cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-FF-T-453: An Electronic Database for Radiation Oncology Physics Quality Assurance (DROP QA)

Purpose: Electronic charting has become a standard of care in the Radiation Oncology community. Electronic records for quality assurance however, are not commonly available. Most clinics rely on either paper records or customized spreadsheets for quality assurance and compliance. Any changes in the QA program need to be made across several different areas (printouts, spreadsheets, institutions) increasing the chances of mistakes. By creating a database which includes all sites and equipment, our physicists make efficient use of combined resources and time in completing the required quality assurance tests. Method and Materials: The Database for Radiation Oncology Physics Quality Assurance (DROP QA) has been developed and implemented in our system (3 sites, 6 linacs, 2 HDR). The database is located on the network making it available at any computer in the system. Each clinical site is defined with their linacs and/or HDR. The database is adaptable to any linac and has all of the TG‐40 recommended tests included. HDR tests as required by state and NRC regulations are also included. Chambers and electrometers can be used at any site and in any combination. Direct communication with the MAX 4000 electrometer (Standard Imaging, Madison, WI) and the RMD‐200 remote motor drive system (CNMC Inc, Nashville, TN) are built into the database.Results:Quality assurance data for linacs and HDR units are readily available from any computer in the health system without the need to locate printed records. QA procedures are done rapidly with the built in communication to electrometers and depth dose apparatus. Machine outputs for all energies can be done without reentering the room. Conclusions: DROP QA is an efficient program to centralize and standardize QA within a health system. Future versions will increase efficiency by including automated tests (table, gantry, collimator, light field, MLC) linked directly to the database.
EXAFS AND NEXAFS STUDIES OF CATION ENVIRONMENTS IN OXIDE GLASSES

X-ray absorption spectroscopic studies of cation environments in oxide glasses are selectively reviewed. New results are presented on K and Yb environments in silicate glasses and on Fe in silicate melts at temperatures up to 1173° K.
Gathering meta‐data and instances from object referral lists on the web

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to automatically separate and extract meta‐data and instance information from various link pages in the web, by utilizing presentation and linkage regularities on the web.Design/methodology/approach – Research objectives have been achieved through an information extraction system called semantic partitioner that automatically organizes the content in each web page into a hierarchical structure, and an algorithm that interprets and translates these hierarchical structures into logical statements by distinguishing and representing the meta‐data and their individual data instances.Findings – Experimental results for the university domain with 12 computer science department web sites, comprising 361 individual faculty and course home pages indicate that the performance of the meta‐data and instance extraction averages 85, 88 percent F‐measure, respectively. Our METEOR system achieves this performance without any domain specific engineering requirement.Originality/valu...
Metal‐Organic Framework Templated Synthesis of Fe2O3/TiO2 Nanocomposite for Hydrogen Production

A new metal-organic framework (MOF)-templated method has been developed for the synthesis of a metal oxide nanocomposite with interesting photophysical properties. Fe-containing nanoscale MOFs are coated with amorphous titania, then calcined to produce crystalline Fe(2)O(3)/TiO(2) composite nanoparticles. This material enables photocatalytic hydrogen production from water using visible light, which cannot be achieved by either Fe(2)O(3) or TiO(2) alone or a mixture of the two.
Complications following ex-press glaucoma shunt implantation.

Purpose To report post-operative course and complications in patients who underwent Ex-Press glaucoma shunt placement. Design Small case series. Methods Four patients were referred for management following Ex-Press shunt implantation. Patients underwent complete ophthalmologic evaluation and were appropriately managed. Results Of the four patients, two had inadequate control of intraocular pressure related to bleb failure caused by subconjunctival scar tissue formation. One patient experienced suprachoroidal hemorrhage 5 days after shunt placement followed a year later with conjunctival erosion and shunt rim exposure. Endophthalmitis from conjunctival erosion over the Ex-Press shunt rim was observed in one patient. Conclusion Patients with subconjunctival implantation of the Ex-Press shunt should be monitored closely for possible conjunctival erosion that can lead to endophthalmitis and failure from fibrosis.
The phenotypes En(a-), Wr(a-b-), and En(a+), Wr(a+b-), and further studies on the Wright and En blood group systems.

