cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental study of effect of wetting on turbulent flow of mercury in annuli

Abstract A basic experimental study of the fluid dynamics and heat transfer characteristics of mercury, in fully developed turbulent flow through annuli, was carried out The main purposes of the study were, first, to get comparisons between local ϵH and ϵM values, and second, to determine the effects of wetting on both the fluid dynamics and heat transfer. This paper presents the results of the fluid dynamics portion of the study. Experiments were conducted where the mercury either did not wet at all, or did thoroughly wet, the channel walls. The effects of wetting were found to be appreciable. When both annulus walls were unwetted, the velocity profiles were quite similar to those reported in the past for ordinary fluids. When the inner wall (only) was wetted, the radius of maximum velocity moved considerably outward (i.e. toward r2) from what it was when both walls were unwetted; and when both walls were wetted, the radius of maximum velocity also moved outward, but not as far as that for the situation where only the inner wall was wetted. These differences in flow behavior are reflected in the u+ vs. In y+ relationships and in the ϵM profiles. Wetting was found to have a large influence on the u+ vs. ta y+ relationship for the inner portion of an annulus. The eddy diflusivities of momentum transfer were correlated only moderately well by modified forms of the Kays-Leung [6] and Eifler [13] correlations. It is shown that the ratio of the maximum value of ϵM in the inner portion of an annulus to that in the outer portion is an explicit function of the radius ratio and is independent of Reynolds number.
A system for electronic data retrieval and cross-tabulation in oral pathology.

Abstract A system of computer storage, retrieval, and cross-tabulation for oral biopsy information is described. Once instituted, this system requires little additional time as compared to conventional methods of data storage. It provides increased accuracy and speed for data retrieval and cross-tabulation. Computer usage costs have proved to be modest, and the system is well worth the cost.
Validation of ocean wind vector retrievals from WindSat polarimetric measurements

Using several months of WindSat measurements collocated with the NCEP Global Data Assimilation System model field, the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) measurements and QuikScat scatterometry measurements, we have derived an empirical geophysical model that describes radiometric vector for all WindSat channels, as a function of surface parameters: wind speed, wind direction and sea surface temperature, and atmospheric parameters: total precipitable water and cloud liquid water. This model function was then used to develop an ocean surface wind vector retrieval algorithm from WindSat polarimetric measurements. The accuracy of the retrieved wind vectors was quantified using several months of WindSat measurements collocated with the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) measurements and QuikSCAT scatterometry measurements.
Showing up isn't enough for vascularization: persistence is essential.

See related article, pages 1327–1334 When Woody Allen claims that “80% of success is showing up” he underestimates the importance of sticking around. Case in point: formation of functional vessels in the wake of an ischemic injury by adoptively transferred cells. Although paracrine factor release, survival signaling, cell–cell communication, and endogenous cell recruitment all undoubtedly contribute to the process, an elegant study by Ziebart et al1 in this issue of Circulation Research demonstrates persistence of adoptively transferred cells is also a critical facet of successful revascularization. Potent vascularization mediated by adoptively transferred endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) has been widely documented and is now part of our collective regenerative therapy dogma.2,3 The initial isolation of EPCs as CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors4 more than a decade ago prompted intense research throughout the world to delineate the mechanistic basis for vessel formation by these cells. Complexities abound in the process of EPC-mediated vasculogenesis involving a multistep process of recruitment, homing, attachment and migration, proliferation, plexus formation, and, eventually, vessel stabilization. Along the way to revascularization, bidirectional communication between circulating EPCs recruited to ischemic injury sites and cells residing in the compromised target tissue. The multifaceted nature of this process and the multiple players involved obscure the relative contributions of recruited EPCs versus resident tissue populations to establish mature vasculature. This is a pivotal issue for myocardial regenerative therapy, because the ultimate efficacy of rebuilding healthy and functional contractile tissue depends on establishment of an integrated and stable vascular network. Incorporation of bone marrow–derived EPCs into neovascularization has been demonstrated by transgenic approaches with mice …
The Effect of Large-Scale Flow on Low-Level Frontal Structure and Evolution in Midlatitude Cyclones

Abstract Observational and modeling studies documented in the literature indicate that the large-scale flow has an important effect on the structure and evolution of low-level fronts in midlatitude cyclones. The purpose of this paper is to address the role of the large-scale flow on low-level cyclone/frontal structure and evolution through a combined observational and idealized modeling approach. Analyses of two observed cyclone cases embedded in large-scale diffluence and confluence, respectively, are presented to illustrate two possible cyclone/frontal structures and evolutions. Specifically, the cyclone moving into a diffluent, high-amplitude ridge becomes meridionally elongated and possesses a strong meridionally oriented cold front and a weak warm front. The cold front rotates into the warm front, forming an occluded front in the manner of the Norwegian cyclone model, as indicated by the narrowing of the thermal ridge connecting the warm sector to the cyclone center. In contrast, the cyclone moving i...
Handling textual information in a GDSS database: experience with the Arizona Analyst Information System

