cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Measure of Whole-Brain White Matter Topography

The unprecedentedly high-quality large-scale brain imaging datasets, from such as the Human Connectome Project (HCP) and UK-Biobank, provide a unique opportunity for measuring the white matter topography of the human brain. By leveraging the multi-shell diffusion MRI data from the original young adult HCP, we systematically develop a reliable measure of the whole-brain white matter topography, and we coin it topographic vector. As the main result, we find that the three most dominant dimensions of the topographic vectors strongly and linearly correlate with the coordinates of the corresponding streamlines of the whole-brain tractograms. Our results support the earlier prescient hypothesis that brain development follows a "base-plan" established by three (main) chemotactic gradients of early embryogenesis, and they implicate that the whole brain white matter tracts can be represented by vectors of a natural coordinate system.
Treatment of AML Relapse After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) Using Low-Dose Azacitidine (AZA).

Abstract 3445 Background: Relapsing AML/MDS after HSCT has a dismal prognosis, with few patients achieving long-term control of the malignancy. AZA is a hypomethylating agent that is moderately active against AML/MDS, and may have beneficial immunomodulatory effects after HSCT. We have shown that a significant minority of patients with recurrent disease respond to this drug. Here, we present long-term follow-up after salvage treatment regimens that included AZA, to treat AML/MDS that recurred after HSCT. Patients and Methods: Twenty-three patients received low-dose AZA for recurrence. Decision to use AZA was based on clinical assessment of slow progression of disease and relatively slower disease ‘tempo9 and relatively small AML bulk. AZA cohort preparative regimens for 1 st HSCT were myeloablative in 12 cases, and of reduced intensity in 11 cases. AZA was used prior to or without a 2 nd HSCT (n=17), or after a 2 nd HSCT (n=6). Outcomes were compared to controls (n=18) that relapsed ≥ 8 months after HSCT, and did not receive AZA (8 months representing the median disease free survival (DFS) for AZA-treated patients). The control group included all patients that relapsed ≥ 8 months after allogeneic HSCT using myeloablative busulfan 130 mg/m 2 and fludarabine 40 mg/m 2 for 4 days. AZA was studied as a time dependent variable. AZA and controls had similar baseline characteristics as described in the Table, although median DFS after the first HSCT was 8 (range: 2–51) and 17 (range: 7–59) months, favoring the control group (p=0.08). AZA was administered outpatient, with good tolerance. Fatigue and nausea were commonly observed toxicities. Doses were 8 mg/m 2 (n=1), 16 mg/m 2 (n=3), 24 mg/m 2 (n=10), 32 mg/m 2 (n=5), 40 mg/m2 (n=2), and 75 mg/m2 (n=2), administered subcutaneously for 5 days, in 28–32-day cycles. Results: Median number of cycles was 4 (range, 1–44). With a median follow-up of 18 months for AZA and control patients, median survival after relapse was 17 versus 6 months, respectively for AZA and control patients. 11 (48%) AZA patients are alive, while 2 (11%) control patients are alive. Two-year overall survival (OS) for AZA and control groups was 40% and 10%, respectively. AZA and controls had similar baseline characteristics as described in the Table. Conclusion: Low-dose AZA was a well tolerated outpatient treatment that may improve survival after AML/MDS recurrence in selected cases. Major determinants of survival in this setting, however, were remission duration after HSCT, and use of a 2 nd HSCT. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Real-Time PCR Assay for Rapid Identification of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick), is a highly destructive pest of tomatoes, causing damage to leaves, stalks, buds, and fruits. Native to South America, T. absoluta is now found throughout Europe, South Asia, Africa, parts of Central America, and the Caribbean. Adults are small, with a wingspan of approximately one cm and lack distinctive markings, making morphological identification difficult. Larvae are also difficult to identify and resemble those of many other gelechiids. Due to the extensive time spent and expertise required for morphological identification, and the imminent threat to the North American tomato crop, we have developed a rapid molecular test for discriminating individual specimens of T. absoluta using a probe-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. The assay is able to quickly distinguish T. absoluta from similar-sized moth specimens that are attracted to T. absoluta pheromone lures in the United States and is also able to identify larvae of T. absoluta. Decreased identification time for this critical pest will lead to more rapid identification at ports of entry and allow for more efficient trap screening for domestic monitoring programs.
Does PET/CT Aid in Detecting Primary Carcinoma in Patients with Skeletal Metastases of Unknown Primary?

