cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Complete blockade by phenoxybenzamine of alpha 1- but not of alpha 2-vascular receptors in dogs and the effects of propranolol.

In pithed dogs pressor responses to phenylephrine were completely inhibited 1 h after phenoxybenzamine 20 mg/kg i.v., but those to norepinephrine were only partially inhibited. The pressor effects of norepinephrine in phenoxybenzamine-treated animals were inhibited by yohimbine, 2.0 mg/kg i.v., but not by prazosin, 0.5 mg/kg i.v. In animals treated with phenoxybenzamine, 20 mg/kg i.v., plus propranolol, 5.0 mg/ kg i.v., the partially restored pressor response to epinephrine, and the responses to norepinephrine, were completely inhibited by yohimbine, 2.0 mg/kg i.v., partially inhibited by corynanthine, 5.0 mg/kg i.v., but not affected by prazosin, 0.5 mg/kg i.v. In additional animals treated with phenoxybenzamine plus propranolol, yohimbine, 10, 50, 200 and 500 μg/kg i.v., caused dose-related inhibition of both the partially restored pressor response to epinephrine, and the pressor responses to norepinephrine. It is concluded that: 1) phenoxybenzamine completely blocks α1, but not α2 vascular receptors; 2) the pressor effect of norepinephrine in phenoxybenzamine-treated animals, and the partially restored pressor effect of epinephrine in phenoxybenzamine-propranolol-treated animals, are both mediated by α2 vascular receptors which are resistant to blockade by phenoxybenzamine.
Comparison of Bayesian Sample Size Criteria: ACC, ALC, and WOC.

Abstract A challenge for implementing performance-based Bayesian sample size determination is selecting which of several methods to use. We compare three Bayesian sample size criteria: the average coverage criterion (ACC) which controls the coverage rate of fixed length credible intervals over the predictive distribution of the data, the average length criterion (ALC) which controls the length of credible intervals with a fixed coverage rate, and the worst outcome criterion (WOC) which ensures the desired coverage rate and interval length over all (or a subset of) possible datasets. For most models, the WOC produces the largest sample size among the three criteria, and sample sizes obtained by the ACC and the ALC are not the same. For Bayesian sample size determination for normal means and differences between normal means, we investigate, for the first time, the direction and magnitude of differences between the ACC and ALC sample sizes. For fixed hyperparameter values, we show that the difference of the ACC and ALC sample size depends on the nominal coverage, and not on the nominal interval length. There exists a threshold value of the nominal coverage level such that below the threshold the ALC sample size is larger than the ACC sample size, and above the threshold the ACC sample size is larger. Furthermore, the ACC sample size is more sensitive to changes in the nominal coverage. We also show that for fixed hyperparameter values, there exists an asymptotic constant ratio between the WOC sample size and the ALC (ACC) sample size. Simulation studies are conducted to show that similar relationships among the ACC, ALC, and WOC may hold for estimating binomial proportions. We provide a heuristic argument that the results can be generalized to a larger class of models.
A simple method for rise-time discrimination of slow pulses from charge-sensitive preamplifiers

Performance of a simple method of particle identification via pulse rise-time discrimination is demonstrated for slow pulses from charge-sensitive preamplifiers with rise times ranging from 10 to 500 ns. The method is based on a comparison of the amplitudes of two pulses, derived from each raw preamplifier pulse with two amplifiers with largely differing shaping times, using a fast peak-sensing ADC. For the injected charges corresponding to energy deposits in silicon detectors of a few tens of MeV, a rise-time resolution of the order of 1 ns can be achieved. The identification method is applicable in particle experiments involving large-area silicon detectors, but is easily adaptable to other detectors with a response corresponding to significantly different pulse rise times for different particle species.
Spatially Restricted Expression of pipe in the Drosophila Egg Chamber Defines Embryonic Dorsal–Ventral Polarity

Expression of pipe in the somatic tissue of the Drosophila ovary is required for the formation of embryonic dorsal-ventral polarity. pipe, which encodes an enzyme similar to the glycosaminoglycan-modifying enzyme heparan sulfate 2-O-sulfotransferase, is expressed in a spatially restricted domain of follicle cells on the ventral side of the egg chamber. Mutations that affect follicular polarity correspondingly alter the spatial pattern of pipe expression. Directed expression of pipe in otherwise pipe mutant females restores embryonic lateral and ventral pattern elements and can orient the dorsal-ventral axis of the embryo. Thus, the localized expression of pipe and the spatially restricted modification of carbohydrate chains play pivotal roles in the mechanisms that establish embryonic pattern and integrate follicular and embryonic polarity.
Sequence Analysis of Hepatitis C Virus From Patients With Relapse After a Sustained Virological Response: Relapse or Reinfection?

