cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endometrial Cancer Type 2 Incidence and Survival Disparities Within Subsets of the US Black Population

Introduction Endometrial cancer type 2 (EC2) carries a worse prognosis compared to EC type 1. EC2 disproportionately affects Black women among whom incidence is higher and survival is poorer compared to Whites. Here we assessed EC2 incidence and survival patterns among US Black ethnic groups: US-born Blacks (UBB), Caribbean-born Blacks (CBB), and Black Hispanics (BH). Methods We analyzed population-based data (n=24,387) for the entire states of Florida and New York (2005-2016). Hysterectomy-corrected EC2 incidence rates were computed by racial-ethnic group, and survival disparities were examined using Cox regression adjusting for tumor characteristics, poverty level, and insurance status. Results EC2 incidence rates were highest among UBB (24.4 per 100,000), followed by CBB (18.2), Whites (11.1), and Hispanics of all races (10.1). Compared to Whites, the age-adjusted cause-specific survival was worse for non-Hispanic Blacks (aHR: 1.61; 95%CI 1.52-1.71) and Hispanics of all races (aHR:1.09; 95% CI:1.01-1.18). In relation to Whites, survival was worse for non-Hispanic Blacks: UBB (aHR:1.62; 95%CI 1.52-1.74) and CBB (aHR:1.59; 95% CI:1.44-1.76) than for BH (aHR:1.30; 95% CI:1.05-1.61). Surgical resection was associated with a lower risk of death, while carcinosarcoma subtype and advanced stage at diagnosis were associated with a greater risk. Conclusions Although higher EC2 incidence and lower survival are observed among all African-descent groups, there are significant intra-racial differences among UBB, CBB, and BH. This heterogeneity in EC2 patterns among Black populations suggests an interplay between genetic and socioenvironmental factors.
The General Counsel View of ESG Risk

In this Closer Look, we examine the General Counsel perspective of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters. General Counsel offer an interesting perspective because they are charged with advising boards and companies on operating between the guardrails of risk-informed and responsible decision making. We find that General Counsel, on average, support ESG-related activities but harbor significant concern for the legal and regulatory risk of these activities. General Counsel also express notable concern about the potential liability from disclosure of ESG-related activities, and the reputational and productivity costs caused by CEO and employee-driven activism. We ask: • What impacts do ESG initiatives have on long-term performance and risk? • Can companies find a balance between “doing good” and not causing unexpected damage? • How effective are companies at defining the boundaries of their ESG initiatives? • How much information should companies disclose about their ESG initiatives? • Can a company clearly, concisely, and meaningfully disclose relevant data about these activities?
Epistemological Issues in Diagnosis and Assessment

This book begins with a thoughtful exploration of two fundamental questions that underlie all clinical decisions. First, what exactly is a “mental disorder,” as opposed to other kinds of suffering or maladaptive behavior that we would call non-mental disorders? What makes a disorder specifically mental? And second, on what do we base these definitions and distinctions? What do we consider reliable (and unreliable) sources of knowledge, and what are some of the pitfalls in our assumptions about what we “know” and how we’ve come to “know” it? Common cognitive errors are explored, along with their consequences. These include circular reasoning, the difficulty of determining threshold or cut-off point, assumptions about causality, and the problems inherent in mental heuristics such as anchoring and availability. The chapter then explores the role of labels and labeling theory, the aims and limitations of classification systems such as the DSM, and the challenge of trying to develop a way to think about mental disorder that is useful for both general purposes (to make predictions based on shared characteristics) and specific aims (to understand and help particular individuals).
Predicting Radionuclide Bone Scan Findings in Patients with Newly Diagnosed, Untreated Prostate Cancer: Prostate Specific Antigen is Superior to All Other Clinical Parameters

AbstractPresently, the standard staging evaluation of prostate cancer includes digital rectal examination, measurement of serum tumor markers and a radionuclide bone scan. To evaluate the ability of local clinical stage, tumor grade, serum acid phosphatase, serum prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) and serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) to predict bone scan findings, a retrospective review of 521 randomly chosen patients (mean age 70 years, range 44 to 92 years) with newly diagnosed, untreated prostate cancer was performed.Local clinical stage, tumor grade, acid phosphatase, PAP and PSA all correlated positively with bone scan findings (p <0.0001). Using receiver operating characteristic curves, however, PSA had the best over-all correlation with bone scan results. The median serum PSA concentration in patients with a positive bone scan was 158.0ng./ml., whereas men with a negative bone scan had a median serum PSA level of 11.3ng./ml. (p <0.0001). Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, local cli...
Effect of Aminonucleoside on Serum Stimulation of Nonhistone Nuclear Protein and DNA Synthesis in Normal and SV40-transformed Human Fibroblasts