Background Patients older than 40 years presenting with osteolytic bone lesions are likely to have a diagnosis of carcinoma, even if they had no prior cancer diagnosis. For patients with no prior cancer diagnosis, there is a well-accepted algorithm to determine a potential primary site. That algorithm, however, leaves approximately 15% of people without a detectable primary tumor site, making treatment decisions extremely difficult. Positron emission tomography (PET) fused with CT, more commonly known as PET/CT, has emerged as an important staging modality for many other malignancies but has been used in a very limited fashion in musculoskeletal oncology. Questions/purposes We asked (1) What is the ability of PET/CT to detect the source of the primary tumor in patients with a skeletal metastasis of unknown primary? (2) How does PET/CT perform in detecting metastases in other sites in patients with a skeletal metastasis of unknown primary? Methods A retrospective analysis between 2006 and 2016 of the pathology database of a single tertiary center identified 35 patients with a biopsy-proven skeletal metastasis (histologically confirmed carcinoma or adenocarcinoma) and a PET/CT scan that was performed after the standard diagnostic evaluation of the primary cancer site. Patients were identified through use of our pathology database to identify all biopsy-proven bone carcinomas. This was then cross referenced with our imaging database to identify all patients who were at any time evaluated with PET/CT. During this time, we identified 1075 patients with biopsy-proven metastatic bone disease through our pathology database. Any indication for a PET/CT was included, and was most often done for staging of the identified malignancy or evaluation for the unknown source. Data regarding the ability of PET/CT to find or confirm the primary cancer and all metastatic sites were evaluated. The standard diagnostic evaluation (history and physical, laboratory evaluation, CT of the chest/abdomen/pelvis and whole body bone scan) identified the primary cancer in 22 of the 35 patients. Among the 35 patients, there were a total of 176 metastatic sites of disease identified, with 115 identified with the standard diagnostic evaluation (before PET/CT). Results Among patients with a skeletal metastasis of unknown primary, PET/CT was unable to identify the primary cancer in 12 of 13 patients. PET/CT confirmed the site of the known primary cancer in all 22 patients. There were 176 total metastatic sites. Of the 115 metastases known before PET/CT, PET/CT failed to identify three of 115 (3% false-negative rate). Conclusions PET/CT may not provide any additional benefit over the standard evaluation for identification of the primary cancer in patients with a skeletal metastasis of unknown primary, although it may have efficacy as a screening tool equivalent or superior to the standard diagnostic algorithm for evaluation of the overall metastatic burden in these patients. Level of evidence Level III, diagnostic study.
Period-color and amplitude-color relations in classical Cepheid variables V: The Small Magellanic Cloud Cepheid models

Period-colour (PC) and amplitude-colour (AC) relations at maximum, mean and minimum light are constructed from a large grid of full amplitude hydrodynamic models of Cepheids with a composition appropriate for the SMC (Small Magellanic Cloud). We compare these theoretical relations with those from observations. The theoretical relations are in general good agreement with their observational counterparts though there exist some discrepancy for short period (log [P] < 1) Cepheids. We outline a physical mechanism which can, in principle, be one factor to explain the observed PC/AC relations for the long and short period Cepheids in the Galaxy, LMC and SMC. Our explanation relies on the hydrogen ionization front-photosphere interaction and the way this interaction changes with pulsation period, pulsation phase and metallicity. Since the PC relation is connected with the period-luminosity (PL) relation, it is postulated that such a mechanism can also explain the observed properties of the PL relation in these three galaxies.
Disparities in telephone and video telehealth engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent expansion of telehealth may be exacerbating inequities in ambulatory care access due to institutional and structural barriers. We conduct a repeat cross-sectional analysis of ambulatory patients to evaluate for demographic disparities in the utilization of telehealth modalities. Materials and methods The ambulatory patient population at Oregon Health & Science University (Portland, OR, USA) is examined from June 1 through September 30, in 2019 (reference period) and in 2020 (study period). We first assess for changes in demographic representation and then evaluate for disparities in the utilization of telephone and video care modalities using logistic regression. Results Between the 2019 and 2020 periods, patient video utilization increased from 0.2% to 31%, and telephone use increased from 2.5% to 25%. There was also a small but significant decline in the representation males, Asians, Medicaid, Medicare, and non-English speaking patients. Amongst telehealth users, adjusted odds of video participation were significantly lower for those who were Black, American Indian, male, prefer a non-English language, have Medicaid or Medicare, or older. Discussion A large portion of ambulatory patients shifted to telehealth modalities during the pandemic. Seniors, non-English speakers, and Black patients were more reliant on telephone than video for care. The differences in telehealth adoption by vulnerable populations demonstrate the tendency toward disparities that can occur in the expansion of telehealth and suggest structural biases. Conclusion Organizations should actively monitor the utilization of telehealth modalities and develop best-practice guidelines in order to mitigate the exacerbation of inequities.
Can Preoperative Imaging Predict Tumor Involvement of the Anterior Clinoid in Clinoid Region Meningiomas

