important issues related to measu...
Effect of an immune challenge on the functional performance of male weaponry.

Abstract Theories of parasite-mediated sexual selection predict a positive association between immune function and the expression of sexually selected ornaments. Few studies, however, have investigated how an immune challenge affects the performance of sexually selected weaponry. Male Wellington tree weta (Hemideina crassidens) (Orthoptera: Anostostomatidae) possess enlarged mandibles that are used as weapons in fights for access to females residing in tree galleries. Intense sexual competition appears to have favoured the evolution of alternative male mating strategies in this species as males have a trimorphic phenotype in which weapon size varies across morphotype: 8th instar males have the smallest jaws, 10th instar males have the largest and 9th instar males being intermediate to the other two. After injecting males and females with either lipopolysaccharide (LPS; immune challenge) or saline (control) I measured over a 24 h period each weta's body mass to assess whether they responded immunologically to the LPS and their bite force to assess the functional performance of their jaws. Both sexes responded immunologically to the immune-challenge as LPS-injected individuals lost significantly more body mass than saline-injected controls with females losing more mass than males. Female bite force was significantly reduced 8 h after LPS-injection whereas male bite force did not significantly decline. Both sexes regained pre-injection functional performance of their jaws 24 h after the immune challenge. My results suggest that females trade-off bite force for immune function whereas males do not. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: insert SI title.
Smokeless tobacco use: harm reduction or induction approach?

Abstract Background: Smokeless tobacco (ST) substitution for cigarettes as a method to reduce harm has been actively debated. Use of ST as a smoking cessation method or as a means to reduce cigarettes has been proposed. The impact of using ST in these ways is relatively unknown. Method: A review of the different issues and studies related to using smokeless tobacco as a method to reduce tobacco toxin exposure and harm is presented. Results: The toxicity of the product itself varies by brand of ST and across countries. Of the existing studies, comparisons of consequences between cigarettes and ST show that cigarette smoking produces more negative health effects, is likely to have a higher addiction potential and more severe withdrawal, and leads to a higher rate of relapse than ST use. On the other hand, ST use facilitates the use of cigarettes, which is a deadly tobacco product. Additionally, ST is not a harmless product, and a less harmful product, medicinal nicotine, is available as an effective treatment approach. Furthermore, ST products are not under the same regulatory scrutiny as medicinal nicotine products. Conclusions: Considerably more research and product regulation is necessary prior to considering smokeless tobacco as a harm reduction method.
Chronic toxicity of ammonia to fathead minnows

Abstract Chronic effects of ammonia on the fathead minnow Pimephales promelas were studied in the laboratory in two flow-through tests, each test lasting approximately 1 year. Fish were exposed to five test concentrations over the range 0.07–0.96 mg/L un-ionized ammonia (NH3); the mean pH of the test water was 8.0, and the mean temperature was 24.2°C. The tests started with 3- to 5-d-old larvae that were reared to sexual maturity; progeny of these fish (F1 were reared until they were 60 d old. The 5% probability level was chosen to indicate significance. No effects were observed on growth or survival of parental fish at 0.44 mg/L NH3, or on egg production or viability at 0.37 mg/L, but effects on all of these were observed at 0.91 mg/L. Growth and survival of F1 larvae were not affected at 0.36 mg/L NH3, which was the highest concentration at which these were tested. Egg hatching success was not affected at 0.19 mg/L NH3, but was at 0.37 mg/L. Brain lesions were common in parental fish at all stages of de...
Effect of freezing and microbial growth on myoglobin derivatives of beef.

The effect of freezing and bacterial growth on the discoloration of beef was assessed by measuring myoglobin derivatives myoglobin (MB), oxymyoglobin (MBO2), and metmyoglobin (METMB) on the surface...
Distinct roles of Ape1 protein in the repair of DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation or bleomycin.

