cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Factors contributing to disparities in mortality among patients with non–small-cell lung cancer

Historically, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who are non-white, have low incomes, low educational attainment, and non-private insurance have worse survival. We assessed whether differences in survival were attributable to sociodemographic factors, clinical characteristics at diagnosis, or treatments received. We surveyed a multiregional cohort of patients diagnosed with NSCLC from 2003 to 2005 and followed through 2012. We used Cox proportional hazard analyses to estimate the risk of death associated with race/ethnicity, annual income, educational attainment, and insurance status, unadjusted and sequentially adjusting for sociodemographic factors, clinical characteristics, and receipt of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Of 3250 patients, 64% were white, 16% black, 7% Hispanic, and 7% Asian; 36% of patients had incomes <$20 000/y; 23% had not completed high school; and 74% had non-private insurance. In unadjusted analyses, black race, Hispanic ethnicity, income <$60 000/y, not attending college, and not having private insurance were all associated with an increased risk of mortality. Black-white differences were not statistically significant after adjustment for sociodemographic factors, although patients with patients without a high school diploma and patients with incomes <$40 000/y continued to have an increased risk of mortality. Differences by educational attainment were not statistically significant after adjustment for clinical characteristics. Differences by income were not statistically significant after adjustment for clinical characteristics and treatments. Clinical characteristics and treatments received primarily contributed to mortality disparities by race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status in patients with NSCLC. Additional efforts are needed to assure timely diagnosis and use of effective treatment to lessen these disparities.
Path Planning Algorithms and Their Use in Robotic Navigation Systems

This paper serves as an introduction to the concept of path planning and navigation. Contents include path planning algorithms and their many applications. Specific applications include navigation systems in autonomous/semi-autonomous systems. Often these autonomous systems rely on several layers of sensor data, however at the root is a search-algorithm-based navigation system. This paper is to serve as an introduction to these algorithms and the use cases where young/new roboticists can develop path finding/path planning applications to fit their educational robotics needs. The A*, (A-Star), search algorithm and its applications will be the primary algorithm used within this paper. This paper is a portion of an ongoing research project for a robotic vehicle navigation system.
Hemitropic properties of thin non-centrosymmetric 3D woven textile composites

Due to their microstructural architecture, 3D woven textile composites, (3DWTC), exhibit complex macroscopic behavior, which cannot be effectively captured using classical continuum theories. One reason for this can be attributed to the ratio of the characteristic microscopic and macroscopic length scales, (d and L, respectively), which violates the separation of length scales requirement in micromechanics. In these instances, higher order continuum theories, such as micropolar theory, are considered to effectively describe the macroscopic behavior of a material. In this study, the 3D macroscopic constitutive relation of 3D woven textile composite (3DWTC) is reported. The three different 3DWTC considered are referred to as thin asymmetric, thick asymmetric, and thick symmetric. The lack of centro-symmetry in the asymmetric microstructures produces an interesting anisotropic response, such as stress-curvature (or couple stress-strain) coupling effect. This is analogous to asymmetric plate structures and the coupling between the resultant forces and curvatures through the B-matrix. At the macroscopic (continuum) scale, the material is modeled as a micropolar continuum, where internal couple-stresses and curvature strains are introduced. To capture the stress-curvature coupling effect, a generalized Aero-Kuvshinski type constitutive model is considered. With this, the anisotropic micropolar properties and the additional hemitropic material constants of the 3DWTC are determined numerically and their results qualitatively summarized.
Modeling global radiative effect of brown carbon: A larger heating source in the tropical free troposphere than black carbon

Abstract. Carbonaceous aerosols significantly affect global radiative forcing and climate through absorption and scattering of sunlight. Black carbon (BC) and brown carbon (BrC) are light-absorbing carbonaceous aerosols. The direct radiative effect (DRE) of BrC is uncertain. A recent study suggests that BrC absorption is comparable to BC in the upper troposphere over biomass burning regions and that the resulting radiative heating tends to stabilize the atmosphere. Yet current climate models do not include proper physical and chemical treatments of BrC. In this study, we derived a BrC global biomass burning emission inventory on the basis of the Global Fire Emissions Database 4 (GFED4), developed a BrC module in the Community Atmosphere Model version 5 (CAM5) of Community Earth System Model (CESM) model, and investigated the photo-bleaching effect and convective transport of BrC on the basis of Studies of Emissions, Atmospheric Composition, Clouds and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys (SEAC4RS) and Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry Project (DC-3) measurements. The model simulations of BC were also evaluated using HIAPER (High-Performance Instrumented Airborne Platform for Environmental Research) Pole-to-Pole Observations (HIPPO) measurements. We found that globally BrC is a significant absorber, the DRE of which is 0.10 W/m 2 , more than 25 % of BC DRE (+0.39 W/m 2 ). Most significantly, model results indicated that BrC atmospheric heating in the tropical mid and upper troposphere is larger than that of BC. The source of tropical BrC is mainly from wildfires, which are more prevalent in the tropical regions than higher latitudes and release much more BrC relative to BC than industrial sources. While BC atmospheric heating is skewed towards northern mid-latitude lower atmosphere, BrC heating is more centered in the tropical free troposphere. The contribution of BrC heating to the Hadley circulation and latitudinal expansion of the tropics is comparable to BC heating.
Convergence Rate Analysis for Distributed Optimization with Localization

