cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Accuracy and Interreader Agreement in Side-by-Side versus Independent Evaluations of MR Imaging of the Medial Collateral Ligament of the Elbow

Abstract Rationale and Objectives The authors compared independent and side-by-side evaluation of magnetic resonance (MR) images of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the elbow, with regard to sensitivity, specificity, and interreader agreement. Materials and Methods Six MR imaging sequences were used to image the MCLs in 28 cadaveric specimens, eight with surgically created lesions. Two reading methods were used. For independent evaluation, the images were first evaluated independently and rated on a five-point scale by two musculoskeletal radiologists experienced in interpreting MR images and blinded to the MCL integrity. The images were then reevaluated on the same scale by both readers after at least 2 weeks, with images from all six sequences shown side by side. For each MR sequence and reading method, the sensitivity and specificity were estimated nonparametrically, and differences were tested with the McNemar test. Interreader agreement was assessed with a κ statistic, and differences were tested with Z and χ 2 tests after adjustment for the dependence structure between correlated κ statistics. Results For all sequences, side-by-side evaluation generally yielded higher specificity than independent evaluation, as well as better agreement between readers. Conclusion Observer performance is superior when multiple MR imaging pulse sequences are reviewed simultaneously rather than independently and separately. Side-by-side review of different MR pulse sequences enabled higher accuracy and lower interreader variability for evaluation of the elbow MCL. These findings have implications for the design of studies to optimize MR imaging protocols by using multiple pulse sequences and multiple readers.
Toward improved effectiveness of bladder cancer immunotherapy.

Urothelial cancer (bladder cancer; BCa) accounts for over 70,000 new cases and 15,000 deaths annually in USA. Although it can be successfully treated in its early stages, it has extremely high recurrence rates and becomes increasingly resistant to treatment at later stages. Intravesical BCG treatment reduces the recurrence rates of BCa from 60–70% to
Nonlinear circuits for naturalistic visual motion estimation

Many animals use visual signals to estimate motion. Canonical models suppose that animals estimate motion by cross-correlating pairs of spatiotemporally separated visual signals, but recent experiments indicate that humans and flies perceive motion from higher-order correlations that signify motion in natural environments. Here we show how biologically plausible processing motifs in neural circuits could be tuned to extract this information. We emphasize how known aspects of Drosophila's visual circuitry could embody this tuning and predict fly behavior. We find that segregating motion signals into ON/OFF channels can enhance estimation accuracy by accounting for natural light/dark asymmetries. Furthermore, a diversity of inputs to motion detecting neurons can provide access to more complex higher-order correlations. Collectively, these results illustrate how non-canonical computations improve motion estimation with naturalistic inputs. This argues that the complexity of the fly's motion computations, implemented in its elaborate circuits, represents a valuable feature of its visual motion estimator. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09123.001
Leontief was not right after all

We use recent international data on cost shares by industry to conduct the first robust test of Leontief’s hypothesis of factor-specific productivity differences. We strongly reject this hypothesis. Hence tests of the Heckscher–Ohlin–Vanek paradigm cannot be based upon simple modifications that define factors in efficiency units. We also discuss a theory of productivity differences that describes the factor content of trade well.
New Research Norms for a New Medium

This paper addresses an aspect of the relationship between electronic publication and the equality and integrity of research by focusing on one of the important mediating influences of quality and integrity, namely norms and conventions governing research and scholarship. What concerns me particularly is how we ought to be thinking about adapting those entrenched norms and conventions whose characteristics have been shaped for a realm of ink and paper, to an environment in which the electronic medium reigns. I use the example of establishing priority for research results as a case study for a general approach I develop in this paper. What I propose is that communities of scientific research should put potential normative shifts to a test, evaluating the extent to which proposed new norms are as true to research values as the entrenched norms they would replace.
A Method To Quantify the Potency of Photosensitizers That Modify Cell Membranes

The numerical assessment of sensitizing potency of different species of photosensitizer molecules has historically been impracticable because of the difficulty of measuring all of the factors that must be taken into account. This paper describes a new method for quantifying relative sensitizer potency that obviates most of the past difficulties. The physical data needed to assess photosensitizing potency are the absorption spectrum of a sample of medium containing sensitizer, the illumination spectrum impinging on the preparation, the duration of illumination, and the amount of light-induced modification. The measurement of these quantities is relatively straightforward, but it is easy to overlook a number of artifacts that can distort the values for potency. Avoiding error requires careful attention to the optical properties of the system, particularly in the light path through the medium containing sensitizer.
Influence of Progesterone, Estradiol Benzoate, and Thyroxine in Ovariectomized Rats upon Placentomata Formation Measured by Total DNA.