Ionizing radiation (IR) and bleomycin (BLM) are used to treat various types of cancers. Both agents generate cytotoxic double strand breaks (DSB) and abasic (apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP)) sites in DNA. The human AP endonuclease Ape1 acts on abasic or 3′-blocking DNA lesions such as those generated by IR or BLM. We examined the effect of siRNA-mediated Ape1 suppression on DNA repair and cellular resistance to IR or BLM in human B-lymphoblastoid TK6 cells and HCT116 colon tumor cells. Partial Ape1 deficiency (∼30% of normal levels) sensitized cells more dramatically to BLM than to IR cytotoxicity. In both cases, expression of the unrelated yeast AP endonuclease, Apn1, largely restored resistance. Ape1 deficiency increased DNA AP site accumulation due to IR treatment but reduced the number of DSB. In contrast, for BLM, there were more DSB under Ape1 deficiency, with little change in the accumulation of AP sites. Although the role of Ape1 in generating DSB was greater for IR, the enzyme facilitated removal of AP sites, which may mitigate the cytotoxic effects of IR. In contrast, BLM generates scattered AP sites, and the DSB have 3′-phosphoglycolate termini that require Ape1 processing. These DSB persist under Ape1 deficiency. Apoptosis induced by BLM (but not by IR) under Ape1 deficiency was partially p53-dependent, more dramatically in TK6 than HCT116 cells. Thus, Ape1 suppression or inhibition may be a more efficacious adjuvant for BLM than for IR cancer therapy, particularly for tumors with a functional p53 pathway.
Visualisation, Modelling and Parametric Analysis of an Elevated Guideway Structure for Condition Assessment

Several studies on analytical and experimental evaluation of various types of highway bridges are available in the literature. However, there are very few studies on the modelling and analysis of transit guideways, which are unique structures in terms of their geometric and structural details. This study explores the condition of an existing transit guideway system that has been in service for 35 years. The structural system is composed of six-span continuous prestressed concrete bridge segments. The overall guideway system incorporates a number of continuous bridges that share common design details, geometries and loading conditions. The original design analysis of the structure was based on certain simplifying assumptions of complicated mechanisms such as rigid behaviour over supports and simplified tendon–concrete–steel plate interactions. The current objective is to conduct a representative study for a more accurate understanding of the structural system and its behaviour for decision making. Due to t...
VARIATION IN SPRING EMERGENCE PATTERNS AMONG WESTERN CHORISTONEURA SPP. (LEPIDOPTERA: TORTRICIDAE) POPULATIONS IN SOUTHERN OREGON

An analysis of the times to emergence in three sparse populations of Choristoneura spp. in western North America indicates that there was considerable variation in the calculated threshold of development among populations. Also, the number of heat units required to effect the emergence of any specified proportion of the population varied considerably among populations. The pattern of intra-population variation in times to emergence is such that the within-family variation was much larger than the among-family variation in the two populations from areas in which white fir is the only host. In the other population, from an area with a mixed stand of Douglas-fir and white fir, the pattern is reversed. This pattern remains even after an accounting is made for the parental host and larval color morph. It is hypothesized that the pattern of variation in the times to emergence may be due to the presence, in the latter population, of physiological morphs which cannot be recognized either by their appearance or their host of origin. These results have clear implications for pest management procedures which attempt to schedule activities related to the emergence of these insects in the spring.
Safety and long-term effects of plasmapheresis.

No consistent clinical or laboratory value abnormalities were found during more than six years of plasmapheresis of donors who gave as much as the plasma equivalent of four units of whole blood per week. Potential hazards to the plasmapheresis donor, including hemoglobin depletion, protein depletion, iron depletion, and misidentification of blood returned to the donor are discussed. In addition to affording an economic and efficient opportunity to expand component therapy, repeated plasmapheresis of a small pool of preselected donors can provide a better quality product than that obtained from random donors.
Cyborg art y bioética: Stelarc y The third ear