We study the effect of the localization scheme on the convergence rate in the setting of distributed gradient descent for smooth optimization. Localization is a technique that exploits the partial dependency structure in the objective functions to reduce the memory storage and communication involved in distributed optimization algorithms. We find that the localization scheme could reduce the convergence rate by a constant factor, which depends on the sizes of the local networks and the spectral radii of the associated optimal doubly stochastic matrices for averaging. The choice of local networks directly affects the memory cost, the communication cost, and the convergence speed. In order to characterize the relation, we explore how the optimal spectral radius depends on the topology of a graph, i.e., local network in the context. We provide a numerical example that shows the saving in terms of memory, communication, as well as iterations required could be tremendous with the localization schemes.
Long-Term Management: Modern Measures to Prevent Readmission in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent indication for hospitalization and represents a common manifestation of portal hypertension and decompensated liver disease that contributes to hospital readmissions. Multiple new techniques are being evaluated to assist in preventing readmissions in these high-risk patients. Techniques to improve medication adherence are paramount. The use of telemedicine and on-demand patient assessment is likely to diminish hospitalizations for HE. Wearable technology has the potential to assist in HE diagnosis and prevent HE progression, with an anticipated diminution in hospital readmissions. This article discusses current and potential future techniques to improve outcomes in these vulnerable patients.
Consider Visualizing Society within the ACM Code of Ethics

The effect of introducing a "Stakeholder Impact Visualization" into the Consider step of the CARE process in The ACM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct is presented. This treatment increased the number and type of societal stakeholders identified and the number and type of requests for situational contextual made by computing students, when using the CARE process to consider an ethical decision contained in a malware case study.
Distal esophageal spasm: Update on diagnosis and management in the era of high-resolution manometry

Distal esophageal spasm (DES) is a rare major motility disorder in the Chicago classification of esophageal motility disorders (CC). DES is diagnosed by finding of ≥ 20% premature contractions, with normal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation on high-resolution manometry (HRM) in the latest version of CCv3.0. This feature differentiates it from achalasia type 3, which has an elevated LES relaxation pressure. Like other spastic esophageal disorders, DES has been linked to conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, psychiatric conditions, and narcotic use. In addition to HRM, ancillary tests such as endoscopy and barium esophagram can provide supplemental information to differentiate DES from other conditions. Functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP), a new cutting-edge diagnostic tool, is able to recognize abnormal LES dysfunction that can be missed by HRM and can further guide LES targeted treatment when esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction is diagnosed on FLIP. Medical treatment in DES mostly targets symptomatic relief and often fails. Botulinum toxin injection during endoscopy may provide a temporary therapy that wears off over time. Myotomy through peroral endoscopic myotomy or via surgical Heller myotomy can provide long term relief in cases with persistent symptoms.
Post-chemotherapy Laparoscopic Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Mixed Malignant Germ Cell Testicular Tumors

Abstract Introduction Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) is performed to treat residual disease following chemotherapy for stage II and III testicular cancer. Significant morbidity can be associated with open RPLND. As such, laparoscopic techniques have been demonstrated to be safe and effective in select cases. Outcomes following post-chemotherapy laparoscopic RPLND for mixed malignant germ cell testicular tumors (MMGCT) are limited in the literature. Patients and Methods We performed a retrospective chart review for patients who underwent laparoscopic RPLND at our institution for MMGCT from May 2006 to October 2016. Patient clinical data and perioperative and oncologic outcomes were recorded. Results Twenty-three patients underwent post-chemotherapy laparoscopic RPLND. Thirty-five percent (8/23) underwent bilateral template dissection, whereas 65% (15/23) underwent a modified unilateral template dissection. Robotic assistance was utilized in 22% (5/23) of cases. Bilateral template was inferior to unilateral template RPLND in operative time, estimated blood loss, open conversion rate, length of hospital stay, and complication rate. The mean follow-up was 35.1 months and 43.3 months for the bilateral and unilateral template groups, respectively. The mean lymph node yield and recurrence rate were similar between the 2 cohorts. One recurrence of mature teratoma was noted 67 months after unilateral laparoscopic RPLND. Conclusions In select patients, laparoscopic RPLND for stage II and III MMGCT is safe and effective in the post-chemotherapy setting. Bilateral template laparoscopic RPLND was associated with inferior perioperative outcomes, but similar oncologic outcomes compared with unilateral template. Patients requiring bilateral template RPLND should be considered for an open approach.
Countertrade: The Role of Liquidity Shortage

Countertrade is a generic term for parallel business transactions linking sales contracts with agreements to purchase goods or services. Various forms of countertrade all have one common feature-re...
Computationally Efficient Image Correlation for De-blurring with Photon-Counting Instruments