BACKGROUND Anterior clinoid region meningiomas may infiltrate the bone over which they arise, therefore requiring an anterior clinoidectomy to achieve a Simpson grade 1 resection. A clinoidectomy, however, is not without risks. OBJECTIVE We performed a study of diagnostic accuracy investigating whether preoperative imaging could predict tumor involvement of the clinoid, and thereby tailor the degree of bony removal. METHODS Patients having undergone resection of a clinoid region meningioma between 2001 and 2011 were identified. Included in further analysis were those patients in whom a clinoidectomy was performed with subsequent pathologically confirmed presence or absence of tumor in the clinoid process on decalcified specimens. Two neuroradiologists, blinded to pathology results, independently reviewed available preoperative imaging and stated whether or not they anticipated the clinoid to be involved by tumor. Interobserver agreement and the ability to accurately predict tumor involvement of the clinoid were then analyzed. RESULTS Sixty-two patients were included in the final analysis. Interobserver agreement was 100%. Sensitivity and specificity of preoperative imaging to predict tumor involvement was 89% and 52%, respectively, with positive and negative likelihood ratios of 1.85 and 0.20. Positive and negative predictive values were 73% and 76%, respectively. CONCLUSION Preoperative imaging of clinoid region meningiomas can accurately predict the presence or absence of tumor involvement of the clinoid in only approximately 75% of cases. In light of the fact that a quarter of patients with radiographically negative clinoids will have tumor present on pathological analysis, we recommend a clinoidectomy for all clinoid region meningiomas.
Recurrent neural networks: overview and perspectives

In the implementation of artificial neural networks, several limitations are encountered which may affect their qualitative behavior and performance. These include delays, parameter perturbations and interconnection constraints. Depending on the particular type of implementation, more than one of these limitations will usually be encountered simultaneously. In the present paper, we address these issues.
Japan's Lay Judge System: Expectations, Accomplishments, Shortfalls, and Possible Expansion

Japan’s efforts over the past decade to integrate citizens into its criminal justice system represent one of the most fascinating modern experiments in judicial reform. In 2009, when Japan formally reintroduced lay participation into criminal trials after a six decade hiatus through its or “saiban-in seido” or lay judge system, the domestic stakeholders affected by this change greeted the new quasi-jury system with mixed messages. Political reformers, bureaucrats, many attorneys, the Japan Federation of Bar Associations (“JFBA”), and scholars were excited and encouraged about the potential of the new system. Conversely, the majority of Japanese citizens, the courts, the media, and others were much more critical. These skeptics contended that Japan’s reforms and sizeable investment in citizen participation would be futile based on cultural traditions and institutional impediments. At the same time, there was much interest in the judicial reforms and new lay judge system outside of Japan. Countries across Asia and around the world watched the move towards greater democratic participation in the judicial system with much anticipation. Going forward, the world will continue to study the country’s involvement of average citizens in the judicial decision-making process. As the lay judge system has reached its fifth anniversary of operation, now is an excellent time to scrutinize its accomplishments and shortfalls. This paper will explain how Japan has accomplished, at least in part, the original goals underlying the lay judge system, including making the justice system “easier to use, easier to understand, and more reliable.” It will also examine how Japan’s new lay judge system has increased citizen interest in the judicial process and largely enhanced citizens’ trust in the legal system. Additionally, this paper will explore the challenges facing the system and discuss whether additional steps might be taken to more fully advance these goals, including the expansion of citizen participation into the civil justice realm.
Design and Implementation of Davis Social Links OSN Kernel

Social network popularity continues to rise as they broaden out to more users. Hidden away within these social networks is a valuable set of data that outlines everyone's relationships. Networks have created APIs such as the Facebook Development Platform and OpenSocial that allow developers to create applications that can leverage user information. However, at the current stage, the social network support for these new applications is fairly limited in its functionality. Most, if not all, of the existing internet applications such as email, BitTorrent, and Skype cannot benefit from the valuable social network among their own users. In this paper, we present an architecture that couples two different communication layers together: the end2end communication layer and the social context layer, under the Davis Social Links (DSL) project. Our proposed architecture attempts to preserve the original application semantics (i.e., we can use Thunderbird or Outlook, unmodified, to read our SMTP emails) and provides the communicating parties (email sender and receivers) a social context for control and management. For instance, the receiver can set trust policy rules based on the social context between the pair, to determine how a particular email in question should be prioritized for delivery to the SMTP layer. Furthermore, as our architecture includes two coupling layers, it is then possible, as an option, to shift some of the services from the original applications into the social context layer. In the context of email, for example, our architecture allows users to choose operations, such as reply, reply-all, and forward, to be realized in either the application layer or the social network layer. And, the realization of these operations under the social network layer offers powerful features unavailable in the original applications. To validate our coupling architecture, we have implemented a DSL kernel prototype as a Facebook application called CyrusDSL (currently about 40 local users) and a simple communication application combined into the DSL kernel but is unaware of Facebook's API.
The role of Jak/STAT signaling in heart tissue renin-angiotensin system.