(See the editorial commentary by Tillmann on pages 6–8.) Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 180 million persons worldwide and at least 3.2 million in the United States [1, 2]. It is one of the main causes of progressive liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and the leading indication for liver transplantation [3]. Combination therapy of pegylated interferon and ribavirin is successful in approximately 50% of infected patients, resulting in clearance of HCV RNA from serum, which is accompanied by normalization of liver biochemical test results and improvement of liver histologic findings [4, 5]. A sustained virological response (SVR) is defined as the absence of detectable HCV RNA as measured by a sensitive reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at least 24 weeks after termination of treatment [4]. The majority of patients who have a SVR have resolution of their liver disease biochemically and histologically. These characteristics have led to the acceptance of a SVR as an appropriate end point of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C. Several groups have examined the durability of a SVR in patients with chronic hepatitis C after treatment [6–10]. SVR is maintained in almost all patients and is associated with long-term good prognosis. However, long-term follow up has indicated that relapse of infection, defined as detection of HCV RNA in serum, can occur, although at a rates of 24 weeks after stopping therapy) occurred in 4.2% [12]. These findings raise the issue of whether a sustained response to therapy results in permanent eradication of the virus and cure of the infection, as opposed to long-term suppression of viral replication maintained by immunological factors. There are few data in the literature regarding the relapse of HCV infection in patients with resolved infection. Most reports are anecdotal and have not rigorously explored the nature of the virus in individuals with apparent reinfection. It is unclear whether these patients have true relapse and are persistently infected with the same HCV strain as before treatment or whether they have been reinfected with a completely novel HCV strain. To address this question, we analyzed HCV RNA sequences in specimens from 3 patients in whom HCV RNA was redetected in serum (by commercial assays) after they had achieved a SVR, and we compared the RNA sequences of HCV recovered during late relapse with those of HCV recovered from serum before treatment. In this article, these patients are referred to as “patients with late relapse” because HCV infection reappeared >6 months after termination of therapy and because it was unknown whether they had relapse or reinfection. Additionally, RNA was extracted from liver biopsy specimens obtained from these patients at the time they achieved a SVR to determine whether the liver was a reservoir for HCV in patients with a SVR.
The effect of moisture on the fracture energy of TiN/SiO2 interfaces in multi-layer thin films

Abstract The fracture energy of TiN/SiO 2 interfaces, prepared as part of multi-layer structures by conventional thin-film device processing, has been measured using a residually stressed, micro-strip decohesion test. Both the decohesion energy and the decohesion velocity, at fixed strain energy release rate, are found to be affected by the presence of moisture and are functions of relative humidity. A threshold strain energy release rate for interface decohesion in the presence of moisture is determined. Also, the diffusivity of moisture along the TiN/SiO 2 interface, at room temperature, is determined to be (6±2)×10 −13 cm 2 /s from sequential images of the 2 D concentration profiles formed by dynamic secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). Evidence is presented indicating that the TiN/SiO 2 interface is weakened by in-diffusion of moisture ahead of the advancing decohesion front.
Microreactor for High-Yield Chemical Bath Deposition of Semiconductor Nanowires: ZnO Nanowire Case Study

We report on the design of a batch microreactor for depositing oxide and chalcogenide nanowires and thin films onto a substrate from solution, and we demonstrate its utility using ZnO nanowire deposition as a case study. A contact-heated substrate forms one wall of a submillimeter reaction channel, and the short mass-transport length results in high-yield deposition on the substrate with minimal loss to precipitation or deposition on other unheated reactor walls. The microreactor’s low thermal mass enables rapid heating, which reduces the induction time and increases the deposition rate. The microreactor was used to grow dense arrays of well-aligned single-crystal ZnO nanowires with diameters of 80−100 nm and yields of 35%−50%. Deposition rates are faster, yields are an order of magnitude higher, and ZnO defect densities are equivalent to those using a conventional chemical bath deposition reactor with the same chemistry. The species that limit deposition rates are identified.
Advances in the management of esophageal cancer

The management of clinical stage III and IVa esophageal cancer has evolved in the past 2 decades. Based on the Cross trial, neoadjuvant chemoradiation, followed by surgical resection has become standard. For medically inoperable, definitive chemoradiation is most commonly used. The standard radiation dose is 50.4 Gy although trials of doseescalation are ongoing. At the current time, there are no definitive biomarkers to predict response. Keywords: Esophageal cancer, Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy, Dose-escalation
"A good career choice for women": Female medical students' mentoring experiences: A multi-institutional qualitative study