We present a new implementation of an image alignment and de-blurring algorithm for astronomical observations with photon-counting imagers. The algorithm substantially corrects the effects of observatory attitude changes over long observations and enables the reconstruction of images with superior resolution to those generated without alignment processing. The performance of the algorithm is quantified via simulations of a realistic observation scenario. We formulate a novel, computationally efficient implementation of the alignment algorithm that enables its use for applications with large image sizes and limited computational hardware. Such computational efficiency is critical for spaceflight applications where extreme environments limit the availability of computational hardware to components several generations behind the state of the art. We present an implementation of a Verilog realization of the alignment algorithm which is suitable for execution on a space-qualified Field Programmable Gate Array.
Robust Optimization in Short-Term Power System Operations

In this chapter, we study the applications of robust optimization in day-ahead and real-time operation of power systems with significant wind and solar generation.
Economic Efficiency in a World of Frictions

As the literature has given increasing attention to the roles played by transaction costs and bounded rationality in shaping economic outcomes, attempts have been made to redefine the concept of economic efficiency. The traditional criterion, which is linked to the standard Pareto conditions, is said to lead to the nirvana fallacy. The newer, alternative definitions, however, are also open to criticism on grounds that they involve contradictory assumptions. It appears that, for logical consistency to hold, only a loose, qualitative definition of allocative efficiency can be established for a system in which decision makers have limited cognitive capacity and both transaction and deliberation costs are positive. Given this interpretation, the analytical focus should shift from concern with narrow technical issues of allocative efficiency to a consideration of how legal, social and other constraints can be changed to improve economic performance.
Judgments regarding sexual aggression as a function of sex of aggressor and victim

The effects of sex of aggressor and victim (male/female, female/male, male/male, female/female) on judgments regarding sexual aggression on a date were studied. Participants were 415 female and 279 male community college students (M age = 23.0 years; 47.3% European American, 18.6% Latin American, 7.5% African American, 7.8% South East Asian American, 3.7% Asian American, and 15.1% other) who read one of four vignettes describing a date in which forced intercourse occurred. Participants rated degree of disapproval of the aggressor's behavior from their own viewpoint (Participant Rating), the victim's viewpoint (Victim Rating), and the aggressor's viewpoint (Aggressor Rating). Results of 4 × 2 (Vignette × Participant Gender) ANOVAs of Participant Rating and Victim Rating indicated similar disapproval of the aggressor for all couple types except for female aggressor/male victim, for whom disapproval was significantly lower. The aggressor's overall behavior was rated as date/acquaintance rape by 46.6–55.4% of participants for all vignettes except the female aggressor/male victim vignette (18.7%).
Low-molecular-weight xylanase from Trichoderma viride.

Abstract An endo-1,4-beta-xylanase (1,4-beta-D-xylan xylanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.8) has been isolated from a commercial preparation of Trichoderma viride. The molecular weight was 22,000 by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and the pI value was 9.3. The xylanase was a true xylanase without cellulase activity. When the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the first 50 residues was compared with that of a xylanase from Schizophyllum commune, strong evidence for homology was found, with more than 50% amino acid identity. T. viride xylanase also possessed extensive identity with a proposed amino-terminal consensus sequence of xylanases from bacteria.
Lysis of Vibrio succinogenes by Ethylenediamine-tetraacetic Acid or Lysozyme

Wolin, M. J. (University of Illinois, Urbana). Lysis of Vibrio succinogenes by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid or lysozyme. J. Bacteriol. 91:1781–1786. 1966.—Cell suspensions of Vibrio succinogenes are lysed by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or lysozyme. Lysis occurs at alkaline pH and is prevented by 0.15 m NaCl or KCl or 0.3 m sucrose. The addition of 10−3m Mg++, 10−3m spermine, or 10−2m Ca++ prevents lysozyme lysis, and 10−4m spermine prevents EDTA lysis. EDTA lysis leads to the formation of a cell ghost, and lysozyme lysis leads to the formation of an empty round body. Freezing and thawing of cells permits lysozyme attack which is not prevented by the protective agents mentioned above. Much of the cell protein, and almost all of the nucleic acids, are released from the cells during EDTA lysis. Treatment of frozen-thawed cells with lysozyme at neutral pH does not cause release of more than 50% of the cell protein and 60% of the nucleic acids of the cells.
Gaussian processes: Nonlinear analysis and stochastic calculus

Abstract : This is a survey of recent work on nonlinear analysis and stochastic calculus for Gaussian processes. Topics included are multiple Wiener integrals for Gaussian processes and their use in nonlinear system representation and identification, and stochastic integrals for Gaussian processes and their differential formula. (Author)
Fixed-Point Effects

This chapter contains sections titled: Background Fixed-Point Systems Overflow (Saturation) Effects Arithmetic Errors Coefficient Sensitivity Second-Order Sections Normal IIR Scaling Limit Cycling ]]>
Infections Following Facial Composite Tissue Allotransplantation—Single Center Experience and Review of the Literature

