cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features: the new consensus-based definition for this cohort of patients should be broadened

We appreciate the research statement recently published by Fischer et al. [1] proposing new terminology: “interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features” (IPAF) to characterise the heterogeneous group of patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) who have a clinical flavour of underlying connective tissue disease (CTD) but do not meet the current American College of Rheumatology criteria for CTD. Indeed, a variety of terms and criteria have been used in studies to describe such patients, including “autoimmune featured interstitial lung disease”, “undifferentiated connective tissue disease associated interstitial lung disease”, and “lung-dominant connective tissue disease” [2–5]. Thus, the need for a consensus regarding the terminology and better characterisation of the clinical characteristics of this group of patients is evident. The proposed terminology, however, is not yet validated and does not include a provision for patients with clinical characteristics of CTD who do not meet American College of Rheumatology criteria for CTD or IPAF criteria, but are distinct from patients with IIP alone. To meet the proposed criteria for IPAF, a patient must have features of IIP on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images and/or surgical lung biopsy. Alternative aetiologies of IIPs must be excluded by thorough clinical evaluation and the patient must fail to meet criteria for a specific CTD. The patient must then have at least one characteristic from at least two out of three domains: clinical, serological and morphological. We wish to share our concerns regarding the new IPAF classification. IPAF excludes patients with ILD associated with autoimmune features; IPAF morphological domain should be broadened
QUALITY OF LIFE IS DIMINISHED IN PATIENTS WITH TETRALOGY OF FALLOT WITH MILD RESIDUAL DISEASE: A COMPARISON OF TETRALOGY OF FALLOT AND ISOLATED VALVAR PULMONARY STENOSIS

Quality of life (QOL) is diminished in patients with congenital heart defects. We sought to compare QOL in patients with operated tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) to those with isolated valvar pulmonary stenosis (VPS) after balloon valvuloplasty. We hypothesized that QOL is comparable in patients with mild
Early Adoption of the SSO-ASTRO Consensus Guidelines on Margins for Breast-Conserving Surgery with Whole-Breast Irradiation in Stage I and II Invasive Breast Cancer: Initial Experience from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Reexcision rates in patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for early-stage invasive breast cancer are highly variable. The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) and American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) published consensus guidelines to help standardize practice. We sought to determine reexcision rates before and after guideline adoption at our institution. We identified patients with stage I or II invasive breast cancer initially treated with BCS between June 1, 2013, and October 31, 2014. Margins were defined as positive (tumor on ink), close (≤1 mm), or negative (>1 mm), and were recorded for both invasive cancer and ductal carcinoma-in situ (DCIS) components. Reexcision rates were quantified, characteristics were compared between groups, and multivariable logistic regression was performed. A total of 1205 patients were identified, 504 before and 701 after the guideline adoption (January 1, 2014). Clinical and pathologic characteristics were similar between time periods. Reexcision rates significantly declined from 21.4 to 15.1 % (p = 0.006) after guideline adoption. A multivariable model identified extensive intraductal component (odds ratio [OR] 2.5, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.2–5.2), multifocality (OR 2.0, 95 % CI 1.2–3.6), positive (OR 844.4, 95 % CI 226.3–5562.5) and close (OR 38.3, 95 % CI 21.5–71.8) ductal carcinoma-in situ margin, positive (OR 174.2, 95 % CI 66.2–530.0) and close (OR 6.4, 95 % CI 3.0–13.6) invasive margin, and time period (OR 0.5, 95 % CI 0.3–0.9 for post vs. pre) as independently associated with reexcision. Overall reexcision rates declined significantly after guideline adoption. Close invasive margins were associated with higher rates of reexcision than negative invasive margins in both time periods; however, the effect diminished in the postguideline adoption period. Thus, we expect continued decline in reexcision rates as adherence to guidelines becomes more uniform.
Temperature- and pressure-dependent rate coefficients for the HACA pathways from benzene to naphthalene

Abstract RRKM-Master Equation calculations have been performed to evaluate temperature- and pressure-dependent rate coefficients for acetylene addition reactions to the C6H5, C6H4C2H, C6H5C2H2, and C6H4C2H3 radicals. These calculations indicate a strong pressure dependence for the role of various Hydrogen-Abstraction-C2H2-Addition (HACA) sequences for the formation of naphthalene from benzene. At atmospheric and lower pressures the C8H7 radicals, C6H4C2H3 and C6H5C2H2, cannot be stabilized above 1650 K. As a result, both the Bittner–Howard HACA route, in which a second acetylene molecule adds to C6H5C2H2, and the modified Frenklach route, where a second C2H2 adds to the aromatic ring of C6H4C2H3 obtained by internal hydrogen abstraction, are unrealistic under low pressure flame conditions. At the higher pressures of some practical combustion devices (e.g., 100 atm) these routes may be operative. Naphthalene is predicted to be the main product of the C6H5C2H2 + C2H2 and C6H4C2H3 + C2H2 reactions in the entire 500–2500 K temperature range independent of pressure (ignoring the issues related to the instability of C8H7 species). Frenklach's original HACA route, where the second C2H2 molecule adds to the aromatic ring activated by intermolecular H abstraction from C8H6, involves the C6H4C2H + C2H2 reaction, which is shown to predominantly form dehydrogenated species with a naphthalene core (naphthyl radicals or naphthynes) at T
A strip-slot direct mode coupler