The Arizona Analyst Information System (AAIS) is a hypertext tool for entry, retrieval, and analysis of textual information in a multiuser, multitask, collaborative environment. The authors examine the experience of using the AAIS for the cooperative creation, use, and maintenance of a large textual database. The main questions considered are the performance of users as direct participants in the database building process, and the way in which the AAIS design facilitates joint use of information. >
Optimal ventricular rate slowing during atrial fibrillation by feedback AV nodal-selective vagal stimulation

Although the beneficial effects of ventricular rate (VR) slowing during atrial fibrillation (AF) are axiomatic, the precise relationship between VR and hemodynamics has not been determined. We hypothesized that selective atrioventricular node (AVN) vagal stimulation (AVN-VS) by varying the nerve stimulation intensity could achieve precise graded slowing and permit evaluation of an optimal VR during AF. The aims of the present study were the following: 1) to develop a method for computerized vagally controlled VR slowing during AF, 2) to determine the hemodynamic changes at each level of VR slowing, and 3) to establish the optimal anterograde VR during AF. AVN-VS was delivered to the epicardial fat pad that projects parasympathetic nerve fibers to the AVN in 14 dogs. Four target average VR levels, corresponding to 75%, 100%, 125%, and 150% of the sinus cycle length (SCL), were achieved by computer feedback algorithm. VR slowing resulted in improved hemodynamics and polynomial fit analysis found an optimum for the cardiac output at VR slowing of 87% SCL. We conclude that this novel method can be used to maintain slow anterograde conduction with best hemodynamics during AF.
Biologically inspired coupled antenna beampattern design

We propose to design a small-size transmission-coupled antenna array, and corresponding radiation pattern, having high performance inspired by the female Ormia ochracea's coupled ears. For reproduction purposes, the female Ormia is able to locate male crickets' call accurately despite the small distance between its ears compared with the incoming wavelength. This phenomenon has been explained by the mechanical coupling between the Ormia's ears, which has been modeled by a pair of differential equations. In this paper, we first solve these differential equations governing the Ormia ochracea's ear response, and convert the response to the pre-specified radio frequencies. We then apply the converted response of the biological coupling in the array factor of a uniform linear array composed of finite-length dipole antennas, and also include the undesired electromagnetic coupling due to the proximity of the elements. Moreover, we propose an algorithm to optimally choose the biologically inspired coupling for maximum array performance. In our numerical examples, we compute the radiation intensity of the designed system for binomial and uniform ordinary end-fire arrays, and demonstrate the improvement in the half-power beamwidth, sidelobe suppression and directivity of the radiation pattern due to the biologically inspired coupling.
Non-concurrent error detection and correction in discrete-time LTI dynamic systems

We develop fault-tolerant constructions for discrete-time (DT) linear time-invariant (LTI) dynamic systems that are built out of appropriately interconnected delay, adder and gain elements. More specifically, we extend previously developed techniques, in which error detection and correction was based on concurrent parity checks at the end of each time step, by developing schemes that depend on non-concurrent (e.g., periodic) parity checks. Our approach relies on carefully choosing the redundant dynamics of the fault-tolerant implementation in a way that allows parity checks to capture the evolution of errors in the system and determine the initial value of each error, the time at which it took place and the state variable it originally affected. The resulting (non-concurrent) error detection and identification approach significantly reduces the overhead in terms of error detection, identification and correction operations, thereby relaxing the stringent requirements on the checking mechanism.
Src-mediated aryl hydrocarbon and epidermal growth factor receptor cross talk stimulates colon cancer cell proliferation

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) mediates many toxic effects of environmental pollutants. AhR also interacts with multiple growth factor-driven signaling pathways. In the course of examining effects of growth factors on proliferation of human colon cancer cells, we identified cross talk between AhR and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In the present work, we explored underlying signal transduction mechanisms and functional consequences of this interaction. With the use of two human colon cancer cell lines, H508 and SNU-C4, we examined the effects of AhR ligands including 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on cell proliferation and activation of EGFR, ERK1/2, and Src kinases. In colon cancer cells, 5-day incubation with TCDD stimulated a twofold dose-dependent increase in cell proliferation that was detectable with 1 nM and maximal with 30 nM TCDD. TCDD induced dose- and time-dependent phosphorylation of EGFR (Tyr845) and ERK1/2; maximal phosphorylation was observed 5 to 10 min after addition of 30 nM TCDD. Both TCDD-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cell proliferation were abolished by AhR small interfering RNA, AhR-specific inhibitor CH223191, Src kinase inhibitor PP2, neutralizing antibodies against matrix metalloproteinase 7, heparin-binding-EGF-like growth factor and EGFR, EGFR inhibitors (AG1478 and PD168393), and MEK1 inhibitor PD98059. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that AhR forms a protein complex with Src and regulates Src activity by phosphorylating Src (Tyr416) and dephosphorylating Src (Tyr527). These data support novel observations that, in human colon cancer cells, Src-mediated cross talk between aryl hydrocarbon and EGFR results in ERK1/2 activation, thereby stimulating cell proliferation.
Something for nothing: understanding purchasing behaviors in social virtual environments.