In 1975, we showed18,19 an En(a–) blood sample to be phenotypically Wr(a−b−). In the current report, we describe tests that show that three En(a–) members of a single family, not believed to be related to the family of the previously tested En(a–) person, are also Wr(a−b−). They have red blood cells that neither react with nor adsorb anti-Wra or anti-Wrb. In addition, we have shown that the red blood cells of six EnaEn heterozygotes, in the family tested, are Wr(a−b+) but carry only a single dose of Wrb antigen. Tests on anti-Ena have shown conclusively that one example is a mixture of separable anti-Ena and anti-Wrb and that a second example may well contain the same two antibodies. By various methods, we have demonstrated that the red blood cells of the only known Wr(a + b–) individual are En(a+) and do not display any of the physicochemical abberations of the En(a–) phenotype. It is further shown that neuraminidase and trypsin do not denature the Wra or Wrb antigens in vitro, but that the protease ficin does have a limited ability to denature Wrb. Additional observations on the first reported1 example of anti-Wrb are included. These various findings have been considered in the light of gene linkage of, or gene interaction between, the En and Wright system genes. It is concluded that the evidence does not exclude the possibility that En is a silent allele at the WraWrb locus so that the genotype EnEn (or WrWr) might result in the phenotype En(a –), Wr(a –b –). However, it is also pointed out that the evidence equally well supports the postulation that the Wra and Wrb genes are unable to function in the absence of an Ena gene. If this latter theory is proved correct, the interaction between Ena and the Wright genes can be thought of as similar to that between the H and ABO, 23 or X'r and CDE genes.24 It is pointed out that if En is a silent allele at the MN locus (current evidence on this point is not conclusive.6,8,9) En and Wr cannot be synonymous for it is known that the Wra and M and N genes segregate independently.2,13,21,35 Location of En at the MN locus would not, however, refute the theory that Wra and Wrb cannot function in the absence of En. Finally, it is pointed out that the supposed anti-Wrb is probably just what its name implies but that even if this assumption is later disproved, the high incidence antigen defined by the antibody presently called anti-Wrb is unequivocally associated with Ena.
Factors affecting preovulatory follicle diameter and ovulation rate after gonadotropin-releasing hormone in postpartum beef cows. Part I: Cycling cows

There is large variation in dominant follicle diameter at the time of GnRH-induced ovulation in the CO-Synch protocol [a first GnRH injection on d -9 (GnRH1), followed by PGF(2alpha) on d -2, and a second GnRH injection (GnRH2) with timed AI on d 0], and the reason for the presence of small dominant follicles at GnRH2 is not known. Our hypothesis was that ovulatory response to GnRH1 and progesterone exposure [controlled intravaginal drug-releasing insert (CIDR; EAZI-Breed, Pfizer Animal Health, New York, NY)] would affect ovulatory follicle size at GnRH2 in anestrous cows. This study used a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments in which anestrous suckled beef cows (n = 55) either ovulated (Ov1+) or failed to ovulate (Ov1-) after GnRH1 and either received (CIDR+) or did not receive (CIDR-) a 7-d CIDR treatment (from GnRH1 to PGF(2alpha)), resulting in the following treatment groups: Ov1+CIDR+, Ov1-CIDR+, Ov1+CIDR-, and Ov1-CIDR- (n = 9, 17, 11, and 18, respectively). The Ov1+ cows had larger follicles at GnRH2 (12.3 vs. 11.0 mm; P = 0.04), a decreased proportion of small follicles within cows that ovulated to GnRH2 (2/16 vs. 14/23; P = 0.003), and a similar growth rate of the ovulatory follicle from d -5 to 0 (d 0 = GnRH2; 1.1 +/- 0.06 vs. 1.1 +/- 0.07 mm/d; P = 0.99) compared with Ov1- cows. Administration of a CIDR had no effect on follicle diameter at GnRH2 (11.8 vs. 11.2 mm; P = 0.3), proportion of small ovulatory follicles at GnRH2 (7/19 vs. 9/20; P = 0.6), and follicular growth rate from d -5 to 0 (d 0 = GnRH2; 1.2 +/- 0.07 vs. 1.1 +/- 0.07 mm/d; P = 0.76). Administration of a CIDR, but not ovulation to GnRH1, increased follicle growth from d -2 to 0 (d 0 = GnRH2; P = 0.03 and 0.9, respectively). Large follicles (>11 mm) had a similar growth rate from d -5 to 0 (d 0 = GnRH2; P = 0.44) compared with small follicles (1.1 +/- 0.07 vs. 1.2 +/- 0.07 mm/d), but the large ovulatory follicles were larger at d -5 compared with small ovulatory follicles (P < 0.001). Follicle diameter was positively correlated with serum concentrations of estradiol at GnRH2 (r = 0.622; P < 0.0001). In summary, ovulation to GnRH1, but not CIDR administration, resulted in increased dominant follicle diameter at GnRH2 in anestrous suckled beef cows. Large follicles were already larger 5 d before GnRH2 but grew at a rate similar to small follicles; follicle size was positively correlated with serum concentrations of estradiol at the time of GnRH-induced ovulation.
Integration of uncertainty information into power system operations

Contemporary power systems face uncertainties coming from multiple sources, including forecast errors of load, wind and solar generation, uninstructed deviation and forced outage of traditional generators, and unscheduled loss of transmission lines. With increasing amounts of wind and solar generation being integrated into the system, these uncertainties have been growing significantly. It is critically important to build the knowledge of major sources of uncertainties, learn how to model them, and then incorporate this information into decision-making processes and power system operations, for better reliability and efficiency. This paper gives a comprehensive overview on the sources of uncertainties in power systems, their important characteristics and models, and approaches for integrating uncertainty information into system operations. It is primarily based on previous works conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).
Anti-EGFR Mechanism of Action: Antitumor Effect and Underlying Cause of Adverse Events

Overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is correlated with poor prognosis in many human cancers. Two main classes of anticancer agents affect the EGFR: those targeting the extracellular ligand-binding domain and those that block the intracellular tyrosine kinase (TK) domain. Cetuximab (Erbitux) is a mouse/human chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets the ligand-binding domain of the EGFR, whereas erlotinib (Tarceva) and gefitinib (Iressa) are small-molecule TK inhibitors. Common toxicities of agents targeting the EGFR differ from those associated with traditional chemotherapy. Given the common pathway through which these agents work, some adverse events are similar. Many patients treated with these agents develop an acne-like rash on the face and upper body, most likely related to keratinocyte alterations and hair follicle proliferation and maturation. Although clinical manifestation of this reaction closely resembles acne vulgaris, the histology is more similar to infectious folliculitis. Other adverse events appear to be related to a drug class or individual agent. For example, interstitial lung disease is a rare but potentially fatal reaction that has been reported with gefitinib. Hypomagnesemia reported in association with cetuximab may be related to EGFR blockade in the kidney. Anaphylactic or anaphylactoid infusion reactions are also seen with cetuximab, as with other monoclonal antibodies.
Comparative Optical Studies of Chemically Synthesized Silicon Nanocrystals

We studied the optical and electronic properties of silicon nanocrystals derived from two distinct fabrication procedures. One technique uses a controlled chemical reaction. In the other case, silicon nanocrystals are produced by ultrasonic fracturing of porous silicon layers. We report on the photoluminescence, photoluminescence excitation, and absorption spectroscopy of various size distributions derived from these techniques. We compare the different optical properties of silicon nanocrystals made this way and contrast them with that observed in porous silicon. Our results emphasize the dominant role of surface states in these systems as manifested by the different surface passivation layers present in these different fabrication techniques. Experimental absorption measurements are compared to theoretical calculations with good agreement. Our results provide compelling evidence for quantum confinement in both types of Si nanocrystals. Our results also indicate that the blue emission from very small Si nanocrystals corresponds to the bandedge emission, while the red emission arises from traps.
RC power bus maximum voltage drop in digital VLSI circuits

This paper presents an input-independent method for finding bounds on the voltage drop in RC power bus in combinational macro-block circuits. The voltage at power bus nodes is expressed in terms of gate currents using sensitivity analysis. Circuit timing information, functionality and logic dependencies are employed to find maximum simultaneous high-to-low, and low-to-high switching in a subinterval of a clock cycle. The sensitivity information together with an optimization procedure are applied to find bounds on the voltage drop in targeted bus nodes. The effects of signal statistical variations on the results are automatically included in our method. Comparisons to exhaustive HSPICE simulation of circuits extracted from layout are used to validate our approach.
Defective flagellar assembly and length regulation in LF3 null mutants in Chlamydomonas.

Four long-flagella (LF) genes are important for flagellar length control in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Here, we characterize two new null lf3 mutants whose phenotypes are different from previously identified lf3 mutants. These null mutants have unequal-length flagella that assemble more slowly than wild-type flagella, though their flagella can also reach abnormally long lengths. Prominent bulges are found at the distal ends of short, long, and regenerating flagella of these mutants. Analysis of the flagella by electron and immunofluorescence microscopy and by Western blots revealed that the bulges contain intraflagellar transport complexes, a defect reported previously (for review see Cole, D.G., 2003. Traffic. 4:435-442) in a subset of mutants defective in intraflagellar transport. We have cloned the wild-type LF3 gene and characterized a hypomorphic mutant allele of LF3. LF3p is a novel protein located predominantly in the cell body. It cosediments with the product of the LF1 gene in sucrose density gradients, indicating that these proteins may form a functional complex to regulate flagellar length and assembly.
Conclusion: From Describing to Prescribing—Transitioning to Place-Based Conservation

The chapters of this book describe various perspectives from the social sciences of place-based conservation. The prescriptive implications are often close to the surface and become entangled with them. This chapter highlights four overlapping approaches to the practice of place-based conservation and acknowledges the difficulty of separating descriptions from prescriptions: (1) a planning process, (2) an emergent process, (3) an organizing concept, and (4) a framework for policy. Yet to be considered are the incorporation of cultivating new communication channels, developing civic capacity, identifying appropriate roles for expertise, integrating multiple geographic scales, and customizing governance strategies. Addressing these challenges will support transitions to place-based conservation.
Yolk sac placentation in reptiles: Structural innovation in a fundamental vertebrate fetal nutritional system