Purpose The career decisions, practice patterns, and approach to patient care of current female students, who make up close to 50% of medical school classes, will have a profound impact on the profession. This study explores the role gender plays in the mentoring experiences of female medical students. Method In 2011, the authors conducted focus groups with 48 third- and fourth-year female medical students at four U.S. medical schools. Using a template organizing style, they derived themes in an iterative process to explore female medical students' mentoring relationships and the impact of gender on those relationships. Results The authors identified four major themes: (1) Optimal mentoring relationships are highly relational. Students emphasized shared values, trust, and a personal connection in describing ideal mentoring relationships. (2) Relational mentoring is more important than gender concordance. Students identified a desire for access to female mentors but stated that when a mentor and mentee developed a personal connection, the gender of the mentor was less important. (3) Gender-based assumptions and stereotypes affect mentoring relationships. Students described gender-based assumptions and expectations for themselves and their mentors. (4) Gender-based power dynamics influence students' thinking about mentoring. Students stated that they were concerned about how their mentors might perceive their professional decisions because of their gender, which influenced what they disclosed to male mentors and mentors in positions of power. Conclusions Gender appears to play a role in female medical students' expectations and experience with mentoring relationships and may influence their decision making around career planning.
Virus Meets Host MicroRNA: the Destroyer, the Booster, the Hijacker

Virus-host interactions highlight key regulatory steps in the control of gene expression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate protein production via base pairing with mRNAs. Both DNA and RNA viruses have evolved mechanisms to degrade, boost, or hijack cellular miRNAs to benefit the viral life cycle. This minireview focuses on recent discoveries in virus-host miRNA interactions.
Using two-dimensional hydrodynamic models at scales of ecological importance

Modeling of flow features that are important in assessing stream habitat conditions has been a long-standing interest of stream biologists. Recently, they have begun examining the usefulness of two-dimensional (2-D) hydrodynamic models in attaining this objective. Current modeling practices consider relatively long channel sections with their bathymetry represented in terms of large, macro-scale, topographic features. Meso-scale topographic features, such as boulders, root-wads and other obstructions are typically not considered in the modeling process. Instead, the overall effects of these flow obstructions are captured through increased values in the channel roughness parameters. Such an approach to 2-D modeling allows one to accurately predict average depth and velocity values; however, it is not capable of providing any information about the flow patterns in the vicinity of these obstructions. Biologists though have known that such meso-scale features and the complex velocity patterns generated by their presence, play an important role in the ecology of streams, and thus cannot be ignored. It is therefore evident that there is a need to develop better tools, capable of modeling flow characteristics at scales of ecological importance. The purpose of this study is to expand the utility of 2-D hydraulic models to capture these flow features that are critical for characterizing stream habitat conditions. There exists a paucity of research addressing what types of topographic features should be included in 2-D model studies and to what extent a boulder or series of exposed boulders can influence predicted flow conditions and traditional useable habitat computations. Moreover, little research has been performed to evaluate the impact mesh refinement has on model results in natural streams. Numerical simulations, based on a natural river channel containing several large boulders, indicate that explicitly modeling local obstructions/boulders can significantly impact predicted flow parameters. The presence of these obstructions create velocity gradients, velocity shelters, transverse flows and other ecologically important flow features that are not reproduced when their geometry is not incorporated into the hydraulic model. Sensitivity analyses show that reducing element sizes in the vicinity of obstructions and banks is crucial in modeling the spatial flow patterns created by meso-scale topographic features. This information, combined with similar data obtained in future studies, can provide guidelines for the placement of fishrocks and other structures often used in stream restoration projects as well as determining what types of mesoscale topographic features might need to be incorporated into habitat suitability studies. Such information may also ultimately allow new spatial habitat metrics to be developed. q 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Pendeo-epitaxial growth of GaN on SiC and silicon substrates via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

Pendeo-epitaxial lateral growth (PE) of GaN epilayers on (0001) 6H-silicon carbide and (111) Si substrates has been achieved. Growth on the latter substrate was accomplished through the use of a 3C-SiC transition layer. The coalesced PE GaN epilayers were characterized using scanning electron diffraction, x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The regions of lateral growth exhibited {approximately} 0.2{degree} crystallographic tilt relative to the seed layer. The GaN seed and PE epilayers grown on the 3C-SiC/Si substrates exhibited comparable optical characteristics to the GaN seed and PE grown on 6H-SiC substrates. The near band-edge emission of the GaN/3C-SiC/Si seed was 3.450 eV (FWHM {approximately} 19 meV) and the GaN/6H-SiC seed was 3.466 eV (FWHM {approximately} 4 meV).
Information Load and Consistency of Decisions

Rapid growth of automated accounting information systems has resulted in the availability of more accounting information on a more timely basis to support decision-making activities. To best support the needs of decision-makers designers of accounting information systems must present the information in such a way that decision-makers can make effective decisions in an efficient manner. Research has shown that decision-makers' strategies, and thus outcomes, are influenced by the amount of information available for making the decision. Existing studies of the effects of information load on decision-making employ at least two definitions of information load and often examine only accuracy of decisions. This study used signal detection theory to examine the effect of both definitions of information load on decision-makers' consistent application of a decision rule. The study shows that consistency of decisions is a function of the time allowed per cue, not the number of cues available. However, the relationsh...
Molecular targeted imaging in colon cancer

Two systems were used for imaging. The first was a combined optical coherence tomography(OCT)/laser induced fluorescence(LIF) instrument, with a 1310 center wavelength OCT source and a 633 nm He:Ne laser for excitation of the Cy5.5 dye. The OCT and LIF channels were combined into a 2 mm diameter endoscope.
Firm heterogeneity and export–domestic price differentials: A study of Taiwanese electronics products

