cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HIV testing and management: findings from a national sample of Asian/Pacific islander men who have sex with men.

OBJECTIVES We examined reasons for and barriers to participating in HIV voluntary counseling and testing for Asian/Pacific Islander (A/PI) men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S. METHODS We collected data between June 2007 and September 2009 in a study known as Men of Asia Testing for HIV, using a cross-sectional community-based participatory design. This national study was conducted in seven U.S. metropolitan cities through a coalition of seven community-based organizations. RESULTS Participants included 445 self-identified A/PI MSM aged ≥18 years. Perception of being at risk was the number one reason for testing behaviors. For first-time testers, structural barriers (e.g., language barriers with health professionals) and fear of disclosure (e.g., sexual orientation not known to parents) were deterrents for nontesting in the past. Among previously known HIV-positive men, 22% were not seeing a doctor and 19% were not taking any HIV medications. CONCLUSIONS HIV testing, care, and treatment policies would be less than optimal without addressing barriers to testing, including stigma related to sexual orientation, among A/PI MSM.
Pediatric Renal Tumors

Treatment of pediatric renal malignancies has seen dramatic advances in recent years. Modifications to surgical approach and the tailoring of chemoradiation protocols have led to increased survival, and now attention is focused on mitigating long-term effects of cancer-related treatment. Wilms tumor comprises the largest subset of pediatric renal tumors and as such will be the major focus of this chapter. The genetics and treatment of Wilms tumor will be reviewed in detail. Additionally, more infrequently encountered pediatric renal malignancies will also be explored.
How Can Project-Based Units Be Designed for STEM Classrooms?

When implementing project-based instruction (PBI) in a STEM classroom, we need to consider what it is that we want students to learn. What students should learn is determined by national, state, and local curricular standards in terms of content. In addition, the PBI designer needs to be aware of classic student misconceptions that students may have with concepts within the discipline content (see Chap. 4). This is where the driving question emerges. The driving question (DQ) drives the learning within the unit of study. Krajcik et al. (2014) claimed the DQ should be meaningful, sustainable, worthwhile, feasible, ethical, and contextual (see Table 3.1 from Krajcik et al. 2014).
Targeted Therapy in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Current Standards and Novel Agents in Review

Treatment options for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer continue to advance as the therapeutic implications of the molecular subtypes of this disease are becoming better understood. DNA sequencing and mismatch repair assessment are now standard of care analyses for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer This review describes important aspects of the biology of the clinically relevant molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer based on the current standard of care testing. In addition, the clinical treatment strategies available now and potentially in the future for these colorectal cancer subtypes are discussed. Currently, for metastatic colorectal cancer, standard of care molecular testing is done for mutations in exons 2, 3, and 4 of KRAS and NRAS, and BRAF V600E. Testing for mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency/microsatellite instability (MSI) status is also done. These aberrations are well known to change the clinical prognosis and guide patients’ treatment strategies. Additionally, three new subtypes have emerged: PIK3CAmut, HER2 amplified, and NTRK fusions. With the addition of these emerging subtypes, tumor heterogeneity further validates the need to examine mCRC as a heterogeneous disease. Here, we present recent exciting data from translational research and clinical trials exhibiting possible distinct treatment strategies for these different subtypes. Altogether, these data show promising treatment strategies for many of these well-known and emerging subtypes of mCRC. In addition, these also give better clinical prognostic and predictive information. We believe that as molecular testing expands, PIK3CA mutation, HER2 amplification, and NTRK fusion molecular testing will be included in standard of care analyses. This incorporation of testing in clinical practice will generate further information regarding prognostic and therapeutic options for these and other CRC subtypes in the future.
Nurse practitioner primary care organizational climate questionnaire: Item response theory and differential item functioning.

Aims and objectives To validate Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Organizational Climate Questionnaire (NP-PCOCQ) items using item response theory (IRT) models and conduct differential item functioning (DIF) analysis to test the item functioning among nurse practitioners (NPs) practicing in different U.S. states with variable regulations governing NP practice. Background Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Organizational Climate Questionnaire is the only NP-specific tool measuring NP work environment and is being used in different U.S. states with variable NP scope of practice regulations and internationally to produce evidence about NP work environments within their organisations. Design Cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from 278 primary care NPs in New York (NY) and 314 NPs in Massachusetts (MA). Methods NPs completed the 29-item NP-PCOCQ. Data collection involved an online survey in NY and a mail survey in MA in 2012. We used Samejima's graded response model for IRT and ordinal logistic regression for DIF analysis. A STROBE checklist was completed. Results IRT models yielded discrimination parameters ranging from 0.98-4.65 in NY and 1.25-6.94 in MA. Item difficulty parameters were within -3 to +3 range, suggesting a fair range of item difficulties exist in the scale. Only five of the 29 items on NP-PCOCQ exhibited DIF, suggesting some other state-related factor besides the measured construct influenced item responses; thus, the items were removed. Conclusion Our findings indicate that a shortened, 24-item NP-PCOCQ is capable of measuring organisational climate of NPs practicing in different U.S. states. NP-PCOCQ can be used in future research to measure NP work environment. Relevance to clinical practice The tool can also be used by practice administrators to assess NP work environment and identify deficiencies to address them. This evidence about NP work environment can be used by practice administrators to promote favourable work environments for NPs to deliver high-quality care.
Narratives of people who inject drugs on factors contributing to opioid overdose.