The involvement of the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) and the role of its primary effector, angiotensin II (Ang II), in etiology of myocardial hypertrophy and ischemia is well documented. In several animal models, the RAS is activated in cardiac cell types that express the receptor AT1, and/or AT2, through which the Ang II mediated effects are promoted. In this article, we briefly review recent experimental evidence on the critical role of a prominent signaling pathway, the Jak/Stat pathway in activation and maintenance of the local RAS in cardiac hypertrophy and ischemia. Recent studies in our laboratory document that the promoter of the prohormone angiotensinogen (Ang) gene serves as the target site for STAT proteins, thereby linking the Jak/Stat pathway to activation of heart tissue autocrine Ang II loop. Stat5A and Stat6, are selectively activated when the heart is subjected to ischemic injury, whereas activation of Stat3 and Stat5A is involved in myocardial hypertrophy. Blockage of RAS activation by treatment with specific inhibitor promotes a remarkable recovery in functional hemodynamics of the myocardium. Thus, activation of selective sets of Stat proteins constitutes the primary signaling event in the pathogenesis of myocardial hypertrophy and ischemia.
An ADPCM architecture based on models of the auditory system

A class of ADPCM speech predictor architectures that are based on models of the human auditory system is developed. The transfer function of the predictor is of the pole/zero type with fixed poles and adaptive zeros. Choice of the fixed poles is made using auditory models, in contrast with the standard trial-and-error techniques. A state-space formulation of the prediction filter provides the connection between the standard fixed pole/adaptive zero models and the transversal filter model of the auditory system. Two realizations of the prediction filter are described: a parallel realization, which directly uses the auditory models, and a cascade realization, which allows direct manipulation of the poles and zeros of the filter. The gradient search method is applied to identify the filter coefficients. >
Comparison of Tibial Plateau Angle Changes after Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Fixation with Conventional or Locking Screw Technology

Objective: To compare the effects of locking and conventional screws on postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA), osteotomy healing, and complication rate after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs treated for naturally occurring cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture. Study Design: Prospective clinical study. Study Population: Dogs (n=118) with CCL rupture. Methods: Dogs (≥20 kg) with unilateral CCL rupture and sufficient bone stock for TPLO and use of a 3.5-mm-broad or -narrow TPLO plate were sequentially allocated to have plate fixation with locking or conventional screws. Data analyzed included breed, age, sex, body weight, body condition score, limb operated, implants used, meniscal status, operative time, and days to recheck. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and 8-week recheck mediolateral radiographs were reviewed, and TPA, complications, and healing status were evaluated. Results: Stifles in the locking screw group had significantly less change in postoperative TPA than stifles in the conventional screw group. Locking screw fixation also had significantly higher grades of osteotomy healing, assessed on a mediolateral radiographic view. Conclusions: TPLO plates secured with locking screws are acceptable when compared with those secured with conventional screws; osteotomy healing is improved and TPA better conserved when using locking screws. Clinical Relevance: Locking screw fixation serves to increase stabilization of TPA during TPLO healing and provides improved radiographic evidence of osteotomy healing.
Photodegradation of a Ternary Iron(III)-Uranium(VI)-Citric Acid Complex

The mechanisms of photodegradation of binary iron− and uranium−citrate and ternary iron−uranium−citrate complexes were elucidated. Citric acid degradation products were identified by HPLC and GC, and the metal precipitates were identified by XRD and EXAFS. Photodegradation of a binuclear iron−citrate complex occurred as a result of two one-electron oxidations of citric acid with the formation of 3-oxoglutarate and two ferrous ions. The ferrous ions were reoxidized by a photo-Fenton reaction, resulting in the precipitation of iron as two-line ferrihydrite Fe(OH)3. The citric acid in the uranium−citrate complex underwent a two-electron oxidation to acetoacetate with the concomitant reduction of U(VI) to U(IV). The U(IV) was subsequently photooxidized in the presence of dioxygen with precipitation of uranium as the mineral schoepite (UO3·2H2O). A two-step electron reduction of two ferric ions to two ferrous ions was the primary mechanism for photodegradation of the ternary iron−uranium−citrate complex with o...
Chemical relations and litter production of Picea mariana and Larix laricina stands on an alkaline peatland in Northern Minnesota

widely distributed tree species in North America and share the major extent of their geographical ranges (U.S.D.A. 1965). In the southern portions of their range, these species grow predominantly on cool, wet peatlands ranging from strongly acid to alkaline. Peatlands have been the subject of extensive investigations for quite some time (Damman 1971, Drury 1956, Gorham 1953, 1957, 1967, Heinselman 1963, Hustich 1956, Krajina 1969, Ritchie 1957, 1960, Sj?rs 1950, 1959, 1961, Wali & Krajina 1973 and others). In Minnesota, several investigators have reported on the vegetation-environment relationships of peatland com munities (Gorham 1976, Heinselman 1970, Tilton 1975, 1977, 1978, Verry 1975, Watt & Heinselman 1965). How ever, data on the chemical relations and litter production of Picea ma?ana and Larix laricina are limited. The present study investigates the dynamic chemical relationships within pure stands of Picea ma?ana and Larix laricina at the alkaline end of their range. Specifically, this study was conducted to (1) quantify chemical proper ties of water and peat in Picea ma?ana and Larix laricina communities, (2) relate these properties to stand composi tion and growth, and (3) compare temporal changes in water chemistry, litterfall chemical composition and total elemental transfers from litterfall.
Surface properties of LiCoO2, LiNiO2 and LiNi1−xCoxO2