SummaryProgesterone (P) has been shown to stimulate placentomata formation in traumatized horns of rat uteri. Influence of estradiol benzoate (EB) and thyroxine (T4) as possible synergists in this reaction using DNA as an index was studied. Slight, but not significant, increases in various indices of placentomata growth were observed when EB or T4 were administered separately with P. Highly significant increases were observed, however, when 2 μg EB + 6 mg P + 3 μg T4/100 g BW were administered. The same level of these 3 hormones stimulated a significant increase in mammary gland growth, indicating similar response in 2 tissues of reproductive system.
Time-Series Analysis of Interferometry In Diffusive Systems

Recovery of the Empirical Green’s Function (EGF) from cross correlation of time-series measured at two receiver locations, called interferometry, is a powerful idea in exploration geophysics. Interferometry enables subsurface imaging without the need for engineered or active sources. It also avoids difficulty of filtering noise signals from the controlled source signals. In theory, the method in lossy and diffusive systems requires large number of sources distributed in an infinite volume surrounding the receiver pair. However, the existence of such a situation is impossible to realize in practice. Hence, the question arise is that “What is the required number and distribution of sources to reconstruct EGF to a given error tolerance?” In this study, this question is investigated through numerical modeling of a double halfspace model. Time-series analysis of the EGF confirmed the previous findings in homogenous medium in which the width of source distribution needed to reconstruct EGF up to a desired time depends on the receiver separation and diffusivity of the medium. For inhomogeneous media, a suite of double halfspace models is examined in which receivers are located on either side of the interface in a 1D problem. It was shown that sources need to be further into the region with higher diffusivity than into low diffusivity region. Naturally, as a receiver pair is embedded sufficiently far into the high or low-D side, no sources are required from across the double halfspace boundary because, essentially, the problem is that for a wholespace. However, closer to the boundary at a given distance, h, a receiver pair in the high-D side will require sources from the low-D side of the system whereas a receiver pair in the low-D side will require no sources from the high-D side of the system.
PANEL ON CANCER DETECTION. I. INTRODUCTION.

Dr. Ellison cites the dramatic improvement in curability of cancer when it is discovered in an asymptomatic stage and discusses exfoliative cytologic technics and other methods to detect gastrointestinal cancer. Dr. F. Jackson Stoddard points out that application of existing methods of diagnosis and treatment can virtually eliminate death from cancer of the cervix and reduce the mortality rate of endometrial cancer to 10 per cent or less. Dr. Donald J. Ferguson examines the indications for biopsy of breast lesions and the significance of the histologic findings. Dr. Laurence F. Greene stresses the importance of rectal examinations to discover prostatic carcinoma and describes corroborative and definitive evidence for this diagnosis. Dr. Edward J. Beattie, Jr. compares the accuracy of procedures for diagnosis of lung cancer and the merits of different modes of treatment.
Identification of Genes Required for Secretion of the Francisella Oxidative Burst-Inhibiting Acid Phosphatase AcpA

Francisella tularensis is a Tier 1 bioterror threat and the intracellular pathogen responsible for tularemia in humans and animals. Upon entry into the host, Francisella uses multiple mechanisms to evade killing. Our previous studies have shown that after entering its primary cellular host, the macrophage, Francisella immediately suppresses the oxidative burst by secreting a series of acid phosphatases including AcpA-B-C and HapA, thereby evading the innate immune response of the macrophage and enhancing survival and further infection. However, the mechanism of acid phosphatase secretion by Francisella is still unknown. In this study, we screened for genes required for AcpA secretion in Francisella. We initially demonstrated that the known secretion systems, the putative Francisella-pathogenicity island (FPI)-encoded Type VI secretion system and the Type IV pili, do not secrete AcpA. Using random transposon mutagenesis in conjunction with ELISA, Western blotting and acid phosphatase enzymatic assays, a transposon library of 5450 mutants was screened for strains with a minimum 1.5-fold decrease in secreted (culture supernatant) AcpA, but no defect in cytosolic AcpA. Three mutants with decreased supernatant AcpA were identified. The transposon insertion sites of these mutants were revealed by direct genomic sequencing or inverse-PCR and sequencing. One of these mutants has a severe defect in AcpA secretion (at least 85% decrease) and is a predicted hypothetical inner membrane protein. Interestingly, this mutant also affected the secretion of the FPI-encoded protein, VgrG. Thus, this screen identified novel protein secretion factors involved in the subversion of host defenses.
I Grew Up Straight ‘hood: Unpacking the Intelligences of Working-Class Latino Male College Students in North Carolina

Primarily drawing from the Mestiz@ Theory of Intelligences (Carrillo, 2013), this article examines how working class Latino male college students in North Carolina navigate multiple cultural worlds and excel academically. This work addresses current gaps in the literature that largely fail to unpack the experiences of academically successful Latin@ college students in the southeastern U.S. and also informs current work on males of color in schools, a topic that, in this region, is largely devoid of any research focus. Moreover, this study provides implications for teacher preparation and for extending current research that focuses on low-income youth of color.
Rethinking Criminal Homicide Statutes: Giving Juries More Discretion