Abstract Background In recent years, there has been increasing national and global attention to opioid overdoses. In San Francisco, it is estimated that the population of people who inject drugs (PWID) has more than doubled in the past ten years. The risk factors for opioid overdose have been examined closely, but firsthand accounts of PWID who have experienced overdoses are less documented. In this paper, we use two theories - lay expertise and structural vulnerabilities - as frameworks to frame and qualitatively examine the narratives of PWID surrounding their recent overdose experiences. Methods Audio-recorded semi-structured open-ended motivational interviewing counseling sessions were conducted with PWID in San Francisco who have experienced at least one non-fatal overdose event (N = 40). Participants discussed the context of recent opioid overdoses, either witnessed or personally experienced, focusing on their perceptions of unique contributing factors. Interview data were coded and analysed using ATLAS.ti. We used a thematic content analysis approach to qualitatively analyze data queries and generate themes. We used theories of structural vulnerability and lay expertise to frame the analysis. Results Using quotes from the participants, we report four central themes that contributed to participants' overdose experiences: 1) Social Dynamics and Opioid Expertise; 2) Uncertain Supply, Composition, Source; 3) Balancing Polysubstance Use, and 4) Emotional Pain. Conclusion As PWID described their overdose experiences, many factors that contributed to their overdoses were situated at the structural level. The everyday, lived experiences of PWID often competed or conflicted with public health messages and approaches. The accumulated expertise of PWID about everyday risk factors can be leveraged by public health practitioners to inform and improve overdose prevention interventions and messages.
Association between Age and Umbilical Hernia Repair Outcomes in Children: A Multistate Population-Based Cohort Study.

Objective To evaluate whether patient age or other sociodemographic and clinical characteristics are associated with recurrence or unplanned related hospital revisits after pediatric umbilical hernia repair. Study design We performed a retrospective cohort study using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient, Emergency Department, and Ambulatory Surgery and Services Databases of 7 states. Pediatric umbilical hernia repairs performed at any hospital or surgery center in 2010-2014 were included. Hernia recurrences and occurrences of unplanned and related hospital revisits within 30 days were evaluated. Results Of 9809 included patients, 52.0% were female and 50.5% were black. The 3-year hernia recurrence rate was 0.57% (95% CI 0.42, 0.73). In multivariable analysis, the recurrence rate was higher in children 10 years (HR 2.11, 95% CI 1.46, 3.05), public insurance (HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.58, 2.79), asthma (HR 1.74, 95% CI 1.32, 2.29), and initial presentation to the emergency department (HR 2.46, 95% CI 1.08, 5.61). Conclusions Rates of recurrence and unplanned related hospital revisits following pediatric umbilical hernia repair are higher in children younger than 4 years of age. These findings support delaying the repair of asymptomatic umbilical hernia in children until 4 years of age.
Real-World Practice Patterns Favor Minimally Invasive Methods over Ureteral Reconstruction in the Initial Treatment of Severe Blunt Ureteral Trauma: A National Trauma Data Bank Analysis.

Purpose:We utilized the National Trauma Data Bank® database to report practice patterns in managing blunt traumatic ureteral injuries and assess the consistency with current guidelines/literature.M...
Housing insecurity and intersecting social determinants of health among transgender people in the USA: A targeted ethnography

Background: Housing is an important social determinant of health (SDOH). Transgender people face a unique blend of discrimination and compromised social services, putting them at risk for housing i...
Keeping up with the times: Mapping range-wide habitat suitability for endangered species in a changing environment

Abstract Biologists and policy-makers have the difficult task of allocating limited resources to habitat conservation and management for endangered species in the face of changing environmental conditions. Satellite remote sensing can inform conservation because it is an efficient means to obtain environmental data over broad spatial and temporal extents. Yet, the challenges of accessing, processing, and analyzing remote sensing data hinder wider application of these techniques in conservation planning. We used Landsat data and hierarchical statistical models to link satellite-derived habitat measurements with abundance of endangered Yuma Ridgway's rails (Rallus obsoletus yumanensis) within the Lower Colorado River Basin and Salton Sink, USA. We addressed many of the challenges facing the application of remote sensing techniques by using the web-based, freely-available Google Earth Engine to process Landsat datasets, apply habitat models, and generate maps to predict habitat suitability at a fine spatial grain (30 m) across the range of the species. These maps are shareable, interactive, and easy to update annually as habitat conditions change using a Google Earth Engine App we developed. Thus, we provide a framework for building habitat suitability models and maps to help target adaptive habitat management over broad extents for sensitive species, enabling biologists to improve conservation and restoration efforts regularly as conditions change in highly variable ecosystems. We demonstrate this approach for Yuma Ridgway's rails, but our methods for merging hierarchical statistical models with open-source mapping software to describe spatial-temporal heterogeneity in habitat quality are applicable to any species, and are especially helpful to species inhabiting highly variable ecosystems.
QPlane: An Open-Source Reinforcement Learning Toolkit for Autonomous Fixed Wing Aircraft Simulation