Abstract The surface composition and chemical environment of LiCoO 2 , hexagonal LiNiO 2, cubic LiNiO 2 , and the mixed transition metal oxide LiNi 0.5 Co 0.5 O 2 have been determined by Auger electron and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. While the LiCoO 2 surface properties can easily be extrapolated from bulk composition, the nickel-containing materials are less straightforward. Their surface concentration tends to be depleted in lithium relative to that of the bulk and shows an atypical chemical environment for the constituent elements. The Ni 2p XPS photoemission suggests a near “ NiO-like” selvedge through the XPS binding energies and satellite structure which are essentially identical to that of NiO; the spectrum appears fairly insensitive to lithium concentration. Although there is little evidence for higher binding energy Ni 3+ species or for an electron poor Ni 2.δ+ -derived band structure in the XPS, the lattice oxygen is very electron-rich and yields among the lowest binding energies reported for a transition metal oxide. The nickel-containing lithium oxide selvedge is thus not simply “NiO” and the surface lithium cations have a measurable effect on the electronic structure even in their more highly depleted levels. This is explained in the context of the charge-transfer model of the oxide band structure.
Scheduling with Random Service Times

This paper considers the problem scheduling of m immediately available tasks with random variable service times. It is shown that certain such problems can be reduced to equivalent deterministic problems. The existence of optimal schedules not involving the removal from service of incompletely processed tasks for some problems is proved and for other problems is disproved.
Community-based career counseling for women survivors of intimate partner violence a collaborative partnership

Intimate partner violence (IPV) costs women nearly 8 million days of paid work annually. Greater attention to violence survivors' employment and career development can facilitate women escaping abu...
Communities of place, not kind: American technologies of neighborhood in postcolonial Delhi

In 1956 the Indian Government invited the Ford Foundation to assist with a master plan for the Delhi region. Two years later, the invitation was extended to help with a separate urban community development program. Even though the master plan was a comprehensive project covering transportation, water, sewage, housing, industry, and zoning, the creation of community and communities was one of its main goals. The Draft Master Plan for Delhi (DMPD) declared â€œin all planning for man's environments,â€ it was â€œextremely vitalâ€ to â€œevolve a well integrated new community pattern that would fit the changed living conditions of the new age and promote genuine democratic growth.â€ Similarly, the primary objective of the urban community development project, as laid out by the Commissioner of Delhi, was that of â€œgiving form to an urban community, which has been drawn from backgrounds varying from one another and trying to achieve a homogeneity.â€
Hub location at Digital Equipment Corporation: A comprehensive analysis of qualitative and quantitative factors

Abstract The economic growth of countries in the Asia–Pacific (AP) region has caused many US-based businesses to consider the strategic initiative of setting up facilities therein. In this paper, we describe a study to locate a repair-parts warehouse for Digital Equipment Corporation, a world leader in the computer and electronics market. Digital's management was charged to consider not only the long-term strategic (or qualitative) issues typical of such problems, but they also had to ensure that any facility that is located would also be viable from a freight-cost (or quantitative) perspective. We show how the analytical network process (ANP) model combined with an optimization model can be used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of these varied issues.
Susceptibility of mice aged 0-14 days to infection with Junin virus.

SummaryJunin virus is more pathogenic for laboratory mice aged 0–14 days when inoculated intracerebrally (ic) than when inoculated intraperitoneally or subcutaneously; its pathogenicity by the latter two routes is about the same. Susceptibility to infection with the virus inoculated ic diminishes rapidly after age 6 days. In some instances, involving all three routes of inoculation, mice showed no signs of illness but produced complement-fixing antibodies. A number of mice inoculated ic became infected but recovered completely, and they, too, developed antibodies. In addition, antibodies were detected in the sera of some mice that survived peripheral inoculation with lasting paralytic sequelae.
Prescription Drug Prices: Why Do Some Pay More Than Others Do?