We reviewed medical records of all patients (n = 4) who underwent facial composite tissue allotransplantation (FCTA) at our center between April 2009 and May 2011; data were censored in June 2012. We searched for FCTA publications and reviewed them for infectious complications and prophylaxis strategies. Three patients received full and one partial FCTA at our institution. Two recipients were cytomegalovirus (CMV) Donor (D)+/Recipient (R)− and two CMV D+/R+. Perioperative prophylaxis included vancomycin, cefazolin and micafungin and was adjusted based on peritransplant cultures. Additional prophylaxis included trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and valganciclovir. Two recipients developed surgical site infection and two developed pneumonia early after transplantation. Both CMV D+/R− recipients developed CMV disease after discontinuation of prophylaxis, recovered with valganciclovir treatment and did not experience subsequent rejection. Other posttransplant infections included bacterial parotitis, polymicrobial bacteremia, invasive dermatophyte infection and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Nine publications described infectious complications in another 9 FCTA recipients. Early posttransplant infections were similar to those observed in our cohort and included pulmonary, surgical-site and catheter-associated infections. CMV was the most frequently described opportunist. In conclusion, infections following FCTA were related to anatomical, technical and donor/recipient factors. CMV disease occurred in D+/R− recipients after prophylaxis, but was not associated with rejection.
Abstract W MP1: Leadership + Education = Quality

Background: Baptist Health System (BHS) leadership is invested in “education and training activities that are relevant to the program’s scope of service” as required by Primary Stroke Center Certification. BHS is a five hospital system which reports as one program in five locations. There are 20 stroke-specific nursing departments, with over 700 practitioners and 1,500 stroke admissions annually. This complex system presents unique challenges when developing an education plan to meet Stroke Certification requirements. Purpose: The purpose is to describe a stroke education plan which offers a variety of learning modalities reflecting the complexity of stroke care while meeting the learning needs of nurses in diverse clinical areas. Methods: The BHS Stroke Education Council was developed as a subcommittee of the Regional Stroke Committee and includes representation from all the clinical departments. The education plan was developed based on identified knowledge deficits, leadership feedback and performance outcomes. The education content addresses scope of service, stroke pathophysiology, assessment, diagnostics, treatments, policies and protocols. The content is presented in a variety of learning modalities including self -paced learning, interactive classes with NIHSS skills check off, stroke hymnal, and in-services. As a result of staff evaluations the education plan was restructured to meet the learning needs of the participants. The Stroke Education Council meets monthly and the plan is revised annually to address educational opportunities. Results: The success of this plan is reflected by a 92% practitioner completion rate. In addition, there was a 10% increase in compliance of all required stroke performance measures over a three month period following implementation of the stroke education plan. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results are due to the support of BHS leadership who recognize that staff education drives superior care as reflected in quality data indicators and the overall success of the stroke program. The skills and knowledge of the nursing staff is recognized through the achievement of the AHA/ASA Gold Plus and Target Stroke Honor Roll hospital awards in August 2012 and in August 2013.
Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are associated with preeclampsia in African-Americans.

There is evidence that hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance play a role in the development of hypertension. Accordingly, in our ongoing longitudinal study of pregnancy-induced hypertension, we have measured fasting levels of insulin and glucose at 18 to 25 weeks gestation in 140 nulliparous African-American women followed prospectively to delivery. To test the hypothesis that hyperinsulinemia may be related to the development of preeclampsia, discriminant analysis of mean arterial pressure (MAP), fasting plasma insulin levels, insulin to glucose ratios, and left lateral forearm vascular resistance were examined as predictors of preeclampsia. Statistical analysis controlled for two factors known to be related to insulin levels, gestational age and pregestational body mass index. Gestational hypertensives were not different with regard to blood pressure and metabolic factors from normals and thus were placed in the control group. Women who subsequently developed preeclampsia had mean (±SE) fasting plasma insulin levels of 51.0 ± 12.0 μU/mL at 20 weeks and controls had values of 29.0 ± 2.8. Only MAP [F(4,135) = 8.8, P P 2 = 11.5%]. The finding that elevated second-trimester insulin levels characterize the subsequent development of preeclampsia with control for increased MAP supports the hypothesis that hyperinsulinemia and associated insulin resistance may contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
A Self-Report Measure of Cognitive Processes Associated with Creativity

This study sought to explore creative cognitive processes and the similarities and differences in how descriptions of these processes group together in various self-report subscales. Based on empirical evidence from numerous studies involving the cognitive components of creativity training, the Cognitive Processes Associated with Creativity (CPAC) scale was developed to efficiently and directly address the processes of brainstorming, metaphorical and analogical thinking, perspective-taking, imagery, incubation, and flow. An online administered pilot study (n = 226) and laboratory follow-up study (n = 120) collected responses to the newly created CPAC scale and a variety of other creativity measures. Overall, the results provide preliminary evidence for the psychometric qualities of the CPAC scale. Specifically, the data from both studies support the construct validity and divergent validity, with mixed evidence for concurrent validity.
Ion-beam etching for the precise manufacture of optical coatings

