cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulated latent variable estimation of models with ordered categorical data

This paper addresses the problem that occurs when estimating a linear regression model in which some of the explanatory variables are represented by categorical indicators. We replace the categorical variable with a simulated latent variable (SLV) drawn from a truncated multivariate normal distribution using the Gibbs sampler. Consistent and efficient parameter estimates are derived using generalized two-stage least squares, where the instrument set contains a second SLV drawn from the same distribution. Consistent estimates of the parameter covariance matrix are derived using a two-stage procedure. We illustrate this methodology using a Monte Carlo simulation, and also investigate the consequences of incorrect distributional assumptions. The simulated latent variable procedure is shown to be superior to conventional methods involving dummy variables or conditional means.
Genetic algorithms as a tool for feature selection in machine learning

An approach being explored to improve the usefulness of machine learning techniques for generating classification rules for complex, real-world data is described. The approach involves the use of genetic algorithms as a front end to a traditional rule induction system in order to identify and select the best subset of features to be used by the rule induction system. This approach has been implemented and tested on difficult texture classification problems. The results are encouraging and indicate that there are significant advantages to the approach in this domain. >
Nuclear Receptors and Inflammation Control: Molecular Mechanisms and Pathophysiological Relevance

Tissue inflammation is a tightly regulated process that normally serves to recruit the immune system to sites of infection and injury and to facilitate tissue repair processes. When an inflammatory state is excessive or prolonged, local and systemic damage to host tissues can result in loss of normal physiological functions. Here, we briefly review recent studies that advance our understanding of signaling pathways involved in initiation of inflammatory responses at the level of transcription and counterregulation of these pathways by selected members of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Studies of the intersection of nuclear receptors and inflammation have revealed mechanisms of positive and negative transcriptional control that may provide new targets for pharmacological intervention in chronic diseases, such as atherosclerosis.
Signal transduction in the plant immune response

Complementary biochemical and genetic approaches are being used to dissect the signaling network that regulates the innate immune response in plants. Receptor-mediated recognition of invading pathogens triggers a signal amplification loop that is based on synergistic interactions between nitric oxide, reactive oxygen intermediates and salicylic acid. Alternative resistance mechanisms in Arabidopsis are deployed against different types of pathogens; these mechanisms are mediated by either salicylic acid or the growth regulators jasmonic acid and ethylene.
Charge transport model to predict intrinsic reliability for dielectric materials

Several lifetime models, mostly empirical in nature, are used to predict reliability for low-k dielectrics used in integrated circuits. There is a dispute over which model provides the most accurate prediction for device lifetime at operating conditions. As a result, there is a need to transition from the use of these largely empirical models to one built entirely on theory. Therefore, a charge transport model was developed to predict the device lifetime of low-k interconnect systems. The model is based on electron transport and donor-type defect formation. Breakdown occurs when a critical defect concentration accumulates, resulting in electron tunneling and the emptying of positively charged traps. The enhanced local electric field lowers the barrier for electron injection into the dielectric, causing a positive feedforward failure. The charge transport model is able to replicate experimental I-V and I-t curves, capturing the current decay at early stress times and the rapid current increase at failure. The model is based on field-driven and current-driven failure mechanisms and uses a minimal number of parameters. All the parameters have some theoretical basis or have been measured experimentally and are not directly used to fit the slope of the time-to-failure versus applied field curve. Despite this simplicity, the model is able to accurately predict device lifetime for three different sources of experimental data. The simulation's predictions at low fields and very long lifetimes show that the use of a single empirical model can lead to inaccuracies in device reliability.
Uneven Development and National Income Inequality in Third World Countries: A Cross-National Study of the Effects of External Economic Dependency

This article examines the extent to which Third World nations' dependent position in the world economy contributes to intercountry differences in income inequality. International economic dependence is measured using investment dependence — the penetration of a country by foreign capital, commodity production concentration, and the degree to which a country relies on particular markets for its imports and exports. It is hypothesized that the effect of dependency on inequality is mediated by its effect on the uneven development of the productive capacities of a nation. Level of development is included as a control variable in the analysis. The results of a cross-sectional regression analysis indicate that dependency is related to uneven development, which in turn is associated with level of national income inequality.
Biodiversity and abundance of the zooplankton of the Northeast Shelf ecosystem

Since 1961, the Northeast Fisheries Science Center of the National Marine Fisheries Service has been conducting a study of the zooplankton of the US Northeast Shelf ecosystem. One of the objectives is to investigate ecological patterns of the system for any evidence of regime shifts and their effects on biodiversity and abundance of zooplankton and fish stocks. Two sampling strategies have been used: collections with Continuous Plankton Recorders beginning in 1961; and collections with bongo nets during the decade of MARMAP surveys (1977-1987), augmented by a time series of collections made during the autumn and spring groundfish surveys (1977-1993). The climate regime of the region leads to distinct and recurring seasonal pulses in zooplankton biomass and species succession in each of the four subareas of the shelf ecosystem distinguished. Evidence was detected in the analyses of inter-annual variability in species abundance and zooplankton biomass. However, no evidence of a large-scale regime shift of the magnitude described recently for other areas was detected from our analyses. Species shifts in abundance and the inter-annual and decadal variability observed in zooplankton biomass levels have allowed for sufficient residual sustainability in zooplankton biodiversity and abundance to support the recovery of depleted pelagic fish stocks.
Maastrichtian climate, productivity and faunal turnovers in planktic foraminifera in South Atlantic DSDP sites 525A and 21