The present paper is composed of two studies. The first study explored the variables influencing the purchase of avatar-related products through the avatar users' survey research. This proposed a theoretical model of the purchase of avatar-related products using attitude toward an avatar, subjective norm, self-presentation, identification, and immersion. Although significant relationships were found for the individual links, the model was not supported. The second study focused on which variables predict the intention to use avatar-related products. A model was tested with avatar non-users. Results indicated that all relationships among variables in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), such as perceived ease of use of avatar, perceived usefulness of avatar, attitude toward using avatar, and intention to use avatarrelated products, were strongly supported, as was the link between Internet self-efficacy and perceived ease of use of avatar. Also, the peer groups' subjective norm component which was a uniqu...
Relapse: A Reappraisal of Assessment of Outcome in Schizophrenia

Although measurement of the course of schizophrenic disorder has relied heavily on the concept of relapse, a review of the literature reveals a paucity of clear definitions of relapse. In most research studies, the assessment of relapse has been made on the basis of clinical judgment, with little attempt to apply more rigorous psychometric standards. The limitations of this approach are discussed and several possible improvements are suggested. These include: operational definitions that specify the qualitative, quantitative, and temporal characteristics of symptomatic exacerbation; avoidance of potentially confounding social variables; and the use of standardized rating scales and target symptoms.
Regulation of an Auxiliary, Antibiotic-Resistant Tryptophanyl-tRNA Synthetase Gene via Ribosome-Mediated Transcriptional Attenuation

cis-Acting RNA elements in the leaders of bacterial mRNA often regulate gene transcription, especially in the context of amino acid metabolism. We determined that the transcription of the auxiliary, antibiotic-resistant tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase gene (trpRS1) in Streptomyces coelicolor is regulated by a ribosome-mediated attenuator in the 5' leader of its mRNA region. This regulatory element controls gene transcription in response to the physiological effects of indolmycin and chuangxinmycin, two antibiotics that inhibit bacterial tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetases. By mining streptomycete genome sequences, we found several orthologs of trpRS1 that share this regulatory element; we predict that they are regulated in a similar fashion. The validity of this prediction was established through the analysis of a trpRS1 ortholog (SAV4725) in Streptomyces avermitilis. We conclude that the trpRS1 locus is a widely distributed and self-regulating antibiotic resistance cassette. This study provides insights into how auxiliary aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase genes are regulated in bacteria.
The effects of CO2-brine rheology on leakage processes in geologic carbon sequestration

[1] Leakage from geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) sites is inherently challenging to study because CO2, driven by buoyant forces, travels over long distances, undergoing phase changes and encountering numerous connate brine and formation chemistries as it rises to the surface. This work explores the effect that CO2has on the rheological properties of brine solutions over a range of GCS-relevant temperature, pressure, ionic strength, and shear conditions. Under the fluid-liquid equilibrium conditions that prevail in the deep subsurface, viscosity of CO2-brine mixtures was found to be a function of temperature and pressure alone. Once leakage conditions ensue, discrete CO2bubbles form in brine, resulting in the vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE), and these mixtures exhibit complex linear viscoelastic, time dependent, and thixotropic behavior. The presence of CO2(g) bubbles on the flow of the bulk fluid could have important impacts on impeding (via shear drag force) leakage depending on the geometrical, geochemical and geophysical characteristics of a storage site. Under VLE conditions, the effective viscosity of CO2-brine mixtures was found to be up to five times higher than brine alone but the microstructure was easily destroyed, and not readily regained, under high shear conditions. At higher temperatures and higher ionic strength, the effect is less pronounced. These results were considered in the context of flow through porous media, and the effect on buoyancy-driven flow is significant. Understanding this effect is important for developing an accurate constitutive relationship for leaking CO2, which will lead to better capacity to select and monitor GCS sites.
The Planning Coordinator For Robust Error Recovery And Dynamic On-line Planning Of Robotic Tasks

The Planning Coordinator is a logical extension to the Coordination Level of the Intelligent MachineMOdel, func- tioning to provide a heretofore unavailable platform for robust error recovery and dynamic on-line planning by autonomous and semi-autonomous robotic systems. This paper introduces the design architecture of the Planning Coordinator and focuses upon its macro-structure, interfaces and functional description, with respect to its role as the mechanism whereby an existing robotic system requiring significant human intervention can be made more autonomous, thus becoming more robust.
Reevaluating the Global Digital Divide: Socio-Demographic and Conflict Barriers to the Internet Revolution*