Abstract This paper uses firm-level data to determine if there are systematic differences in the export and domestic prices charged by Taiwanese electronics producers. The analysis exploits new micro data that allow us to measure firm-level prices in both the domestic and export market for each of 30 disaggregated products in 1986 and 24 products in 1991. We find a substantial difference in the average domestic and export price of most products but trace much of the difference to heterogeneity in prices across firms in the same product market. Once this firm-level heterogeneity is accounted for, statistically significant price differences between the export and domestic market are found for seven products in 1986, with the domestic market price always being higher. The largest price differences are found for consumer electronics products where there were significant import restrictions. By 1991, when all import restrictions had been relaxed, the export–domestic price differential narrows, often substantially, for 18 of the 24 products where comparisons are possible. Statistically significant price differences are found for only one product in 1991. The pricing patterns are consistent with price discrimination in some product markets with the discrimination supported by trade restrictions that raised domestic prices. The magnitude of price variability across firms in the same product market also provides further evidence of the danger of using market-level aggregates to infer competitiveness.
Greedy Algorithms with Prescribed Coefficients

We study greedy algorithms in a Banach space from the point of view of convergence and rate of convergence. We concentrate on studying algorithms that provide expansions into a series. We call such expansions greedy expansions. It was pointed out in our previous article that there is a great flexibility in choosing coefficients of greedy expansions. In that article this flexibility was used for constructing a greedy expansion that converges in any uniformly smooth Banach space. In this article we push the flexibility in choosing the coefficients of greedy expansions to the extreme. We make these coefficients independent of an element f ∈ X. Surprisingly, for a properly chosen sequence of coefficients we obtain results similar to the previous results on greedy expansions when the coefficients were determined by an element f.
Utility of magnetic resonance imaging for detection of longitudinal split tear of the ulnotriquetral ligament

Purpose Wrist magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has established utility in the diagnosis of wrist ligament tears, including complete tears of the ulnotriquetral ligament (UTL) and other components of the triangular fibrocartilage complex. A new type of longitudinal split tear of the UTL has recently been described with no imaging correlate. Our aims were to describe putative MRI findings associated with longitudinal UTL split tears and to assess diagnostic accuracy. Methods We randomly selected 40 patients with arthroscopically proven longitudinal UTL split tears and 20 patients with intact UTLs, all of whom had preoperative 3 T MRI of the same wrist performed, from a list of operative notes spanning from January 1997 through October 2011, filtered with the terms "ulnotriquetral ligament" and "ulnar triquetral ligament." Two musculoskeletal radiologists who were blinded to surgical results and clinical information independently reviewed the exams. They recorded the degree of certainty of whether a longitudinal UTL split tear was present and whether several other hypothesized associated abnormalities were present. Results Overall sensitivity for definitive longitudinal UTL split tear detection on MRI was 58% for reader 1 and 30% for reader 2. Specificity was 60% for both. There were no statistically significant discriminatory findings. Conclusions Among a selected group of patients who all had wrist arthroscopy, preoperative noncontrast 3 T wrist MRI had poor sensitivity and specificity for detection of the longitudinal split type of UTL tear. To date, MRI may be more helpful to exclude potential alternative diagnoses in the patient with ulnar wrist pain. Type of study/level of evidence Diagnostic III.
A Cortical Potential Imaging Analysis of Mu Rhythm during On-line Control of Brain-Computer Interface

In the present study, cortical potentials during online BCI experimentation were estimated by solving the inverse problem. The computer cursor was controlled by motor imagination in a standard BCI protocol. An approach of spectral spatiotemporal imaging of cortical potential was proposed and analysis results from online experiment revealed distinct localization of rhythmic activity for different tasks. The present pilot study again demonstrates the high spatial resolution of CPI compared to scalp potential and suggests its feasibility in BCI applications.
Preschool children's symbolic representation of objects through gestures.

To investigate the symbolic quality of preschoolers' gestural representations in the absence of real objects, 48 children (16 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds) performed 2 tasks. In the first task, they were asked to pretend to use 8 common objects (e.g., "pretend to brush your teeth with a toothbrush"). There was an age-related progression in the symbolic quality of gestural representations. 3- and 4-year-olds used mostly body part gestures (e.g., using an extended finger as the toothbrush), whereas 5-year-olds used imaginary object gestures (e.g., pretending to hold an imaginary toothbrush). To determine if children's symbolic skill is sufficiently flexible to allow them to use gestures other than those spontaneously produced in the first task, in the second task children were asked to imitate, for each object, a gesture modeled by an experimenter. The modeled gesture was different from the one the child performed on the first task (e.g., if the child used a body part gesture to represent a particular object, the experimenter modeled an imaginary object gesture for that object). Ability to imitate modeled gestures was positively related to age but was also influenced by the symbolic mode of gesture. 3-year-olds could not imitate imaginary object gestures as well as body part gestures, suggesting that young preschoolers have difficulty performing symbolic acts that exceed their symbolic level even when the acts are modeled. Results from both tasks provide strong evidence for a developmental progression from concrete body part to more abstract imaginary object gestural representations during the preschool years.
Some Personnel Problems of Automation