It may be time to rethink our homicide statutes. Current statutes are prone to distinguish between degrees of murder in an inappropriate way: first-degree murder provisions are too often both over- and under-inclusive; and they fail to give juries sufficient leeway to draw morally appropriate distinctions. I offer here some very tentative thoughts on how murder statutes might be reformulated.
CELL CYCLE AND APOPTOSIS : POSSIBLE ROLES OF GADD45 AND MYD118 PROTEINS INFERRED FROM THEIR HOMOLOGY TO RIBOSOMAL PROTEINS

The function and structure of many disease gene products are currently poorly understood, and the easiest way to proceed is to search databases for homologous proteins to infer function or structure from the closest database match. Bioinformatics provides a variety of methods that reach beyond the standard database searches with single query sequences. The identification of a large superfamily of ribosome-associated proteins by computer analysis enabled Eugene Koonin to infer functional information for Gadd45, which is part of a cell-cycle checkpoint pathway defective in ataxia-telangiectasia.
Global optimization of monotonic programs: applications in polynomial and stochastic programming

Monotonic optimization consists of minimizing or maximizing a monotonic objective function over a set of constraints defined by monotonic functions. Many optimization problems in economics and engineering often have monotonicity while lacking other useful properties, such as convexity. This thesis is concerned with the development and application of global optimization algorithms for monotonic optimization problems. First, we propose enhancements to an existing outer-approximation algorithm—called the Polyblock Algorithm—for monotonic optimization problems. The enhancements are shown to significantly improve the computational performance of the algorithm while retaining the convergence properties. Next, we develop a generic branch-and-bound algorithm for monotonic optimization problems. A computational study is carried out for comparing the performance of the Polyblock Algorithm and variants of the proposed branch-and-bound scheme on a family of separable polynomial programming problems. Finally, we study an important class of monotonic optimization problems—probabilistically constrained linear programs. We develop a branch-and-bound algorithm that searches for a global solution to the problem. The basic algorithm is enhanced by domain reduction and cutting plane strategies to reduce the size of the partitions and hence tighten bounds. The proposed branch-reduce-cut algorithm exploits the monotonicity properties inherent in the problem, and requires the solution of only linear programming subproblems. We provide convergence proofs for the algorithm. Some illustrative numerical results involving problems with discrete distributions are presented.
The Role of Permissive and Induced Hypotension in Current Neuroanesthesia Practice.

Background: Induced hypotension (IH) had been used for decades in neurosurgery to reduce the risk for intraoperative blood loss and decrease blood replacement. More recently, this method fell out of favor because of concerns for cerebral and other end-organ ischemia and worse treatment outcomes. Other contributing factors to the decline in its popularity include improvements in microsurgical technique, widespread use of endovascular procedures, and advances in blood conservation and transfusion protocols. Permissive hypotension (PH) is still being used occasionally in neurosurgery; however its role in current anesthesia practice remains unclear. Our objective was to describe contemporary utilization of IH and PH (collectively called PH) in clinical practice among members of the Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care (SNACC). Methods: A questionnaire was developed and distributed among SNACC members that addressed practice patterns related to the use of PH. The responses were analyzed based on the number of individuals who responded to each specific question. Results: Of 72 respondents, 67.6% reported over 10 years of clinical experience, while 15.5% reported 5-10 years of post-training experience. The respondents admitted to providing anesthesia for 300 (median) neurosurgical cases per year. PH was applied most commonly during open interventions on cerebral aneurysms (50.8%) and arteriovenous malformations (46%). Seventy-three percent of respondents were not aware of any complications in their practice attributable to PH. Conclusions: PH is still being used in neuroanesthesia practice by some providers. Further research is justified to clarify the risks and benefits of PH in modern neuroanesthesia practice.
Continuum effects in neutron-drip-line oxygen isotopes