Abstract Stratigraphic, faunal and isotopic analyses of the Maastrichtian at DSDP sites 525A and 21 in the South Atlantic reveal a planktic foraminiferal fauna characterized by two major events, an early late Maastrichtian diversification and end-Maastrichtian mass extinction. Both events are accompanied by major changes in climate and productivity. The diversification event which occurred in two steps between 70.5 and 69.1 Ma increased species richness by a total of 43% and coincided with the onset of major cooling in surface and bottom waters and increased surface productivity. The onset of the terminal decline in Maastrichtian species richness began at 67.5 Ma and the first significant decline in surface productivity occurred at 66.2 Ma, coincident maximum cooling to 13°C in surface waters and the reduction of the surface-to-deep temperature gradient to less than 5°C. Major climatic and moderate productivity changes mark the mass extinction and the last 500 kyr of the Maastrichtian. Between 200 and 400 kyr before the KT boundary surface and deep waters warmed rapidly by 3–4°C and cooled again during the last 100 kyr of the Maastrichtian. Surface productivity decreased only moderately across the KT boundary. Species richness began to decline during the late Maastrichtian cooling and by KT boundary time, the mass extinction had claimed 66% of the species. Viewed within the context of Maastrichtian climate and productivity changes, the KT mass extinction could have resulted from extreme environmental stress even without the addition of an extraterrestrial impact.
Will, Belief and Knowledge

In her recent paper, “Belief, Values and the Will,” Trudy Govier raises several interesting and challenging points. Most interesting is her conclusion that it is at least logically possible for a person to believe something “simply in virtue of having taken that decision,” i.e., by fiat . In otherwords, it is possible to believe something by an act of will.
Two-dimensional object-based coding using a content-based mesh and affine motion parameterization

We present a complete system for 2-D object-based video compression with a method for 2-D content-based triangular mesh design, two connectivity preserving affine motion parameterization schemes, two methods for temporal mesh propagation, a polygon-based adaptive model failure detection/coding scheme, and bit rate control strategies. The feasibility of the proposed methods has been demonstrated by experimental results.
Real-Time Digital Computer Acquisition and Computation of Gravity Data at Sea

A system for the automatic acquisition and computation of gravity data at sea has been tested and is now operational aboard the Research Vessel CHAIN of the Wood's Hole Oceanographic Institution. This is the first recorded instance of on-line acquisition and processing of gravity data by the use of a digital computing system. Sampling and computation are performed in a one minute computation cycle making knowledge of gravity values, gravity anomalies and dead-reckoning position available in real-time. The system consists of a LaCoste-Romberg Sea Gravity Meter, data conversion units for computer compatibility with the gravity meter, ship's gyrocompass and ship's speed log, an IBM 1710 Mod 1 Control System (the combination of a 1620 Computer and a 1711 Data Converter for analog to digital conversion), and typewriter and paper tape input-output units.
Enhancing Locality in Two-Dimensional Space through Integrated Computation and Data Mappings

As the number of processors used in chip multiprocessors keeps increasing, NoC (network-on-chip) based multiprocessor architectures are becoming increasingly important. While the last couple of years have witnessed numerous proposals regarding how to architect NoC based parallel computing platforms, code and data mapping issues in these architectures have largely been ignored. In particular, there are very few papers so far focusing on providing compiler support for NoC based chip multiprocessor systems. Our goal in this paper is to demonstrate how an optimizing compiler can map data and computation to NoC nodes in a locality-aware manner such that the energy spent in data communications is minimized. The proposed approach formulates this locality problem within a linear algebraic framework and discusses two alternate solution strategies that determine appropriate computation/data mappings in NoC. Our experimental evaluation compares this proposed scheme against two alternate optimization strategies, one that optimizes data mapping alone and the other one that optimizes computation mapping alone. The collected results indicate that our approach improves energy consumption by about 25% with respect to a scheme that does not consider locality of communication during NoC mapping. More importantly, our results reveal that neither optimized data mapping alone nor optimized computation mapping alone is sufficient for achieving the best locality and the compiler needs to consider both in a coordinated fashion. In fact, our results show that the proposed approach improves energy consumption over the pure data mapping and pure computation mapping oriented schemes by around 22% and 20%, respectively, when considering all eight application codes we tested
Four years of experiences of a joint school of pharmacy and school of education pharmacy residency teaching certificate program for affiliated residency programs