The author presents two basic principles of strategy for orderly transition to automation. Also given are eight generalized solutions to the attendant personnel problems -- solutions that were suggested by research studies being conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U. S. Department of Labor. Specific examples are given. from the case studies of: a TV manufacturer issuing printed wiring and automatic assembly equipment, an insurance company and an airline both using electronic computing systems, and a bakery and an oil refinery representing other industries that are more experienced in automation. The author indicates that, as difficult as the problems of extensive technological change may be, they can still be handled in a constructive and orderly fashion. Answers are suggested to such questions as: how are workers informed about changes; what is the extent of displacement; how were workers reassigned; what was the change in total employment; do new jobs require greater skill; has there been any upgrading or downgrading; and what is the attitude of workers toward the changes? He concludes with an 1835 quotation, "That machines do not, even at their first introduction, invariably throw human labor out of employment must be admitted; and ... that they never produced that effect .... ".
Nonlinear error mapping technology in system identification

In system engineering, a growing interest in identification of nonlinear systems is induced by the fact that identification allows one to find the models for consecutive analysis and control. This paper studies the parameter identification features for nonlinear multivariable systems and reports results in the convergence analysis of the proposed identification algorithm. To handle the nonlinear identification, an innovative nonlinear mapping concept is offered, and Lyapunov's theory plays a key role in analysis of parameter convergence. The explored method significantly departures from linear error mapping philosophy, and the offered framework ensures parameter convergence and enhances the sets of initial parameter values where identification can be performed.
Management of Travel-Related Illness Acquired in Haiti

Management of travel-related diseases acquired in Haiti begins with the identification of tropical diseases that are prevalent in the region. Knowledge of various tropical disease incubation periods and presenting symptoms is crucial to ensure rapid triage and management of care.
Progesterone-cortisol interaction in control of renin activity but not aldosterone.

In addition to its effect of inhibiting adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion, cortisol (hydrocortisone) inhibits the renin-angiotensin system in both fetal and adult sheep. We have found th...
Silicon photonic guided mode resonance filter for evanescent field molecular sensing

We present experimental and theoretical results of label-free molecular sensing with the TM mode of a 0.22 µm thick silicon slab waveguide used in a guided mode resonance configuration. Due to the strong overlap of the evanescent field of the waveguide mode with a molecular layer attached to the surface, these sensors exhibit high sensitivity, while their fabrication and packaging requirements are minimal. Experimentally, we demonstrate a resonance wavelength shift of ~1 nm when a monolayer of streptavidin is attached to the surface, in good agreement with calculations based on rigorous coupled wave analysis.
E-cigarette availability and promotion among retail outlets near college campuses in two southeastern states.

INTRODUCTION E-cigarettes are relatively new products that simulate the smoking experience. This descriptive study assessed changes in e-cigarette availability and promotions among retailers in 11 college communities in North Carolina and Virginia during a 1-year period. METHODS During the spring of 2012 and 2013, observers completed assessments in 320 tobacco-selling retailers, including grocery and convenience stores, pharmacies, and tobacco shops. Assessors collected e-cigarette availability, advertising, price, and promotions. RESULTS E-cigarette availability increased among retailers from 24.7% in 2012 to 59.9% in 2013. They were available in the form of disposables and reusable kits and were most frequently available in tobacco shops, convenience stores, and pharmacies. The average price for disposables was $9.70 (SD = 1.07) in 2012 and $9.61 (SD = 2.10) in 2013; the average price for kits was $39.58 (SD = 15.79) in 2012 and $32.59 (SD = 18.65) in 2013. The presence of interior advertising increased from 12.7% to 50.6% (p < .0001), and the presence of exterior advertising increased from 7.6% to 22.8% (p = .0002). Convenience stores with gas (16.4%-70.4%; p < .0001) and without gas (6.0%-48.4%; p < .0001) had significant increases in the presence of interior advertising. Convenience stores with gas also had a significant increase in the presence of exterior advertising (8.2%-33.3%; p < .0001). Only 3% of retailers offered price promotions. CONCLUSIONS Availability of e-cigarettes, including rechargeable kits and disposables, more than doubled during the study. The presence of interior and exterior advertising also significantly increased. Results underscore the need for further surveillance to understand how these environmental characteristics impact individual exposure and use of e-cigarettes.
Immunohistochemical Expression of mTOR in Multiple Myeloma: Retrospective Analysis of 31 Cases, a Clinicopathological Study.