We propose using ion-beam etching as an additional tool for the accurate control of the thickness of thin films during the manufacture of sensitive optical multilayer coatings. We use a dual ion-beam sputtering system in the deposition and etch modes. In the deposition mode both the assist and sputtering ion beams are used to produce dense films at deposition rates in the range of 0.1-0.3 nm/s. In the etch mode, only the assist ion beam is used to remove material at a rate of less than 0.1 nm/s. A very high precision in the layer thicknesses can be obtained by alternating between deposition and etch modes. We observed that etching did not significantly affect the surface quality and the uniformity of the coatings. We introduced etching into our current manufacturing process and demonstrated its potential for the fabrication of several optical multilayer systems with performances that are very sensitive to the thickness of their layers.
Short latency somatosensory evoked potentials to median nerve stimulation: effect of low frequency filter.

Abstract The effect of low frequency filter bandpass restriction on median nerve short latency somato-sensory evoked potentials was studied in 19 normal adult subjects. Components recorded with open bandpass (5–3000 Hz) were designatd by numerical subscript (e.g. N20) and components recorded with restricted bandpass (150 or 300–3000 Hz) were designated by numerical superscript (e.g. N20). In open bandpass recordings, the response consisted of 3 positive potentials, the third of which was sometimes bilobed (P9, P11, P13, P14), followed by negative, positive, and negative potentials (N20, P23, N30). In restricted bandpass recordings the first three positie potentials were well defined and the N20 component was fractionated into 3 components (N16, N18, N20). N20 was followed by P21 and N23. Scalp distribution studies showed that N16 was widely distributed over the scalp but was slightly more prominent over primary somesthetic scalp regions contralateral to the side of stimulation which is consistent with an origin in caudal thalamocortical radiations. N18 and N20 were localized to somesthetic scalp regions contralateral to the side of stimulation suggesting an origin in terminal thalamocortical radiations or cerebral cortex. Open pass P23 and N30 and restricted pass P21 and N23 recorded over somesthetic scalp regions contralateral to the side of stimulation were often associated with components of similar latency but opposite polarity recorded over frontal scalp regions. Low amplitude fast frequency components were sometimes recorded between 25 and 40 msec in restricted bandpass recordings. These findings show that N20 arises in multiple generator sources of both far- and near-field origin and that multiple generators contribute to the SEP within 10–15 msec of the arrival of the volley in cerebral cortical elements. Since bandpass restriction selectively affects slow frequency activity which reflects primarily synaptic events rather than fast frequency activity which reflects axonal events, the use of bandpass restriction may aid in differentiating between these different types of activity.
Constraints on the Magnetic Buoyancy Instabilities of a Shear-Generated Magnetic Layer

In a recent paper addressing the solar Ω-effect, we found that the action of forced vertical (radial) shear on the vertical component of poloidal magnetic field could induce magnetic buoyancy that produced rising, undulating tubular magnetic structures, as often envisaged arising from the solar tachocline. However, such dynamics were only found to exist under extreme circumstances (extremely large forcing). Here, we analytically examine the reasons underpinning the difficulties in obtaining magnetic buoyancy in this type of system. Specifically, under various assumptions about the maintenance of the shear, we derive some analytic limits on the ability of localized radial shear to produce a toroidal magnetic field from a poloidal field. First, we consider a local time-dependent context, where an unmaintained shear builds a toroidal magnetic layer over time by shearing the poloidal field. Second, we consider the possibility that maintenance is necessary to obtain stationary buoyant dynamics, and examine a local time-independent context, where the shear is maintained by a weak forcing. In both situations, we derive estimates or mathematical bounds for the toroidal magnetic energy that can be realized and its gradients, and thus evaluate the likelihood of magnetic buoyancy instabilities. We find that the results can be expressed as conditions on the imposed shear-flow Richardson number, Ri, and the magnetic Prandtl number, σM, requiring either low Ri or high σM for instability. We found the former in earlier work by Vasil & Brummell, and perform a new simulation here confirming the latter. These results suggest that, for the case of the solar tachocline where σM is small and Ri is large, the assumptions of our models must be violated, and a more comprehensive model is likely required.
Charge-Induced Unfolding of Multiply Charged Polyethylene Glycol Ions

The electrical mobility of mass-selected single poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains of mass m (<14 kDalton) and charge state z (+1 to +5) reveals a near-spherical shape above a critical mass m*(z) ∼ z2. The abrupt unfolding observed at m < m*(z) shows that the polymer molecules behave as liquid drops upon reaching the Rayleigh limit, with an apparent surface energy of 0.026 N/m at ion diameters from 1.7 to 3.2 nm. Other nonspherical shape families with structures independent of charge, and with charge-dependent stability domains, are observed. Highly charged ions adopt approximately linear highly stretched configurations where the mobility depends only on m/z, independently of z. An operational definition of the surface energy of a single long chain molecule that is computable and agrees with the measured surface energy is provided.
Copper(II)-mediated autoxidation of tert-butylresorcinols.