Reinforcement Learning (RL) is a fast-growing field of research that is mostly applied in the realm of video games due to the compatibility of RL and game tasks. AI Gym has established itself as the gold standard toolkit for Reinforcement Learning research. Unfortunately, toolkits like AI Gym are very optimized for benchmark purposes and may not always be suitable for real world type problems. Additionally, fixed wing flight simulation has specific requirements and may need other solutions. In this paper, we propose QPlane as an alternative toolkit for RL training of fixed wing aircraft. QPlane was developed in an effort to create a RL toolkit for fixed wing aircraft simulation that is easily modifiable for different scenarios. QPlane is replicable and flexible for ease of implementation to high performance computing, and is modular for quick environment and algorithm replacement. In this paper we present and discuss details of QPlane, as well as proof of concept results.
Graph Neural Network Based Interference Estimation for Device-to-Device Wireless Communications

This paper concerns interference estimation problem for device-to-device (D2D) communication networks. In the considered system, D2D users share common spectrum resources, such that the D2D links have interference with each other. To achieve effective interference management, it is necessary to have an accurate understanding of the interference relationship of the D2D devices, which is difficult since the locations and the number of mobile devices can vary over time. In this paper, we formulate an interference estimation problem for the D2D communication network where the D2D users change over time. Our objective is to get accurate estimations for the interference suffered by a generic D2D link and for the interference a D2D link introduces on other users. We propose a graph convolutional neural network (GCN) based estimation model which can estimate the interference of a D2D link based on the location information of the corresponding D2D pairs. Simulation results show the performance of our method.
Potential of Intraoperative 3D Photography and 3D Visualization in Breast Reconstruction.

Although pre- and postoperative three-dimensional (3D) photography are well-established in breast reconstruction, intraoperative 3D photography is not. We demonstrate the process of intraoperative acquisition and visualization of 3D photographs for breast reconstruction and present clinicians' opinions about intraoperative visualization tools. Methods Mastectomy specimens were scanned with a handheld 3D scanner during breast surgery. The 3D photographs were processed to compute morphological measurements of the specimen. Three visualization modalities (screen-based viewing, augmented reality viewing, and 3D printed models) were created to show different representations of the 3D photographs to plastic surgeons. We interviewed seven surgeons about the usefulness of the visualization methods. Results The average time for intraoperative acquisition of 3D photographs of the mastectomy specimen was 4 minutes, 8 seconds ± 44 seconds. The average time for image processing to compute morphological measurements of the specimen was 54.26 ± 40.39 seconds. All of the interviewed surgeons would be more inclined to use intraoperative visualization if it displayed information that they are currently missing (eg, the target shape of the reconstructed breast mound). Additionally, the surgeons preferred high-fidelity visualization tools (such as 3D printing) that are easy-to-use and have minimal disruption to their current workflow. Conclusions This study demonstrates that 3D photographs can be collected intraoperatively within acceptable time limits, and quantitative measurements can be computed timely to be utilized within the same procedure. We also report surgeons' comments on usability of visualization methods and of measurements of the mastectomy specimen, which can be used to guide future surgical practice.
Theoretical Characterization and Comparison of Resonant-Probe Microwave Eddy-Current Testing with Conventional Low-Frequency Eddy-Current Methods

During the past two years small ferromagnetic resonators (FMR) operating at frequencies above 1000 MHz have been shown to offer promise as a new type of eddy-current probe for surface-breaking cracks in metals. Strong signals have been obtained from both electrical discharge machining (EDM) notches and actual fatigue cracks, and the FMR probes have been shown to have lift-off discrimination capability. Since the skin depth at these microwave frequencies is of the order of microns, the surface currents must penetrate the crack and, in order to detect its presence, the flaw detection mechanism must be necessarily somewhat different in detail than for conventional low-frequency eddy-current methods, where the flaw has dimensions typically of the order of the skin depth. A general theory, based on the Lorentz reciprocity relation and applicable to all types of detection systems, is reviewed and used as a vehicle for comparing microwave with low-frequency eddy-current techniques. In the microwave case, the FMR resonator is emphasized but other probe geometries are also considered.
Identification of a sequence required for efficient packaging of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 RNA into virions.