We investigate the direct butt coupling between slot and strip waveguides. Contrary to popular belief, the apparent mode mismatch does not deteriorate conversion efficiency. The direct coupler shows 95% conversion efficiency with a broad bandwidth.
Does Degree of Vulvar Sensitivity Predict Vulvodynia Characteristics and Prognosis

Abstract Although women with vulvodynia typically have increased vulvar sensitivity, data on characteristics associated with the degree of vulvar sensitivity are lacking. We measured vulvar sensitivity using cotton swab test and vulvodolorimeter among a subset of 335 women, aged younger than 70 years, in the longitudinal Woman to Woman Health Study. Comparing the vulvodynia screening results from their online/paper survey to that at the time of the examination, 42 women had ongoing vulvodynia, 66 had a recent remission, 22 control participants had a recent onset of vulvodynia, and 205 control participants remained asymptomatic. Vulvar sensitivity was greater in each vulvodynia group compared with the control group ( P P = .025), pain after intercourse ( P = .008), describing the pain as a “pressure,” “burning,” or “irritating” ( P = .015, P = .005, and P = .006, respectively), with increased severity of pain ever ( P = .012), and with subsequent persistent or relapsing vulvodynia ( P 1 for the cotton swab summary score best differentiated case from control participants (sensitivity 71.9%; specificity 72.0%). Although 13.8% of women with vulvodynia had no increased sensitivity on cotton swab testing, they did not differ in most clinical characteristics or clinical course from those with increased vulvar sensitivity. Perspective This study showed that women with vulvodynia have more vulvar sensitivity than control women, but the spectrum of sensitivity is broad. Furthermore, those with and without vulvar sensitivity did not differ in most vulvar pain characteristics or in prognosis, suggesting a positive swab test is not required to substantiate the diagnosis.
Commentary on Some of My Books and Scientific Papers

Most of this biography has been written without technical details so that the nonscientist can understand it. However some readers might wish to learn more about the science, and this chapter therefore includes my important my most important scientific papers with brief comments on their significance.
ROLE OF THE GUT | Dogfish Rectal Gland

The rectal gland is a small, highly specialized, salt-secreting gland found in elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, and rays) and the coelacanth. Rectal gland secretory cells exhibit morphological and biochemical features (high abundances and activities of membrane-bound enzymes and transporters) that facilitate secretion of salt. In fact, the gland has long been a model for the mechanisms of NaCl transport in vertebrate tissues. The rectal gland’s secretory activity is dynamic and subject to complex regulation. Secretion is regulated (activated or inhibited) by numerous factors, including intravascular fluid volume, pH, hormonal stimulation, perfusion, nervous stimulation, and ionic strength. In particular, feeding and the associated changes in extracellular fluid volume, ionic strength, and pH appear to play a major role in intermittent gland activation in the intact animal. Gland activation involves biochemical modifications, as well as morphological changes at both the cellular and tissue levels.
Subcellular mechanisms involving vitamin D.

Vitamin D was originally discovered owing to its basic function in providing for the normal mineralization of bone (DeLuca, 1978, 1979; Haussler and McCain, 1977). The deficiency disease in young animals and children is known as rickets and in adults as osteomalacia. Both are characterized by a failure to mineralize the organic matrix of bone (DeLuca, 1967). Although there is considerable sentiment that some form of vitamin D might function directly to promote the transfer of minerals from plasma to the calcifying centers, so far clear evidence on this is not available. The major role of vitamin D in providing for mineralization of bone is the elevation of plasma calcium and phosphorus to supersaturating levels that are in turn required for the normal mineralization process (DeLuca, 1967, 1978, 1979; Haussler and McCain, 1977). To provide calcium and phosphorus in the plasma compartment, it has long been recognized that vitamin D facilitates or promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D is also involved in the mobilization of calcium from bone, and there is some evidence that vitamin D may play a role in the renal conservation of calcium (Sutton and Dirks, 1978; Gran, 1960). These activities are generally believed to be responsible for the elevation of plasma calcium and phosphorus concentrations. In addition to these well-established mechanisms, this review will illustrate possible new sites of vitamin D function heretofore unappreciated. It is also important to realize that the function of vitamin D in regulating mineral metabolism is of a basic nature, and disturbances in this system can result in a variety of pathological conditions, only two of which are osteomalacia and rickets. Further, the role of vitamin D in elevating plasma calcium concentration prevents muscle and nerve dysfunction known as hypocalcemic tetany.
Exploiting Implicit Representations in Timed Automaton Verification for Controller Synthesis