The binding-energy pattern along the neutron-rich oxygen chain, governed by an interplay between shell effects and many-body correlations impacted by strong couplings to one- and two-neutron continua, make these isotopes a unique testing ground for nuclear models. In this work, we investigate ground states and low-lying excited states of $^{23\ensuremath{-}28}\mathrm{O}$ using the complex-energy Gamow shell model and density matrix renormalization group method with a finite-range two-body interaction optimized to the bound states and resonances of $^{23\ensuremath{-}26}\mathrm{O}$, assuming a core of $^{22}\mathrm{O}$. Our results suggest that the ground state of $^{28}\mathrm{O}$ has a threshold character, i.e., is very weakly bound or slightly unbound. We also predict narrow excited resonances in $^{25}\mathrm{O}$ and $^{27}\mathrm{O}$. The inclusion of the large continuum space significantly impacts predicted binding energies of $^{26\ensuremath{-}28}\mathrm{O}$. This implies that the careful treatment of a neutron continuum is necessary prior to assessing the spectroscopic quality of effective interactions in this region.
Association of Retinal Vascular Caliber and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Patients With the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Author(s): Jabs, Douglas A; Van Natta, Mark L; Pak, Jeong Won; Danis, Ronald P; Hunt, Peter W | Abstract: PurposeTo evaluate the relationship between retinal vascular caliber and AMD in patients with AIDS.MethodsParticipants enrolled in the Longitudinal Study of the Ocular Complications of AIDS had retinal photographs taken at enrollment. Retinal vascular caliber (central retinal artery equivalent [CRAE] and central retinal vein equivalent [CRVE]) and intermediate-stage AMD were determined from these retinal photographs. Photographs were evaluated by graders at a centralized reading center, using the Age-Related Eye Disease Study grading system for AMD and semiautomated techniques for evaluating retinal vascular caliber.ResultsOf the 1171 participants evaluated, 110 (9.4%) had AMD and 1061 (90.6%) did not. Compared with participants without AMD, participants with AMD had larger mean CRAEs (151 ± 16 μm versus 147 ± 16 μm; P = 0.009) and mean CRVEs (228 ± 24 μm versus 223 ± 25 μm; P = 0.02). The unadjusted differences were: CRAE, 4.3 μm (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-7.5; P = 0.009) and CRVE, 5.5 μm (95% CI 0.7-10.3; P = 0.02). After adjustment for age, race/ethnicity, sex, human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) transmission category, smoking, enrollment and nadir CD4+ T cells, and enrollment and maximum HIV load, the differences between patients with and without AMD were as follows: CRAE, 5.4 μm (95% CI 2.3-8.5; P = 0.001) and CRVE, 6.0 μm (95% CI 1.4-10.6; P = 0.01).ConclusionsIn patients with AIDS, AMD is associated with greater retinal arteriolar and venular calibers, suggesting a role for shared pathogenic mechanisms, such as persistent systemic inflammation.
The Art of Facilitation

This chapter discusses the use of facilitation by mediators and others who assist groups with their work. The chapter begins with definitions of facilitation and an explanation of why mediators might use the term facilitation rather than mediation. Facilitators’ levels of expertise are identified and discussed. Special attention is paid to the facilitation of meetings in the United States.
Public Opinion: Microsociological Aspects

In microsociological theory, public opinion refers to the distribution of preferences expressed publicly. By contrast, private opinion signifies the distribution of genuine preferences. Where individuals engage in preference falsification, the two may differ. Using a threshold model, this theory demonstrates how public opinion evolves through the interdependent expressive choices of individuals. Where these interdependencies are motivated by social learning, the process involves an informational cascade. Typically there exist multiple equilibria, and the selection depends on history, small events, and the order of individual expressions. The outcome may be unrepresentative of the available private information. In politically controversial contexts people misrepresent their knowledge and preferences to avoid offending powerful groups. Public opinion thus evolves through a reputational cascade whereby people conform to an apparently popular choice to maintain a favorable reputation. The outcome is often unrepresentative of private opinion, although the discrepancy tends to diminish through the learning induced by the distortion of public discourse. Policies shaped by public opinion may breed discontent. But this discontent will remain hidden until people feel safe to speak honestly. Consequently, the unraveling of public opinion may begin unpredictably. Thus, in contexts that feature preference falsification, another characteristic of public opinion is its imperfect predictability.
Molecular Techniques Used in the Evaluation of Pediatric Acute Leukemia

Rapid proliferation of a plethora of molecular techniques has made it possible to evaluate the entire genome of the leukemic cell. The WHO classification scheme for hematolymphoid neoplasms (WHO classification of tumours of haematopoietic and lymphoid tissue (IARC WHO classification of tumours), 2008) and the management guidelines of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN clinical practice guideleines in oncology TM. Acute Myeloid Leukemia, 2011) highlight the importance of genetic tests in diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up of acute leukemia. This chapter introduces the progressive development of the different molecular methods relevant in the evaluation of acute leukemia. The basic principles are discussed. The technical details of tests are beyond the scope of this chapter. These techniques are similarly applicable for the evaluation of other hematolymphoid neoplasms including lymphoma, myeloproliferative disorders, and myelodysplasia.
Fault Detection In PV Strings Using SSTDR

We present spread spectrum time domain reflectometry (SSTDR) analysis for finding faults in live PV arrays. SSTDR has been applied to a combination of PV modules, and responses are recorded and analyzed for various discrete discontinuities. An internal complex circuit diagram for a PV module is presented for the better understanding of the effect of the SSTDR signal inside the PV modules. Analysis of the SSTDR results is helpful to find the exact position of faults in PV arrays.
Assessment of Setup Accuracy Using Anatomical Landmarks for Breast and Chest Wall Irradiation With Surface Guided Radiation Therapy