Abstract Sequences required for efficient packaging of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) genome RNA into virus particles were identified. Deletion of 19 base pairs between the 5' long terminal repeat and the gag gene initiation codon of HIV-1 resulted in a virus markedly attenuated for replication in human T lymphocytes. The mutant virus was characterized by nearly wild-type ability to encode viral proteins and to produce virion particles. The mutant virions exhibited a significant reduction in the content of HIV-1-specific RNA. These results identify an important component of the HIV-1 packaging signal.
Childhood ischemic stroke in a nonurban population.

A 10-year, retrospective review of the etiology, outcome, and complications of ischemic stroke in children from a nonurban population was conducted. Twenty-seven children were identified (14 boys, 13 girls), ages 1.25 to 17 years (mean 7.7 years). Etiologies included undetermined (22%), arterial dissection (19%), coagulopathy (15%), embolism (15%), moyamoya disease (11%), sickle cell disease (11%), isolated angiitis of the central nervous system or vasculitis (11%), or other known source (11%; two fibromuscular dysplasia, one L-asparaginase). More than one risk factor was present in five children. Seventeen (65%) children were anticoagulated, with no adverse events occurring. Nine children were anticoagulated initially with low-molecular-weight heparin. Other treatments included corticosteroids; physical, occupational, and speech therapy; and anticonvulsants for concomitant seizures. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 60 months (mean 17 months) and was as follows: 6 (22%) were normal, 9 (33%) had mild impairment,...
Termination of ventricular tachycardia: Evaluation of a new pacing method

Abstract Ventricular extrastimuli or rapid ventricular pacing used to terminate ventricular tachycardia (VT) may be ineffective or may accelerate VT. Therefore, a new method to facilitate termination of VT and decrease the incidence of acceleration was evaluated. The new method utilized rapid ventricular pacing at cycle lengths 10 to 100 ms shorter than VT cycle length with the introduction of 1 or 2 ventricular extrastimuli. The efficacy of this combination method in terminating VT was assessed in 25 patients in whom ventricular extrastimuli and rapid ventricular pacing at cycle lengths and coupling intervals comparable with those used in the new method were unsuccessful. This combination method successfully terminated VT in 21 of 25 patients with cycle lengths of 230 to 400 ms. VT was terminated in 6 of 8 patients receiving drugs in whom VT could not be terminated by 1 to 2 ventricular extrastimuli or rapid ventricular pacing; in 6 of 8 patients unresponsive to ventricular extrastimuli and in whom rapid ventricular pacing produced acceleration of VT; and in 9 of 9 patients in whom antiarrhythmic agents made VT unresponsive to ventricular extrastimuli or rapid ventricular pacing. A combination of rapid pacing and extrastimuli can terminate VT unresponsive to ventricular extrastimuli or rapid ventricular pacing alone and may avoid acceleration of VT using rapid ventricular pacing at very short cycle lengths for termination.
The Ecology of Oil: Environment, Labor, and the Mexican Revolution, 1900–1938

List of illustrations, figures, and appendices Acknowledgements Introduction Part I. The Huasteca Before Oil: 1. 'Paradise' and 'progress': the Huasteca in the 19th century Part II. The Ecology of Oil: 2. Controlling the tropical forest: the shift in land tenure systems 3. The anatomy of progress: changing land use patterns 4. 'Masters of men, masters of nature': social change in the Huasteca Part III. Challenging the Ecology of Oil: 5. 'Rude in manner': the Mexican oil workers, 1905-1921 6. Revolutionaries, conservation, and wasteland 7. The revolution from below: the oil unions, 1924-1938 Conclusion Epilogue Appendices A note on the sources Archives consulted Selected bibliography Index.
Plan for Financing Urban Mass Transit Systems

If urban mass transit systems can be made sufficiently attractive, in terms of service provided, at the same time automobile owners are taxed in some measure on the basis of the congestion they cause on urban highways, the cycle of increasing traffic congestion and decreasing transit service may be broken. Vehicle taxes presently levied in three states seem to offer a basis for combining these interrelated goals of urban transportation. Vehicle use taxes can be used to finance school bus service in rural areas and regularly scheduled mass transit service in urban areas.
Structure, hormonal regulation, and identification of the interleukin-6- and dexamethasone-responsive element of the rat haptoglobin gene.