El texto revisa las posibilidades del cuerpo como estructura unitaria y su reconfiguracion a traves del desarrollo tecnologico. Se realiza un informe sobre el estado de la cuestion, considerando que la rearticulacion conceptual y fisica de lo humano, tiene su grado mas radical en el contexto artistico, donde aparecen en tension preguntas por la nocion de limite en el cuerpo y su conflicitividad etica. Considerando que estas practicas (sobre todo en el contexto latinoamericano) son emergentes, se hace necesario desarrollar este tema revisando la tradicion artistica internacional como analisis de caso. En concreto, la obra del australiano Stelarc, permitira establecer un buen correlato critico del problema, analizando como estas modificaciones corporales conllevan nuevos sistemas de representacion, manejos de la identidad, etc.
Abstract B35: Activation of Putative Compensatory Pathways upon Deletion of Erbb3 in Mutant EGFR-driven Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the USA and worldwide. Mutant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-driven non-small cell lung cancer represents 15% of lung adenocarcinomas. Tumors bearing EGFR mutations are sensitive to treatment with specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and show radiographic responses in about 70% of cases. However, it is not known why the remaining 30% of the tumors do not respond to these drugs, and patients who initially respond to TKI treatment eventually develop drug resistance on average within a year. These facts underscore the need for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie transformation of the lung epithelium by mutant EGFR . Mutant EGFR -induced signaling is initiated by the formation of EGFR homodimers or heterodimers with other members of the EGFR family (ERBB2, ERBB3 or ERBB4). To investigate the role of EGFR family members in the tumorigenic process driven by mutant EGFR , we used a tetracycline-inducible transgenic model to test the requirement for Erbb3 in mutant EGFR -induced lung tumorigenesis. In this model, deletion of Erbb3 had no effect on tumorigenesis induced by mutant EGFR , suggesting that it is not required to initiate tumorigenesis. Tumors that develop in the absence of Erbb3 remain sensitive to TKIs. Analysis of the biochemical consequences of Erbb3 deletion revealed increased levels of phosphorylation of EGFR and Erbb2 in tumors arising in the absence of Erbb3. Moreover, these tumors show increased activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Together these data suggest that recruitment of compensatory pathways may overcome the need for Erbb3 in tumorigenesis driven by mutant EGFR . Further experiments to test this are ongoing. Knowledge of the role EGFR heterodimerization partners play in mutant EGFR -driven lung cancer can help guide the selection of which EGFR family members to target in the treatment of this disease.
Exposure factor determination.

Abstract Differences in radiation output between dental x-ray generators operated with a given electrical input often discourage the practitioner from trying to use supplemental x-ray techniques. Methods are described by which the exposure time is easily computed for any generator, regardless of cone length, kilovoltage, milliamperage, or idiosyncrasies of output.
Avian species differences in the intestinal absorption of xenobiotics (PCB, dieldrin, Hg2+).

Abstract 1. Intestinal absorption of a polychlorinated biphenyl, dieldrin, and mercury (from HgCl2) was measured in adult Northern bobwhites, Eastern screech owls, American kestrels, black-crowned night-herons and mallards in vivo by an in situ luminal perfusion technique. 2. Bobwhites, screech owls and kestrels absorbed much more of each xenobiotic than black-crowned night-herons and mallards. 3. Mallards absorbed less dieldrin and mercury than black-crowned night-herons. 4. Mercury absorption by kestrels was more than twice that in screech owls and eight times that observed in mallards. 5. Pronounced differences in xenobiotic absorption rates between bobwhites, screech owls and kestrels on the one hand, and black-crowned night-herons and mallards on the other, raise the possibility that absorptive ability may be associated with the phylogenetic classification of birds.
Proton excitations in 44Ca

Abstract A comparison of the results of the 40 Ar( 6 Li, d) 44 Ca reaction with previous results for 42 Ca(t, p) 44 Ca is used to investigate core-excited 0 + states in 44 Ca.
Effect of Flat and Elongated Coarse Aggregate on Characteristics of Gyratory Compacted Samples

The effect of various levels of flat and elongated (F&E) particles on the gyratory compaction characteristics in a standard bituminous mixture was examined. Compaction characteristics involve the effect of F&E particles on the void development in the gyratory compactor as well as the break-down characteristics. F&E particles could also affect the performance characteristics of the compacted mixtures. F&E particles in typical Illinois surface mixtures were examined. Two coarse aggregate sources, a dolomite and crushed gravel, were used. A cubical mixture was prepared in which all particles had an F&E ratio 5:1. The coarse aggregates in the cubical gradation were replaced with various percentages of the same-sized aggregate with F&E ratios in the 3:1 and 5:1 range. These mixtures were compacted and the volumetri...
Long-chain fatty acids from the orgueil meteorite

A series of long-chain fatty acids, C 14 −C 30 has been isolated from the Orgueil carbonaceous meteorite. The analysis consisted of the vapor-phase chromatographic separations of the urea adducts of methyl esters of the fatty acids obtained by solvent extraction. The relative abundance of even-numbered and of what appear to be odd-numbered chain acids resembles that of fatty acids in ancient sediments on earth.
The finite element method for a degenerate hyperbolic partial differential equation

Cahlon has recently considered finite difference methods for the degenerate Cauchy problem (tut)t=Δu,u(x, 0)=u0(x) withu0 analytic. In this paper existence of a unique solution is shown for a more general class of initial data. A smoothing property of the solution operator is then exhibited. The usual semidiscrete finite element method is considered. The approximation is shown to be stable and superconvergent with orderO(h2μ−2) inl2 andl∞, whereμ−1 is the degree of the polynomials used. OptimalL2 andL∞ estimates are also derived.
Dairy Cow Culling Decision. 3. Risk of Culling on Predicted Income (An Application of Bayes Criterion)