Abstract Purpose To describe four years of experiences of a joint school of pharmacy and school of education pharmacy residency teaching certificate program (PRTCP) for affiliated residency programs and evaluate the impact on teaching abilities and confidence. Methods Descriptive data was collected based on observations of the authors for four residency classes from 2007 to 2011. The PRTCP provided formalized training in teaching through multiple requirements including: pedagogy seminars, didactic experiences, small group facilitation, experiential education, teaching philosophy statement development, and teaching portfolio development. The program included residents from small affiliated residency programs (three or fewer residents per program) based at nonacademic institutions along with new faculty and residency preceptors. After four years, graduates were surveyed one time through SurveyMonkey™ for demographic data and to assess self-perceived teaching abilities and confidence. Results Of the 25 previous residents, 17 completed the survey. Prior to the PRTCP, respondents had a median score of three (out of five) in teaching skill and ability, compared to a median score of four after completing the requirements. Likewise, respondents had a median score of two in confidence as a teacher, compared to a median score of four after completing the requirements. When asked if the PRTCP had been beneficial professionally, 94% of participants responded as “agree” or “strongly agree.” The majority noted precepting as the most common teaching experience in practice, followed by small group facilitation, classroom lectures, and in-services. Conclusions A joint school of pharmacy and school of education PRTCP program has increased resident-perceived teaching abilities and confidence.
Two-layer quad trees: a data structure for high-speed interactive layout tools

A two-layer quad tree data structure which creates an effective search environment for both region queries and size queries is described. A corner-based sorting method resolves the quad tree bisector list problem. A region-growing technique reduces region query search overhead. A two-layer quad tree implementation improves size-query speed. Experimental results show that these techniques significantly improve query speed for both classes of queries. >
Regulation of iron-sulphur cluster homeostasis through transcriptional control of the Isc pathway by [2Fe-2S]-IscR in Escherichia coli.

Fe-S clusters are essential across the biological world, yet how cells regulate expression of Fe-S cluster biogenesis pathways to cope with changes in Fe-S cluster demand is not well understood. Here, we describe the mechanism by which IscR, a [2Fe-2S] cluster-containing regulator of Escherichia coli, adjusts the synthesis of the Isc Fe-S biogenesis pathway to maintain Fe-S homeostasis. Our data indicate that a negative feedback loop operates to repress transcription of the iscRSUA-hscBA-fdx operon, encoding IscR and the Isc machinery, through binding of [2Fe-2S]-IscR to two upstream binding sites. IscR was shown to require primarily the Isc pathway for synthesis of its Fe-S cluster, providing a link between IscR activity and demands for Fe-S clusters through the levels of the Isc system. Surprisingly, the isc operon was more repressed under anaerobic conditions, indicating increased Fe-S cluster occupancy of IscR and decreased Fe-S cluster biogenesis demand relative to aerobic conditions. Consistent with this notion, overexpression of a Fe-S protein under aerobic conditions, but not under anaerobic conditions, led to derepression of P(iscR). Together, these data show how transcriptional control of iscRSUA-hscBA-fdx by [2Fe-2S]-IscR allows E. coli to respond efficiently to varying Fe-S demands.
A Stratified Diagnosis of the Indian Monsoon—Eurasian Snow Cover Relationship

Abstract This study is aimed at reconciling inconsistencies between modeling studies of the Indian monsoon–Eurasian snow cover relationship, which support the Blanford hypothesis, and recent diagnostic studies, which have largely failed to show its existence. Recently released version 2 NOAA/NESDIS satellite-based retrievals of snow cover are used. A focus is given to diagnosing (a) spatial and temporal complexity in the Eurasian snow cover distribution, (b) the role of ENSO in modulating the snow cover–all-India rainfall (AIR) relationship, and (c) the spatial distribution of the rainfall association within India. With these goals in mind, the climatological distribution of snow cover and its interannual variability are first assessed. While snow cover is largest in northern Eurasia, its variability is most pronounced in southwestern (SW) Asia between the Black and Caspian Seas, and across the northern Indian, Himalayan, and Tibetan Plateau (NIHT) regions. In regions of large variability, and for Eurasia...
Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Pediatric Population

PURPOSE To review the epidemiology and prevalence of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), define the differences between community-acquired and hospital-acqui...
The IKS Chip Design Paradigm

As is true in any realistic project, the design of the IKS chip has gone through numerous refinements during its course. Desirable as it may be, documenting all the changes is itself a formidable task. The multi-dimensional and iterative nature of the design activity make it difficult to describe the design process concisely in an essentially linear text. But even if it can be done, documentation alone is not a substitute for understanding, which is what this work sets out to accomplish in the development of a paradigm. To achieve this goal, various design decisions that lead to the final design are examined and organized into the form of an ASIC architecture design methodology. The design of the IKS chip is then presented as an execution of this methodology. To better focus on design decisions and to avoid over-complexities, the presentation of the structural decomposition of the IKS chip is delayed until the next chapter where it is presented together with the VHDL simulation results. Testability issues are addressed in each design phase when appropriate and are assessed qualitatively as part of the evaluation of the overall design. In the remainder of this section, the assumptions, objective, and philosophy of this design effort are first examined.
Tactical Missile Design at the Naval Postgraduate School