Abstract Hepatic expression of the haptoglobin (Hp) gene in mammalian species is stimulated severalfold during an acute-phase reaction. To identify the molecular mechanism responsible for this regulation, the single-copy rat Hp gene has been isolated. The genomic sequences showed a high degree of homology with the primate Hp gene. Activity of the rat Hp gene was increased in cultured liver cells by interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, and glucocorticoids. The genomic Hp gene sequence spanning from -6500 to +6500, when transiently introduced into human hepatoma (HepG2) cells, directed IL-6- and dexamethasone-stimulated expression of rat Hp mRNA and protein. No response to IL-1 was detected, suggesting that the corresponding regulatory element(s) might lie outside of the tested gene sequences. An IL-6- and dexamethasone-responsive element has been localized to the promoter proximal region -146 to -55. Although the nucleotide sequences of this rat Hp gene region showed substantial divergence from that of the human gene, analysis of sequential 5' and 3' deletion constructs indicated an arrangement of functional IL-6 response elements in the rat Hp promoter sequence comparable to that of the human homolog. The magnitude of IL-6 regulation through the rat Hp gene promoter was severalfold lower than that of the human Hp gene. The reduced activity could be ascribed to a single-base difference in an otherwise conserved sequence corresponding to an active element in the human gene. The IL-6 response of the rat Hp element was improved severalfold by substituting that base with the human nucleotide.
The Design of Small-Diameter Networks by Local Search

A local search algorithm for the design of small-diameter networks is presented for both directed and undirected regular graphs. In all cases the resulting graphs are at least as good as any previously known, in the sense that they have at least as small a diameter and average shortest distance for a given number of nodes and degrees.
Network structure, complexity, and adaptation in water resource systems

Infrastructure systems are often complex. Many have both natural and built components. For such systems, including water resource networks, resilience is a common policy goal. In the formalised study of complex systems, the structure and function of networks can contribute directly to system resilience. One branch of complex systems studies, network science, describes how connectivity between individual components can explain some system-wide properties of growth and reliability. Water resource systems analysis has only begun to apply techniques from network theory and complexity science to assess adaptability and resilience. We present an analysis of connectivity in a network model of California's water infrastructure system using several network science techniques. Results indicate that nodes in California's water system are clustered but without scale-free properties. The network originates from a mixture of top-down (centralised) and bottom-up (dispersed interactions of parties) planning. This structu...
Animal expertise, conscious or not.

Rossano (Cognition 89:207, 2003) proposes expertise as an indicator of consciousness in humans and other animals. Since there is strong evidence that the development of expertise requires deliberate practice (Ericsson in The road to excellence: the acquisition of expert performance in the arts and sciences, sports and games1996), and deliberate practice appears to be outside of the bounds of unconscious processing, then any signs of expertise development in an animal are indicators of consciousness. Rossano’s argument may lead to an unsolvable debate about animal consciousness while causing researchers to overlook the underlying reality of animal expertise. This article provides evidence indicative of animals meeting each of the three definitions of expertise established in the scientific literature: expertise as a social construction, expertise as exceptional performance, and expertise as knowledge. In addition, cases of deliberate practice by non-human animals are offered. Acknowledging some animals as experts, regardless of consciousness, is warranted by the research findings and would prove useful in solving many issues remaining in the human expertise literature.
Double-resolution electron holography with simple Fourier transform of fringe-shifted holograms

We propose a fringe-shifting holographic method with an appropriate image wave recovery algorithm leading to exact solution of holographic equations. With this new method the complex object image wave recovered from holograms appears to have much less traditional artifacts caused by the autocorrelation band present practically in all Fourier transformed holograms. The new analytical solutions make possible a double-resolution electron holography free from autocorrelation band artifacts and thus push the limits for phase resolution. The new image wave recovery algorithm uses a popular Fourier solution of the side band-pass filter technique, while the fringe-shifting holographic method is simple to implement in practice.
Spacecraft Improves Understanding of Turbulent “Interface” Region of the Sun

The region of the Sun between its surface and its outer atmosphere is even more violent and turbulent than had been expected and better knowledge about that little-understood region could improve our understanding of space weather, scientists involved with NASA's Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) said at a 9 December briefing at the AGU Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif.
Parasitic second-harmonic generation in optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification

Parasitic SHG in an LBO OPCPA system has been observed. It can significantly reduce the useful signal energy and heavily distort the output spectrum. Operating conditions to eliminate this effect are identified and demonstrated.
Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia; A Late Complication of Mitral Valve Replacement*

A case of recurrent ventricular tachycardia occurring one year following mitral and aortic valve replacement is reported. The presence of the arrhythmia was suspected because of transient neurologic symptoms and was documented by continuous electrocardiographic monitoring. The episodic ventricular tachycardia was unresponsive to medical therapy, but was successfully treated by replacement of the mitral ball-cage prosthesis with a low-profile valve.
Photosynthetic regeneration of ATP using bacterial chromatophores

We have demonstrated the use of bacterial chromatophores for the continuous photosynthetic regeneration of ATP from ADP in an ultrafiltration reactor. Biphasic kinetics of the degradation of chromatophore activity are described. Using chromatophores in combination with the enzyme adenylate kinase, we have also demonstrated continuous regeneration of ATP from AMP.
Digraph Analysis As a Valuable Part of the Systems Engineering Process in Design Optimization