The extraembryonic membranes of amniote vertebrates are shared structures that have a brief, yet substantive role in the ontogeny of the organism. The yolk sac, which is the first of these structures to develop, has an important function in regulation and mobilization of nourishment to embryos of oviparous species and additionally contributes to maternal-fetal exchange in many viviparous species. Yolk sac placentation has been described in all major taxa of viviparous amniotes. The yolk sac of viviparous reptiles contributes to three categories of placentation, the choriovitelline placenta, which also occurs in marsupial and eutherian mammals, and the omphaloplacenta and omphalallantoic placenta, which occur only among squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes). The fetal contribution to the omphaloplacenta includes a structure termed the isolated yolk mass, which forms in all Squamata independent of reproductive mode, and is produced by a morphogenesis of extraembryonic mesoderm that is unique to this reptilian order. For some viviparous squamates, the allantois contributes to the inner margin of the isolated yolk mass and this structural arrangement constitutes the omphalallantoic placenta. The isolated yolk mass is bordered externally by a bilaminar omphalopleure. Epithelial cells of the bilaminar omphalopleure of the omphaloplacenta and omphalallantoic placenta are hypertrophied. The apposed uterine epithelium likewise contains enlarged cuboidal or columnar shaped cells and the underlying lamina propria is richly vascularized. This epithelial cell structure suggests that the region of the isolated yolk mass is a site of placental specialization in viviparous reptiles. Further, since these features of omphaloplacentation or omphalallantoic placentation commonly occur in species without apparent morphological specialization in other areas of fetal-uterine contact, it is likely that the bilaminar omphalopleure of the isolated yolk mass is evolutionarily the initial site of placental specialization among viviparous reptiles. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The spalt gene links the A/P compartment boundary to a linear adult structure in the Drosophila wing

During Drosophila embryogenesis, each segment is subdivided into an anterior and a posterior compartment through the action of the engrailed gene. Compartmental boundaries bisect imaginal disc primordia which give rise to adult appendages. In early larval development, a short-range Hedgehog signal originating from the posterior compartment of the imaginal wing disc activates expression of genes including decapentaplegic (dpp) in a stripe running along the anterior-posterior compartment boundary. Secreted Dpp emanating from the A/P boundary of wing discs then acts as a secondary signal to organize the wing over large distances. The transcription factor encoded by spalt major (salm) gene, which is expressed in a broad wedge centered over the dpp stripe, is one target of Dpp signaling. In this manuscript, we show that the anterior edge of the salm expression domain abuts a narrow stripe of rhomboid (rho)-expressing cells corresponding to the L2 longitudinal vein primordium. hh mis-expression along the anterior wing margin induces a surrounding domain of salm expression, the anterior edge of which abuts a displaced rho L2 stripe. salm plays a key role in defining the position of the L2 vein since loss of salm function in mosaic patches induces the formation of ectopic L2 branches, which comprise salm- cells running along clone borders where salm- cells confront salm+ cells. These data suggest that salm determines the position of the L2 vein primordium by activating rho expression in neighboring cells through a locally non-autonomous mechanism. rho then functions to initiate and maintain vein differentiation. We discuss how these data provide the final link connecting the formation of a linear adult structure to the establishment of a boundary by the maternal Bicoid morphogen gradient in the blastoderm embryo.
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis to improve pregnancy outcomes in subfertility

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis provides prenatal genetic diagnosis before implantation, thus allowing detection of chromosomal abnormalities and their exclusion from embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technologies. Polar body, blastomere or trophectoderm can each be used to obtain requisite genetic or embryonic DNA. Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis for excluding unbalanced translocations is well accepted, and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis aneuploidy testing to avoid repeated pregnancy losses in couples having recurrent aneuploidy is efficacious in reducing miscarriages. Controversy remains about whether pre-implantation genetic diagnosis aneuploidy testing improves take home pregnancy rates, for which reason adherence to specific indications is recommended while the issue is being adjudicated. Current recommendations are for obligatory 24 chromosome testing, most readily using array comparative genome hybridisation.
Construction of a μ-Opioid Receptor Model using Conformational Memories

The μ-opioid receptor (MOR) is a member of the Class A subfamily of G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). GPCR activation has been shown to involve a change in the W6.48 χ1 dihedral from g+ to trans. To probe MOR activation, we constructed models of the MOR inactive (R) and active states (R∗), using a Beta-2-Adrenergic (β 2-AR) crystal structure template (Cherezov et al, Science 2007; Rasmussen et al, Nature 2007) with two major modifications. First, the Monte Carlo/simulated annealing technique, Conformational Memories (CM) (Whitnell et. al, J. Comput. Chem. 2007) was used to study the conformations of three MOR transmembrane helices (TMH) with important sequence divergences from the β 2-AR template: TMH2, TMH4 and TMH6. Second, the TMH7/elbow/Hx8 region of the β 2-AR was replaced with that of the adenosine A2A crystal structure (Jaakola et. al, Science 2008) due to differences in the number of residues in the elbow region of the MOR vs. β 2-AR. Energy minimizations were performed using the OPLS_2005 force field on the resultant MOR bundles in a three step process and the ligand binding pocket was identified. Docking studies suggested that naloxone, a MOR antagonist, binds in the TMH2-3-6-7 region of the MOR such that the N-allyl group sterically prohibits the movement of the χ1 of W6.48 in the R state, thereby preventing activation of the receptor. Morphine, a MOR agonist, was also found to bind in the TMH2-3-6-7 region of the R state MOR; however no portion of the morphine structure could block the movement of the χ1 of W6.48, thereby producing no impediment for activation. These results are consistent with the pharmacologies of naloxone and morphine. [Support: NIH RO1 DA023905 (PYL) and KO5 DA021358 (PHR)]
Perturb and simplify: multi-level boolean network optimizer