A Tactical Missile Track has been an available academic track at The Naval Postgraduate School for nearly three decades. The coursework associated with the track can be taken over a one-year period leading to a masters degree in Mechanical and Aerospace engineering and culminates with tactical missile design as the capstone course. The capstone design course often includes the participation of an industry representative to provide the students with a real-world “system integration” point of view and advise the students throughout the design process. The coursework leading up to the design course consists of fundamental “core” courses that apply to nearly all missile systems as well as a wide range of technical electives ranging from campaign analysis to warhead design and effectiveness. A brief history of the Tactical Missile Track is provided and details associated with the available electives are also presented and discussed to show some of the unique feature of Tactical Missile Design at The Naval Postgraduate School. Finally, examples of past design efforts are also presented.
IN VITRO ACTIVITY OF PENICILLINS AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS ALBUS.

Summary and conclusionsAmong 175 clinical isolates of Staph. albus (Staph. epidermidis)—most of them from blood cultures—resistance (MIC ≤ 12.5 μg/ml) was most frequent to penicillin G (50%) and ampicillin (41%), but 10% were resistant to methicillin, 5% to oxacillin and diphenicillin, less than 2% to nafcillin and none to cephalothin. A varying number of these strains were also tested against 3 additional penicillins, 6 other antibiotics and fusidic acid; resistance was most frequent to chloramphenicol (60%), tetracycline (48%) and erythromycin (29%), none of them were resistant to kanamycin and a varying proportion were resistant to the other agents. Penicillinase-like action was demonstrated by the Haight-Finland test with 119 of the 175 strains; 12 of these strains, including 5 that were methicillin-resistant, were studied further. The 12 strains all produced a penicillin G-beta-lactamase but cell preparations from the 5 methicillin-resistant strains failed to destroy methicillin in 24 hours. There wa...
School Choice: The Case for the Boston Mechanism

Since Abdulkadiroglu and Sonmez’s [3] work, a concern on the mechanisms used to assign children to publicly funded schools endures. Among other school districts, Boston has concentrated a lot of attention. The formerly called Boston Mechanism (BM) that was applied since 2000 has been widely criticized. Finally in 2005, the Boston Public School authority decided to replace this mechanism with the so-called Deferred Acceptance (DA) algorithm. The present paper argues that replacing BM might not be recommendable in every case, hence providing rationale to its persistence in other municipalities such as Cambridge, MA, Denver and Minneapolis.
The Use of Green Fluorescent Fusion Proteins to Monitor Herpes Simplex Virus Replication

The localization pattern of the seven herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA replication proteins is dependent upon the status of viral DNA synthesis in the infected cell. Normally, the replication proteins accumulate within replication compartments, which expand as viral DNA synthesis increases. If viral replication is blocked, either by the addition of drugs or a genetic lesion, prereplicative sites are observed. Observing the distribution of a GFP-tagged HSV replication protein can monitor the progression of viral replication. Here, we demonstrate the use of an ICP8-GFP fusion protein to observe the status of HSV replication in cultured cells by the formation of viral replication compartments.
A New Technique for the Transurethral or Percutaneous Removal of Renal Stones

AbstractThis new technique uses a cystoscopically placed torque guide wire and catheters to deliver a stone basket to the renal calix containing the stone. Under fluoroscopic control the basket, placed through a 9F catheter, is used to dislodge and capture the stone. The stone-containing basket and catheter then are removed transurethrally or percutaneously. This procedure was used to remove small caliceal stones in 3 patients undergoing ureteral stone manipulation, and it facilitated the percutaneous removal of a larger stone in the upper pole infundibulum in 1 patient.
Direct measurement of acetylcholine release in guinea pig trachea.