Digraph analysis, an approach to Boolean modeling and analysis of large systems, is a valuable technique when performed as part of systems engineering effort-Digraph analysis provides modeling of physical and informational flow to evaluate and document decisions regarding design capabilities. It supports effectiveness analyses, design analyses, and trades in examining system interactions, fault tolerance, reliability, redundancies, and risks. A demonstration of how digraph analysis was used when performing systems engineering in an integrated product team environment on the Mars Environmental Survey (MESUR) program is given.
Influence of the Forest Canopy on Total and Methyl Mercury Deposition in the Boreal Forest

Atmospheric mercury deposition by wet and dry processes contributes mercury to terrestrial and aquatic systems. Factors influencing the amount of mercury deposited to boreal forests were identified in this study. Throughfall and open canopy precipitation samples were collected in 2005 and 2006 using passive precipitation collectors from pristine sites located across the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, USA. Samples were collected approximately every 2 weeks and analyzed for total (THg) and methyl mercury (MeHg). Forest canopy type and density were the primary influences on THg and MeHg deposition. Highest THg and MeHg concentrations were measured beneath conifer canopies (THg mean = 19.02 ng L−1; MeHg mean = 0.28 ng L−1) followed by deciduous throughfall (THg mean = 12.53 ng L−1; MeHg mean = 0.19 ng L−1) then open precipitation (THg mean = 8.19 ng L−1; MeHg mean = 0.12 ng L−1). The greater efficiency of conifers at scavenging THg and MeHg from the atmosphere may increase the risk of mercury related water quality issues in conifer-dominated systems.
James C. Knox (1977) Human impacts on Wisconsin stream channels. Annals of the Association of American Geographers 67: 224–244.:

James C. Knox’s 1977 paper “Human Impacts on Wisconsin Stream Channels,” published in the Annals of the Association of American Geographers, was a key component of a suite of three papers by him defining the response of rivers to the introduction and management of agriculture and to climate change. In this paper he used the Driftless Area of southwest Wisconsin as a laboratory where he could define fluvial responses by their sedimentary signatures in floodplain deposits. Land-use records dating back to the early 19th century along with shorter climate records provided his understanding of the drivers of change. He found that floods increased as an outcome of land-cover change. Upstream tributaries became wider and shallower as coarse deposits limited their adjustments, while main stem channels became narrower and deeper. His paper reflected the influence of his graduate advisor and especially of prominent faculty colleagues at the University of Wisconsin from fields ranging from soils and climatology to g...
Internal Stress Development In Spin Coated Polyimide Films

The effect of processing on the development of internal stresses in spin coated polyimide films was investigated. The internal stresses are a result of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch between the polymer and the substrate. Birefringence and CTE were used to characterize the in-plane molecular orientation. In-plane orientation was shown to be sensitive to processing conditions. Increasing the spin speed results in higher in-plane orientation as observed by an increase in birefringence and a corresponding decrease in CTE. Heating rate during cure was observed to have a significant effect on in-plane orientation. Faster heating rates during cure resulted in a lower birefringence. The lower birefringence is attributed to relaxation effects that can occur during a rapid cure. The decrease in orientation was accompanied by an increase in internal stress.
Nutritional studies of partially hydrogenated rapeseed oil.

In three experiments rats were fed a purified basal diet with 20% by weight of partially hydrogenated rapeseed oil. One sample promoted, greater weight gains that the unhydrogenated oil. Another sample, containing a higher concentration of octadecadienoic acids other than 9,12-linoleic acid, produced the same response as the unhydrogenated material. With other samples of hydrogenated rapeseed oil, possessing less linoleic acid but other octadecadienoic acids, significantly lower weight gains were obtained. The alterations in the C18 fatty acids resulting from hydrogenation of rapeseed oil appeared to be responsible for differing responses in weight gain.
Neural Representations of Courtship Song in the Drosophila Brain

Acoustic communication in drosophilid flies is based on the production and perception of courtship songs, which facilitate mating. Despite decades of research on courtship songs and behavior in Drosophila, central auditory responses have remained uncharacterized. In this study, we report on intracellular recordings from central neurons that innervate the Drosophila antennal mechanosensory and motor center (AMMC), the first relay for auditory information in the fly brain. These neurons produce graded-potential (nonspiking) responses to sound; we compare recordings from AMMC neurons to extracellular recordings of the receptor neuron population [Johnston's organ neurons (JONs)]. We discover that, while steady-state response profiles for tonal and broadband stimuli are significantly transformed between the JON population in the antenna and AMMC neurons in the brain, transient responses to pulses present in natural stimuli (courtship song) are not. For pulse stimuli in particular, AMMC neurons simply low-pass filter the receptor population response, thus preserving low-frequency temporal features (such as the spacing of song pulses) for analysis by postsynaptic neurons. We also compare responses in two closely related Drosophila species, Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans, and find that pulse song responses are largely similar, despite differences in the spectral content of their songs. Our recordings inform how downstream circuits may read out behaviorally relevant information from central neurons in the AMMC.
Fast communication: An analysis of Seysen's lattice reduction algorithm