The Global Digital Divide (GDD) in Internet and related forms of information technologies has gained some press and scholarly attention in recent years. Although the contours and causes of Internet diffusion around the globe are now better understood, a number of questions and avenues remain unanswered or unexplored, particularly concerning the role of socio-demographic structures and even conflict processes on Internet diffusion. This study addresses the current state of the digital divide and sheds new light on the barriers that continue to inhibit developing nations' lag with the West in Internet connectivity. Focusing on a large sample of the world's developing nations, this project finds that although the GDD is narrowing, the gap is still large and that specific demographic properties (high fertility) and conflict processes threaten to keep many societies in the periphery of cyberspace. The authors also find that urban agglomerations work to amplify Internet demand over time and that maturing economies may no longer require democratization as a pathway to Internet development. Implications of these findings and future directions of research are briefly discussed.
Retrospective Cost Adaptive Control of Spacecraft Attitude

We apply retrospective cost adaptive control (RCAC) to spacecraft attitude control. First, we develop results for angular rate control. These results are then extended to attitude control. We examine two problems for each of the controllers. For both problems, the spacecraft has an arbitrary initial angular rate, and in the case of attitude control, an arbitrary initial attitude. The objective for the first problem is to bring the body to rest and to a specified attitude in the attitude control case. The second problem seeks to bring the spacecraft to spin about a specified body axis, which, in the case of attitude control, is inertially pointed. We first test the algorithm using an estimate of the spacecraft’s Markov parameters obtained from discretization of the linearized Euler’s and Poisson’s equations. Then, we limit the dependence on knowledge of the mass properties by removing inertia information from the Markov parameter. Finally, we test for robustness by scaling the Markov parameter and rotating the actuator matrix.
Comparison of ciprofloxacin and co-trimoxazole in the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women

Sixty-five women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection were evaluated in a prospective, randomized, double blind study comparing ciprofloxacin (250 mg twice daily for ten days) with co-trimoxazole (160 mg trimethoprim and 800 mg sulphamethoxazole twice daily for ten days). Results were analysed with respect to eradication of the urinary tract pathogen, resolution of clinical symptoms, incidence of relapse, and incidence of adverse effects. Among the 31 women who received ciprofloxacin, there was eradication of the micro-organism and complete resolution of clinical symptoms in 100% five to nine days after completion of therapy. Among the 34 patients who received co-trimoxazole, there was eradication in 94% and clinical resolution in 91%. Of the ciprofloxacin-treated women 6.5% (2/31) relapsed compared with 18% (6/34) of co-trimoxazole-treated women. Overall cure rates for 65 patients were 93.5% and 82.3% for ciprofloxacin and co-trimoxazole (difference not statistically significant), respectively. A statistically significant (P less than 0.05) increase in adverse side effects was noted in patients treated with co-trimoxazole. Based upon preliminary data it appears that ciprofloxacin is as effective and less toxic than co-trimoxazole for treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women.
Race-ethnic differences in the association between lipid profile components and risk of myocardial infarction: The Northern Manhattan Study

Objective The aim of this study was to explore race-ethnic differences in the association between plasma lipid components and risk of incident myocardial infarction (MI). Design/methods As part of the Northern Manhattan Study, 2,738 community residents without cardiovascular disease were prospectively evaluated. Baseline fasting blood samples were collected, and lipid panel components were analyzed as continuous and categorical variables. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate HRs and 95% CIs for incident MI after adjusting for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Results The mean age was 68.8 ± 10.4 years; 36.7% were men. Of the participants, 19.9% were non-Hispanic white; 24.9%, non-Hispanic black; and 52.8%, Hispanic (>80% from the Caribbean). Hispanics had lower mean high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and higher triglycerides (TG)/HDL-C. During a mean 8.9 years of follow-up, there were 163 incident MIs. In the whole cohort, all lipid profile components were associated with risk of MI in the expected directions. However, HDL-C (adjusted HR per 10 mg/dL increase 0.93, 95% CI 0.76-1.12) and TG/HDL-C >2 (adjusted HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.51-1.55) were not predictive of MI among Hispanics but were predictive among non-Hispanic blacks and whites. Triglycerides/HDL-C per unit increase was associated with an 8% higher risk of MI among Hispanics (adjusted HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.12). Conclusions In Hispanics, low HDL-C and TG/HDL-C >2 were not associated with MI risk. Our data suggest that a different TG/HDL ratio cutoff may be needed among Hispanics to predict MI risk.
Recommendations to increase the impact of maternal and childbirth health systematic reviews in the Americas.