In this paper, we discuss the problem of optimizing a multi-level logic combinational Boolean network. Our techniques apply a sequence of local perturbations and modifications of the network which are guided by the automatic test pattern generation ATPG based reasoning. In particular, we propose several new ways in which one or more redundant gates or wires can be added to a network. We show how to identify gates which are good candidates for local functionality change. Furthermore, we discuss the problem of adding and removing two wires, none of which alone is redundant, but when jointly added/removed they do not affect functionality of the network. We also address the problem of efficient redundancy computation which allows to eliminate many unnecessary redundancy tests. We have performed experiments on MCNC benchmarks and compared the results to those of misII and RAMBO. Experimental results are very encouraging.
Experimental validation of the impedance boundary condition and a review of its limitations

The impedance boundary condition, which is an approximate boundary condition applicable at the surfaces of materials experiencing pronounced skin effect, is discussed. Its use allows the elimination of bodies made of such materials from the field solution region at great savings in cost. However, the boundary condition is an approximation that is applicable only under certain limited conditions and is justified from Maxwell's equations. The author validates the impedance boundary condition using a laboratory experiment and reviews its limitations so that its proper use can be established. >
Ultrafast studies of excess electrons in liquid acetonitrile: revisiting the solvated electron/solvent dimer anion equilibrium.

We examine the ultrafast relaxation dynamics of excess electrons injected into liquid acetonitrile using air- and water-free techniques and compare our results to previous work on this system [Xia, C. et al. J. Chem. Phys. 2002, 117, 8855]. Excess electrons in liquid acetonitrile take on two forms: a “traditional” solvated electron that absorbs in the near-IR, and a solvated molecular dimer anion that absorbs weakly in the visible. We find that excess electrons initially produced via charge-transfer-to-solvent excitation of iodide prefer to localize as solvated electrons, but that there is a subsequent equilibration to form the dimer anion on an ∼80 ps time scale. The spectral signature of this interconversion between the two forms of the excess electron is a clear isosbestic point. The presence of the isosbestic point makes it possible to fully deconvolute the spectra of the two species. We find that solvated molecular anion absorbs quite weakly, with a maximum extinction coefficient of ∼2000 M–1cm–1. Wi...
Surge Problems in Canals with High-Lift Locks

Investigations for new navigation canals and rehabilitation of existing canals are leading to larger lock sizes and higher lifts. In order to maintain a high traffic capacity and a short transit time for the canal, shorter filling and emptying times are required for the locks in spite of the larger volumes of water which must be moved. The high rates of filling and emptying have increased surge problems in the canal sections upstream and downstream of these large, high-lift locks. The paper does not research into the complex mechanics of a surge but provides a discussion of surge problems and solutions. Descriptions are given of prototype surge problems in existing canals, including, the Welland Canal, St. Lawrence Seaway and Soo Locks. Investigations made during studies on the Lake Erie-Lake Ontario Waterway concerning the use of surge basins for filling and emptying are described. These studies were made by the Buffalo District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
A Dilation Problem in Non-Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics

We reformulate one of the fundamental questions of quantum non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, as the problem of constructing the minimal conservative dilation of a dissipative von Neumann dynamical system. We indicate how the concepts of generalized K-flows and of dynamical entropy pertain to the solution of this problem.
The Diminishing Returns of Crisis: Policymaking in an Era of Uncertainty

This paper examines policy development in the context of crisis. Authors like Higgs have suggested that a ratchet effect marks the effects of crisis on the growth of government; but not all crises are created equal. This paper examines the circumstances that led to a radical reorientation of trade policy during the 1930s as an archetype for the power of crisis and then evaluates whether subsequent crises have provided similar or reduced opportunities for substantial policy change. I discuss what it would take for contemporary political entrepreneurs to achieve policy reforms on the scale of the New Deal.
Optical Generation of Collective Plasmon Modes in Small Gold Chains Induced by Doping Transition-Metal Impurities

Our examination of the optical properties of small gold chains containing up to 24 atoms doped with a transition metal (TM) atom (Ni, Rh, Fe), using the time-dependent density functional theory, show the splitting of the collective plasmon peak. We associate the additional peak with a local plasmonic mode which corresponds to charge oscillations around the potential created by the d orbitals of the impurity atoms. The effect is almost independent of the position of the TM atom in the chain, as long as it is not at the chain edge. This behavior is opposite to that of larger noble-metal-TM clusters (radius >1 nm), in which doping with TM atoms does not lead to generation of new modes, and often produces a suppression of the main plasmon peak.
SIMPLE REGRESSION-BASED PROCEDURES FOR TAXOMETRIC INVESTIGATIONS "

Certain theories of psychopathology postulate the existence of distinct latent populations of individuals. By analogy with biology, we call such latent populations “taxa” and we call the statistica...
Megakaryocytic cell line-specific hyperploidy by cytotoxic necrotizing factor bacterial toxins.