Lattice reduction (LR) techniques have been adopted to improve the performance and/or reduce the complexity in communications and cryptography. So far, the LLL algorithm has been considered almost exclusively for LR. In this paper, we focus on Seysen's algorithm to perform LR. We show that for a lattice in two dimensions, Seysen's algorithm gives the same reduced basis as the well-known Gaussian reduction algorithm (up to signs). Furthermore, we prove that the Seysen's metric is upper bounded for lattices in two dimensions after LR with Seysen's algorithm. Finally, we relate Seysen's metric to the orthogonality deficiency for general cases.
A four-parameter corresponding-states method for prediction of Newtonian, pure-component viscosity

The extended Lee-Kesler (ELK) method, introduced for calculating thermodynamic properties of polar as well as nonpolar fluids and their mixtures, has been adapted to the calculation of Newtonian, pure-fluid viscosity. The method is a four-parameter, corresponding-states technique requiring as input the critical temperature, critical pressure, a size/shape parameter α, and a polar interaction parameter β. Because α and β have been previously tabulated for many fluids (for calculation of thermodynamic properties) and may also be obtained directly from the radius of gyration and a single liquid density, respectively, the method contains no adjustable parameters and is predictive in nature. ELK viscosity predictions were compared to experimental data for nonpolar and polar fluids. For 36 different nonpolar fluids and a total of 5748 different points, the comparison yielded an absolute average deviation (AAD) of 7.88% with a bias of −4.45%. Similarly, the AAD was 10.62% with a bias of −5.34% for a comparison of 15 different polar fluids involving 1500 different points. With this method, viscosities can be calculated within the range 0.55 ⩽T r⩽2.00 and 0<P r⩽10.
A MATHEMATICAL BASIS FOR AUTOMATED STRUCTURED GRID GENERATION WITH CLOSE COUPLING TO THE FLOW SOLVER

The first two truncation error terms resulting from finite differencing the convection terms in the two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations are examined for the purpose of constructing two-dimensional grid generation schemes. These schemes are constructed such that the resulting grid distributions drive the error terms to zero. Two sets of equations result, one for each error term, that show promise in generating grids that provide more accurate flow solutions and possibly faster convergence. One set results in an algebraic scheme that drives the first truncation term to zero, and the other a hyperbolic scheme that drives the second term to zero. Also discussed is the possibility of using the schemes in sequentially constructing a grid in an iterative algorithm involving the flow solver. In essence, the process is envisioned to generate not only a flow field solution but the grid as well, rendering the approach a hands-off method for grid generation
Measurement of using the superconducting AC Josephson effect

Abstract By varying the orientation of a battery with respect to the Earth's gravitational field and using this battery to drive the AC Josephson effect in a superconductor, a correspondingly varying contribution to the AC Josephson frequency would be added by gravity. The frequency would measure the strength of the local gravitational field in units of h. This experment would thus be one of the first quantum gravity experiments. Other possible experiments are noted.
Aging, Fatigue, and Fatigability: Implications for Occupational and Physical Therapists

Fatigue is a common yet complex symptom among older adults that is linked to interference with daily activity performance and reduced quality of life. Although fatigue is not routinely evaluated or treated by health care providers, rehabilitation can play a key role in addressing fatigue in older adults. This paper provides a review about fatigue in older adults and discusses current assessment and treatment options for occupational and physical therapists.
Computational unsolvability of domains of attraction of nonlinear systems

Let S be the domain of attraction of a computable and asymptotically stable hyperbolic equilibrium point of the non-linear system x = f(x). We show that the problem of determining S is computationally unsolvable. We also present an upper bound of the degree of unsolvability of this problem.
Self-assembled prodrugs: An enzymatically triggered drug-delivery platform

Enzyme catalysis as a tool to disassemble supramolecular hydrogels to control the release of encapsulated drugs provides an opportunity to design a wide range of enzyme-specific low-molecular-weight hydrogelators. In this proof-of-concept work, we report the synthesis of low-molecular-weight amphiphilic prodrugs as hydrogelators from a well-known drug acetaminophen (which belongs to a class of drugs called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever reducers)). We have shown the ability of prodrugs to self-assemble to form hydrogels that could subsequently encapsulate a second drug such as curcumin, which is a known chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory hydrophobic drug. Upon enzyme-triggered degradation, the hydrogel released single or multiple drugs at physiologically simulated conditions in vitro. Given that the degradation products consist of the drug and a fatty acid, this approach has an advantage over polymer-based prodrugs that generate polymer fragments with heterogeneous chain lengths upon degradation that may present complex toxicity profiles. Additionally, drug-release occurred without burst release. Spectrophotometric experiments supported the drug-release, and the rate was controlled by modulation of temperature and enzyme concentration. Mesenchymal stem cells treated with prodrugs retained their stem cell properties including the capacity of multi-lineage differentiation, and maintained their adhesive and proliferation capacities with high viability. The present biomaterials could have broad applications as drug-delivery vehicles and cell invasive matrices.
TH-B-BRC-01: Tools for IMRT Commissioning: Static and Rotating Gantries