Summary Correspondence: Dr Frederique A. Jacquerioz,Center for Evidence-basedGlobal Health, TulaneUniversity School of PublicHealth and TropicalMedicine, 1440 Canal Street,Ste 1820, New Orleans,LA 70112, USA.E-mail: fjacque@tulane.edu Jacquerioz FA, Belizan JM, Buekens P. Recommendations to increase the impact ofmaternal and childbirth health systematic reviews in the Americas. Paediatric andPerinatal Epidemiology 2008; 22 (Suppl. 1): 61–66.This paper summarises the discussions and the recommendations formulated duringa meeting in March 2007 on the challenges and strategies to increase the impactof maternal and childbirth health systematic reviews in the Americas. The discussionsaddressed three speciﬁc themes: (1) performing systematic reviews (2) updating exist-ing reviews, and (3) diffusing and implementing evidence into practice. Practicalrecommendations were devised for each theme in small group discussions. Keywords: systematic reviews , maternal and child health , evidence-based medicine
Cyclogenesis in the Mediterranean region

A statistical study is made of cyclones originating in the Mediterranean region in the months October through May from 1929 to 1939 and 1945 to 1952. The following features are summarized: synoptic type, points of origin, monthly and geographic frequencies, relation of displacement to topography and deepening, 24-hr deepening, isobar direction at 3 km at time and place of origin, relation between 3-km isobar direction and cyclone trajectory, and relation between vertical temperature distribution and central pressure.
Evaluation of adrenocortical function in 3-7 aged asthmatic children treated with moderate doses of fluticasone propionate: reliability of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (dhea-s) as a screening test.

Abstract Background Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the first-line therapy in the treatment of persistent asthma. At medium to high doses and prolonged usage, ICS can supresss the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) is a corticotropin-dependent adrenal androgen precursor that is supressible in patients treated with ICS. Objectives To evaluate the adrenal axis in asthmatic children treated with moderate doses of fluticasone propionate and to evaluate the DHEA-S as a possible marker for adrenal axis in preadrenarchal children. Methods Twenty-eight children with persistent asthma with a mean age of 4.4 years (median 4.2; range 2.5-7.1) on long term treatment (mean 6.16; median 6; range 4.5-9 months) with moderate doses (mean 250; median 253; range 158-347 (g/m2/day) of inhaled fluticasone propionate were evaluated with low-dose ACTH stimulation test to assess adrenal function, and DHEA-S levels were compared with the results. Results One out of 28 patients (3.57%) demonstrated an abnormal cortisol response to low-dose ACTH test. There was no correlation between DHEA-S and peak cortisol, morning cortisol and fasting blood glucose levels. However, mean inhaled corticosteroid dosages were inversely correlated with the DHEA-S. Conclusions In most of the children with persistent asthma, mild to moderate fluticazone propionate doses supress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis rarely. Chronic moderate doses of ICS may suppress adrenal androgen levels without supression of cortisol production. DHEA-S levels may be used as a practical method to follow adrenal functions and may be an earlier indicator of adrenal dysfunction in children.
Quality of life improves within 30 days of surgery for Crohn’s disease

Abstract Background The effect of surgery on quality of life (QOL) in the early postoperative period is important in Crohn's disease because of the multiple surgical procedures that patients undergo and the acute QOL benefits that might occur as a result of modifications of medical treatment. Earlier studies of the effect of surgery on QOL have been retrospective and assessed changes 3 to 24 months after surgery. This study prospectively assesses the effect of surgery on QOL in the early postoperative period. Study design Patients requiring surgical management of sequelae of Crohn's disease were obtained from a prospectively entered database including data on QOL. Preoperative and 30-day postoperative QOL were determined in 82 patients using Cleveland Global Quality of Life (CGQL) scores (range from 0 [worst] to 10 [best possible] QOL). Preoperative and postoperative scores were compared using a paired t -test to determine the significance of any change in QOL after surgery. The effect of other variables on change in QOL after surgery was assessed using the t -test or analysis of variance. Multifactor analysis of variance was used to assess the effect of several independent variables. Results Eighty-two patients (41 women) of 142 patients who had had surgery (58%) had complete preoperative and 30-day postoperative scores. The incidence of complications was 23% (11% were major). There was a significant improvement in QOL 30 days after surgery as measured by CGQL (0.6 ± 0.2 preoperative to 0.7 ± 0.2 postoperative; mean ± SD; p Conclusions QOL as measured by CGQL improves early after surgery (30 days postoperatively). Improvement in CGQL is greater in female patients and patients who do not develop complications in the postoperative period. It is not affected by other patient characteristics, nature of disease, indication, or procedure performed. Most patients who undergo surgery for Crohn's disease feel that surgery has helped them and would undergo surgery again.
Association between treatment toxicity and outcomes in oncology clinical trials