The fact that sick elderly people without prescription drug coverage pay far more for drugs than do people with private health insurance has created a call for state and federal governments to take action. Antitrust cases have been launched, state price control legislation has been enacted, and proposals for expansion of Medicare have been offered in response to price and spending levels for prescription drugs. This paper offers an analysis aimed at understanding pricing patterns of brand-name prescription drugs. I focus on the basic economic forces that enable differential pricing of products to exist and show how features of the prescription drug market promote such phenomena. The analysis directs policy attention toward how purchasing practices can be changed to better represent groups that pay the most and are most disadvantaged.
Modeling and simulation of satellite subsystems for end-to-end spacecraft modeling

During the past ten years, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has been simultaneously developing high-fidelity spacecraft payload models as well as a robust distributed simulation environment for modeling spacecraft subsystems. Much of this research has occurred in the Distributed Architecture Simulation Laboratory (DASL). AFRL developers working in the DASL have effectively combined satellite power, attitude pointing, and communication link analysis subsystem models with robust satellite sensor models to create a first-order end-to-end satellite simulation capability. The merging of these two simulation areas has advanced the field of spacecraft simulation, design, and analysis, and enabled more in-depth mission and satellite utility analyses. A core capability of the DASL is the support of a variety of modeling and analysis efforts, ranging from physics and engineering-level modeling to mission and campaign-level analysis. The flexibility and agility of this simulation architecture will be used to support space mission analysis, military utility analysis, and various integrated exercises with other military and space organizations via direct integration, or through DOD standards such as Distributed Interaction Simulation. This paper discusses the results and lessons learned in modeling satellite communication link analysis, power, and attitude control subsystems for an end-to-end satellite simulation. It also discusses how these spacecraft subsystem simulations feed into and support military utility and space mission analyses.
The Long-term Clinical Outcome of Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy with and without Intervertebral Bone Graft Placement

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study provides data on the long-term clinical outcomes of patients with either anterior cervical discectomy alone (ACD) or anterior cervical discectomy with intervertebral bone graft placement (ACDF). METHODS: A questionnaire was mailed to 525 patients who had undergone ACD (290 patients) or ACDF (235 patients) at least 2 years previously. All procedures were performed by University of Nebraska Medical Center faculty in the Section of Neurosurgery. The follow-up period averaged 8.1 years, with a range of 2 to 14 years. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-two (49.9%) patients responded to the questionnaire. There was no demographic difference between respondents and nonrespondents (P> 0.05). Respondents who underwent ACDF reported fewer problems with pain than did those who underwent ACD (P < 0.05). A higher percentage of respondents with ACDF reported that they had normal function than did those who underwent ACD (P < 0.05). When limited to respondents who underwent first-time, single-level operations (191 patients), similar results were obtained for the pain parameter (P < 0.05) but not for the level of function (P = 0.25). Patients with longer follow-up periods had fewer problems with pain and better levels of function (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent ACD or ACDF did well and benefited from their operations. Those who underwent ACDF did better than those who underwent ACD. Length of follow-up was also an important predictor of current levels of function and pain.
Configurational assignment for crystalline diastereoisomers by melting point comparisons

Abstract This Letter presents evidence that among crystalline racemic and meso diastereoisomeric organic chemical structures the meso isomer will generally have the higher melting point, provided the compounds contain only two or an even number, 2 n , of chiral centers. A likely theoretical basis for this observation is discussed. I was able to find only very few exceptions to this generalization. Structures with an odd number, 2 n + 1, of chirality centers do not abide by this rule.
A Test of Crossbred Chickens, Single Comb White Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds

Abstract IN THE fields of plant and animal genetics, there has been a considerable amount of experimental work crossing different inbred lines, distantly related individuals, and, in some cases, crossing individuals of different genera, species, or subspecies. Hybridization has been and may be accomplished in three ways: 1. Crossing individuals of different genera, species, or subspecies. 2. Crossing inbred individuals of different inbred lines. 3. Crossing individuals of different breeds and varieties. The progeny of genera, species, and subspecies crosses in the plant kingdom have been used with some degree of success in the formation of new types of plants. However, in the animal kingdom, progeny from wide crosses in large animals, whenever they are obtained, usually prove to be without economic value although the mule is an outstanding exception. Many crosses have been made between birds of different species and subspecies and in a few between individuals from different genera. . . .
Phytochrome structure: Peptide fragments from the amino-terminal domain involved in protein-chromophore interactions

We have undertaken a study of the structure of the amino-terminal domain of the phytochrome polypeptide purified from Avena sativa L. Amino-acid sequencing was used to indentify arginine 52 as the precise location of a conformation-specific cleavage of phytochrome by subtilisin. The location of the epitopes for a class of monoclonal antibodies designated type 2 has been shown to be located between approx. 10 and 20 kilodaltons (kDa) from the amino terminus. These two new spatial markers, in addition to the chromophore and another epitope recognized by type 1 monoclonal antibodies and located within 6 kDa from the amino terminus, have been used to map the locations of several new protease-accessible sites along the polypeptide. After extensive digestion of phytochrome with subtilisin, a stable spectrally-active group of peptides remains. Within this group is a 16-kDa chromopeptide which, either alone or as part of an assemblage of peptides, elutes from a size-exclusion column under nondenaturing conditions at a volume consistent with a molecular mass of 35–40 kDa. This group of peptides has an absorbance spectrum similar to the red-absorbing form of phytochrome (Pr) and is red/far-red photoreversible between this and a photobleached form. These data indicate that this group of peptides still retains the principal structural requisites for Pr-chromophore-protein interactions and for photoreversibility, but not for Pfr (far-red-absorbing phytochrome)-chromophore-protein interactions. It is uncertain if these structural requisites reside exclusively on the 16-kDa chromopeptide or result from an assemblage of these peptides. However, we have excluded any role for an adjacent 14-kDa fragment (approximately residues 50 to 200) in the observed spectral properties since it can be selectively removed without any effect on the photoreversibility.
Nanochannel Arrays on Silicon Platforms by Electrochemistry