Addition of medium containing fresh serum to crowded, starved cultures of normal fibroblasts is known to induce DNA synthesis in a large proportion of the cells, preceded by stimulation of the synthesis of nonhistone chromosomal proteins. We now show that after prolonged culture, human lung fibroblasts transformed by the oncogenic virus SV40 also show a wave of DNA synthesis when exposed to fresh serum and that the synthesis of nonhistone nuclear proteins is stimulated by this treatment with the same temporal relationship to feeding and subsequent DNA synthesis as that seen in normal cells. The SV40-transformed cells differ from their normal counterparts by their resistance to the inhibitory effects of aminonucleoside. The observed rapidly occurring serum stimulation of nonhistone protein synthesis takes place in the presence of this antimetabolite, and the cells go on to synthesize DNA and divide. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of nonhistone nuclear proteins shows that the synthesis of some rapidly migrating classes of these proteins correlates with subsequent initiation of DNA synthesis.
Property-based integration for sustainable development

Abstract This paper provides a systematic approach for optimal resource allocation, unit manipulation, and waste reduction using integrated component-less design. In particular, we identify a new procedure for determining optimal modifications in the design and operating variables of the process so as to optimize the allocation of process resources and minimize waste discharge. Interval arithmetic tools are used to derive rigorous bounds on the process performance, when all allowable changes in design and operating variables are considered. These bounds are mapped into a “trust region of clusters”, which represents the feasible search domain. In addition, material substitution strategies are considered for optimizing both the process and the fresh properties. A case study is also presented to illustrate the applicability of the proposed approach.
Battery aware task scheduling for a system-on-a-chip using voltage/clock scaling

Battery lifetime is a critical parameter in the operation of mobile computing devices. The lifetime of such devices is directly dependent on the battery discharge profile. In this paper we address the problem of task scheduling in single processor and multiprocessor systems such that the battery lifetime is maximized. We propose a procedure that achieves this by shaping the current load profile. The shaping algorithm makes extensive use of voltage/clock scaling and is guided by heuristics that are derived from the properties of the battery model. Simulations show that the proposed algorithm improves the battery lifetime significantly.
Plugging the leaks.

It has been known for over 20 years that vascular leakage in inflammation is dependent on neutrophils. The identification of the permeability-enhancing activity produced by neutrophils provides clues to the development of anti-inflammatory drugs with a new mechanism of action (pages 1123–1127).
Design of a minimum temperature drift JFET differential amplifier

The temperature drift of a JFET (junction field-effect transistor) differential amplifier circuit is studied to determine the biasing conditions necessary to operate at zero temperature coefficient. Theoretical expressions for the currents and voltages at this point are determined. PSPICE results show close agreement with those obtained experimentally over a wide range of temperatures. Two methods for minimizing drift are investigated. A biasing method resulted in a drift of approximately 25 mu V/ degrees C over the range 25-50 degrees C. In the second method, using microprocessor control circuits, a drift of >
A Grover-based quantum search of optimal order for an unknown number of marked elements

We want to find a marked element out of a black box containing N elements. When the number of marked elements is known this can be done elegantly with Grover's algorithm, a variant of which even gives a correct result with certainty. On the other hand, when the number of marked elements is not known the problem becomes more difficult. For every prescribed success probability I give an algorithm consisting of several runs of Grover's algorithm that matches a recent bound by Buhrman and de Wolf on the order of the number of queries to the black box. The improvement in the order over a previously known algorithm is small and the number of queries can clearly still be reduced by a constant factor.
Maternal-fetal hemorrhage: Its incidence and sensitizing effects☆

Although anti-Rh-immune globulin is highly effective in preventing hemolytic diseases of the newborn, there are some failures. The causes for these failures often are unknown and it has been postulated that some of them are caused by the transfer of maternal Rh-positive red cells into the Rh-negative infant at the time of birth. A study of 107 Rh-negative newborn infants born of Rh-positive mothers has demonstrated that maternal-fetal hemorrhage is rare (approximately 2 per cent) and that Rh antibody produced during the first six months in Rh-negative babies is similarly rare. Routine administration of anti-Rh gamma globulin to Rh-negative neonates is not indicated.
Post-conflict health system recovery: the case of Kosovo.