BACKGROUND Whether or not toxicity predicts clinical outcomes has long been a question regarding cancer treatments. While prior studies have focused on specific cancers, therapies, and toxicities, no comprehensive evidence exists on whether treatment toxicity predicts favorable outcomes. METHODS We abstracted treatment toxicity and clinical outcome data from a sample of phase III oncology randomized clinical trials (n = 99 trials). We investigated whether treatments with relatively greater toxicity compared with their controls had relatively higher, lower, or equivocal rates of clinical efficacy, measured by progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Several toxicities were assessed (all grades, grades III/IV, cutaneous rash, gastrointestinal toxicity, and myelosuppression). RESULTS Toxicity and efficacy were greater among treatments than controls (e.g. 3.5 instances of all-grade toxicity per patient in treatment arms versus 2.8 instances in controls, P < 0.001; mean PFS of 9.1 months across treatment arms versus 7.1 months across controls, P < 0.001; mean OS of 18.6 months across treatment arms versus 16.9 months across controls, P < 0.001). Across trials, greater relative treatment toxicity was strongly associated with greater PFS in treatments versus controls (P < 0.001), but not OS (P = 0.44). Although higher relative rates of myelosuppression and cutaneous rash among treatments were not associated with greater treatment efficacy, greater relative gastrointestinal toxicity among treatments was associated with greater relative PFS compared with controls (P = 0.007). CONCLUSION Across trials, treatments with relatively greater all-grade toxicity compared with controls are associated with relatively greater PFS but not OS.
The Effect of Presumptions: An Empirical Examination of Inter-Circuit Sentencing Disparities After United States v. Booker

In the two years since United States v. Booker, the circuits have divided over how to use the Federal Criminal Sentencing Guidelines when reviewing sentences imposed by district courts. Seven circuits have held that a sentence within the Guidelines range is entitled to a presumption of reasonableness on appeal; five have held that it is not. Although the Supreme Court's recent holding in Rita v. United States allows the courts of appeals to adopt a presumption of reasonableness for within-Guidelines sentences, it does not require them to, and so the circuit split remains. Using this circuit split as a natural experiment, we undertake what we believe to be the first statistically robust analysis of the effect of a presumption of reasonableness on sentences imposed at the federal district court level. Specifically, using 145,047 individual-level observations recorded by the United States Sentencing Commission (comprising all recorded federal sentences in all twelve circuits for a one-year period beginning in November 2004 and ending in October 2006), we perform a multivariate regression analysis to determine how a circuit's adoption or rejection of a presumption of reasonableness for within-Guidelines sentences affects the frequency with which district courts impose below-Guidelines sentences. We find that a circuit's adoption of a presumption of reasonableness decreases the frequency of below-Guidelines sentences by less than one percent, although this result is statistically significant. Our results do not, however, robustly support the inverse hypothesis that a circuit's rejection of a presumption of reasonableness increases the frequency of below-Guidelines sentences. The effect of such a rejection is insignificant when we control for circuit-specific fixed effects, and appears to be driven almost entirely by the particular behavior of the Second Circuit. Finally, we are similarly unable to find robust empirical support for the hypothesis that intercircuit differences in sentencing after Booker can be explained simply by a circuit's underlying characteristics.
A libertarian case for monarchy

Clear thought and discussion suffer when all sorts of good things, like liberty, equality, fraternity, rights, majority rule, and general welfare – some in tension with others – are marketed together under the portmanteau label «democracy.» Democracy’s core meaning is a particular method of choosing, replacing, and influencing government officials (Schumpeter 1950). It is not a doctrine of what government should and should not do. Nor is it the same thing as personal freedom or a free society or an egalitarian social ethos. True enough, some classical liberals, like Thomas Paine (1791) and Ludwig von Mises (1919), did scorn hereditary monarchy and did express touching faith that representative democracy would choose excellent leaders and adopt policies truly serving the common interest. Experience has taught us better, as the American founders already knew when constructing a government of separated and limited powers and of only filtered democracy. As an exercise, and without claiming that my arguments are decisive, I’ll contend that constitutional monarchy can better preserve people’s freedom and opportunities than democracy as it has turned out in practice.1
Spot-weld joint stiffness degradation under high mileage: Probabilistic analysis

This paper develops a reliability-based methodology for the evaluation of stiffness degradation of spot-welded joints under high mileage. A global-local finite element analysis is used, with the loads on the detailed three-dimensional joint model coming from finite element analysis of the entire car model with proving ground loads. Probabilistic fatigue crack propagation analysis is developed for multi-axial variable amplitude loading history on the joint. Multiple spot welds contribute to the stiffness of the joint. Hence the problem is addressed through system reliability techniques. The effect of spot-weld separation on joint stiffness, and on global vehicle stiffness, is incorporated. This results in the computation of the statistics of vehicle stiffness degradation with mileage.
Interfacial activity of liquid-liquid extraction reagents—I

Gibb's isotherm curves were run for a series of dialkyl phosphoric, phosphonic, and phosphinic acids, most in dodecane against 1 M HNO3 at 25°C. The interfacial areas and minimum concentration of interfacial saturation (Cmin) were correlated against changes in the polar and non-polar parts of these amphipathic molecules. Linear correlations were observed for log Cmin values of the phosphoric acids studied and their acidity constants (pKa) and the log of their metal ion extraction constants (log KS) for Am3+. Effects of changes in solvent and temperature were also studied and are discussed. Proof was found for a monomer/dimer equilibrium in concentrations under 3 × 10−4 M for bis(2-ethylhexyl)phosphinic acid.
State-Building and Tax Regimes in Central America. By Aaron Schneider. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2012. 260p. $90.00..