Abstract Comparison of cows on their potential for income production or cash flow over multiple calving intervals has been utilized for culling. The reliability of income projections several years in the future may be questioned when the economic environment is uncertain. The problem would be apparent when cull candidates differ in age since a mature cow would be selected for immediate productivity whereas the immature cow would be selected for her long-term potential. When an uncertain change in the economic environment (e.g., milk price) results in a difference in ranking of two cull candidates, the Bayes criterion of selecting the animal with the highest expected value for income can be utilized. A sensitivity analysis can then determine the dependence of the decision on variation in milk price or other states of nature. The value of perfect information would assess the financial risk associated with the decision. In an example analyzed with a probable 5% decline in milk prices, information that would reduce the variability in predicting animal performance had more effect on the payoff of the culling decision than more accurate predictions of future milk prices.
Macroscopic polyphase folding illustrated by the Toxaway dome, eastern Blue Ridge, South Carolina–North Carolina

The Toxaway dome is located in the Blue Ridge of North and South Carolina immediately northwest of the Brevard zone. It is composed of a core exposing banded granitic gneiss (Toxaway Gneiss, formerly Whiteside Granite) and a sliver of Tallulah Falls Formation rocks. The dome is flanked on all sides by rocks of the Tallulah Falls Formation. The Toxaway dome in its general outcrop pattern is an elongate feature that has a steeply northwest-dipping northwest limb and a more moderately inclined southeast limb. At the ends, the structure plunges gently northeast and southwest. Detailed mapping of the core of the dome in South Carolina reveals that the sliver of Tallulah Falls Formation rocks has a hooked outcrop pattern, and is completely isolated in outcrop from the main mass of Tallulah Falls Formation rocks surrounding the dome. At least two episodes of flowage folding have been recognized in the Toxaway dome. The first set is isoclinal and recumbent, trending east to northeast and verging north to northwest. The second set is more upright and may be isoclinal to open, trending northeast and verging northwest. Later mesoscopic crenulation cleavage and macroscopic northeast- and northwest-trending flexural-slip folds are also present. The Toxaway dome is an F 2 feature produced by refolding of earlier F 1 recumbent isoclines. The structural sequence recognized here is much the same as that observed in the Blue Ridge, Chauga belt, and Inner Piedmont. This is probably also the same structural sequence that can be observed throughout the Blue Ridge.
Melaleuca tree and respiratory disease

Background The role of Melaleuca quinquenervia tree as a source of allergen(s) and respiratory irritant(s) is controversial. Objective Determine whether Melaleuca tree pollen or odor is medically important. Methods A 2-year aeroallergen survey and skin test (ST) results of 1,017 subjects were reviewed. Sixteen subjects were selected based on positive Melaleuca pollen extract (MPE) STs. Double-blind nasal challenges with MPE were performed on six subjects. Single-blind bronchial challenges with MPE were performed on four. To evaluate the irritant effect, 11 subjects received 34 different Melaleuca odor challenges (blossoms, bark, and leaves) through a closed system for up to 30 minutes. Four inhaled an odor from cajeput oil (derived from Melaleuca leaves) for 1 hour. Spirometry was performed before and after odor challenges. Radioallergosorbent test using MPE was compared with MPE STs in 15 subjects. Results The aeroallergens survey revealed insignificant numbers of Melaleuca pollen. Ninety-seven of 1,017 subjects were a 2+ or greater intradermal MPE ST. One of 6 double-blind nasal challenges and 1 of 4 single-blind bronchial challenges using MPE were positive in subjects with positive MPE STs. All 38 odor challenges with blossoms, bark, leaves, and cajeput oil were nonreactive. The MPE radioallergosorbent test correlated with MPE ST results. Conclusions The Melaleuca tree is not a significant source of aeroallergen. The Melaleuca odor is not a respiratory irritant. MPE antigen(s) has been shown to cross-react with pollen extracts from a proven aeroallergen (Bahia grass pollen) possibly explaining the few cases of positive MPE STs with positive nasal/bronchial challenges.
The political economy of incorporation: Black sociologists in academia