Senior Scholar, TWoodrow WilsonInternational Center for Scholars,Washington, DC USA; Senior Fellow,Harvard Humanitarian Initiative, HarvardUniversity, Cambridge, Massachusetts USA;Professor, Department of CommunityEmergency Health & Paramedic Practice,Monash University Medical School,Melbourne, AustraliaKeywords: academic humanitarian programs;health system and infrastructure recovery;humanitarian assistance and development;Kosovo; post-conflict; primary healthcarerecovery Correspondence:E-mail: skipmd77@aol.comWeb publication: c23 February 2010
The cementless knee: Intermediate term guarantee on parts and labor

Abstract While cemented fixation is the current gold standard in North America, biologic fixation to host bone has the potential for a more durable construct, particularly in young and active patients. Previous failures with cementless TKA constructs have been attributed to design-related issues such as poor tibial ingrowth surfaces, metal-backed patellas, screw track osteolysis, and issues with the polyethylene, including thin inserts and non-conforming articulations. Recent innovations such as tantalum have shown durable and reliable results with contemporary cementless TKAs. Additional advantages include diminished operative times, preservation of bone stock, ease of revision surgery, and elimination of third body wear.
Christians and Jews Read the Gospel of Matthew Today

Reading the Gospels trans-historically and trans-culturally has led many Christians to derive needlessly divisive and destructive messages that have little to do with meanings in the Gospels themselves when read in their proper context. To stem the tide of naively universalizing tendencies leading to misapplications of gospel messages, this study of the Gospel of Matthew is designed to help Christians and Jews today share in reading Matthew as an ancient document. It addresses issues relevant for readers today in studying the text in its own context, and demonstrates thereby that neither Christians nor Jews ought to confuse the local circumstances in the Gospel with people today who identify themselves as Christians or Jews.
In Vitro Inhibition with Antiestrogens of Estradiol Effects on Prostaglandin F2α Production by Human Endometrium and Endometrial Epithelial Cells

It has been previously reported that neither an antiestrogen, actinomycin D, nor cycloheximide inhibited estradiol (E2)-stimulated elevations in uterine prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α production in ovariectomized rats, suggesting that in contrast to other steroid-initiated events, this effect on PGF2α may not involve receptor-mediated transcription-dependent actions of E2. To eliminate indirect influences, the ability of antiestrogens to affect PGF2α output was reevaluated during incubations of human secretory endometrium and in cultures of epithelial cells derived from glands isolated from proliferative and secretory tissues. In these preparations, which respond to E2 with marked elevations in PGF2α output, tamoxifen and its metabolite trans-4-monohydroxytamoxifen acted as virtually pure antagonists, counteracting the E2 effect while failing to influence basal PGF2α output. Consistent with its effects on other estrogen-mediated end points, trans-4-monohydroxytamoxifen was at least 10 times more potent than tam...
Doxycycline sclerotherapy as primary treatment of head and neck lymphatic malformations in children.

Abstract Purpose The authors report their experience with doxycycline sclerotherapy as primary treatment of head and neck lymphatic malformations (LMs) in children. Methods A retrospective chart review was used to collect data on 11 patients treated with doxycycline sclerotherapy for LMs of the head and neck at our institution since 2003. Radiographic imaging allowed classification of patient LM as macrocystic, microcystic, or mixed according to previously published guidelines. Only patients with macrocystic or mixed lesions were offered doxycycline sclerotherapy. Radiographic imaging and physical examination were used to determine efficacy of treatment. After each treatment, the clinical and radiographic response was characterized as excellent (≥95% decrease in lesion size), satisfactory (≥50% decrease in volume and asymptomatic), or poor ( Results Eleven patients underwent a total of 23 sclerotherapies with an average of 2 treatments per patient (range, 1-4). All 7 patients with macrocystic lesions achieved complete clinical resolution with an average radiographic resolution of 93%. The 4 patients with mixed lesions achieved only partial clinical resolution and an average of 73% radiographic resolution. No patient experienced any adverse effects related to the treatment. At a median follow-up of 8 months, 2 patients (18%) experienced lesion recurrence in the setting of concomitant infection. Conclusion Doxycycline sclerotherapy is safe and effective as a primary treatment modality for macrocystic and mixed LMs of the head and neck in the pediatric population.
Cash, investments and asset returns.

Abstract We use an investment-based asset pricing model to examine the effect of firms’ investments relative to cash holdings on stock returns, assuming holding cash lowers transaction costs. We find that mimicking portfolios based on investments relative to non-cash capital and based on investments relative to cash capital are priced for various testing portfolios. On average, momentum stocks and growth stocks are more sensitive to the factor constructed using investment relative to cash.
Texture optimization for example-based synthesis

We present a novel technique for texture synthesis using optimization. We define a Markov Random Field (MRF)-based similarity metric for measuring the quality of synthesized texture with respect to a given input sample. This allows us to formulate the synthesis problem as minimization of an energy function, which is optimized using an Expectation Maximization (EM)-like algorithm. In contrast to most example-based techniques that do region-growing, ours is a joint optimization approach that progressively refines the entire texture. Additionally, our approach is ideally suited to allow for controllable synthesis of textures. Specifically, we demonstrate controllability by animating image textures using flow fields. We allow for general two-dimensional flow fields that may dynamically change over time. Applications of this technique include dynamic texturing of fluid animations and texture-based flow visualization.
ITGB3 shows genetic and expression interaction with SLC6A4.