Commissioning an IMRT system refers to the initial verification by phantom studies that treatments can be planned, prepared, and delivered with sufficient accuracy. Our profession has struggled since the inception of IMRT to define what measurements to make and what degree of accuracy is sufficient. Two AAPM task groups have been dealing with complementary issues. AAPM TG 120 is finalizing a report on dose measurement techniques for IMRT validation. AAPM TG 119 is finalizing a report that recommends a specific set of tests for IMRT commissioning and presents the results of those tests from several institutions in order to illustrate the accuracy that is achievable. The report presents a methodology for other facilities to perform the tests and determine if their achieved accuracy is comparable to this reference baseline. The TG119 tests pose a range of optimization problems requiring simple to complex modulation patterns. The tests include mock prostate, head and neck, and para‐spinal geometries. Members of the group have planned and delivered the treatments using their local planning and delivery systems, and then assessed the resulting doses using broadly available dosimetry tools following a specified protocol. Measurements included ion chamber “point” doses and film dosimetry on selected planes for all fields irradiating the phantom. Institutions also evaluated dose distributions produced by individual fields using detector arrays, film, or EPID. Planar dosimetry results were analyzed with gamma criteria of 3% dose/ 3mm distance to agreement. The mean values and standard deviations of the results were used to develop confidence limits for the test results using the concept [Confidence Limit = |Mean| + 1.96 σ]. Other facilities can use the test protocol and results as a basis for comparison to this group. Learning objectives for this presentation: 1. Describe the TG119 test suite, analysis protocol, and initial results. 2. Demonstrate how it can be applied by other facilities, including delivery with rotating gantries. 3. Provide examples of IMRT QA failures that can be identified and corrected using these processes.
In the eyes of the beholder: technological and naturalistic interpretations of a disaster:

An assumption shared by most literature on calamities is that blame assignation occurs in technological but not natural disaster situations. In this study of a major urban flood, 65% of the sample assigned responsibility for the disaster to human agents and technological failures. Those who attributed economic and psychological losses to human agency believed that natural disasters are controllable and that it is the responsibility of government to control nature through the use of technology and regulation. If natural disasters are increasingly being interpreted in technological terms, collective responses are likely to call for technological means to assess and minimize risks.
Comparison of the sensitivity of three lung derived cell lines to metals from combustion derived particulate matter.

Abstract While the effects of inhalation of combustion-derived particulate matter have received extensive study, there remains no reliable means to rapidly quantify inhalation toxicity outside of a laboratory setting. Cell-based biosensors provide a potential solution, but few comparisons have been made of the sensitivity of various cell lines to the wide range of inhalation health hazards that are likely to be encountered. This work compares the response of three immortalized lung cell lines (A549 human epithelia, RLE-6TN rat type II epithelia, and NR8383 rat alveolar macrophages) to metals commonly present in combustion-derived particulate matter. Quantifications of the cell response involved measurement of inhibition of cell culture metabolism (mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase activity) and cell death (release of lactate dehydrogenase). While these three cell types generally ranked metals in ED50 values similarly (V
The Relationship between Parity and Bone Mineral Density in Women Characterized by a Homogeneous Lifestyle and High Parity

Context: We reported previously that Old Order Amish (OOA) women have fewer hip fractures and higher bone mineral density (BMD) than non-Amish Caucasian women. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether the high parity characteristic of OOA women contributes to their relative bone health. Previous data on the long-term effects of parity on BMD have yielded conflicting results with few data from very high parity populations. This observational study included participants in the Amish Family Osteoporosis Study, begun in 1997 to identify genetic and clinical determinants of osteoporosis in the OOA. We measured BMDbydual-energyx-rayabsorptiometryatthespine,hip,anddistal radiusin424parousOOAwomenaged40andolder(meanage,57.7 12 yr; mean parity, 7.6 2.9). Results:Increasing parity was associated with later menopause (P 0.001) and modestly, but not significantly, higher body mass index (BMI) (P 0.09). Increasing parity was associated with higher BMD at the total hip and trochanter (age-adjusted P 0.02 and 0.03), no longer statistically significant after accounting for BMI. Among women aged 50–59 yr, parity was strongly associated with BMD even after accounting for age and BMI (age-adjusted P 0.02), although this was not true for women younger than 50 or at least 60 yr old. Conclusions: We conclude that high parity is associated with increased hip BMD in OOA women, largely mediated by higher BMI. The parity-hip BMD association remained statistically significant after accounting for age and BMI only in women aged 50–59 yr, partially explained by a later menopausal age with high parity. The benefit of high parity on BMD appeared to be lost soon after the menopausal transition, and, therefore, these data provide evidence of neither a detrimental nor beneficial effect of high parity on long-term bone health. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 90: 4536–4541, 2005)