Cytotoxic necrotizing factor (CNF) toxins, isolated from certain Escherichia coli strains known to cause intestinal and extra intestinal infections, induce reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and generate hyperploidy in adherent cell lines. We have examined the effect of CNF toxin on one of the few cell types that naturally increase nuclear DNA content, megakaryocytes. Our studies show that only hematopoietic cells capable of differentiating along the megakaryocyte lineage responded to the CNF2 toxin by becoming polyploid and by reorganizing actin. The K562, HEL, and CHRF-288–11 cell lines can be induced with phorbol ester to differentiate along the megakaryocyte lineage, and these cells also respond to the toxin with increased DNA content and actin cytoskeletal rearrangements. Interestingly, treatment of the K562 and HEL cell lines with CNF2 does not result in an increase in production of the megakaryocytic marker glycoprotein IIIa, unlike phorbol ester treatment. Conversely, two T-cell leukemic cell lines, CEM and Molt4, and the promyelocytic HL-60 cell line, which do not differentiate along the megakaryocyte lineage in response to phorbol myristate acetate, do not respond to CNF2, by increased expression of gpIIIa, increased nuclear DNA content, or actin reorganization. A potential target of these toxins, RhoA, is expressed by both megakaryocytic and nonmegakaryocytic cell lines, as shown by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Although it is clear that the CNF toxins can affect a wide variety of adherent nonhematopoietic cell lines, we propose that the response to CNF, in terms of reorganizing actin structure and increase in DNA content in hematologic suspension cells, correlates with the capability of these target cells to differentiate along the megakaryocytic lineage.
In Situ EQCM Study Examining Irreversible Changes the Sulfur-Carbon Cathode in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

In situ EQCM experiments were used to investigate the stability and roughness changes occurring in a sulfur–carbon cathode utilized for a Li–S battery during the charge–discharge process. Results show that the sulfur–carbon cathode gains mass during the first discharge plateau (∼2.4 V) due to the formation of the long chain polysulfides during the discharge (lithiation) process. However, further discharge to below 2.4 V yields an increase in the crystal resistance (Rc) suggesting the sulfur–carbon cathode becomes rougher. During the charge (delithiation) process, the roughness of the sulfur–carbon cathode decreases. Time dependent measurements show that the electrode surface becomes rougher with the deeper discharge, with the change occurring following a step to 1.5 V. The sulfur–carbon cathode exhibits stable Rc and frequency behavior initially, but then becomes rougher in subsequent following cycles.
Morphological characteristics of loblolly pine wood as related to specific gravity, growth rate and distance from pith

Earlywood and latewood tracheid length and transverse cellular dimensions of wood removed from stems of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) and factorially segregated by specific gravity, rings from the pith, and growth rate were determined from sample chips. The independent relationships of each factor with fiber morphology are described.
Pair formation in the lobster, Homarus americanus: Behavioral development pheromones and mating

Female‐initiated pair formation and mating were observed during long term observations of lobsters (Homarus americanus) in seminatural environments. Females left their solitary shelters and selected the company of dominant, territorial males as much as 7 days before molting. During subsequent pair formation and shelter sharing a number of new behavior patterns were observed, some previously not reported for other Crustacea. Both behavioral displays and a female sex pheromone appear to be involved in pair formation. Mating took place one half hour after the female molted. After mating, pairs remained together in the male's shelter for up to an additional 7 days. During this time males fed on the molt shell and actively defended the area. Females of 58–70 mm carapace length showed varying levels of incomplete pair formation and mating behavior, indicating that courtship and mating behavior may require a number of molts to develop. This size class forms a behavior‐ally defined transition stage. Females large...
Proposal for Laser Cooling of Complex Polyatomic Molecules.

An experimentally feasible strategy for direct laser cooling of polyatomic molecules with six or more atoms is presented. Our approach relies on the attachment of a metal atom to a complex molecule, where it acts as an active photon cycling site. We describe a laser cooling scheme for alkaline earth monoalkoxide free radicals taking advantageof the phase space compression of a cryogenic buffer-gas beam. Possible applications are presented including laser cooling of chiral molecules and slowing of molecular beams using coherent photon processes.
A Plausible Prebiotic Origin of Glyoxylate: Nonenzymatic Transamination Reactions of Glycine with Formaldehyde

Glyoxylate has been postulated to be an important prebiotic building block. However, a plausible prebiotic availability of glyoxylate has not as yet been demonstrated. Herein we report the formation of glyoxylate by means of a transamination reaction between glycine and formaldehyde in water at 50 °C and 70 °C at pH 8 and 6, respectively. The reaction was followed by means of 13C NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry employing both unlabeled and 13C-labeled reactants. Other products accompanying the transamination process include serine, sarcosine, N,N-dimethylglycine, and carbon dioxide/bicarbonate. The mechanisms for the formation of glyoxylate and accompanying products are discussed. 1 Introduction 2 Background 3 Results and Discussion 3.1 Reaction of 13C-Labeled Glycine with Formaldehyde at pH 8 3.2 Reaction of 13C-Labeled Glycine with Formaldehyde at pH 6 3.3 Serine-Promoted Decarboxylation of Glyoxylate 4 Conclusions
Mode selection for electrostatic beam resonators based on motional resistance and quality factor