Automatic controller synthesis and verification techniques promise to revolutionize the construction of high-confidence software. However, approaches based on explicit state-machine models are subject to extreme state-space explosion and the accompanying scale limitations. In this paper, we describe how to exploit an implicit, transition-based, representation of timed automata in controller synthesis. The CIRCA Controller Synthesis Module (CSM) automatically synthesizes hard real-time, reactive controllers using a transition-based implicit representation of the state space. By exploiting this implicit representation in search for a controller and in a customized model checking verifier, the CSM is able to efficiently build controllers for problems with very large state spaces. We provide experimental results that show substantial speed-up and orders-of-magnitude reductions in the state spaces explored. These results can be applied to other verification problems, both in the context of controller synthesis and in more traditional verification problems.
Synthesis and Characterization of GaP, InP, and GaInP2 Quantum Dots

Although excellent progress has been made in the preparation and characterization of quantum dots (QDs) made from II-VI compounds, Si, oxides (Ti, In, Cu, W), and iodides (Hg, Pb, Bi); the preparation of high-quality QDs of III-V semiconductors has proven to be problematic.1–8 Here, we report the synthesis and properties of excellent quality binary III-V InP and GaP colloidal QDs, and the ternary III-V QD, GaInP2.9,10
Design and performance of the micro-dose calibrator.

A new class of dose calibrator called a micro-dose calibrator, designed to measure radioactivity rates in the range between 1 kBq up to 370 kBq, has been designed and an 8 NaI(Tl)/photo multiplier tube (PMT) module prototype built to evaluate its performance. The design of the micro-dose calibrator is based on the concept of a segmented well counter. By segmenting a single crystal well counter into multiple crystals or segments, with each segment operated and read out independently, one can extend the operational range of a standard single crystal well counter while maintaining its accuracy and spectrographic capabilities. The micro-dose calibrator is operated in N-fold coincidence mode to ensure that a single radioactive decay resulting in multiple segments detecting gamma ray events are counted as a single decay. The N fold coincidence detection is achieved using a pipeline coincidence processing algorithm implemented in software as part of a multi-threaded acquisition system. A tri-functional model pulse pileup dead time correction is applied to extend the operational range of the micro-dose calibrator. The micro-dose calibrator achieved an operation range between 1 kBq up to 3.4 MBq for 18F with a 1% linearity precision using a 60 s integration time window. Over a 9 d period, a daily count rate measure of a 137Cs point source had a coefficient of variation of 0.17% with only one high voltage calibration performed on day 0. The central 20 mm up to 35 mm axial length in the sample well showed less than 1% change in count rate depending on the radionuclide. Using a 0.5 ml insulin syringe, a volume of dose between 0.13 ml up to 0.50 ml showed less than 1% deviation from volumetric linearity. A 20 cc scintillation vial showed similar volumetric linearity performance for radionuclide solution volumes between 4 cc up to 20 cc.
Dermatomyositis etiopathogenesis: a rebel soldier in the muscle.

Purpose of review The purpose of this article is to review the etiopathogenesis of dermatomyositis, including the predisposing factors, triggers, inflammatory cells, pathways and target antigens associated with dermatomyositis. Recent findings During the last few years, we have made considerable progress in unveiling the etiopathogenesis of dermatomyositis. In the first place, we have defined genes within the major histocompatibility complex locus as the greatest genetic risk factor for the disease. Second, we have demonstrated that certain environmental factors, as well as tumors, may trigger certain dermatomyositis subtypes. Moreover, we have established the importance of the interferon pathway in dermatomyositis pathogenesis compared with other myositis subtypes. But probably, the most remarkable advance has been the discovery of multiple autoantibodies that define groups of patients with characteristic clinical features, prognosis and response to treatment. Summary Dermatomyositis cause and pathogenesis have proven to be a complex and fascinating task for the scientific community and the last decade has been full of new findings on how the disease starts and how it causes damage to different organ systems. However, we have still more questions than answers in this topic, answers that will be critical to understanding autoimmunity and finding effective therapies to dermatomyositis.
Sexual harassment expanded: An examination of the relationships among sexual harassment, sex discrimination, and aggression in the workplace

We hypothesized that sexual harassment is part of a broader behavioral family including aggression and discrimination. We examined whether the relationships between these types of mistreatment can be represented well by a general factor that relates to other workplace variables. Evidence from military datasets showed that sexual harassment, sex discrimination, and workplace aggression can be conceptualized as a more general factor that functioned well in an integrated model of sexual harassment and was experienced differently by men and women. Thus, there is utility in examining these types of mistreatment both together and independently, both for research and prevention purposes.
Local processes with a global reach

Recent, rapid and (in many cases) unprecedented climate changes in the Arctic continue to outpace all other regions. New research argues that local, not remote, mechanisms are responsible for amplifying polar climate change.
Differences in Echocardiographic Measures of Aortic Dimensions by Race.