Autism affects more males than females and is associated with disturbances of the serotonin system. The integrin β3 (ITGB3) and serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) genes were both recently identified as male quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for serotonin levels and alleles of each have been associated with autism. Here, we use publicly available genomic resources to determine whether regulation of expression level could be the mechanism behind association between serotonin level and noncoding variation in ITGB3. We also examine whether ITGB3 might interact with SLC6A4 to contribute to autism susceptibility. Using murine and human expression data, we observe that ITGB3 and SLC6A4 expression levels are correlated (0.38<r<0.78). Moreover, genetic variation in ITGB3 is associated with expression of both ITGB3 (P=0.012) and SLC6A4 (P=0.008) in unrelated CEPH individuals. We also show preliminary evidence that genotypes at the ITGB3 and SLC6A4 loci may interact to affect autism susceptibility (P=0.033).
Polarized fluorescence spectra of retinol ad diphenyl octatetraene

Abstract The polarization of fluorescence excitation and emission bands of all- trans retinol in 77°K has been measured at relatively high resolution. The main excitation band as well as the fluorescence band showed a degree of polarization approaching that the theoretical maximum of 0.5 for a linear oscillator under photoselective conditions. These results are consistent with the assignment that the main absorption and fluorescence bands originate from the long-axis polarized i B ← I A transition, as expected from free electron theory. Diphenyl octatetraene was also studied, yielding results similar to the retinol system.
Assessing impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in polycystic ovarian syndrome with a muffin test: an alternative to the glucose tolerance test.

Objective: To determine the sensitivity of a high-glucose load in a meal as an alternative to the standard oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in detecting impaired glucose tolerance and insulin res...
Processing promotional travel narratives

Abstract While research exists which examines the use of tourism promotional communications ( Andereck, 2005 , Loda et al., 2005 ), an investigation of how travelers process such promotional communications is lacking. In response, this study sought to investigate processing as well as perceived skepticism towards tourism promotional communications. The importance of understanding processing and perceived skepticism resides in the fact that both have been linked to overall message persuasiveness; and as such, both are essential to developing and implementing effective travel promotional communications. Specifically, this study sought to examine if participants differed based on their demographic characteristics in (1) the degree to which participants’ were able to be transported by a narrative (i.e. process), and (2) participants’ level of perceived skepticism concerning travel articles and travel brochures. To do so, Green and Brock’s (2000) Transportation scale and Obermiller and Spangenberg’s (1998) Skepticism Towards Advertising scale (SKEP) were incorporated.
The effect of snow cover on the climate

Abstract Large-scale snow cover anomalies are thought to cause significant changes in the diabatic heating of the earth's surface in such a way as to produce substantial local cooling in the surface temperatures. This theory was tested using the GISS 3-D GCM (General Circulation Model). The results of the GCM experiment showed that snow cover caused only a short term local decrease in the surface temperature. In the surface energy budget, reduction in absorbed shortwave radiation and the increased latent heat sink of melting snow contributed to lower temperatures. However, all the remaining heating terms contribute to increasing the net heating over a snow covered surface. The results emphasize the negative feedback which limits the impact of snow cover anomalies over longer time scales.
Time-Resolved Fluorescence Quenching Measurements of the Aggregation Numbers of Normal Sodium Alkyl Sulfate Micelles Well above the Critical Micelle Concentrations

The aggregation numbers, NA, of normal sodium alkyl sulfate micelles were measured by time-resolved fluorescence quenching in order to test two aspects of a recent proposal by Quina et al. (J. Phys. Chem. 1995, 99, 17028) that these micelles grow as a power law of the total counterion concentration, [Na+]aq, in the aqueous phase according to NA = κ2([Na+]aq)γ, where κ2 and γ are constants for a given detergent. Both the surfactant and any added salt contribute to [Na+]aq; thus the power law predicts that different combinations of surfactant and salt concentrations leading to the same value of [Na+]aq should yield the same value of NA. This was confirmed, and the values of κ2 were determined.
The N2 component of the event-related potential in schizophrenic patients.