An analytical comparison between the fundamental mode and higher modes of vibration for an electrostatic beam resonator is presented. Multiple mode numbers can be matched to a desired resonance frequency through appropriate scaling. Therefore, it is important to determine which mode yields the best performance. A dynamic model of the resonator is derived and then used to determine the motional resistance for each mode. The resulting equation provides the basis for comparing performance between modes using motional resistance and quality factor. As a demonstration of the approach, a quality factor model that has been previously validated experimentally is introduced. Numerical results for silicon resonators indicate that the fundamental mode can provide a lower motional resistance and higher quality factor when the resonators under comparison have the same aspect ratio or the same stiffness.
Multiple Dimensions of Instructional Effectiveness in Reading: A Review of Classroom Observation Studies and Implications for Special Education Classrooms

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to review and analyze effective classroom reading practices for early graders, using information gathered from the existing content-general and content-specific observation protocols measuring teachers’ classroom reading practices. Dimensions and constructs from 28 observation studies were synthesized to identify classroom instructional practices that have positive impacts on student achievement. Findings revealed that (a) instructional support, emotional support, and classroom management have positive impacts on student achievement, (b) the degree to which instructional practices are effective depends on students’ particular learning needs, and (c) students’ entering skills and primary language are associated with instructional effectiveness in reading. Challenges and implications for future research on effective instructional strategies for special education and the development of an observational protocol for special education teacher effectiveness are discussed.
Changing Demographics: A New Approach to Global Health Care Due to the Aging Population.

![Figure][1] “A population that does not care for children and the elderly abuses the memory of the past and promise for the future.”—Pope Francis [(1)][2] The global population nearly tripled from 1950 to 2010 [(2)][3]. However, shrinking fertility rates and longer lifespans are
Acute Postoperative Periprosthetic Joint Infection

Acute postoperative infections occur within first 6 weeks after surgery and are challenging to diagnose due to the heightened inflammatory state of normal healing. Wound erythema, fevers, and swelling may be expected findings in the early postoperative period and can be difficult to differentiate from infection, deep venous thrombosis, or other diagnoses. Risk factors can be classified into host-related and hospital-related factors, recognizing and when possible, modifying these risk factors, can mitigate the incidence of PJI. The first step in determining an accurate diagnosis is avoiding the administration of antibiotics until an appropriate evaluation for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has been performed.
QIRANA demonstration: real time scalable query pricing

The last decade has seen a deluge in data collection and dissemination across a broad range of areas. This phenomena has led to creation of online data markets where entities engage in sale and purchase of data. In this scenario, the key challenge for the data market platform is to ensure that it allows real time, scalable, arbitrage-free pricing of user queries. At the same time, the platform needs to flexible enough for sellers in order to customize the setup of the data to be sold. In this paper, we describe the demonstration of Qirana, a light weight framework that implements query-based pricing at scale. The framework acts as a layer between the end users (buyers and sellers) and the database. Qirana's demonstration features that we highlight are: (i) allows sellers to choose from a variety of pricing functions based on their requirements and incorporates price points as a guide for query pricing; (ii) helps the seller set parameters by mocking workloads; (iii) buyers engage with the platform by directly asking queries and track their budget per dataset;. We demonstrate the tunable parameters of our framework over a real-world dataset, illustrating the promise of our approach.
The Power of Regret

Despite the centrality of regret in medicine, studies have largely failed to capture its complexity and consequences. Many proposed instruments for measuring it fail to differentiate it from disappointment, and it is still largely absent from the medical curriculum.
Impact of Baseline Characteristics on Treatment Response to Intravitreal Aflibercept Injection for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Purpose To determine whether wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) treatment outcomes within prespecified patient subgroups were consistent with overall study results. Additionally, this subanalysis investigated whether there were any relationships between baseline characteristics and evaluated treatment outcomes. Design Post hoc subanalysis of The VEGF Trap-Eye: Investigation of Efficacy and Safety in Wet AMD (VIEW) 1 and 2, 2 similarly designed prospective, multicenter, double-masked, active-controlled, parallel-group, randomized clinical trials. Participants Two thousand four hundred twelve patients with an active subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) lesion of any subtype secondary to AMD. Methods Primary and key secondary visual end points at week 52 were examined to explore the consistency of effect among prespecified subgroups of 5 baseline characteristics: age, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), lesion type, lesion size, and central retinal thickness (CRT). Additionally, within-group analyses were conducted to determine whether the mean changes in BCVA and CRT at 52 weeks were associated positively or negatively with the baseline characteristics of interest. Main Outcome Measures Consistency of treatment outcomes among prespecified subgroups of baseline characteristics. Results For each baseline characteristic, tests for interaction within each prespecified subgroup and among the subgroups were not significant, suggesting that relative visual outcomes for each treatment arm were consistent with overall study outcomes. Within-group analysis revealed a significant association between baseline age, BCVA, and lesion size with BCVA outcomes at 52 weeks; namely, older age, greater BCVA, and larger lesion size were associated with lower mean BCVA gains at 52 weeks. Conclusions Patients in all subgroups of baseline age, BCVA, lesion type, lesion size, and CRT experienced visual outcomes consistent with those of the overall study population. Additionally, baseline older age, better BCVA, and larger CNV lesion size were found to be associated independently with lower mean BCVA gains after 52 weeks of anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. The influence of baseline age, BCVA, and CNV lesion size on treatment outcomes is consistent with other reports from large, prospective trials in wet AMD.
C-Shaped Root Canal System