Nanochannel arrays with diameters as small as 30 nm and aspect ratios up to 250 were prepared on silicon platforms for the first time by electrochemistry, which is a fast, reproducible, and inexpensive technique. Ionic diffusion through the arrays was investigated in order to demonstrate the open nature of the channels and the absence of defects in the devices. Possible applications for separation, drug release, and bio-encapsulation were also illustrated by following glucose and protein diffusion across the membranes.
Formation of Adenosine by Ultra-violet Irradiation of a Solution of Adenine and Ribose

SEVERAL hypotheses1,2 have linked the origin of life on Earth with the gradual formation of chemical compounds of biological significance. It is conceivable that the proteins and the nucleic acids, or at least their precursors, appeared at a very early stage in the evolution of this planet.
Conformational Consequences of Ionization of Lys, Asp, and Glu Buried at Position 66 in Staphylococcal Nuclease

The pKa values measured previously for the internal Lys-66, Asp-66, and Glu-66 in variants of a highly stable form of staphylococcal nuclease are shifted by as many as 5 pKa units relative to norma...
The Road to Brown, Its Leaders, and the Future.

The 50thanniversary of the historic 1954U.S. SupremeCourt decision in Brown v. Board of Education provides an opportunity to trace the origin of Brown and the long journey by African Americans to achieve quality elementary and secondary education in this country. This journey began with passage of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1868, which applied the Bill of Rights to the states. This action gave the newly freed slaves the same legal rights as White Americans, citizenship and equality under the law and due process protection against state action under the Bill of Rights. Even though public education did not exist for Blacks when the amendment was enacted, it gave Blacks protection against future negative state action. This journey was slowed in 1896 when the Court in Plessy v. Ferguson ruled that the doctrine of separate but equal could satisfy the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. In the 1940s, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP...
A comparison of two methods for preventing cross‐contamination when using flexible fiberoptic endoscopes in an otolaryngology clinic: Disposable sterile sheaths versus immersion in germicidal liquid

Objectives/Hypothesis: To assess the efficacy of using a sterile sheath to prevent cross-contamination when using a fiberoptic nasopharnygolaryngoscope (FNPL) in an otolaryngology clinic. Study Design: Prospective controlled trial. Methods: All FNPLs were disinfected according to applicable current guidelines recommended by the US Center for Disease Control. Swabs were taken from multiple sites on 100 FNPLs for cultures to detect the presence of bacteria, viruses, or both. Each FNPL was then assigned to either the sheath alone (experimental) or germicidal immersion (control) group. After using an FNPL in a patient, swabs were again taken so that a comparison could be made in microbes on the scopes. Throughout the study, the steps in the disinfection process taken by medical assistants as they worked with the FNPLs were observed and recorded. Results: Microbial counts on insertion shafts of FNLPs for the sheath and immersion groups were similar, with 1/50 versus 0/50, respectively. Time spent using the sheath method averaged 89 seconds, whereas immersion in the germicidal liquid took 14 minutes. No breaches in adherence to applicable protocols were observed. Conclusions: Using an individually packaged disposable sterile sheath on a FNLP prevents microbes from adhering to the shaft of the scope, thus providing a reasonably safe method of avoiding the transmission of infection from one patient to the next patient when using an FNLP successively in multiple patients in an otolaryngology clinic. Laryngoscope, 2010
Diagnostic Evaluation of Arrhythmic Disorders: Clinical Application of His Bundle Electrography

THE specialized cardiac conduction system consists of sinus node, atrioventricular node, His bundle, and the bundle-branch system. Impulse formation is normally initiated in the sinus node, while the other structures are necessary for conduction of the impulse from atrium to ventricles and for distribution of the impulse in an orderly fashion to the ventricles. Activation of the specialized conduction system is not seen directly on the surface electrocardiogram, which only shows activity of atrial muscle (P wave) and ventricular muscle (QRS complex). Abnormalities of the specialized conduction system are inferred from the surface cardiogram; eg, atrioventricular block, which produces abnormal conduction patterns between P waves and QRS complexes, and bundle-branch blocks, which produces a disordered QRS. Techniques are now available that allow a more direct look at the function of the specialized conduction system. 1-4 The most important of these is the catheter recording of His bundle electrograms. With catheterization of
Attitudes towards biosecurity practices relevant to Johne's disease control on beef cattle farms