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to determine setup accuracy using anatomic landmarks for breast irradiation with and without surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT) and assess setup time with SGRT. Methods and Materials This study included 115 patients with 1945 treatment fractions. Patients were treated with 4 techniques: tangents, tangents using deep-inspiration breath hold, and tangents with regional nodal irradiation with and without deep-inspiration breath hold. A total of 915 portal verification images were analyzed to determine setup errors for the skin, chest wall (CW), and heart. Setup error at each landmark was defined as the mean and maximum distances between the projected planning structure and the delineated structure on the portal image. Setup time for each fraction was determined using 2 recorded time outs: one upon the patient entering the treatment room and another before radiation beam on. Results Setup errors for the skin were significantly reduced with SGRT for all 4 treatment techniques (P Conclusions Using anatomic landmarks, we confirm that SGRT improved patient setup accuracy with a slight, but clinically nonsignificant increase in setup time.
Excessive discounting of delayed reinforcers as a trans-disease process: Update on the state of the science

Delay discounting, or the process by which reinforcers lose value with delay to their receipt, has been identified as a trans-disease process underlying addiction, other disorders, and maladaptive health behaviors. Delay discounting has been identified as an endophenotype for multiple psychiatric disorders including substance use disorder, ADHD, and major depressive disorder, with this endophenotype being linked to deficits in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission. In addition, neuroanatomical and neurophysiological deficits in areas of the executive and impulsive systems have been associated with both steeper discounting and substance use disorders. Delay discounting constitutes a novel target for interventions to change health behaviors. A new theory, termed reinforcer pathology, has been developed uniting these findings and setting the stage for future research.
Complementary Procedures to the Framework Strategy (The Canopy Layer)

After developing an understanding of treating the framework/septal layer of the nose, attention is turned to treating the superficial canopy layer of the nose simply in a complementary fashion. Using the same stages described in Chap. 7, approach, release, re-size, and reposition, the alar cartilages, tip, and skin layer are discussed at length in regards to matching the previously restructured framework layers.
Metacognitive approach to narrative persuasion: the desirable and undesirable consequences of narrative disfluency

The current article tests the metacognitive proposition that the relative ease or difficulty with which narrative messages are processed can affect subsequent judgment. Challenging the assertion th...
Unveiling the Apparent “Negative Capacitance” Effects Resulting From Pulse Measurements of Ferroelectric-Dielectric Bilayer Capacitors

Apparent ‘Negative Capacitance’ (NC) effects have been observed in some ferroelectric-dielectric (FE-DE) bilayers by pulse measurements, and the associated results have been published that claim to be direct evidence to support the quasi-static ‘negative capacitance’ (QSNC) idea. However, the ‘NC’ effects only occur when sufficiently high voltage is applied, and even exist in stand-alone FE capacitors. These results contradict the QSNC theory, as it predicts that once stabilized (requires a DE layer), the FE remains in the ‘NC’ state regardless of the applied voltage. In this letter, by the use of Nucleation-Limited-Switching (NLS) model, we present our results obtained from simulation of pulse measurements on samples that are similar to the published ones. The simulation results indicate that reverse polarization switching occurs upon the falling edge of the pulses, which leads to the apparent hysteresis-free NC effect. This work provides an alternative interpretation of the experimental results without invoking the QSNC theory.
Fiscal adjustment and income inequality : sub-national evidence from Brazil

We combine state-level fiscal data with household survey data to assess the links between sub-national fiscal policy and income inequality in Brazil over the period 1995-2011. The results indicate that a tighter fiscal stance at the sub-national level is not associated with a deterioration in inequality measures. This finding contrasts with the conclusions of several papers in the burgeoning literature on the effects of fiscal consolidation on inequality using national data for OECD economies. In addition, we find that a tighter stance is typically positively associated with a measure of âshared prosperityâ. Hence, our results caution against extrapolating policy implications of the literature focusing on advanced economies to other settings.
Serotonin and dopamine modulate aging in response to food perception and availability

Abstract An organism’s ability to perceive and respond to changes in its environment is crucial for its health and survival. Here we reveal how the most well-studied longevity intervention, dietary restriction (DR), acts in-part through a cell non-autonomous signaling pathway that is inhibited by the perception of attractive smells. Using an intestinal reporter for a key gene induced by DR but suppressed by attractive smells, we identify three compounds that block food perception in C. elegans, thereby increasing longevity as DR mimetics. These compounds clearly implicate serotonin and dopamine in limiting lifespan in response to food perception. We further identify an enteric neuron in this pathway that signals through the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A/ser-4 and dopamine receptor DRD2/dop-3. Aspects of this pathway are conserved in D. melanogaster and mammalian cells. Thus, blocking food perception through antagonism of serotonin or dopamine receptors is a plausible approach to mimic the benefits of dietary restriction.
Treatment burden of robotic gastrectomy for locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC): a single western experience.