Abstract Event-related potentials (ERPs) to easy and difficult infrequent visual target stimuli were recorded in unmedicated schizophrenic patients and age-matched controls. N2 difference wave forms were computed by subtracting the ERP to a frequent non-target stimulus from the ERP to each target. The N2 component was identifed in these differences wave forms. All subjects showed longer latency N2 and P3 peaks to the difficult target than to easy target. Schizophrenic patients had longer latency N2 peaks than controls to both targets. Schizophrenic patients also showed reduced P3 amplitudes to both targets compared to controls. The prolonged N2 latency in schizophrenics accounts for a substantial portion of the delayed reaction time commonly observed in this group. N2 latency prolongation appears to be yet another evoked potential abnormality in schizophrenic patients.
Aggressive Fibromatosis of the Chest Associated With a Silicone Breast Implant

We report an unusual case of aggressive chest wall fibromatosis originating within the right breast of a woman with silicone implants.
Esters of Gentisic Acid and Their Toxicities**: II. Structure Studies of New Gentisic Acid Esters by Analyses of Their Infrared Spectra

Thirteen new esters of gentisic acid are analyzed by use of infrared spectra to elucidate their structure. Only eight infrared spectra are shown, three of known compounds and five of the new synthetic esters. Analyses of the spectra indicate that the reaction between dialkylaminoalkyl chlorides and gentisic acid yields dialkylaminoalkyl gentisate hydrochlorides, and the reaction between gentisic acid and the acid chlorides of phenylacetic, anisic, p-nitrobenzoic, and succinic acids in alkaline media results in esterification of the 5-hydroxyl group of gentisic acid. The formula of the compound formed when gentisic acid and acetyl salicyl chloride react is in doubt.
Low-leakage drive for optically-triggered high-power SiC emitter turn-off thyristors

In this paper a new low-leakage drive for SiC emitter-turn-off (ETO) thyristors for power rating of 15-kV and 100-A is presented. Conventional ETOs suffer from the turn-on leakage current. Turn-on leakage current is caused by the false activation of the turn-off path in the gate contact of the thyristor. This is due to the high slew rate of the current and parasitic inductances in the turn-on commutation path. This leakage current decelerates the switching action, increases the switching loss and generates electro-magnetic noise. The proposed method reduces the leakage current by adding only a low-power Zener diode in the gate path of the thyristor, enhancing the switching performance and reducing the switching loss. The proposed drive method is investigated and verified through simulation results.
Relationships Between Social Skills, Behavioral Problems, and School Readiness for Head Start Children

ABSTRACT This study followed 515 4-year-olds from Head Start entry to exit to investigate their social and behavioral skills and the impact of these skills on school readiness outcomes. Results indicated that, on average, social skills improved across the preschool year, while behavior problems remained relatively stable. Social skills and behavior problems were significantly related to multiple child school readiness outcomes in the areas of oral language, early literacy, and early math. In addition, the effects of different preschool literacy curricula on children's social and behavioral skills were examined. A greater percentage of children in the literacy intervention classrooms were categorized as lower risk (better social skills and fewer behavior problems) at the end of the preschool year, compared with children in classrooms without an added literacy curriculum. Implications for promoting cognitive and social development in preschool are discussed.
The importance of electron heat conduction in the energy balance of the F-region

Taking into account heat conduction in the analysis of electron temperature data acquired by the AE-C satellite during the daytime at middle latitudes is shown to bring theoretical electron temperature profiles in good agreement with experimental ones. Middle latitude passes were chosen because in this region the horizontal electron temperature gradient is negligible and the height variation can be approximated by the satellite data. Inclusion of heat conduction is shown to have little effect on low-latitude data.
Application of simulated annealing to deconvolution in astronomical speckle imaging

Abstract Monte-Carlo type simulated annealing has been investigated as an optimization procedure for reconstructing high spatial resolution astronomical images. In particular, the annealing method is shown to be a powerful technique for phase retrieval in connection with Knox-Thompson speckle correlation data. An annealing schedule is proposed and optimum annealing parameters identified.
Joint Risk of DB Pension Underfunding and Sponsor Termination: Incorporating Options-Based Projections and Valuations into PIMS

When a private pension plan sponsor with an underfunded plan becomes insolvent, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets and its termination liabilities represents a liability for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). Hence, accurately modeling the joint statistical distribution over time of defined benefit (DB) pension underfunding and sponsor terminations is critical for estimating PBGC’s prospective cash flows and evaluating its financial position. It appears that the current Pension Insurance Modeling System (PIMS) approach to modeling risk does a reasonable job of capturing its statistical properties effects on PBGC cash flows, though some aspects of the might be improved and metrics expanded. The paper outlines how an options-based approach to modeling the joint distribution of defaults and underfunding in PIMS might be implemented while preserving the strengths of the current model. Moving to an options-based approach would allow PIMS to be used to estimate the fair values of future liabilities. Such an approach could have a significant effect on the perceived financial position of PBGC.
Habitat variables influencing breeding effort in northern clade Bufo fowleri: Implications for conservation