After a long period waiting in the wings, the Fisc (the state treasury, or the larger system of public finance) has returned to center stage in comparative politics. During this time, fiscal sociologist Joseph Schumpeter was more likely to be cited for his “creative destruction” thesis, than for his “crisis of the tax state” analysis. While the “return to the state” dates back to the late 1970s, it still took another decade before taxation became a monograph headliner, with influential works by Margaret Levi ( Of Rule and Revenue, 1988), Charles Tilly ( Coercion, Capital and European States: AD 990–1992, 1992) and Sven Steinmo ( Taxation and Democracy: Swedish, British and American Approaches to Financing the Modern State, 1996). Since then, tax policy and extractive capacity have increasingly come to be recognized by comparativists as central to state-building projects, thus confirming Edmund Burke's old adage that “the revenue of the state is the state.” As part of this fiscal revival in comparative politics, Aaron Schneider has rightfully earned the status as leading expert on Central America with his new book, State-Building and Tax Regimes in Central America .
Second-order conditioning of fear

First-order classical fear conditioning trials (tone paired with shock) were interspersed with second-order classical conditioning trials (light paired with the tone). Subsequently, Ss (rats) learned to escape the light by jumping a hurdle. Comparison of this performance with that of two control groups allowed the conclusion that fear was conditioned at the second order.
Nets and Filters in Topology

(1955). Nets and Filters in Topology. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 62, No. 8, pp. 551-557.
Abstract 2784: Mitochondrial genomic backgrounds affect nuclear DNA methylation and gene expression

Increasing evidence shows mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genetics contribute to complex diseases like cancer, but the mechanisms responsible are mostly unknown. A new genetically engineered mouse model was created that contains nuclear DNA from one mouse strain and mtDNA from different mouse strain(s), designated Mitochondrial Nuclear Exchange (MNX). We have demonstrated that specific mtDNA-nDNA combinations could modify metastasis efficiency. The underlying mechanism is hypothesized to be due to mtDNA-driven changes in nDNA expression, but how mtDNA regulates the coordinated gene expression is not yet known. Since DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification that occurs in all vertebrate genomes and retrograde and anterograde cross-talk exists between the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, we hypothesized that the nuclear epigenome, specifically methylation, changes as a result of mitochondrial haplotype. To test this hypothesis, we performed Meth-Seq using the Agilent Mouse SureSelectXT, RNA-Seq using Illumina HiSeq 2500®, and Affymetrix GeneChip® Mouse Transcriptome Array. Initial studies were performed using four male mouse brains (8 wk) that were pooled from different litters and cages of wild-type and MNX mice. Significant and selective differential DNA methylation and gene expression patterns were observed and indicate that there are some global, some subtle, but mostly reproducible, differences between these strains. Pathway analysis show clustering of changes involving cell adhesion, ion channels, cell surface receptors, metabolism and molecules involved in transport. Together these observations provide insights into how mtDNA could be altering epigenetic regulation and thereby contribute to cancer pathogenesis. Support: Susan G. Komen for the Cure (SAC11037), Natl Fndn Cancer Res, Steiner Family Fund for Metastasis Research, Kansas Bioscience Authority CA134981, P30-CA168524 Citation Format: Carolyn J. Vivian, Amanda E. Brinker, Gerald C. Gooden, Christophe Legendre, Samuel Turpin, Devin C. Koestler, Bodour Salhia, Danny R. Welch. Mitochondrial genomic backgrounds affect nuclear DNA methylation and gene expression. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2784.
A new positive psychology: A critique of the movement based on early Christian thought

AbstractPositive psychology offers two visions for human life: a hedonic path that focuses on the seeking of pleasure and happiness, and a eudaimonic journey that involves the development of virtues conducive to a good life. Early Christian thought offers a sophisticated critique of the strengths and weaknesses of these visions because it responded to similar ideas that were present in classical philosophical systems like Stoicism. Early Christian writers rejected hedonic understandings of human flourishing (as did most people in the classical period) and approved of a focus on virtue as necessary to a good life. They also would join with positive psychologists and criticize a narrowly medical model view of mental health. However, there are also important differences between early Christian thought and eudaimonic positive psychology. Early Christian authors had a different understanding of virtue as holistic and relational, in contrast to the more fragmented and individualistic picture of virtue and healt...
A Review of the Literature of Mirtazapine in Co-Occurring Depression and an Alcohol Use Disorder.