Although copper(II)-mediated oxidation of phenols results in oxidative coupling rather than in oxygenation, it was recently reported that naturally occurring 5-alkylresorcinols undergo oxygenation in the presence of copper(II). To explore the generality of this reaction, the copper(II)-mediated autoxidation of 4-tert-butylresorcinol and 4,6-di-tert-butylresorcinol was investigated and was found to result in direct oxygenation at open activated positions and, at the tert-butyl-substituted positions, in oxygenation with competing loss of (as isobutylene) and 1,2-rearrangement of the tert-butyl group. 5-tert-Butyl-2-hydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone is the major product from both starting materials, and the final product mixture reflects, in part, coupling of metastable initially formed electrophilic and nucleophilic side products. Mechanisms that are consistent with the observed products and control reactions are proposed. The key step appears to be equilibration of a copper(II)−resorcinolate with a charge-transfer ...
Superconducting properties of a powder rolled composite tape containing Nb3Sn filaments

Abstract The morphological control and superconducting properties of a composite tape containing Nb3Sn filaments made by a new powder metallurgy process are reported. Critical temperatures were in the range of from 18.1 to 18.5° K. Through procedural improvements overall current densities up to 7 × 104 amps/cm2 in a pulsed field of 100 kG were realized.
Inter-band Tunnel Transistor Architecture using Narrow Gap Semiconductors

The inter-band tunnel transistor (TFET) architecture features a sub-kT/q sub-threshold slope operation and can potentially support high ION/IOFF ratios over small gate voltages. Based on two-dimensional numerical simulations, we investigate TFET in various material systems ranging from silicon to indium arsenide. TFET performance can be enhanced when heterojunctions are employed at the source side to enhance tunneling, nonequilibrium carrier population is maintained in the channel and one dimensional tunneling junction are incorporated. Mixed mode circuit simulations using TFETs highlight the impact of feed forward gate-to-drain capacitance in these devices during transient switching operation and reveal important differences with MOSFETs. Narrow gap semiconductors with low density of states are projected as viable candidates to implement TFET architecture in sustaining an aggressive supply voltage scaling roadmap for future digital logic applications
Simultaneous high depth resolution profiling of carbon and oxygen

Abstract The common (d, p) reactions for profiling carbon and oxygen suffer from inherently low depth resolution, and the (d, α) reaction for profiling oxygen shows an interference from a (d, p) group. This paper demonstrates the use of the 12C(3He, p0)14N reaction to produce good depth resolution in a grazing incidence geometry. It is also shown that the 16O(3He, α0)15O reaction is an acceptable alternative to the 16O(d, α0)14N reaction. It is further shown that it is possible to simultaneously profile carbon and oxygen with good depth resolution by bombarding the sample in a grazing incidence geometry at an energy of about 2.42 MeV with detection of the particles at 90°. These reactions provide a needed capacity for simultaneously profiling these elements with ordinary solid state detectors as a supplement to Rutherford backscattering.
Age, as well as cell turnover kinetics, regulates brain/gut repair.

Abstract The prototypical brain/gut peptide cholecystokinin (CCK) has been used to assess brain and gut repair kinetics following cytotoxic injury in the rat. Studies addressed the effect of repetitive injury as well as aging. Injury was induced by one of the two alkylating agents, one active in the brain, the other systematically. Consistently the responses differ between brain and intestine. Total RNA falls (as predicted) in the intestine (control 1.5 ± 1.4 versus cytotoxic 0.21 ± 0.06 tRNA mg/organ, P ≤ 0.0001), but rises (unexpectedly) in the brain (control 0.79 ± 0.04 versus cytotoxic 1.02 ± 0.03 tRNA mg/organ, P ≤ 0.001). CCK mRNA concentration falls in the brain (predicted) (control 27 ± 1 versus cytotoxic 11 ± 1 pg CCK mRNA/μg tRNA, P ≤ 0.001). but rises in the intestine (unexpectedly) (control 0.18 ± 0.02 versus cytotoxic 0.3 ± 0.04 pg CCK mRNA/μ tRNA, P ≤ 0.001). CCK peptides do not change in the brain (control 39 ± 4 versus cytotoxic 34 ± 4 nmol/g, P ≤ NS), but rise (unexpectedly) in the intestine (control 43 ± 4 versus cytotoxic 250 ± 27 nmol/g, P ≤ 0.001). We ascribe these observations to differing brain/gut cell turnover kinetics. These data indicate that a rebound phenomenon occurs during gut recovery from cytotoxic injury. We additionally show a differential age-related response to cytotoxic injury. Younger animals tolerated the injury better than old ones (mortality: young 27% ( 3 11 ) versus old 66% ( 8 12 ), P ≤ 0.001). Additionally, intestinal recovery is more rapid in younger animals. These data suggest that with increasing age, chemotherapeutic dosages may need to be modulated. It is additionally possible that clinically applicable algorithms may be developed using our animal model.
Short-lived auditory memory for pitch

The effect of a stimulus suffix on immediate serial recall of lists of tones was assessed with 50- and 350-msec complex tones. Although recency effects were not found under the control conditions, the addition of a stimulus suffix significantly degraded recall at the final serial position for both stimulus durations. The implications of these results for models of auditory memory and speech perception are discussed.
Genetic analysis of a vital mammalian housekeeping locus using CHO cells that express a transfected mutant allele.