Local extirpations of the northern clade of Fowler's toad, Bufo fowleri, have been documented in the northeastern United States and Canada. To facilitate conservation of this species, we identified key characteristics of its preferred breeding habitat and adjacent landscape at Cape Cod National Seashore. We conducted calling surveys at 67 wetlands to quantify B. fowleri annual breeding effort over three years. The resultant multivariate models were then tested with data collected at 30 additional wetlands. B. fowleri choruses were more likely to be detected in permanent wetlands than semi-permanent or temporary wetlands. Predaceous fish and Rana catesbeiana did not negatively affect breeding effort. Wetlands used for breeding typically had shallower shores, less emergent vegetation, less canopy cover, fewer organic acids, and were warmer and less acidic than sites with no evidence of breeding choruses. Large choruses of B. fowleri typically occurred in wetlands containing < ∼33% woody emergent vegetation and adjacent uplands had more bare habitat and less development than sites without breeding. Our results suggest that B. fowleri in the northeastern United States will decline as development and post-agrarian reforestation continue and that removal of woody vegetation in and adjacent to breeding ponds may be necessary to maintain some populations.
APPROXIMATION OF THE LARGER EDDIES IN FLUID MOTIONS II: A MODEL FOR SPACE-FILTERED FLOW

We present two modifications of continuum models used in large eddy simulation. The first modification is a closure approximation which better attenuates small eddies. The second modification is a change in the boundary conditions for the large eddy model from strict adherence to slip with resistance. For model consistency, the resistance coefficient is a function of the averaging radius so that the model's boundary conditions reduce to a no-slip as the averaging radius decreases to zero.
Mto2p, a novel fission yeast protein required for cytoplasmic microtubule organization and anchoring of the cytokinetic actin ring.

Microtubules regulate diverse cellular processes, including chromosome segregation, nuclear positioning, and cytokinesis. In many organisms, microtubule nucleation requires γ-tubulin and associated proteins present at specific microtubule organizing centers (MTOCs). In fission yeast, interphase cytoplasmic microtubules originate from poorly characterized interphase MTOCs and spindle pole body (SPB), and during late anaphase from the equatorial MTOC (EMTOC). It has been previously shown that Mto1p (Mbo1p/Mod20p) function is important for the organization/nucleation of all cytoplasmic microtubules. Here, we show that Mto2p, a novel protein, interacts with Mto1p and is important for establishing a normal interphase cytoplasmic microtubule array. In addition, mto2Δ cells fail to establish a stable EMTOC and localize γ-tubulin complex members to this medial structure. As predicted from these functions, Mto2p localizes to microtubules, the SPB, and the EMTOC in an Mto1p-dependent manner. mto2Δ cells fail to anchor the cytokinetic actin ring in the medial region of the cell and under conditions that mildly perturb actin structures, these rings unravel in mto2Δ cells. Our results suggest that the Mto2p and the EMTOC are critical for anchoring the cytokinetic actin ring to the medial region of the cell and for proper coordination of mitosis with cytokinesis.
Spectroscopic SRS imaging with a time-lens source synchronized to a femtosecond pulse shaper

Though single-color coherent Raman microscopy has been widely used for vibrational imaging of isolated Raman bands, it is still challenging to visualize molecules having overlapping Raman bands. We address this issue by developing a spectroscopic SRS microscope with a time-lens laser source synchronized to a femtosecond laser. The time-lens source provides 2-ps pulse at the wavelength of 1064 nm. A pulse shaper is installed for intra-pulse spectral scanning of the femtosecond laser output. By electronically modulating the time-lens source at MHz frequency, spectroscopic stimulated Raman loss (SRL) images were obtained on a laser-scanning microscope. Using this microscope, we have been able to detect 0.2% DMSO in aqueous solution. Spectroscopic SRL images of prostate cancer cells were obtained. Multivariate curve resolution analysis was further applied to decompose the SRL images into concentration maps of proteins and lipids. With high sensitivity and high spectral resolution, this method offers exciting potential in label-free imaging of live cells using fingerprint Raman bands.
Cohesive modeling of crack nucleation in a cylindrical electrode under axisymmetric diffusion induced stresses

We have recently modeled crack nucleation in a 2D strip electrode as localization of a periodic array of cohesive zones subject to diffusion induced stresses in an initially crack-free thin strip under galvanostatic solute insertion and extraction. Here we generalize this model to crack nucleation in a cylindrical electrode under axisymmetric diffusion induced stresses, focusing on the effect of the cylindrical geometry on the crack nucleation condition. Similar to our previous findings for the 2D strip geometry, the present analysis identifies a critical electrode size, typically in the nanometer range, to avoid crack nucleation.
Updated Stress Concentration Factors for Filleted Shafts in Bending and Tension