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates several cellular processes and is implicated in an increasing number of neoplasms. In an attempt to explore the role of mTOR pathway in multiple myeloma, we analyzed immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of mTOR and p-mTOR (phosphorylated-mTOR) in 31 multiple myeloma patients and correlated the results with clinical parameters. On univariate analysis, there was a very high correlation between IHC expression of mTOR and p-mTOR using rabbit monoclonal antibodies that detect endogenous level of total mTOR protein and m-TOR protein phosphorylated at Ser 2448 respectively. Expression of both of these biomarkers was associated mostly with male gender. Further, older patients showed a trend towards having more mTOR positive tumors. No statistically significant difference was noted in mTOR expression between chemotherapy naive and relapsed patients. Based on our results, we hypothesize that targeted therapy with mTOR inhibitors may have a role as an additional novel component in a subset of multiple myeloma patients.
Applied Natural Language Processing: An Overview

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is concerned with the development of computer programs that emulate human intelligence. In the recent past AI has emerged from research laboratories into the commercial world. Among the various subfields of AI three areas that could have a significant impact on the practice of engineering are: knowledge-based expert systems (KBES), natural language processing (NLP), and robotics.
Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization Including Degenerative Transfer: Novel and General Pathways Towards “Living” / Controlled Radical Polymerization

A novel and general “living” radical polymerization, namely, Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization, ATRP, affords various pathways towards the synthesis of tailor — made (co)polymers with predetermined molecular weights up to Mn ≈ 105 and molecular weight distributions as narrow as 1.05. This paper describes four different approaches to “living” ATRP, i.e., iodide-based degenerative transfer, alkyl halide / transition metal species promoted halogen atom transfer, R-X / Mt n / Lx; radical initiator / transition metal species promoted halogen atom transfer, I-I / Mt n+1 / Lx; and alkyl halide/radical initiator / transition metal species promoted halogen atom transfer, R-X / I-I / Mt n+1 / Lx.
IMPS-39IDO1: MORE THAN JUST AN ENZYME IN MALIGNANT GLIOMA

The upregulation of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) in glioblastoma (GBM) is associated with significantly decreased survival in patients. Coincidently, a GL261 glioma model genetically deficient (ie. knocked down) for tumor-derived IDO1 fails to accumulate significant levels of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Treg; CD4+CD25+FoxP3+), which is commensurate with a substantial survival advantage. Paradoxically, mice bearing malignant glioma and administered L1-MT, an enzymatic inhibitor of IDO1, fail to demonstrate any survival advantage. To further understand the role of IDO1 in brain tumors, my laboratory recently crossed the tamoxifen-inducible model of malignant glioma [tGBM; GFAP(ERT2)Cre+/-;p53fl/fl;Rbfl/fl;pTENfl/fl] (Chow et al., 2011; Cancer Cell) with IDO1fl/fl or IDO1−/- mice to conditionally- or globally-delete IDO1, respectively. In contrast to previous findings, the loss of tumor-derived IDO1 did not increase overall survival, with a median of 153.5 ±7.0-, 136 ±4.3- and 144.5 ±5.9-days post-tamoxifen administration for tGBM-IDO1wt/wt, tGBM-IDO1fl/fl and tGBM-IDO1−/- mice, respectively (11-12 mice/group). Concordantly, Treg accumulated in the tGBM brain tumors, regardless of IDO1 status. Unexpectedly, when tGBM-WT and tGBM-IDO1−/- tumors were isolated, followed by intracranial re-implantation (ic.) into immunocompetent syngeneic hosts, mice bearing IDO1−/- glioma survived 45.4 ±4.3 days post-ic., which was significantly longer than mice bearing WT glioma at 30.4 ±2.6 days post-ic (P = 0.0069; n = 5-9/group). These data, in combination with recent work from my laboratory demonstrating that, IDO1 in glioma cells fail to metabolize tryptophan into kynurenine, led us to search for a novel and/or contextual function. Here, we present bioinformatics analysis, Western blotting of nuclear and cytoplasmic extracts, as well as immunofluorescence showing that, IDO1 is detectable in the nucleus of glioma cells, in vivo. Strikingly, Chip-Seq. analysis confirms that IDO1 binds to- and enriches-specific DNA sites. This work identifies a novel and previously unappreciated role for IDO1-mediated immune-evasion and introduces new targets for therapeutic discovery and intervention against malignant brain tumors.
SU-G-TeP2-01: Can EPID Based Measurement Replace Traditional Daily Output QA On Megavoltage Linac?