While the prevalence of C-shaped canals is low in many parts of the world, the incidence may be high in specific countries and ethnic populations. One of the contributing factors that masks more detailed information on this anatomical variation is the difficulty in using periapical radiographs alone to determine its presence. While the literature is replete with studies that indicate that mandibular second molar and first premolar may exhibit this variation most often, other teeth such as the maxillary molars may also demonstrate this anatomical complexity.
Statistics as a Democratic Pedagogy: Quantitative Measures and the Civic Imagination

Quantitative measures have become a cornerstone in social knowledge formation and policy-making. They have also been criticized as forms of epistemic authority that close off debate, serve elite in...
Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Among Latina Mothers of South American and Caribbean Descent in the Eastern US

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine knowledge, attitudes, barriers, and facilitators for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among Latina mothers of HPV vaccine-eligible children in low-income urban areas, as well as useful strategies to improve HPV vaccination. Methods: The study included 132 Latina mothers of HPV vaccine-eligible children, interviewed in 14 focus groups. Using semi-structured discussions, mothers were asked about their knowledge about HPV infection and vaccine, views toward HPV vaccination, barriers for HPV vaccine initiation as well as completion, and opinions on strategies to improve HPV vaccination. Results: Only 55% of mothers reported having ever heard of the HPV vaccine, 27% of mothers indicated initiating the HPV vaccine, and 14% indicated completing the multi-dose series. Mothers generally lacked knowledge about HPV infection and vaccination, with varying degrees by Latino descent. Health care provider (HCP) recommendation was the strongest barrier/facilitator for HPV vaccination. Useful strategies to improve HPV vaccine initiation and completion that the mothers suggested included strong recommendation from HCPs and addressing side effects and safety concerns. Other useful strategies included community and school-based approaches and the use of text messaging and smartphone technology to educate mothers and send vaccine reminders. Conclusion: The findings provide insight for the development of interventions targeting low-income Latina mothers and the need to improve HCP communication on HPV vaccination.
[Simultaneous determination of 6 cyclohexanedione herbicides residues in potatoes by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry].

Objective To establish a method for analysis of 6 cyclohexanedione herbicides residues in potatoes by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray tandem mass spectrometry( UPLC-MS/MS). Methods The target compounds in samples were extracted ultrasonically with acetonitrile. After centrifugation, the supernatant was cleaned up with Envi-carb column. The sample solution was separated on an Dionex C_(18) column( 2. 1 mm × 100 mm, 2. 2 μm) with gradient elution using acetonitrile -5 mmol/L ammonium acetate and 0. 1% formic acid in water as mobile phase. The identification was performed with tandem mass spectrometer, with electrospray ionization( ESI) in positive mode under multiple reaction monitoring. The quantification was based on external standard curves. Results The method showed good linearity in the range of 2-100 μg/L( r ≥ 0. 9923). The limit of quantitation were 2. 0 μg/kg. The detection limits of the method were 0. 6 μg/kg. The recoveries were within 67. 5%-95. 8% at the spiked levels of 2. 0-10. 0 μg/kg, and the relative standard deviations were all less than 8. 5%. Six cyclohexanedione herbicides residues were detected in 6. 7% of 30 potatoes samples which was determined by the method. Conclusion The method is rapid, specific, accurate, and it is suitable for detection of quinolone and tetracycline residues.
Chapter 7 – A Survey of Classical Knot Concordance

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of the concordance group of knots in three-dimensional space. It begins with a review of the definitions of knots and concordance and then presents aspects of the algebraic theory of concordance. There are two related theories of concordance, one in the smooth category and the other topological. There are alternative approaches to algebraic obstructions to a knot being slice. A surgery obstruction to finding such a manifold W is determined by the Seifert form, and for a knot of Alexander polynomial one that is the only obstruction, and it vanishes. Although these powerful techniques have revealed a far greater complexity to the concordance group than had been expected, as of now they seem incapable of addressing some of the basic questions: for instance, the slice implies ribbon conjecture and problems related to torsion in the concordance group. Recent work of Cochran, Orr and Teichner has demonstrated a deep structure to the topological concordance group. A discussion of the interplay between three-dimensional knot properties and concordance is also presented in the chapter. The chapter concludes with a brief list of open problems.