In this study, we applied high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC-EC) to the measurement of acetylcholine (ACh) release from nerve endings in guinea pig tracheal smooth muscle. We also tested for muscarinic inhibitory regulation of ACh release in this species, which is widely used for studies of airway neural control. Clip-connected segments of the posterior membrane of the guinea pig trachea were mounted in organ baths between stimulating electrodes and incubated in Krebs-Henseleit buffer containing (in microM) 10 indomethacin, 1 neostigmine, 1 phentolamine, and 1 propranolol. To measure ACh, the bath was emptied and aliquots of buffer were injected directly into the HPLC-EC; the lower limit of detection was 1 pmol/200 microliters sample. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) at 5 Hz for 10 or 30 min increased ACh release from 1.8 +/- 1.4 (SE) to 6.2 +/- 1.3 pmol.mg protein-1.min-1 (n = 15). The effect of atropine was examined by comparing amounts of ACh released by EFS before and after exposure to either atropine (0.3 microM) or vehicle. Before atropine treatment, EFS-evoked ACh release was 4.9 +/- 0.6 pmol.mg protein-1.min-1; after atropine exposure, EFS-evoked release of ACh increased significantly to 15.0 +/- 2.2 pmol.mg protein-1.min-1 (n = 11; P less than 0.05). Corresponding values before and during exposure to vehicle were 9.3 +/- 4.4 and 10.7 +/- 4.7 pmol.mg protein-1.min-1, respectively. The ratios of the changes in EFS-evoked ACh release were 3.1 +/- 0.3 and 1.3 +/- 0.1 in atropine-treated and vehicle-treated groups, respectively (P less than 0.05). We conclude that HPLC-EC is a reliable and sensitive technique for the detection of EFS-evoked release of ACh from clip-connected segments of guinea pig tracheal smooth muscle.
Wharton’s Jelly Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been always considered as a useful option for therapeutic purposes. MSCs can be derived from many sources, perhaps one of the most therapeutically valuable sources is the Wharton’s Jelly (WJ), a gelatinous tissue layer found within the umbilical cord that contains myofibroblast-like stromal cells. Previous studies investigating Wharton’s Jelly-derived MSCs reveal that they have more powerful proliferative, immunosuppressive and therapeutic activities compared to MSCs derived from adult bone marrow or adipose tissue. The present review discusses the phenotypic features, potential therapeutic uses and optimization of experimental protocols for WJ-derived stem cells. Previous work show successful results when WJ-MSCs were used as transplantable cells for treatment of various diseases (e.g., cancer, chronic liver disease, cardiovascular diseases, nerve, cartilage, tendon injury and degenerated intervertebral disc). These positive results are attributed to favorable transplantable features the WJ-MSCs display which include ease of sourcing, in vitro expandability, differentiation abilities, immune-evasion and immune-regulation capacities. However, further research work is demanded to harness the benefits of WJ-MSCs into clinical application.
Ultra-shallow ridge waveguide microring resonators for narrow band photonic RF filters in conventional silicon-on-insulator platforms

We investigate the use of an ultra-shallow partial etch to form silicon microring resonators with high Q in a 250nm thick SOI device layer, to enable narrowband filters for RF photonic signal processing in conventional silicon photonics platforms. We demonstrate compact ring resonators formed by waveguides with as shallow as 25nm deep etches in a 250nm device layer and show significant improvement in fabrication-limited intrinsic Q with reduced etch depth. We demonstrate rings with loss Q's as high as 700k at an etch depth of 45nm.
Investigating the Prevalence and Performance Correlates of Vertical Versus Shared Leadership in Emergent Software Development Teams

In this multi-disciplinary study involving 44 software development projects, we investigate how leadership types—vertical versus shared—impact team performance. The results of the study show that while vertical leadership was found to have a higher positive impact on team efficiency, shared leadership was found to have a higher positive impact on team innovation, and a balanced shared and vertical leadership was found to optimally impact team effectiveness.
Memoirs: On the Ciliary Mechanisms and Interrelationships of Lamellibranchs: Part V: Note on the Gills of Amussium pleuronectes

The gills of Amussium pleuronectes L., a species from shallow water, were examined and the lamellae found to be plicate and heterorhabdic, thus differing in structure from those of the deep-water species, Amussium dalli, Amussium meridionale, and Amussium lucidum, which Ridewood found to have flat and homorhabdic lamellae. The gills of Amussium pleuronectes closely agree with those of the Pectinidae also possessing plicate and heterorhabdic lamellae. Ridewood9s classification of the Amussiidae with the Mytilacea cannot be upheld; the position of this family is with the Pectinacea as in Pelseneer9s classifications of 1888, 1906, and 1911.
Repeat Prostate Biopsy Practice Patterns in a Statewide Quality Improvement Collaborative

Purpose: We examined rebiopsies in MUSIC (Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative) to understand adherence to guidelines recommending repeat prostate biopsy in patients with multifocal high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia or atypical small acinar proliferation.Materials and Methods: We analyzed data on men undergoing repeat biopsy, practice patterns and cancer detection rates. Multivariate regression modeling was used to calculate the proportion of patients undergoing rebiopsy. We used claims data to validate the treatment classification in MUSIC. To understand reasons for not performing rebiopsy we reviewed records of a sample of patients with atypical small acinar proliferation.Results: We identified 5,375 men with a negative biopsy, of whom 411 (7.6%) underwent repeat biopsy. In 718 men with high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, 350 with atypical small acinar proliferation and 587 with high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and atypical small acinar proliferati...
Utilization and in-hospital complications of cardiac resynchronization therapy: trends in the United States from 2003 to 2013.