Purpose: To investigate the long term stability and viability of using EPID-based daily output QA via in-house and vendor driven protocol, to replace conventional QA tools and improve QA efficiency. Methods: Two Varian TrueBeam machines (TB1&TB2) equipped with electronic portal imaging devices (EPID) were employed in this study. Both machines were calibrated per TG-51 and used clinically since Oct 2014. Daily output measurement for 6/15 MV beams were obtained using SunNuclear DailyQA3 device as part of morning QA. In addition, in-house protocol was implemented for EPID output measurement (10×10 cm fields, 100 MU, 100cm SID, output defined over an ROI of 2×2 cm around central axis). Moreover, the Varian Machine Performance Check (MPC) was used on both machines to measure machine output. The EPID and DailyQA3 based measurements of the relative machine output were compared and cross-correlated with monthly machine output as measured by an A12 Exradin 0.65cc Ion Chamber (IC) serving as ground truth. The results were correlated using Pearson test. Results: The correlations among DailyQA3, in-house EPID and Varian MPC output measurements, with the IC for 6/15 MV were similar for TB1 (0.83–0.95) and TB2 (0.55–0.67). The machine output for the 6/15MV beams on both machines showed a similar trend, namely an increase over time as indicated by all measurements, requiring a machine recalibration after 6 months. This drift is due to a known issue with pressurized monitor chamber which tends to leak over time. MPC failed occasionally but passed when repeated. Conclusion: The results indicate that the use of EPID for daily output measurements has the potential to become a viable and efficient tool for daily routine LINAC QA, thus eliminating weather (T,P) and human setup variability and increasing efficiency of the QA process.
Microscale Gas Chemistry

This article starts with a historical overview of the chemistry of gases from the first mention of air by Empedocles down through Lavoisiers Oxygen Theory. Gas generating equipment is reviewed along the way. The traditional macroscale apparatuses of the 19th and 20th centuries are reviewed. We next discuss the tenets of microscale chemistry and how these apply to gas chemistry. Before introducing the Alyea-Mattson method for generating gases in 60 mL syringes, a variety of microscale gas methods have been developed and these are reviewed. Detailed instructions for generating gases in large syringes are given. We finish with an overview of the eleven gases that can be generated by this method and list the experiments and classroom that can be performed with each. Our free website, dedicated to microscale gas chemistry is described.
Introduction to NASA Living With a Star (LWS) Institute GIC Working Group Special Collection

This paper is a brief introduction to the NASA Living With a Star (LWS) Institute GIC Working Group Special Collection that is product of work by a group of researchers from more than 20 different international organizations. In this introductory paper, I summarize the group's work in the context of novel NASA LWS Institute element and introduce the individual contributions in the collection.
Object-location binding across a saccade: A retinotopic spatial congruency bias.

Despite frequent eye movements that rapidly shift the locations of objects on our retinas, our visual system creates a stable perception of the world. To do this, it must convert eye-centered (retinotopic) input to world-centered (spatiotopic) percepts. Moreover, for successful behavior we must also incorporate information about object features/identities during this updating – a fundamental challenge that remains to be understood. Here we adapted a recent behavioral paradigm, the “spatial congruency bias,” to investigate object-location binding across an eye movement. In two initial baseline experiments, we showed that the spatial congruency bias was present for both gabor and face stimuli in addition to the object stimuli used in the original paradigm. Then, across three main experiments, we found the bias was preserved across an eye movement, but only in retinotopic coordinates: Subjects were more likely to perceive two stimuli as having the same features/identity when they were presented in the same retinotopic location. Strikingly, there was no evidence of location binding in the more ecologically relevant spatiotopic (world-centered) coordinates; the reference frame did not update to spatiotopic even at longer post-saccade delays, nor did it transition to spatiotopic with more complex stimuli (gabors, shapes, and faces all showed a retinotopic congruency bias). Our results suggest that object-location binding may be tied to retinotopic coordinates, and that it may need to be re-established following each eye movement rather than being automatically updated to spatiotopic coordinates.
Node-Negative Esophageal Cancer With Short-Interval Isolated Metastasis to the Gallbladder: A Case Report

A 55 year old male smoker presented with clinical T3N0 esophageal adenocarcinoma of the GE junction. He completed neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with carboplatin/paclitaxel and 5040cGy of radiation. He had limited clinical response on restaging but no evidence of metastatic disease and completed a minimally invasive three field esophagectomy. This was complicated by a chyle leak requiring thoracic duct embolization from which he recovered well. Surgical pathology showed no apparent nodal disease or metastases but a poorly differentiated primary tumor with signet-cell features. Approximately 3 months after his surgery, he developed right upper quadrant abdominal pain and elevated liver function tests and was taken for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Gallbladder pathology demonstrated poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with extensive lymphovascular invasion with immunohistochemistry analysis and comparison with the original surgical specimen confirming metastatic adenocarcinoma of esophageal origin. Literature review suggests that signet cell features and limited response to neoadjuvant therapy point to a more aggressive biology in esophageal cancer and increase the risk of metastatic disease, even in the setting of node negativity.
Prospective investigation of social support, coping, and depressive symptoms: A model of adherence to endocrine therapy among women with breast cancer.