Background This study compares standard of care (SOC) open and robotic D2-gastrectomy for locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) in the Western context of low disease prevalence, reduced surgical volume, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). We hypothesized that robotic gastrectomy (RG) after NAC reduces treatment burden for LAGC across multiple outcome domains vs. SOC. Methods Single institution, interrupted time series comparing SOC (2008-2013) for LAGC (T2-4Nany/TanyN+) vs. NAC + RG (2013-2018). Treatment burden was a composite metric of narcotic consumption, oncologic efficacy, cumulative morbidity, and 90-day resource utilization. Predictors were evaluated via multivariate modeling. Learning curve analysis was done using CUSUM. Results After exclusions, 87 subjects with equivalent baseline characteristics, aside from male sex, were treated via SOC (n=55) or NAC + RG (n=32). All four domains of treatment burden were significantly reduced in the NAC + RG cohort compared to SOC (P=0.003). The odds ratio for excess treatment burden in the NAC/RG was 0.23 (95% CI: 0.07-0.72, P=0.0117) vs. SOC upon multivariable modeling, whereas the extent of resection (total/subtotal), tumor size, T-stage, sex, and early learning curve had no effect. Differences in treatment burden persisted in subgroup analysis for NAC (n=51). Conclusions NAC + RG was associated with decreased treatment burden relative to SOC for LAGC. Frequencies of unfavorable hospitalization, adverse oncological outcomes, major morbidity, and narcotic consumption all decreased in this interrupted time series.
Examination of the role of “higher order” consistency in skill development

Three experiments examined the importance of “higher-level” consistencies---consistency not defined by the individual stimuli themselves but by the relationships among stimuli. In the first experim...
Overhead camera implementation for robot colony

There are three main tasks in the robot colony: establishing power supply to the robots, creating a communication link from the learning computer to the robot, and the task of implementing an overhead video camera to track the positions of the individual robots in the colony. The focus of this project was to have a tracking system for the colony of robots so that we can use the data obtained from the camera images for future learning algorithms.
A comparative study of memory structures for DSM systems on wireless environments

In recent years, wireless networking has become more popular than ever. Distributed shared memory (DSM) combines computer hardware resources in order to achieve the efficiency and high performance provided by parallel computing. Unfortunately, the major overhead of DSM software is the communication time, especially in wireless network environments. In this paper, we have implemented three memory structures over JIAJIA DSM system on wireless network, and then analyzed their performance. From experimental results, we could find out the relation between communication time and memory layouts. In addition, we have also discovered relationship between characteristics of application programs and memory structures. Experimental results of five well-known benchmark applications show that a suitable memory layout can effectively reduce communication overhead in wireless network. We have analyzed advantages and disadvantages of these memory structures, to improve future designs of wireless DSM systems.
Guideline of mapping parameters for Raman mapping of ZrB2–SiC ceramic composites

Determination of the collection parameters to create the most accurate two-dimensional Raman maps of ZrB2–10 wt-%SiC ceramic composites with the shortest experimental time and highest spatial resolution possible is of high importance and interest. In the present paper, the optimisation of the parameters such as collection times, exposure time, scan type, and resolution step size using a Renishaw inVia micro-Raman spectrometer equipped with a motorised XYZ stage for automatic collection of the maps is reported. The authors found that a static scan with 30-s exposure and any resolution better than 0.7 μm produced an adequate high-quality peak intensity and a peak with two-dimensional maps of TO peak of SiC in ZrB2–10 wt-%SiC ceramic composites within a reasonable amount of time of a few hours of collection.
Detection and characterization of thefimAgene ofEscherichia coliO157:H7

Abstract An expected 850-bp DNA fragment containing fimA , the structural gene for type 1 fimbriae, and flanking sequences was amplified from 39 (of 46) pathogenic and commensal strains of Escherichia coli using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the amplified products showed 13 Hin PI and four Sau 96I restriction profiles among these 39 E. coli strains, revealing the polymorphic nature of this allele. A unique RFLP pattern was shared by E. coli O157:H7, O157:H - and a few O55 serotype strains. DNA sequence analysis of the fimA region demonstrated that E. coli O157:H7 strain 933 and O157:H − strain E32511 contained identical DNA sequences that were distinct from other E. coli strains, especially a 16-bp sequence 5′ to fimA that was conspicuously absent only in E. coli O157 strains. Exploiting these differences, a PCR assay was developed that amplifies a 936-bp fragment from all E. coli O157:H7 strains examined to date. This PCR assay offers a simple, rapid, and reliable means to detect E. coli strains of the O157:H7 serotype.
Characterization of the Coat Protein mRNA of Southern Bean Mosaic Virus and Its Relationship to the Genomic RNA

Abstract RNA isolated from southern bean mosaic virions contains, in small amount, a subgenomic RNA (molecular weight, 0.38 × 106) that serves in vitro as an mRNA for southern bean mosaic virus coat protein. The RNA has a 5′-linked protein indistinguishable from the protein linked to the 5′ end of full-length genomic RNA. Its base sequence, determined to 91 bases from the 3′ end, is identical to the 3′-terminal sequence of the genomic RNA. The results suggest that the coat protein messenger sequence exists as a “silent” cistron near the 3′ end of the genomic RNA.
Key Change Strategies for TCP-MD5

The TCP-MD5 option is most commonly used to secure BGP sessions between routers. However, changing the long-term key is difficult, since the change needs to be synchronized between different organizations. We describe single-ended strategies that will permit (mostly) unsynchronized key changes. This memo provides information for the Internet community.
The use of virtual microscopy for proficiency testing in gynecologic cytopathology: a feasibility study using ScanScope.