Aims Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in selected patients with heart failure. We sought to investigate the utilization and in-hospital complications of cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) and pacemaker (CRT-P) implantations in the United States from 2003 to 2013. Methods and results Patients receiving CRT-D or CRT-P were identified in the National Inpatient Sample database (NIS), using the International Classification of Diseases-Ninth Revision-Clinical Modification procedure codes. Annual implantation rates, patient demographics, co-morbidities, in-hospital complications, and length of stay were analysed. From 2003 to 2013, an estimated total of 439 010 (95% CI: 406 723-471 296) inpatient CRT implantations were performed in the U.S. The median age of patients was 72 and 71% were male. Overall, 6.1% had at least one complication. During the study period, comorbidity index and overall complication rate increased (P = 0.002 and P = 0.01, respectively). Mortality and length of stay showed no significant trend. Predictors of complications included: age 65 and older, female sex (OR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.12-1.27), Deyo-Charlson Comorbidity Index, and elective admission (OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.57-0.66). Conclusion From 2003 to 2013, the severity of comorbid conditions increased and a rising trend was observed in the rate of periprocedural complications among patients undergoing CRT in the United States. In-hospital mortality and length of stay showed no uniform trend.
Head and Neck Round Cell Sarcomas: A Comparative Clinicopathologic Analysis of 2 Molecular Subsets: Ewing and CIC-Rearranged Sarcomas.

CIC-rearranged sarcoma (CRS) is a relatively new entity defined by its pathognomonic genetic signature and undifferentiated round cell phenotype, initially grouped together with the ‘Ewing sarcoma-like tumors’. However, increasing data suggest that these tumors should be regarded as a stand-alone pathologic entity. We conducted a clinicopathologic analysis on molecularly conformed Ewing sarcoma (ES) and CRS arising in the head and neck (HN) and compared to a well characterized cohort of ES and CRS from other locations. A total of 41 HN round cell sarcoma patients were selected from our institutional and consultation files, including 25 ES (median 20 years) and 16 CRS (median 29 years). Clinical follow-up information was available for all ES patients, ranging from 4 to 436 months (median 70 months), while for CRS, follow-up information was available in 11 patients (69%), ranging from 1 to 269 months (median 27 months). The most common location for ES was the facial and jaw bones (56%), while CRS occurred exclusively in the soft tissue, commonly in the neck. CRS showed variable CD99 staining in 75% of cases and diffuse WT1 (6/6) reactivity, while all ES expressed diffuse membranous staining for CD99 but none for WT1 (0/6). The 2-year overall survival (OS) rate for HN-CRS patients was 78%, while for HN-ES it was 100%. The OS of ES and CRS showed a trend toward a favorable outcome for HN-round cell sarcomas compared to other sites. Our findings suggest that HN-CRS have different clinical presentation and pathologic features compared to ES and should be classified as a stand-alone pathologic entity.
Atomic Resolution Structural and Chemical Imaging Revealing the Sequential Migration of Ni, Co, and Mn upon the Battery Cycling of Layered Cathode

Layered lithium transition metal oxides (LTMO) are promising candidate cathode materials for next-generation high-energy density lithium ion battery. The challenge for using this category of cathode is the capacity and voltage fading, which is believed to be associated with the layered structure disordering, a process that is initiated from the surface or solid-electrolyte interface and facilitated by transition metal (TM) reduction and oxygen vacancy formation. However, the atomic level dynamic mechanism of such a layered structure disordering is still not fully clear. In this work, utilizing atomic resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), we map, for the first time at atomic scale, the spatial evolution of Ni, Co and Mn in a cycled LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 layered cathode. In combination with atomic level structural imaging, we discovered the direct correlation of TM ions migration behavior with lattice disordering, featuring the residing of TM ions in the tetrahedral site and a sequential migrat...
Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: A Literature Review

Abstract Introduction Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a widely used class of drug. Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is a condition in which patients continue to have sexual side effects after discontinuation of SSRI use. The prevalence of persistent sexual side effects after discontinuing SSRIs is unknown. The recognition and study of PSSD will increase our knowledge base of this underreported and distressing condition. Aim To provide coverage of the current literature on PSSD, update information on the pathophysiology of PSSD, and discuss potential management options. Methods Comprehensive review of literature pertaining to PSSD. Main Outcome Measures The symptoms, classification, pathophysiology, diagnostic considerations, and management of PSSD were reviewed. Results Common PSSD symptoms include genital anesthesia, pleasure-less or weak orgasm, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Different theories have been proposed to explain the pathophysiology of PSSD: epigenetic gene expression theory, cytochrome actions, dopamine-serotonin interactions, proopiomelanocortin and melanocortin effects, serotonin neurotoxicity, downregulation of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A, and hormonal changes in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The diagnosis of PSSD is achieved by excluding all other etiologies of sexual dysfunction. Treating PSSD is challenging, and many strategies have been suggested and tried, including serotonergic antagonists and dopaminergic agonists. There is still no definitive treatment for PSSD. Low-power laser irradiation and phototherapy have shown some promising results. Conclusion PSSD is a debilitating condition that adversely affects quality of life. Further studies are warranted to investigate the prevalence, pathophysiology, and treatment of PSSD. Bala A, Nguyen HMT, Hellstrom WJG. Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: A Literature Review. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:29–34.
Online Vehicle Routing Problems: A Survey