We describe a novel approach for the isolation of null mutations in a vital Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell housekeeping gene. Our experimental strategy required introduction of an expressible DNA clone encoding a recessive emetine-resistance allele of ribosomal protein S14 into wild-type CHO cells. Transgene heterozygote (TGH) cell lines, which harbor multiple emetine-resistance S14 transgenes, survive mutations that inactivate the CHO RPS14 locus by virtue of the transgenes' biological function. Null mutations inRPS14 yield TGH clones that display the transgene's drug-resistance phenotype. A large collection of emetine-resistant clones was isolated from one TGH cell line and shown to consist of three types of S14 mutations: (1) nonsense null mutations in theRPS14 protein coding sequence; (2) missense null mutations that affect S14 amino acid residues that have been conserved stringently during eukaryotic evolution, and (3) a recurrent missense mutation that results in a new, functionalRPS14 emetine-resistance allele.
Evaluating measurement tools in science education research

In this paper I explore how Margaret Beier, Lesley Miller, and Shu Wang make claims for the validity and reliability of the instrument they developed to explore the construct of “possible selves” as described in their manuscript, Science Games and the Development of Scientific Possible Selves.
A Protection Motivation Theory application to date rape education

Date rape risk communication is a key component of education-based Date Rape Prevention Programs, common across colleges. In such programs, risk assessment in date rape is approached cautiously in order to avoid a tone of "victim blaming." Since it is important in the assessment of any risk to understand the surrounding social context of the risky situation and the individual's unique relationship with that social context, this study examines Protection Motivation Theory as it applies to handling the risk of date rape without victim blaming. The paper links individual personality and social contexts with risk communication. The study sample comprised 367 undergraduate women enrolled in a large Southern Public University. The study examines the relationships between dating activity, social competency, and type of information provided with the dependents variables of date rape related protection behavior (intent), belief, and knowledge. A factorial multiple analysis of covariance analysis found that the dependent variables had a significant relationship with aspects of social competency and dating activity. The exposure to varying information about date rape was not significantly related to the dependent variables of date rape-related protection behavior (intent), belief, and knowledge. The identification of social competency and dating activity status as protective factors in this study makes a significant contribution to the practice and research efforts in date rape education.
Direct electrochemistry and Raman spectroscopy of sol-gel-encapsulated myoglobin.

The direct electrochemistry of myoglobin (Mb) has been observed at a glassy carbon (GC) electrode coated with silica sol−gel-encapsulated Mb film. A well-behaved cyclic voltammogram is observed with a midpoint potential (E1/2) of −0.25 V vs Ag/AgCl in a pH 7.0 phosphate buffer. This potential, which is pH-dependent, is 70−90 mV more negative than the formal potential values obtained by using the spectroeletrochemical titration method at the same pH. Square wave voltametry (SWV) also shows a peak potential of −0.25 V for the reduction of Mb under the same experimental conditions. Both cathodic and anodic peak currents have a linear relationship with the scan rate. The midpoint potential decreases with pH, having a slope of −30 mV/pH. UV−vis and resonance Raman spectroscopic studies reveal that the sol−gel provides a bio-compatible environment where Mb retains a structure similar to its solution form, a 6-coordinated aquomet myoglobin. These results suggest that the silica sol−gel is a useful matrix for stu...
Visual acuity is related to parafoveal retinal thickness in patients with retinitis pigmentosa and macular cysts.

Purpose To quantify the prevalence and effect on visual acuity of macular cysts in a large cohort of patients with retinitis pigmentosa. Methods In 316 patients with typical forms of retinitis pigmentosa, visual acuity was measured with Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) charts, macular cysts were detected with optical coherence tomography (OCT), and retinal thicknesses was quantified by OCT. The FREQ, LOGISTIC, and GENMOD procedures of SAS (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) were used to evaluate possible risk factors for cyst prevalence, and the MIXED procedure was used to quantify the relationships of visual acuity to retinal thickness measured at different locations within the macula. Results Macular cysts were found in 28% of the patients, 40% of whom had cysts in only one eye. Macular cysts were seen most often in patients with dominant disease and not at all in patients with X-linked disease (P = 0.006). In eyes with macular cysts, multiple regression analysis revealed that visual acuity was inversely and independently related to retinal thickness at the foveal center (P = 0.038) and within a parafoveal ring spanning an eccentricity of 5 degrees to 10 degrees from the foveal center (P = 0.004). Conclusions Macular cysts are a common occurrence in retinitis pigmentosa, especially among patients with dominantly inherited disease. Visual acuity is influenced by edema in the parafovea, as well as in the fovea.
Basic research in Italian industry