Abstract Context.—ScanScope software can digitize entire cytology slides. Objective.—To test the feasibility of using virtual microscopy methods and “virtual Papanicolaou tests” for proficiency tes...
Stress reactivity and adiposity of youth.

Objective: The relationship between stress reactivity and total or central adiposity in children has not been widely studied. Data from two studies were combined to determine the relationship between reactivity to interpersonal stress and the adiposity of children. Research Methods and Procedures: Stress reactivity to an interpersonal stressor (speech) was measured in 36 boys (9.8 ± 1.3 years of age) and 27 girls (9.3 ± 1.3 years of age). Total adiposity (percentage body fat) was estimated from skinfolds and central adiposity from the abdominal girth. Multiple regression was used to establish the associations of change in perceived stress and heart rate reactivity with adiposity. Age, sex, ethnicity, and baseline perceived stress and heart rate served as covariates for total adiposity. Fat mass was included as an additional covariate for the prediction of log abdominal girth (central adiposity). Results: Based on adjusted β-weights, change in perceived stress (β = 1.13, p ≤ 0.001) and heart rate reactivity (β = 0.14, p ≤ 0.03) independently predicted percentage body fat. Heart rate reactivity (β = 0.002, p ≤ 0.04) independently predicted log abdominal girth. Discussion: Reactivity to psychological stress may initiate the antecedents of cardiovascular disease before adolescence by increasing total and central adiposity. Future studies should determine whether stress reactivity increases the adiposity of youth by increasing their consumption of energy-dense snack foods and decreasing their willingness to be physically active.
RNA synthesis during the development of Xenopus laevis, the South African clawed toad

Methods have been described for radioactive-labeling, purification and characterization of high molecular weight RNA from eggs and embryos of Xenopus laevis , the South African clawed toad. The different functional classes of RNA have been distinguished by their sedimentation coefficients, rates of synthesis and accumulation in the embryos, as well as by their nucleotide composition. When RNA is isolated at pH 5 under conditions which minimize its degradation, DNA-like RNA is heterogeneous, having sedimentation coefficients of 18 s and larger. However, DNA-like RNA can be resolved in a partly degraded form from high molecular weight ribosomal RNA precursor molecules as well as 28 s and 18 s ribosomal RNA by its isolation in association with the ribosome particles. Deoxycholate is required to effect this isolation. With the use of these techniques, the following sequence of developmental events has been described. The mature X. laevis oocyte synthesizes a small amount of heterogeneous RNA as a response to hormone injection during the period of ovulation. Some of this RNA can be isolated in association with the ribosomes of the unfertilized egg. Fertilization does not alter this pattern. During the cleavage stages, DNA-like RNA, soluble RNA and DNA are synthesized to the exclusion of ribosomal RNA. Synthesis of new ribosomal RNA begins with the onset of gastrulation at the same stage that the nucleolus first appears. As development proceeds, ribosomal RNA synthesis gradually increases, but the total content of RNA in the embryo does not increase significantly until after hatching. By the completion of embryogenesis the total RNA in the embryo is about double that present in the unfertilized egg.
Dispersion of powders in solutions of a block copolymer

Abstract Barium titanate powder was dispersed in organic solvents using the block copolymer poly(methylmethacrylate-styrene) as dispersant. Dispersion stabilization proved optimal for solvent/nonsolvent mixtures slightly better than θ conditions of the copolymer. In these solvent/nonsolvent mixtures, poly(methylmethacrylate) chain segments are close to precipitation and strongly anchor onto powder particle surfaces, leaving the polystyrene section of the copolymer in solution, providing steric stabilization. The resulting sediment, with a 46% green density, is hard to break and is characterized by a nonagglomerated microstructure.
Combination of Trichoderma harzianum endochitinase and a membrane-affecting fungicide on control of Alternaria leaf spot in transgenic broccoli plants