It is not clear whether there are differences in aortic dimensions by race. Our hypothesis was that race-specific differences in aortic size exist. We compared the relation between race and aortic dimensions among 15,295 adults without known risk factors for cardiovascular disease or aortic dilatation, who underwent clinically indicated transthoracic echocardiography. We compared inner edge-to-inner edge measurements between whites (n = 12,932), blacks (n = 958), Asians (n = 827), Hispanics (n = 366), Native Americans (n = 38), and others (n = 174). Multivariate analysis compared measurements indexed with body surface area (BSA) between races and adjusted for variables including age, gender, and mean blood pressure. Mean age was 49.9 ± 17.6 years, and 58.7% were female. On gender-specific comparisons, there were significant differences in aortic size between races (p
Pulse Front Tilt Steering in Laser Plasma Accelerators

We report on the effect of laser spatiotemporal coupling in laser plasma accelerators. Pulse front tilt in the driving laser causes asymmetry in the wakefield, resulting in deflection of the electron beam from the laser axis. We explore the physical mechanisms and propose a quantitative model of electron steering, which is validated with particle-in-cell simulations. Even a small amount of pulse front tilt can result in beam steering in the final down ramp of the plasma profile, which may lead to unexpected beam-pointing errors or fluctuations. On the other hand, it can be used to govern the final beam direction, which has consequences for staging laser plasma accelerators in a high-energy physics collider as well as x-ray generation for biological imaging.
Unfolding Polyhedra.

Starting with the unsolved "D\"urer's problem" of edge-unfolding a convex polyhedron to a net, we specialize and generalize (a) the types of cuts permitted, and (b) the polyhedra shapes, to highlight both advances established and which problems remain open.
Single-Stage Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction: A Comparison Between Subpectoral Versus Prepectoral Implant Placement.

Background Single-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction can offer several potential benefits. Subpectoral DTI reconstruction can present with animation deformity and pectoralis muscle spasm. To potentially avoid these complications, surgeons have attempted prepectoral placement for DTI; however, the benefits of this approach are mostly unknown. We evaluated the outcomes of DTI between prepectoral and subpectoral placement. Methods This was a retrospective review of patients who underwent immediate DTI breast reconstruction (prepectoral vs subpectoral) between 2011 and 2018. Demographics, clinical characteristics, complications, and patient-reported outcomes (BREAST-Q) were compared. Results Thirty-three patients (55 breasts) underwent prepectoral DTI, and 42 patients (69 breasts) underwent subpectoral DTI. Demographics were similar among groups. The number of breasts with preoperative ptosis lower than grade 2 was not significantly different between groups (29.1% vs 26.1%; P = 0.699). Median follow-up was 20.3 and 21 months in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively. Average mastectomy weight was 300 g (180-425 g) and 355 g (203-500 g). Average implant size was 410 cc (330-465 cc) and 425 cc (315-534 cc) in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively. Alloderm was used in all reconstructions. Total numbers of complications were 4 (7.2%) and 8 (11.6%) in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively (P = 0.227). BREAST-Q demonstrated mean patient satisfaction was high and similar among groups (75 and 73.9, P = 0.211). Conclusions Based on these results, we believe prepectoral DTI is safe, reliable, and a promising reconstructive option for selected patients, with equivalent results to other reconstructive options. Our present treatment recommendations are for patients who wish to maintain the same breast size and have minimal or no breast ptosis.
Parolefare: Post-prison Supervision and Low-Wage Work

How might parole operate as a labor market institution, and how might it contribute to the governance of poverty and social marginality? Drawing on a series of correctional, employment, and arrest records for a cohort of parolees in Michigan, we show that parole generally supervises a jobless population, but also oversees a significant number of people who work. We also find evidence that parole, contrary to many expectations, increases the odds of employment. However, we do not find convincing evidence that parolee employment alleviates individual poverty or reduces the odds of recidivism. These results inspire a conceptualization of parolefare, another poverty regulating regime that successfully motivates worker-citizenship but does little to extend or protect the life chances of the poor.
Political parties and citizens’ well-being among non-democratic developing countries:

This article explains variations in citizens’ well-being among non-democratic developing countries by disaggregating non-democracies and focusing on the role of party strength. The effect of party ...
Alpha-Ketoglutarate, the Metabolite that Regulates Aging in Mice.

In this issue of Cell Metabolism, Asadi Shahmirzadi et al. (2020) demonstrate that late-onset dietary supplementation with calcium alpha-ketoglutarate results in increased survival, compressed morbidity, and reduced frailty in mice. The study provides further evidence for critical links between metabolism, inflammation, and aging.
Fatal Chlamydia psittaci infection in a domestic kitten.