The success of control programs can be improved when producers' attitudes towards these programs are positive. Implementation of control programs for chronic diseases are more challenging than those for acute diseases because of the absence of the "cues-to-action" that are associated with acute diseases. Johne's disease (JD) is a chronic diarrheal disease of ruminants, and national voluntary control programs exist in several countries. We used a mailed cross-sectional survey to describe the attitudes of producers towards biosecurity practices and veterinarians' beliefs relevant to the control of JD on beef farms. Another objective was to describe and compare the attitudes of producers and veterinarians towards specific measures recommended by the Texas Voluntary Johne's Disease Program (TVJDP) for cattle. Questionnaires were mailed to 1100 producers and 840 veterinarians in the state of Texas, USA. Two hundred and eighty-five producers (26%) and 153 veterinarians (18%) returned questionnaires for analysis. Fifty-nine percent of producers and 50% of veterinarians agreed that JD is responsible for substantial losses in beef cattle production. Sixty-four percent of veterinarians had educated producers on management strategies for the control or elimination of JD. However, only 36% had participated in the training program and 29% were certified to develop risk assessments and implement testing. Only 20% of producers reported that they were familiar with the TVJDP and 16% had considered participating in this program. There is a need for greater promotion of the control program among veterinarians and producers. Reasons for the apparent difference in opinions need to be understood to increase the likelihood of control measures adoption and to subsequently reduce the impact of JD on beef cattle operations.
Derivation of the geometrical phase

The geometric (Berry) phase is shown to have its origin in the nontrivial geometry of the fiber bundle: Hilbert space\ensuremath{\rightarrow}space of states. The nontrivial geometry comes simply from the scalar product in Hilbert space. A comprehensive treatment of the geometrical phase is presented, bringing together the various ideas in the literature.
Deposition of Melanin in Sparrow Bill Following Local Action of Testosterone Propionate in Alcoholic Solution.

ConclusionAndrogenic hormone can act locally to induce deposition of melanin in those cells of the sparrow bill which are capable of producing this pigment.
“Ball Don’t Lie!” Rasheed Wallace and the Politics of Protest in the National Basketball Association

This analysis offers a contextualized close reading of the phrase “Ball don’t lie!” used by former National Basketball Association (NBA) player Rasheed Wallace to protest foul calls. The analysis f...
Patient profiling in diabetes and role of canagliflozin.

BACKGROUND Physicians attempt to achieve glycemic goals in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through various means, including glucose-lowering medications. There is interindividual variability in response to medications, which can be partially explained by the presence of genetic polymorphisms that affect drug metabolism. Pharmacogenomics studies the hereditary basis of interpatient variations in drug response and aims to identify subgroups of patients whose drug management could be tailored accordingly. The aim of this review is to explore patient profiling in the management of T2DM with a focus on the sodium glucose transporter inhibitor canagliflozin. METHODS The PubMed database was searched using the terms "pharmacogenomics" and "diabetes" through May 31, 2014. Published articles and abstracts presented at national/international meetings were considered. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Genome-wide association studies have opened the door for patient profiling and research into genetic variants in multifactorial T2DM. Clinically, it may be possible to tailor the type of medication used based on the presence or absence of the various genetic variants. However, the polymorphisms studied may only explain some of the variability in response to T2DM drugs and needs further validation to ensure its authenticity. There are still unidentified factors which appear to play a role in the interindividual variability seen in clinical practice. The potential exists for pharmacogenomics to promote efficacious, safe, and cost-effective individualized diabetes management. Pharmacogenomics is still in its early stages, and the idea of defining patients genetically to predict individual responses to drugs and obtain safe and effective T2DM management is promising, in spite of existing barriers. Currently, clinical profiling of patients with T2DM and using an individualized approach with most drugs, including canagliflozin, based on comorbid conditions still remains the most accepted approach for the management of T2DM.
Periodization in European history

THE historian knows that any division of time into definite periods is artificial. Recent experience has taught him that even in the midst of upheavals and utter destruction there is no complete break with the past. Fragments of forms, whether of institutions or of buildings, are put back together and the old forms often reappear. Furthermore, the intensive historical research of the past few generations has increasingly revealed the complexity of every age. Old traditions persist while at the same time many different sources contribute to the formation of new currents. Yet, as soon as the historian leaves the field with which he is intimately familiar and attempts a wider view of the past, he must rely on abstract generalizations to give order and meaning to the complexity of history. The concepts of periods are among the most potent of such abstractions. They are powerful not only in the community of scholars who, to use a phrase of Fernand Braudel,1 first create these signs and then glue them on their precious bottles, to end by giving the signs authority over their contents. They carry even greater weight in the life of universities, where such notions as ''medieval" or "modern" history continue to form the backbone of the organization of instruction, unshaken by the reforming zeal of deans or curriculum committees. If we therefore must have chronological subdivisions, the periodization ought at least to be acceptable in the light of recent research and from the viewpoint of our own age. By these criteria we should be guided when we