Progeny from transgenic broccoli (cv. Green Comet) expressing a Trichoderma harzianum endochitinase gene were used to assess the interaction between endochitinase and the fungicide Bayleton in the control of Alternaria brassicicola. In vitro assays have shown synergistic effects of endochitinase and fungicides on fungal pathogens. Our study examined the in planta effects of endochitinase and Bayleton, individually and in combination. Two month old transgenic and non-transgenic plants were sprayed with ED50 levels of Bayleton and/or inoculated with an A. brassicicola spore suspension. Disease levels in non-sprayed transgenic plants were not statistically different from sprayed transgenic plants nor from sprayed non-transgenic controls. Thus endochitinase-transgenic plants alone provided a significant reduction of disease severity, comparable to the protection by fungicide on non-transgenic plants. Comparison of the expected additive and observed effects revealed no synergism between endochitinase and Bayleton (at ED50 level), and usually less than an additive effect. Some transgenic lines sprayed with fungicide at doses higher than ED50 showed resistance similar to the non-sprayed transgenic lines, again suggesting no synergistic effect. Lack of synergism may be due to incomplete digestion of the cell wall by endochitinase, so that the effect of Bayleton at the cell membrane is not enhanced.
Otitis Media and Ear Tubes

The placement of myringotomy tubes remains an effective treatment of recurrent acute otitis media and chronic otitis media with effusion. Infants and young children are prone to these entities because of their immature anatomy and immunology. Several host, pathogenic, and environmental factors contribute to the development of these conditions. The identification and modification of some these factors can preclude the need for intervention. The procedure continues to be one of the most common outpatient pediatric procedures. Close vigilance and identification of potential complications is of utmost importance in the ongoing management of the child with middle ear disease.
Unemployment Duration in Non-Metropolitan Labor Markets

Non-metropolitan areas of the U.S have experienced significant structural economic changes in recent decades. These changes have raised concerns that some non-metropolitan workers may face significant costs to employment displacements associated with economic adjustments. This paper explores the roles that linkages to metropolitan labor markets, area labor market conditions, and individual attributes play in determining the rates of exit from unemployment to employment among non-metropolitan area residents. Adjacency to a metropolitan area is found to significantly increase transition rates from unemployment to employment among displaced non-metropolitan workers, but local economic conditions are found to have relatively weak or insignificant effects on transition rates. Also, lack of post-high school education and minority status both significantly reduce rates of exit from unemployment in non-metropolitan areas following employmentdisplacement.
Quantized-Input Control Lyapunov Approach for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Drives

We present a new method for the generation of input switching sequences in a synchronous motor control system based on the evaluation of a control Lyapunov function over a discrete set of realizable inputs. Typical reference input realization methods, such as space vector modulation, rely on high-frequency state space averaging which can yield unnecessary switching events and increased switching losses. Alternative input selection strategies, such as lookup-table-based direct torque control, rely on heuristically chosen hysteresis bands to determine switching instants, which often results in a suboptimal choice between switching frequency and other performance measures. In this paper, we use an energy-related Lyapunov function to guide the input selection process by making switching decisions based on the stabilizing effect each input has on the closed-loop system. We provide a theoretical analysis of a motor-inverter system, leading to a stability proof for a quantized input control law. The controller performance is verified through computer simulations and experimental results.
Morphometrics and sexual dimorphism of the hingeback tortoises Kinixys erosa and Kinixys homeana (Reptilia : Testudinidae) in southwestern Cameroon : original article

Abstract Morphometric data on a series of forest‐dwelling hingeback tortoises, 138 Kinixys erosa and 74 Kinixys homeana, from the Southwest Province of Cameroon, Africa, where they are sympatric, are presented. The two species exhibited opposite trends in sexual size dimorphism. Unique among Kinixys, male K. erosa are significantly larger than females. All but two comparisons of height on length, width on length, and width on height allometries between males, females, and juveniles of each species were significantly different. Females of both species were relatively taller than their male counterparts. The two species differed in height/width growth allometry at sexual maturity.
Administrative Succession and Organizational Performance: How Administrator Experience Mediates the Succession Effect

Analysis of data for 22 teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA) indicated that succession has no effect on subsequent team performance when prior performance is controlled, a result cons...
Preliminary model of regional Mesozoic groundwater flow and uranium deposition in the Colorado Plateau

Qualitative and numerical simulation of regional groundwater flow in the Colorado Plateau during Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous time has led to a model of uranium deposition in areas of upwelling solutions. Paleogeographic reconstruction shows that surface drainage and therefore groundwater flow was generally toward the northeast and east. Croundwater flowing in these directions, principally through Triassic-Jurassic and Permian sandstones, encountered sediments of variable thickness due to buried uplifted or downdropped Precambrian blocks. The buried uplifted blocks caused upward movement of groundwater around them. These inferred zones of upwelling are closely associated with concentrations of Jurassic- and Cretaceous-age uranium deposits. The results are consistent with hypotheses of an upwelling brine mixing and reacting with descending meteoric water and causing uranium precipitation at the fluid interface. Whether the uranium came from above or below the interface is an unsolved problem, but this model helps to identify better the sources of the waters and also suggests target areas for exploration.