We consider online Vehicle Routing Problems (VRPs). The problems are online because the problem instance is revealed incrementally. After providing motivations for the consideration of such online problems, we first give a detailed summary of the most relevant research in the area of online VRPs. We then consider the online Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) with precedence and capacity constraints and give an online algorithm with a competitive ratio of at most 2. We also consider an online version of the TSP with m salesmen and we give an online algorithm that has a competitive ratio of 2, a result that is best possible. We also study polynomial-time algorithms for these problems. Finally, we introduce the notion of disclosure dates, a form of advanced notice which allows for more realisticcompetitive ratios.
National trends in long-term use of prescription opioids.

Purpose This study examined recent trends and correlates of prescription opioid use and long-term use in the United States. Methods Data were from 47 356 adult participants of National Health and Nutrition Survey from 1999-2000 to 2013-2014. Participants were asked about prescription medications used in the past 30 days. Long-term use of prescription opioids was defined by use for 90 days or longer. Results The prevalence of prescription opioid use increased from 4.1% of US adults in 1999-2000 to 6.8% in 2013-2014 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10-1.75, P = .007). This trend was driven by a sharp increase in long-term use which increased from 1.8% to 5.4% (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.65-3.00, P < .001). Of all opioid users in 2013-2014, 79.4% were long-term users compared with 45.1% in 1999-2000. Long-term use was associated with poorer physical health, concurrent benzodiazepine use, and history of heroin use. Conclusions The findings highlight the need for research on potential benefits and harms of long-term use of opioids and efforts to restrict long-term use to patients for whom the benefits outweigh the risks.
Novel phases in the oxidation of γ-titanium aluminum

Abstract This paper concentrates on the high temperature oxidation of γ-titanium aluminum. Samples of Ti-47.5 at.% Al were subjected to a 1000°C oxygen environment for various times and subsequently examined by Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and optical microscopy. AES proved to be useful in identifying oxygen scavenging by Ti3Al and also in examining a subscale Al depletion layer, which was found to contain two previously unreported phases, tentatively identified as Ti10Al6O, and Ti10Al6O2. These phases enabled an updated description of γ-titanium aluminum oxidation at temperatures from room temperature to above 1100°C.
Special Considerations and Future Directions in Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders Diagnosis

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders (CRSDs) are caused by people sleeping at the wrong circadian phase and can be self-induced, environmentally induced or due to an intrinsic disorder in the circadian organization of sleep. Current clinical criteria do not differentiate between these underlying causes in determining either the diagnosis or most appropriate treatment for CRSD, and do not address the long-term health risks of CRSD. This article reviews the physiology underlying circadian rhythms and CRSDs, proposes methods for assessing circadian rhythms in a clinical setting, and introduces the concept of broadening CRSD beyond sleep-related symptoms.
Herman Heijermans — A Biographical Sketch

Herman Heijermans Jr. was a citizen of Rotterdam by birth, a citizen of Amsterdam by personal preference, and a citizen of the world by acclamation. The eldest son in a family of eleven children, he was born in the merchant city on the Meuse on December 3, 1864. He had three older and four younger sisters, and three brothers, one of whom died in childhood. His father, Herman Heijermans Sr., was a well-known and respected journalist in Rotterdam, whose talents and career had a considerable influence on the life of his famous son.
Adaptive repeated measures modeling using likelihood cross-validation

An approach for exploratory repeated measures modeling is presented, based on adaptively selected fractional polynomial models for the expected outcome value combined with the standard compound symmetry covariance structure for representing within-subject dependence. The search strategy for identifying an appropriate model for the expected value is based on likelihood cross-validation scores together with tolerance parameters specifying how much of a change in those scores can be tolerated. These methods extend existing adaptive regression methods for uncorrelated situations to correlated outcomes settings. They also serve as a test case for development of methods to handle more general covariance structures. Example analyses are presented using longitudinal data on self-reported adherence to antiretroviral medications for HIV-positive subjects.
Structural and spectral studies of di-2-pyridyl ketone 3-piperidyl- and 3-hexamethyleneiminylthiosemicarbazone and their cobalt(II), nickel(II) and copper(II) complexes