This paper analyses the importance of basic research in the Italian manufacturing sector. Analysis is based mainly on the results of a specific survey on the subject, and the resulting data are processed to test general hypotheses on the innovative strategies of firms and to describe the present situation in Italian industry. From the theoretical point of view, test results appear consistent with the hypotheses put forward on the spontaneous behaviour of firms. From the descriptive point of view, the prospects for Italian industry are far from being reassuring as far as basic research is concerned.
Dapsone-Induced Methemoglobinemia in a Patient with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Admitted with Severe Legionella Pneumonia:

Dapsone is an antibacterial medication used as an alternative to the first-line therapy (sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim) for Pneumocystis pneumonia prophylaxis. Methemoglobinemia is a known toxicity of dapsone. However, dapsone-induced methemoglobinemia in an acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) patient with severe Legionella pneumonia has not been previously reported. We describe a 37-year-old male with ALL who was admitted for severe Legionella pneumonia sepsis, rhabdomyolysis, and multiple organ failure. The patient was started on broad-spectrum antibiotics and subsequently intubated for respiratory failure. The patient's methemoglobin level was 24.5%. The repeat methemoglobin level was 28.7%; intravenous methylene blue 100 mg was given for a total of 2 doses after which the methemoglobin level decreased to 2.5%. The patient was extubated 4 days after the second dose of methylene blue. He was later discharged home in stable condition.This patient developed severe sepsis with multiorgan failure, which result...
Effects of Woody Vegetation on Seepage-Induced Deformation and Related Limit State Analysis of Levees

AbstractWork in this paper investigates the effects of woody vegetation on soil hydraulic conductivity and the related probability of exceeding deformation-based performance limit states. A summary of results obtained from laboratory and field hydraulic conductivity tests for four levee sites is presented. Limit states, as defined based on the framework of critical state soil mechanics, are developed and simple probability analyses are used to quantify the probability of exceedance under hydraulic loading. A case study of Elkhorn Levee near Sacramento, California, is presented to demonstrate the applicability of the limit states concept. The field and laboratory hydraulic conductivity data obtained from the four levee test sites show no clear trend to support the notion that woody vegetation leads to either high or low values of hydraulic conductivity; site-specific testing is needed to discern such an effect. Even though the levee case used in this study (Elkhorn) was in a marginal condition of stability...
Independent control of skin and muscle sympathetic nerve activity in patients with heart failure.

BACKGROUNDSympathetic excitation characterizes heart failure, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Abnormal baroreflex restraint of sympathetic neural outflow has been proposed, since baroreflexes are known to be abnormal in heart failure. The purpose of this study was to determine if sympathetic activation in humans with heart failure is limited to regions governed by the baroreflexes or is generalized to other regions free from baroreflex control.METHODS AND RESULTSWe report the first direct recordings of skin sympathetic nerve activity (free from baroreflex control) in humans with heart failure and compare simultaneous skin and muscle (baroreflex-dependent) sympathetic peroneal nerve activity in six patients with severe heart failure (mean left ventricular ejection fraction, 0.19 +/- 0.06) and in six age-matched normal control subjects. Although muscle sympathetic nerve activity was markedly increased in heart failure patients (heart failure versus controls, 69 +/- 3 versus 21 +/- 2 bursts per...
Should Every Gravida Exposed to Diethylstilbesterol in Utero Undergo Prophylactic Cerclage

Over the past 14 years, we found that limiting the use of cerclage to gravidas with either a history consistent with cervical incompetence or documented cervical change, produced acceptable perinatal outcomes. In this manuscript, we compare our outcomes in DES exposures to a previously published series that advocated prophylactic cerclage. The optimal management of the DES-exposed gravida awaits formal study in randomized trials.
Facilitating Opportunity to Learn for Students With Disabilities With Instructional Feedback Data

Opportunity to learn refers to the extent to which teachers dedicate instructional time and content coverage to the intended curriculum using a range of cognitive processes, instructional practices, and grouping formats. This article describes the My Instructional Learning Opportunities Guidance System, a research-based online teacher log that allows teachers to plan and keep track of their instruction related to content standards, review feedback reports that are based on their own instructional data, and communicate and collaborate with colleagues to promote students’ opportunity to learn. A working example from an actual teacher's instructional data is used to illustrate My Instructional Learning Opportunities Guidance System and its potential to facilitate improved instruction for students with disabilities.
Isolation of Mycoplasmatales Viruses and Characterization of MVL1, MVL52, and MVG51

Eleven Mycoplasmatales viruses are now known. Burst size, burst time, sensitivity to ultraviolet and the host range of three viruses that were studied are different. However, all three are naked, rod-shaped particles of similar size. Plaque morphology and the isolation of immune cells suggest that both virulent and nonvirulent infections are possible.