This study examines institutional variations in the recruitment of black sociologists in academia and in racial allocations of academic rank. It is designed to identify aspects of the academy that pose barriers to equal participation for black sociologists and to suggest institutional structures and environments that are most likely to equitably incorporate them. Drawing on a 1984 national survey of sociology departments (N=230), the study examines both the absolute and proportional representation of black sociologists at the departmental level, as well as issues of tokenism and equality in the assignment of academic rank among racially integrated departmental faculties. Results indicate that the factors that promote better black faculty representation do not always provide African-Americans with other black colleagues, with substantial numerical influence within the department, or with equality in academic rank. Those colleges and universities that are most likely to have black sociologists are large, have sizable black student populations, and are located in metropolitan areas or the South. Racial equality in academic rank is most closely associated with dependence on government revenues.
Comprehensive investigations of life cycle climate performance of packaged air source heat pumps for residential application

Abstract In this paper, the comprehensive life cycle climate performance (LCCP) assessments are detailed from various influencing parameters for the packaged air source heat pumps. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating for heat pump systems has a far greater impact on lowering carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-eq.) emissions. 13 SEER R410A has a 1–7% CO2-eq. emission reduction as compared with the 13 SEER R22, and 14 SEER R410A depicts a 7–19% reduction. In general, for all three categories, from cold areas (such as Minneapolis) to hot areas (such as Phoenix), the cooling demand is increasing and heating demand is decreasing. There are no back up heat in hot areas, especially in San Antonio and Phoenix. Due to the comfortable weather itself, balmy area such as Los Angeles, has the lowest emissions. Among the emission contributors, the energy consumption accounts for appropriately 90% of the total emissions. When the COP is improved by 5%, 10% and 15% as compared with the baseline 14 SEER R410A, the corresponding LCCP is decreased by 4%, 8%, and 12%, respectively. Therefore, to achieve the efficient CO2-eq. emission reductions, more attentions should be paid for energy efficiency improvements. The refrigerant recovery rate has the negligible effects on the LCCP results. The cycle degradation coefficient has the slightly larger influence than the refrigerant recovery rate on the CO2-eq. emission reductions. In addition, due to the better load matching (few cycles and less temperature and humidity swing), the 14 SEER two capacity heat pump product has appropriately a 5% CO2-eq. emission reduction as compared with the current single speed 14 SEER R410A heat pump.
X-RAY FUSED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING GUIDED INTRAPERICARDIAL DELIVERY OF XENOGENIC MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS IN SWINE

Intracoronary administration of bone-marrow derived stem cells improves myocardial blood flow and function in patients with acute myocardial infarction.1 However, the efficacy has been limited by low cell retention and possible distal embolisation of atherothrombotic debris. The objective of this
The effects of a self-instructional package on overactive preschool boys.

Abstract The effects of a self-instructional package on three overactive preschool boys were investigated using a multiple-baseline design across subjects. Behavioral observations of the three target subjects indicated transfer of training effects from the experimental tasks to the classroom. On-task behaviors increased dramatically concomitant with the introduction of the self-instructional package, and treatment gains were maintained 22.5 weeks after baseline was initiated. In addition, the use of an observer-expectancy control condition gave further credibility to the demonstration of a cusal relationship.
Radiation therapy for primary pituitary tumors associated with Cushing's syndrome.

A review of the literature is presented of twenty-two cases of primary pituitary tumour associated with Cushing's syndrome, treated primarily with irradiation. A new similar case is reported. The majority of these tumours have not responded to irradiation or, for that matter, to surgery. These patients generally have a poor prognosis and a relatively high incidence of malignant lesions. It is proposed that patients presenting with this entity require a craniotomy prior to irradiation to establish diagnosis and direct treatment.
Photoproduction of charmonium in a gluon-exchange model

A model describing photoproduction of a heavy-fermion pair which interacts by the exchange of gluons with the target is considered in the framework of the Cheng-Wu picture. Its characteristics are presented and it is applied to psi/sub c/ and eta/sub c/ photoproduction where the heavy quarks are assumed to be produced in the target's gluon potential. The angular distribution of orthocharmonium reveals a characteristic zero point at ..sqrt.. - t = 2m/sub c/ whereas the angular distribution of paracharmonium is flat. Arguments and estimates are given for the neglect of the gluon tree diagrams. The model applied to electromagnetic production of (tau/sup +/tau/sup -/) shows that the inclusion of multiphoton exchanges enhances the cross sections by a factor 2--3.