Cobalt(II), nickel(II) and copper(II) complexes of di-2-pyridyl ketone 3-piperidyl- and 3-hexamethyleneiminyl-thiosemicarbazones (HDPypip and HDPyhexim, respectively) have been prepared and characterized by physical and spectral methods. Use of 1:2 thiosemicarbazone-to-metal chloride molar ratios in the preparation of the complexes has produced both mononuclear and polynuclear species for the three metal ions. Crystal structures of the HDPypip, HDPyhexim and [Ni(DPyhexim)Cl] have been determined and aid the assignments of the i.r., n.m.r., u.v.–vis. n.i.r. and e.s.r. spectra for the various complexes.
Pretreatment of carprofen impaired initiation of inflammatory- and overlapping resolution response and promoted cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to control pain, inflammation, and limit the cardinal signs of injury in humans. However, prolonged use of NSAIDs increases the risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction; MI) and the subsequent risk of heart and renal failure. The molecular and cellular mechanism of action for this adverse effect, particularly along the cardiorenal network, is incomplete. To define the mechanism, carprofen (CAP), an NSAID was administered at the dose of 5 mg/kg to C57BL/6 male mice for two weeks. After last dose of CAP treatment mice were subjected to permanent occlusion of coronary artery that induces irreversible cardiac remodeling while maintaining naive and MI-controls. After MI, cardiac pathology and dysfunction were confirmed, along with additional measurements of kidney function, histology, and injury markers, such as plasma creatinine. CAP treatment increased plasma creatinine levels and subsequently, myocardial structural disorganization increased. Kidney neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) and protein expression were increased post-MI. After two weeks CAP treatment, the expression of pyrogenic pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β was increased compared to non-CAP treated mice, indicative of amplified inflammatory response. There was also evidence that renal injury of both the post-CAP treatment controls and post-CAP MI were much greater than the non-CAP treated naive controls, as serum creatinine and NGAL levels were elevated along with obvious structural impairment of the glomerulus. Therefore, CAP treatment tampers with the acute inflammatory response that promotes cardiorenal syndrome and non-resolving inflammation post-MI in acute heart failure.
The Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS): Validation and reliability in a neurological disorder.

Background Individuals with neurological disorders often have difficulty negotiating stairs that can lead to injurious falls. Clinicians lack a clinical tool to identify impairments in stair negotiation and to assist their decision making regarding treatment plans to improve stair performance and safety. We developed a new tool called the Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS) that is designed to assess stair performance and safety in neurological populations. Objectives This study aimed to determine interrater and intrarater reliability of STEPS and its concurrent content validity to various clinical balance and mobility measures using individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) as the first test population. Methods Forty individuals with HD (mean age 50.35) participated. Three observers rated live performances of the STEPS (interrater reliability) and seven observers rated videotaped performances twice (intrarater reliability). STEPS scores correlated with clinical mobility and balance test scores. Results Excellent inter- and intrarater reliability (ICCs = 0.91 and 0.89 respectively) and good internal consistency (α = 0.83) were found. Better STEPS performance correlated with better performance on co-administered motor and mobility measures and Stair Self-Efficacy scores. Per multivariable regression analysis, the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale modified motor score and descent time were significant predictors of STEPS performance. Conclusions The STEPS tool is easy to administer, requires no special devices and can be completed in less than five minutes. In the HD test population, it shows high reliability and validity making it a potentially useful tool for assessing maneuverability and safety on stairs in HD. The results suggest that the STEPS tool warrants further study to determine STEPS cut-off values for fall prediction in HD and may prove useful as an assessment tool for other neurological disorders.
Thiolation of Q295: Site-Specific Conjugation of Hydrophobic Payloads without the Need for Genetic Engineering.

Site-specific conjugation technology frequently relies on antibody engineering to incorporate rare or non-natural amino acids into the primary sequence of the protein. However, when the primary seq...
Tapering duodenoplasty and gastrojejunostomy in the management of children with megaduodenum

Objective To explore the management strategies of idiopathic megaduodenum among children.Methods For 4 cases of megaduodenum at our hospital from 2005 to 2011,the clinical features,radiological data,treatment options,pathological findings and prognosis were retrospectively analyzed.And the relevant literatures were reviewed.Results The diagnosis of non-obstructive megaduodenum was confirmed by upper gastro-intestinal contrast study,ultrasonography and exploratory laparotomy.Cases 1 and 2 underwent tapering duodenoplasty with a proximal stump of duodenum divided & closed at pylorus and a Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy.And cases 3 and 4 had tapering duodenoplasty with proximal stump closure and an end-to-side gastrojejunostomy.On pathological examinations,all neural and vascular structures appeared normal.During the follow-up,diarrhea,bloating,vomiting and nausea disappeared and there was a rapid postoperative gain of body weight.Conclusions Idiopathic megaduodenum without organic obstruction is a rare clinical pediatric condition.Massive duodenal dilatation may be visualized distinctly by upper gastro-intestinal contrast study and antenatal ultrasonography.And satisfactory outcomes can be achieved by tapering duodenoplasty with proximal stump closure and gastrojejunostomy of either Roux-en-Y or end-to-side anastomosis. Key words: Megaduodenum; Child; Anastomosis,Roux-en-Y