Chlamydia psittaci has not been reported to cause disease in domestic cats, to our knowledge. In contrast, C. felis infection is common in domestic cats and typically results in conjunctivitis, upp...
Use of ICD-10-CM coded hospitalisation and emergency department data for injury surveillance

Injury surveillance, the ongoing, systematic collection, analysis, interpretation and dissemination of injury data, provides critical information to support public health efforts to reduce injury-related morbidity, mortality and disability.1 2 For the past several decades, state and local health departments and national agencies in the USA have relied on the use of hospital discharge and emergency department (ED) data coded using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) to conduct injury surveillance.3 Surveillance case definitions and analyses have been based on ICD-9-CM codes. However, a US mandate to code using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM)4 5 has resulted in a need to update injury surveillance case definitions and analysis guidance based on ICD-10-CM.6–9 Beginning in October 2015, the US Department of Health and Human Services required all hospitals and healthcare providers covered by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act to use the ICD-10-CM to report electronic healthcare transactions.4 5 The coding structure of ICD-10-CM is based on ICD-10 mortality coding and classification published by the WHO, however, the classification scheme has been greatly expanded to capture the diagnostic detail needed for medical diagnoses. ICD-10-CM contains nearly five times the number of codes found in ICD-9-CM (approximately 72 000 codes in ICD-10-CM compared with 15 000 codes in ICD-9-CM). Because ICD-10-CM captures greater detail than either ICD-9-CM or ICD-10, this classification system has the potential to provide enhanced understanding of the types and causes of non-fatal injury. Epidemiologists and researchers who are transitioning from the use of ICD-9-CM coded data to ICD-10-CM coded data should note the …
The Changing Landscape of Open Access Publishing: Can Open Access Publishing Make the Scholarly World More Equitable and Productive?

Almost 50% of scholarly articles are now open access in some form. This greatly benefits scholars at most institutions and is especially helpful to independent scholars and those without access to libraries. It also furthers the long-standing idea of knowledge as a public good. The changing dynamics of open access (OA) threaten this positive development by solidifying the pay-to-publish OA model which further marginalizes peripheral scholars and incentivizes the development of sub-standard and predatory journals. Causal loop diagrams (CLDs) are used to illustrate these interactions.
Assessing the lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of perishable food products delivered by the cold chain in China

Abstract The cold chain (refrigerated supply chain) preserves the value of perishable products and it is rapidly expanding in China. The environmental impacts of cold chain expansion are of increasing concern but are not well-studied. This study investigated the lifecycle GHG emissions of vegetables, fruit, meat, and aquatic products delivered by the cold chain in China. A lifecycle assessment (LCA) framework based on 1 kg edible product consumed is used. Monte Carlo simulation is applied to characterize the variability of the simulation and sensitivity analysis for 22 parameters are conducted. We found that refrigerated warehouses, the 1st refrigerated transportation, and the retail stage represent more than 50% of post-agriculture cold chain emissions. The results also show that the energy usage of the cold chain constitutes an average of 61% GHG emissions in four fruit/vegetable scenarios, while emissions associated with food losses and wastes are the largest in meat/aquatic scenarios. By accumulating the post-agriculture cold chain GHG emissions, the results show that the cold chain activities can potentially constitute 1–3% of overall emissions in China based on 2018’s level.
Effects of radiation on endothelial barrier and vascular integrity

Abstract The excitement of the discovery of radiation as a potent and novel energy source was subdued by the realization that radiation exposure to biological tissues was capable of inducing injuries of a nature not previously encountered. Currently, radiation is an important clinical modality for biological imaging and cancer treatment, but its use continues to be limited by adverse effects on normal tissues. Immediately following radiation exposure, damage to capillaries and small vessels results in an inflammatory response, leading to vascular permeability and edema. Delayed and late effects of radiation on the vasculature include permanent alterations in the in vascular paths, wall thickening, and fibrotic remodeling, and persistent proinflammatory vascular changes are associated with cardiovascular pathologies that can manifest years after radiation exposure. Animal and cell culture models have been used to understand the molecular mechanisms of radiation-induced vascular injury, providing insight into the biological processes leading to the early, delayed, and late effects. This body of research has resulted in the identification of direct effects of radiation on endothelial cell barrier function, viability, and activation. Research has also identified indirect vascular effects of radiation that occur through the induction of inflammation and the release of iron from erythrocytes. Improved understanding of the molecular effects of radiation on the vasculature will aid in the identification of pharmaceutical agents for the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of radiation injuries.
Robots, Automation and the demand for Industrial Space

We utilize the data set developed by Acemoglu & Restrepro (2017) depicting the likely adoption rate of robots by firms in each US MSA. Our focus is on the impact of this automation metric on the market for industrial real estate (factories and warehouses). We get similar results to their negative impacts of automation on local labor markets. Over 1993-2007, MSA with an industry mix that that more rapidly automating are associated with significantly less construction of new industrial space, less growth in overall occupied space, and lower increases in industrial space rents. The use of industry mix based “estimated” robot adoption, and a wide range of applied control variables, suggests that this relationship is causal.
Reducing residual-motion artifacts in iterative 3D CBCT reconstruction in image-guided radiation therapy.