Background: Prior medication studies involving individuals with major depression in combination with an alcohol use disorder (MDD/AUD) have mainly focused on SSRI and tricyclic antidepressants, with generally ineffective results. Consequently, effective treatments for that common comorbid condition remain elusive. Mirtazapine is an antidepressant medicine with a unique pharmacological profile, whose effectiveness for treating noncomorbid depression reportedly may exceed that of SSRIs. Objective/Methods: We now review the published literature regarding the tolerability and efficacy of mirtazapine for the treatment of the depression and the pathological alcohol ingestion of individuals with co-occurring MDD/AUD, including a review of four of our own small studies and two studies conducted outside the United States. Results/Conclusions: The findings of these studies suggest that mirtazapine is well tolerated among persons with comorbid MDD/AUD. Results also provide some evidence of efficacy for mirtazapine for decreasing the level of depression of persons with co-occurring MDD/AUD, and suggest that decreases in depression may occur relatively quickly after starting treatment, but provide no evidence of effectiveness for decreasing the level of alcohol ingestion. Large-scale double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are warranted to further clarify the tolerability and efficacy of mirtazapine among individuals with MDD/AUD.
What have we learned about social media by studying Facebook? A decade in review:

A recent review published by Rains and Brunner documented an overwhelming preponderance of the Facebook brand in scholarship about social networking sites (SNS). This follow-up analysis shows that ...
Programming games with Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0

Memory, Chance, Hangman --- do these games bring back memories? Implement the Visual Basic tasks, logic, and solutions to program each step to these familiar games. You will design the user interface as well as plan the forms and command buttons for ten games. You'll see results quickly while applying Visual Basic concepts such as If statements, string functions, image control, and message boxes. Programming Games with Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 is an ideal supplement to any of Course Technology's Visual Basic offerings, or by itself.
A Subspace Approach to Spectral Quantification for MR Spectroscopic Imaging

Objective: To provide a new approach to spectral quantification for magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI), incorporating both spatial and spectral priors. Methods: A novel signal model is proposed, which represents the spectral distributions of each molecule as a subspace and the entire spectrum as a union of subspaces. Based on this model, the spectral quantification can be solved in two steps: 1) subspace estimation based on the empirical distributions of the spectral parameters estimated using spectral priors; and 2) parameter estimation for the union-of-subspaces model incorporating spatial priors. Results: The proposed method has been evaluated using both simulated and experimental data, producing impressive results. Conclusion: The proposed union-of-subspaces representation of spatiospectral functions provides an effective computational framework for solving the MRSI spectral quantification problem with spatiospectral constraints. Significance: The proposed approach transforms how the MRSI spectral quantification problem is solved and enables efficient and effective use of spatiospectral priors to improve parameter estimation. The resulting algorithm is expected to be useful for a wide range of quantitative metabolic imaging studies using MRSI.
Improved capture of stable flies (Diptera: Muscidae) by placement of knight stick sticky fly traps protected by electric fence inside animal exhibit yards at the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park.

Stable flies are noxious blood-feeding pests of exotic animals at zoological parks, inflicting painful bites, and causing discomfort to animals. Stable fly management is difficult because of the flies’ tendency to remain on the host animals only when feeding. Non-toxic traps can be efficient but traps placed around exhibit perimeters captured fewer-than-expected numbers of flies. By surrounding traps with square electric fence enclosures, traps could be placed in the exhibits with the host animals and compared with an equal number of traps placed along perimeter fences. During a 21-week study, traps inside exhibits captured 5× more stable flies than traps placed along exhibit perimeters. Traps inside exhibits tended to show more fluctuations in fly populations than traps along perimeters. The increased numbers of flies captured using this technique should provide relief from this pestiferous fly and greatly improve animal health and welfare. We believe this to be the first study where traps were used to capture stable flies in exhibit yards at a zoological park.
Regulatory mechanisms are revealed by the distribution of transcription initiation times in single microbial cells

Transcription is the dominant point of control of gene expression. Biochemical studies have revealed key molecular components of transcription and their interactions, but the dynamics of transcription initiation in cells is still poorly understood. This state of affairs is being remedied with experiments that observe transcriptional dynamics in single cells using fluorescent reporters. Quantitative information about transcription initiation dynamics can also be extracted from experiments that use electron micrographs of RNA polymerases caught in the act of transcribing a gene (Miller spreads). Inspired by these data we analyze a general stochastic model of transcription initiation and elongation, and compute the distribution of transcription initiation times. We show that different mechanisms of initiation leave distinct signatures in the distribution of initiation times that can be compared to experiments. We analyze published micrographs of RNA polymerases transcribing ribosomal RNA genes in E.coli and compare the observed distributions of inter-polymerase distances with the predictions from previously hypothesized mechanisms for the regulation of these genes. Our analysis demonstrates the potential of measuring the distribution of time intervals between initiation events as a probe for dissecting mechanisms of transcription initiation in live cells.