Published elastic stress concentration factors are shown to underestimate stresses in the root of a shoulder filleted shaft in bending by as much as 21 percent, and in tension by as much as forty percent. For this geometry, published charts represent only approximated stress concentration factor values, based on known solutions for similar geometries. In this study, detailed finite element analyses were performed over a wide range of filleted shaft geometries to define three useful relations for bending and tension loading: (I) revised elastic stress concentration factors, (2) revised elastic von Mises equivalent stress concentration factors and (3) the maximum stress location in the fillet. Updated results are presented in the familiar graphical form and empirical relations are fit through the curves which are suitable for use in numerical design algorithms. It is demonstrated that the first two relations reveal the full multiaxial elastic state of stress and strain at the maximum stress location. Understanding the influence of geometry on the maximum stress location can be helpful for experimental strain determination or monitoring fatigue crack nucleation. The finite element results are validated against values published in the literature for several geometries and with limited experimental data.
Mechanical and thermal response of shock-consolidated Mar-M 200 rapidly-solidified powder

Consolidation of rapidly solidified Mar-M 200 powder was carried out successfully using the axi-symmetric and plane-wave (using contact explosives with normal incidence) geometries. However, cracking produced by reflected waves remains a major problem and considerable development work will be required until it can be eliminated. The ambient temperature ultimate compressive strength of the consolidated powder is approximately 2200 MPa. The change in micro-indentation hardness and microstructure as a function of isochronal anneals of one hour between 600 and 1200° C are presented. Ageing compact to optimum hardness (850° C/1 h) raises the ultimate compressive strength to 2250 MPa.
QUICKER: Quantifying Uncertainty In Computational Knowledge Engineering Rapidly—A rapid methodology for uncertainty analysis

Abstract Most engineering systems have some degree of uncertainty in their input parameters, either of a stochastic nature or on account of a lack of complete information. The interaction of these uncertain input parameters, and the propagation of uncertainty through engineering systems, lead to the stochastic nature of the system performance and outputs. Quantifying the uncertainty in an experiment or computational simulation requires sampling over the uncertain range of input parameters and propagating the uncertainty through a computational model or experiment to quantify the output parameter uncertainty. Conventional direct sampling methods for input uncertainty propagation, such as Monte Carlo sampling or Latin Hypercube sampling, require a very large number of samples for convergence of the statistical parameters, such as mean and standard deviation, and can be prohibitively time-consuming. This computational tedium has been partially eliminated through the use of meta-models, which approximate a computational simulation or experiment via a response surface, but the computational time savings from these models are limited to systems with a small number of uncertain input parameters. Toward addressing the challenge of input uncertainty propagation, this paper presents a new uncertainty analysis methodology, QUICKER: Quantifying Uncertainty In Computational Knowledge Engineering Rapidly, that can reduce sample sizes by orders of magnitude while still maintaining comparable accuracy to direct sampling methods. In this paper, the QUICKER methodology is described and demonstrated with both analytical and computational scenarios.
The variation and evolution of selected species of Solanum section Basarthrum (Solanaceae). II

Five taxa ofSolanum sect.Basarthrum were studied in an effort to clarify their taxonomic position and to determine the effective evolutionary mechanisms. Methods included an analysis of chromosome number and behavior, artificial hybridizations and a study of herbarium material. The data suggest thatS. canense andS. suaveolens are closely related and that 5.suaveolens may have been the progenitor ofS. canense. The only successful interspecific cross involving one of these two species was vigorous but highly sterile. Evidence from both morphology and crossing studies indicates a close relationship betweenS. basendopogon andS. caripense. Hybrids between these two species with relatively high fertility through the F3 generation were secured. The status ofS. basendopogon f.obtusum remains a problem since there is but one collection of the typical form. The placement ofS. sanctae-marthae in sect.Basarthrum is considered problematic. Virtually none of 170 interspecific crosses with this species were successful. Seed size and the presence and size of a seed wing are proposed as useful morphological characters in sect.Basarthrum. There is apparently a correlation between short styles and self-compatibility. All species are diploid (n = 12) and no chromosomal or meiotic aberrations were noted in the species or hybrids. Most of the more than 1,000 interspecific crosses failed. Most of the hybrid fruits bore no seeds or seeds which did not germinate. The primary barriers separating species are considered to be strong prefertilization isolating mechanisms and ecogeographic factors.
Masked and Filtered Simulation of Hearing Loss

Hearing threshold configuration of the impaired ear was simulated via two different methods in the normal ear of each of 6 subjects with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The two hearing loss simulation methods were (a) frequency-specific attenuation (filtering), and (b) masking by shaped masking noise. Identification responses to 20 consonant-vowel nonsense syllables were obtained from the normal ear of each subject in the two hearing loss simulation conditions, as well as from the impaired ear. Speech data were scored both for overall percent correct consonant recognition and for error patterns on a set Of eight consonant features. The computed correlation between gross error difference scores and a similarity metric for feature error pattern was essentially zero, indicating that these may be relatively independent measures of speech recognition, and thus may reflect different aspects Of subjects' behavior. For 3 subjects, both masking and filtering successfully simulated the effects of sensorineur...
REM sleep deprivation inhibits LTP in vivo in area CA1 of rat hippocampus.