Purpose Recent evaluations of a 3D iterative cone-beam computed tomography (iCBCT) reconstruction method available on Varian radiation treatment devices demonstrated that iCBCT provides superior image quality when compared to analytical Feldkamp-Davis-Kress (FDK) method. However, iCBCT employs statistical penalized likelihood (PL) that is known to be highly sensitive to inconsistencies due to physiological motion occurring during the acquisition. We propose a computationally inexpensive extension of iCBCT addressing this deficiency. Methods During the iterative process, the gradients of PL are modified to avoid the generation of motion-related artifacts. To assess the impact of this modification, we propose a motion simulation generating CBCT projections of a moving anatomy together with artifact-free images used as ground truth. Contrast-to-noise ratio and power spectra of difference images are computed to quantify the impact of the motion on reconstructed CBCT volumes as well as the effect of the proposed modification. Results Using both simulated and clinical data, it is shown that the motion of patient's abdominal wall during the acquisition results in artifacts that can be quantified as low-frequency components in volumes reconstructed with iCBCT. Further, a quantitative evaluation demonstrates that the proposed modification of PL reduces these low-frequency components. While preserving the advantages of PL, it effectively suppresses the propagation of motion-related artifacts into clinically important regions, thus increasing the motion resiliency of iCBCT. Conclusions The proposed modified iterative reconstruction method significantly improves the quality of CBCT images of anatomies suffering from residual motion.
Fulfilling Pierce's Dream: Conceptual Structures and Communities of Inquiry

C. S. Peirce, as a philosopher, logician, and scientist, argued that we should “adopt our logic as our metaphysics,” and that a system of graphical logic could provide an experimental means to “illustrate the general course of thought.” In particular, Peirce hoped that his Existential Graphs would develop into “the logic of the future.” This paper provides an introduction to the proceedings of the International Conference on Conceptual Structures '97, and explores these two propositions as the basis for what may be the first articulate model of information and knowledge processing, and the direct antecedant of Conceptual Graphs, first developed in the work of John Sowa [19] [20]. The kind of “experiments” Peirce foresaw are exact (but still intuitively available) representations of problems and conceptual relations that permit the development of research groups and communities, such as the Conceptual Graphs and Formal Concept Analysis communities today. The paper outlines the development of Conceptual Graphs from Peirce's Existential Graphs and more recent sources in logic, computational linguistics, semantic networks, and artificial intelligence. A brief account of the planning and the program for ICCS'97 follows, detailing the intention of the Program Committee and the Editorial Board to broaden participation in this conference, and in the growing community of inquiry in many fields where a graphical representation of conceptual structures is proving fruitful.
Political Action Committee Spending and Senate roll call voting

This paper addresses how PAC spending affects the roll call voting behavior of U.S. Senators. Using a theoretical framework which draws broadly on the voting literature, we develop models that explain Senatorial voting behavior in a pre-PAC and post-PAC world. Testing both models we find weak support for a Downs-Black view of voting participation in the first model. The second model supports the alteration of voting incentives resulting from PAC spending. We find that PACs have a positive effect on voting participation. The conjecture remains whether PACs change voting outcomes, but it is clear that they buy voting participation.
Differences between limited and diffuse systemic sclerosis-related pulmonary arterial hypertension

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a leading cause of death in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Frequently associated with t limited SSc (lcSSc), PAH can also complicate diffuse SSc (dcSSc). Little is known about the characteristics of patients with dcSSc-PAH compared to lcSSc-PAH. Methods: Consecutive patients with SSc-PAH were followed prospectively. LcSSc and dcSSc were defined according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria. PAH was defined as a mPAP> 25mmHg with a PCWP ≤ 15 mmHg in the absence of significant ILD. Survival was assessed from time of diagnosis of PAH. Results: 133 with SSc-PAH were included; 112 (84%) had lcSSc. LcSSc were more likely to be women (92% vs. 71%, p<0.01). DcSSc patients had a higher serum creatinine (1.0±0.4 mg/dL vs. 1.3±0.7, p=0.01) a higher proportion of hyponatremia (33% vs. 15%, p=0.05), and a shorter 6MWD (264±101 vs. 357±119m, p=0.02), but there were no significant differences in PFTs. Hemodynamics revealed less severe PAH in dcSSc with a lower mPAP (38±8 vs. 43±13mmHg, p=0.08) and PVR (6.8±3.6 vs. 9.4±6.2 Wood units, p=0.07). However, there was no difference in survival between the groups. Conclusions: In this cohort of SSc-PAH patients, 15% of subjects had dcSSc. While many characteristics were similar between the lcSSc and dcSSc groups, dcSSc patients were more likely to be men, have hyponatremia, renal insufficiency, and shorter 6MWD. Still, even though hemodynamics suggested less severe disease in dcSSc, survival did not differ between lcSSc and dcSSc. Whether this reflects intrinsic differences in the response to PAH between lcSSc and dcSSc remains to be determined and should be the focus of future investigation.
Recovery of gene diversity using long‐term cryopreserved spermatozoa and artificial insemination in the endangered black‐footed ferret