Objective Nonadherence reduces the effectiveness of behavioral change regimens for promoting health and decreasing morbidities and mortality. Such is the case with endocrine therapies, which lower the likelihood of recurrence in the approximately 70% of women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. This investigation tests a model of contributors to objective adherence. Method Women with breast cancer receiving their 1st endocrine therapy prescription (N = 130) were recruited from a large community oncology breast clinic. Participants completed three interview and questionnaire sessions at prescription initiation, one month and four months later. Questionnaires addressed patients' experience with cancer and included measures of coping (COPE and Emotional Approach Coping), social support (Interpersonal Support Evaluation List), and depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale). At the initial appointment, participants were provided a Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS) cap to assess adherence; the MEMS cap was collected at the 4-month follow-up appointment. Results Structural equation modeling offered partial support for a mediational model, χ2(68, N = 130) = 77.47, p = .202, root-mean-square error of approximation = .03, comparative fit index = .97, standardized root-mean-square residual = .06. Greater social support at prescription initiation was associated with lower depressive symptoms 1 month later, which in turn were associated with higher objective adherence (MEMS) four months after study entry, controlling for significant covariates (p .05). Conclusions This model informs theory regarding medication adherence as well as intervention development for women prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record
Sustained Delivery of Doxorubicin via Acetalated Dextran Scaffold Prevents Glioblastoma Recurrence after Surgical Resection.

The primary cause of mortality for glioblastoma (GBM) is local tumor recurrence following standard-of-care therapies, including surgical resection. With most tumors recurring near the site of surgical resection, local delivery of chemotherapy at the time of surgery is a promising strategy. Herein drug-loaded polymer scaffolds with two distinct degradation profiles were fabricated to investigate the effect of local drug delivery rate on GBM recurrence following surgical resection. The novel biopolymer, acetalated dextran (Ace-DEX), was compared with commercially available polyester, poly(l-lactide) (PLA). Steady-state doxorubicin (DXR) release from Ace-DEX scaffolds was found to be faster when compared with scaffolds composed of PLA, in vitro. This increased drug release rate translated to improved therapeutic outcomes in a novel surgical model of orthotopic glioblastoma resection and recurrence. Mice treated with DXR-loaded Ace-DEX scaffolds (Ace-DEX/10DXR) resulted in 57% long-term survival out to study ...
Yearley's Science, Technology and Social Change

(1992). Yearley's Science, Technology and Social Change. Social Epistemology: Vol. 6, No. 1, pp. 57-63.
An approach to the monitoring of changes In the composition and utilization of woodland and savanna vegetation

The paper descriptionbes a scheme for recording vegetation composition and utilization in the tree, shrub and herbaceous layers. It is based on a set of permanently located transects of variable size, distributed so as to cover the variation within previously determined habitat types. The assessment procedure is designed to minimize errors associated with subjective estimates and personal bias, and includes measurements wherever these are not unduly laborious or time consuming. Recording is carried out using six printed forms, four of which are designed for automatic data processing. The actual categories and definitions of use or damage on the forms may be changed to suit the needs of the particular monitoring programme. The computer programmes have been tested on two sets of data, using all the options (e.g. mature trees only vs. all trees) and are hopefully bug-free. It is usually preferable to assess the herbaceous and woody layers at different seasons. The last of the assessments (BROWSE) is not strictly a monitoring procedure, and is normally carried out as an independent exercise.
Energy-Efficient Design of High-Speed Links

Techniques for reducing power consumption and bandwidth limitations of inter-chip communication have been getting more attention to improve the performance of modern digital systems. This chapter begins with a brief overview of high-speed link design and describes some of the power vs. performance trade-offs associated with various design choices. The chapter then investigates various techniques that a designer may employ to reduce power consumption. Three examples of link designs and link building blocks found in the literature present energy-efficient implementations of these techniques.
Connecting missing links: object discovery from sparse observations using 5 million product images

Object discovery algorithms group together image regions that originate from the same object. This process is effective when the input collection of images contains a large number of densely sampled views of each object, thereby creating strong connections between nearby views. However, existing approaches are less effective when the input data only provide sparse coverage of object views. We propose an approach for object discovery that addresses this problem. We collect a database of about 5 million product images that capture 1.2 million objects from multiple views. We represent each region in the input image by a "bag" of database object regions. We group input regions together if they share similar "bags of regions." Our approach can correctly discover links between regions of the same object even if they are captured from dramatically different viewpoints. With the help from these added links, our proposed approach can robustly discover object instances even with sparse coverage of the viewpoints.
MESOSCALE METEOROLOGY | Severe Storms

Synopsis The concept of a severe storm is defined, because there are many different types of weather that can be called a 'storm' and the severity of a storm is measured by the intensity of the weather produced. It is generally the case that as the scale of a storm decreases, its intensity increases, but it affects a smaller area and does not last as long as a larger scale storm. Storms roughly the size of a continent (several thousand kilometers across) are called 'synoptic-scale' storms. When the size of a storm is roughly the a few hundred kilometers across, it is called a 'mesoscale' storm. Severe thunderstorm systems can be considered mesoscale, but the individual storms are a few tens of kilometers across. Severe storms in the tropics form a special class of their own. Property and casualty mitigation from severe storm events is discussed.