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation has previously been shown to interfere with normal learning and memory and to inhibit long-term potentiation (LTP) in vitro. Previous studies on REM sleep deprivation and LTP have relied on in vitro analysis in isolated brain slices taken from animals following several days of sleep deprivation. LTP in the hippocampus in situ may differ from LTP in vitro due to modulatory inputs from other brain regions, which are altered after REM sleep deprivation. Here, we examined LTP in unanesthetized, behaving animals on the first and second recovery days following REM sleep deprivation to determine if similar effects are seen in vivo as previously reported in vitro. We found that LTP was significantly impaired in REM sleep-deprived animals on the second recovery day but not the first recovery day. Our results extend previous findings by showing that REM sleep deprivation continues to affect hippocampal function for more than 24 h following the end of deprivation. Our results also suggest the presence of a modulatory process not present in vitro. Our findings are not explained by stress during REM sleep deprivation because equivalent circulating corticosterone levels (an index of stress) were found during both REM sleep deprivation and control treatment.
Finite-temperature Feynman propagator in operator form.

In momentum space the time-ordered, retarded, and Feynman thermal propagators all satisfy rather simple dispersion relations. In coordinate space the first two propagators are related to the thermal Wightman function Tr[\ensuremath{\varphi}(x)\ensuremath{\varphi}(0)${\mathit{e}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\beta}}\mathit{H}}$]. However, the Feynman thermal propagator in coordinate space, ${\mathit{D}}_{\mathit{F}}$(x), is not related to this thermal average and does not satisfy a KMS condition in complex time. When expressed in terms of matrix elements of the field operator, it requires a new type of operator ordering. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
An evaluation of immediate-use steam sterilization practices in adult knee and hip arthroplasty procedures.

Background Immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS) is a safe method to sterilize emergently contaminated instruments, but inappropriate use may lead to an increased risk for surgical site infection. This study aimed to identify risk factors, rationale, and variability in procedural adherence in cases of IUSS. Methods This retrospective, case-control study compared adult patients undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty in which IUSS was (n = 104) and was not (n = 81) performed. Results Multivariate analysis revealed 4 predictive risk factors for IUSS: history of malignancy (odds ratio [OR], 3.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-9.3]), obesity (OR, 2.3 [95% CI: 1.02-5.2]), procedure performed in operating room 13 (OR, 2.5 [95% CI: 1.2-5.4]), and Monday procedure (OR, 3.6 [95% CI: 1.4-9.1]). The only factor that protected against IUSS was performing the procedure in the morning (OR, 0.4 [95% CI: 0.2-0.96]). Only 9.5% of cases of IUSS involved an acceptable indication. Documented adherence to core practices was also variable. Conclusion Several patient- and case-specific factors can help predict the incidence of IUSS. Furthermore, practices should be hardwired to ensure IUSS is utilized for the correct indication. Documentation must be improved to allow institutions to accurately track IUSS.
Tendon Transfer Options About the Shoulder in Patients with Brachial Plexus Injury

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early outcome of shoulder tendon transfer in patients with brachial plexus injury and to determine the factors associated with favorable outcomes. Methods: Fifty-two patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury and a paralytic shoulder were included in the study. All patients were evaluated at a mean of nineteen months (range, twelve to twenty-eight months) postoperatively. Twelve patients had a C5-6 injury, twenty-two had a C5-7 injury, five had a C5-8 injury, and thirteen had a C5-T1 injury. Transfer of the lower portion of the trapezius muscle was performed either in isolation or as part of multiple tendon transfers to improve shoulder function. Additional muscles transferred included the middle and upper portions of the trapezius, levator scapulae, upper portion of the serratus anterior, teres major, latissimus dorsi, and pectoralis major. Results: All patients had a stable shoulder postoperatively. Shoulder external rotation improved substantially in all patients from no external rotation (hand-on-belly position) to a mean of 20° (p = 0.001). Patients who underwent additional transfers had marginal improvement of shoulder flexion, from a mean of 10° preoperatively to 60° postoperatively, and of shoulder abduction, from a mean of 10° to 50° (p = 0.01 for each). Mean pain on a visual analog scale improved from 6 points preoperatively to 2 points postoperatively. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score improved from 59 to 47 points (p = 0.001). The mean Subjective Shoulder Value improved from 5% to 40% (p = 0.001). Greater age, higher body mass index, and more extensive nerve injury were associated with a poorer DASH score in a multivariate analysis (p = 0.003). Conclusions: Tendon transfers about the shoulder can improve shoulder function in patients with brachial plexus injury resulting in a paralytic shoulder. Significant improvement of shoulder external rotation but only marginal improvements of shoulder abduction and flexion can be achieved. The outcome can be expected to be better in patients with less severe nerve injury. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.