One of the most significant challenges in the recovery of threatened species is the ability to maintain genetic diversity, avoid inbreeding and sustain population health and reproduction. Assisted reproductive techniques, including artificial insemination (AI), have been touted for decades as approaches that could contribute to the demographic and genetic management of rare species. Here, we report the first successful integration of AI with frozen semen into a formal recovery program and the positive impact on genetic diversity for the critically endangered black-footed ferret Mustela nigripes. Techniques developed in the taxonomically related domestic ferret Mustela putorius furo and Siberian polecat Mustela eversmannii were applied over time to selected black-footed ferrets, including semen banking from six of the last 18 survivors. After evaluation, processing and storage in liquid nitrogen (−196°C/−321°F), for as long as 20 years, sperm samples were thawed and transabdominally inseminated into the uterine horns of female conspecifics. Eight black-footed ferret offspring were produced using thawed sperm samples (including after two decades of cryopreservation) with inseminates containing as few as 3.4 × 106 motile spermatozoa. The incorporation of these offspring and/or their descendants into the ex situ breeding program prevented heterozygosity loss in the population and actually enhanced gene diversity (GD) significantly by 0.2% and lowered measures of inbreeding by 5.8%. This study demonstrates the utility and genetic diversity benefits of applying AI with cryopreserved spermatozoa 20 generations removed from the contemporary population for a wild animal revival program.
Are “treatment” bare metal stents superior to “control” bare metal stents? A meta-analytic approach

Background It has been suggested that the benefits of drug-eluting stents compared to bare metal stents (BMS) have been overestimated in part because target lesion/vessel revascularization (TLR/TVR) rates in the BMS control group of these trials were spuriously high. Methods We used meta-analytic techniques to systematically compare clinical event rates among patients treated with BMS in trials where BMS were the experimental (BMS experimental ) rather than the control (BMS control ) intervention. MEDLINE searches were performed to identify eligible randomized trials comparing either drug-eluting stents with BMS control or BMS experimental with balloon angioplasty in patients with nonacute coronary artery disease. Trial characteristics and 6- to 12-month rates for death, myocardial infarction, TLR/TVR, and major adverse cardiac events were extracted and assessed. Results Eligible trials yielded 50 BMS cohorts: 19 in the BMS control group (4046 patients) and 31 in the BMS experimental group (5068 patients). Summary death and infarction rates did not differ between groups. The summary TLR/TVR rates were 16.2% (95% CI 13.5-19.3) versus 13.8% (95% CI 12.0-15.7) in BMS control versus BMS experimental groups, respectively ( P = .15). Among 39 BMS cohorts with ≤250 patients, TLR/TVR rates were significantly higher in BMS control versus BMS experimental groups (18.9% [95% CI 16.0-22.2] vs 13.7% [95% CI 11.5-16.3], P = .01). There were no between-group differences among larger BMS cohorts ( P = .98). Conclusions Although overall clinical event rates did not differ in the BMS control and the BMS experimental groups, a higher rate of TVR/TLR was seen in the BMS control group among smaller trials.
Dielectrics on semiconductors

Abstract Current issues related to the physics and technology of dielectrics on semiconductors are discussed. Fluorides offer new possibilities for epitaxial, three-dimensional structures, e.g. buffer layers to couple III–V and II–VI devices to silicon technology and stacked silicon devices. A key to the systematic development of new materials is a microscopic understanding of the structure and bonding at the dielectric/semiconductor interface. Our current knowledge is illustrated by recent results for SiO2/Si(100) and CaF2/Si(111) interfaces. Several issues need to be resolved for device applications. The reverse epitaxy of semiconductors (or metals) on insulators is found to be much more difficult than epitaxy of dielectrics on semiconductors. As the culprit one can identify the large difference in surface energies which prevents smooth layer-by-layer growth. A second problem is the reduction of defect densities for epitaxial interfaces. Surface techniques are shown to be helpful in understanding the microscopic origin of these problems and in devising solutions in a systematic way.
Studies of the polymerization of methacrylic acid via free-radical retrograde precipitation polymerization process

In this paper, we present some new results of our work in a novel polymerization process (called the free-radical retrograde precipitation polymerization, or FRRPP, process) that occurs at temperatures above the lower critical solution temperature. Our polymerization experiments basically involve the methacrylic acid–poly(methacrylic acid)–water system. Experimental results indicate a gradual increase in conversion with time after what seemingly is the onset of phase separation. In an equivalent solution polymerization system, conversion of methacrylic acid reaches almost 100% at a much shorter time than in the FRRPP system. Molecular weights of poly(methacrylic acid) at different times for the FRRPP system are not dramatically different from those obtained in the solution system. However, the FRRPP system yields a relatively narrow molecular weight distribution at a wide range of conversion compared to that obtained in the equivalent solution system. The unique characteristics of the FRRPP process is shown in the asymptotic time behavior of the free-radical concentration compared to the decay behavior in other polymerization systems. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Minimally invasive retrieval of a bullet from the L5–S1 neural foramina after transperitoneal gunshot wound

Abstract Background context In victims of gunshot wounds with retained bullet fragments in the central nervous system, delayed neurological deficit may result from copper-induced neurotoxicity. The mainstay of therapy involves surgical exploration and retrieval of fragments. Purpose A patient who presented with delayed neurological deficit after a transperitoneal gunshot wound is presented. Study design Technical report. Methods A 25-year-old male, who was the victim of a transperitoneal gunshot wound with a copper-jacketed bullet, presented several weeks after recovering from his abdominal injury. The patient presented with a worsening radiculopathy in the L5 distribution and progressive dorsiflexion weakness. Subsequent imaging demonstrated a bullet lodged lateral to the L5–S1 neural foramina. Results A minimally invasive approach with the use of a tubular retractor was used to retrieve the retained bullet. The lateral location of the bullet, the proximity of the nerve root to the bullet, and the limited visualization of the operative field from a minimally invasive approach, placed the nerve root at increased risk. Intraoperative myelography and electrophysiological monitoring were used to locate the nerve root in relation to the bullet and guide the extraction of the bullet. Postoperatively, the patient had complete resolution of his preoperative symptoms. Conclusions In cases where proximity to neural structures and limited visualization of bony landmarks may increase the risk of injury when extracting a foreign body, intraoperative myelography and electrophysiological monitoring are valuable adjuncts to further elucidate the surgical anatomy for a minimally invasive approach.
Verapamil and aspirin modulate platelet-mediated vasomotion in arterial segments with intact or disrupted endothelium

AbstractObjectives. This study was designed to examine the effects of verapamil and aspirin, which decrease thromboxane A2and serotonin release, on the modulation of vascular tone by platelets. Bac...
Pleiotropic Quantitative Trait Loci Contribute to Population Divergence in Traits Associated With Life-History Variation in Mimulus guttatus

Evolutionary biologists seek to understand the genetic basis for multivariate phenotypic divergence. We constructed an F2 mapping population (N = 539) between two distinct populations of Mimulus guttatus. We measured 20 floral, vegetative, and life-history characters on parents and F1 and F2 hybrids in a common garden experiment. We employed multitrait composite interval mapping to determine the number, effect, and degree of pleiotropy in quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting divergence in floral, vegetative, and life-history characters. We detected 16 QTL affecting floral traits; 7 affecting vegetative traits; and 5 affecting selected floral, vegetative, and life-history traits. Floral and vegetative traits are clearly polygenic. We detected a few major QTL, with all remaining QTL of small effect. Most detected QTL are pleiotropic, implying that the evolutionary shift between these annual and perennial populations is constrained. We also compared the genetic architecture controlling floral trait divergence both within (our intraspecific study) and between species, on the basis of a previously published analysis of M. guttatus and M. nasutus. Eleven of our 16 floral QTL map to approximately the same location in the interspecific map based on shared, collinear markers, implying that there may be a shared genetic basis for floral divergence within and among species of Mimulus.
Alternative therapeutic systems in belize: A semiotic framework

Abstract The first part of this paper presents data on the socio-medical system of an ethnically heterogeneous society collected during 16 months of fieldwork. Special attention is given to the Black Caribs (or Garifuna). The focus is on the possible functions of alternative therapeutic systems. The second half of the paper provides a semiotic framework for the analysis of illness episodes. It is concluded that the sign of disorder in this context has no single interpretant. Rather, there exist a variety of interpretants from which the therapist and patient may select. There are constraints on this process, but the process is enhanced where the patient (and the social group) are free to negotiate a ‘diagnosis’. Negotiation implies selecting from among a variety of potential meanings: it implies a dialogue in which one goal is an interpretation which is acceptable in cultural terms and which leads to a therapy which is perceived as ‘appropriate’. Negotiation may also mean the realignment of signs into new ‘syndromes’ which indicate different etiologies or therapies. The existence of alternative therapeutic systems facilitates this process by providing access to new codes governing interpretation. The confrontation with biomedicine and its largely intractable codes may require that the ensuing interpretation incorporate, account for, or partially assimilate the ‘diagnosis’ or interpretation of biomedical personnel. Nevertheless, a single sign may have multiple referents, each consistent with one of the various interpretations imposed by multiple therapeutic systems. These referents may exist simultaneously without inherent contradiction. But to achieve such a consensus may require the development of new models based on an articulation but not an identification of two or more codes.
Impression creep by an annular punch

Abstract The diffusion problem of impression creep of a half-space by an annular punch is analyzed. The results indicate that, at low stresses, the impression velocity is proportional to the punching stress. For the same punching stress the impression velocity increases without limit as the annular thickness approaches zero. The limiting case for a solid punch agrees with previous results, namely, (1) the impression velocity for interface diffusion the impression velocity is inversely to the square of the punch radius, and (2) that for bulk diffusion the impression velocity is inversely proportional to the punch radius. For a thin annular punch, the impression velocity reduces to that of impression creep by a straight punch, i.e., the impression velocity for interface diffusion is inversely proportional to the square of the thickness of the annular punch, and that for bulk diffusion it is inversely proportional to the thickness of the annular punch. In fact, the straight punch is a good approximation (larger by less than 5%) if the inner radius/outer radius ratio is larger than 0.1 for interface diffusion and 0.2 for bulk diffusion.