cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Training is part of your job

Summary form only given. Engineers and other knowledge workers must continually learn both to stay abreast of current technology and to advance in their careers. Their total set of competencies and skills represents the value they bring to the firm. Expertise becomes the currency by which their worth is measured. Much of their learning must happen in a "job-specific" setting where they apply conceptual knowledge to mastery of the tools used in pursuit of their work objectives and deliverables. Content experts have the duty and responsibility to deploy knowledge to all who need it in the organization. They must teach the rest of us to use the knowledge that they possess. If an engineer writes a new specification, develops a new process or invents a new software tool, the job is not finished until the users know how to apply it. The deployment happens via knowledge transfer which is the broadest definition of training. In our lives and work, we both teach and learn and so it is for engineers as well. As novices, we may do move learning than teaching, but even with experience, we can never stop learning, we simply have to teach more. The solution to this seeming work load dilemma is to learn and grow through teaching. These are some of the fundamental precepts of the "Learning Organization". We illustrate how these concepts are being practiced in the high technology industry and how "knowledge products" are deployed through training. We also demonstrate with cases and methods how engineers can and must become successful teachers in order to do their jobs.
Graph regularized transductive classification on heterogeneous information networks

A heterogeneous information network is a network composed of multiple types of objects and links. Recently, it has been recognized that strongly-typed heterogeneous information networks are prevalent in the real world. Sometimes, label information is available for some objects. Learning from such labeled and unlabeled data via transductive classification can lead to good knowledge extraction of the hidden network structure. However, although classification on homogeneous networks has been studied for decades, classification on heterogeneous networks has not been explored until recently. In this paper, we consider the transductive classification problem on heterogeneous networked data which share a common topic. Only some objects in the given network are labeled, and we aim to predict labels for all types of the remaining objects. A novel graph-based regularization framework, GNetMine, is proposed to model the link structure in information networks with arbitrary network schema and arbitrary number of object/link types. Specifically, we explicitly respect the type differences by preserving consistency over each relation graph corresponding to each type of links separately. Efficient computational schemes are then introduced to solve the corresponding optimization problem. Experiments on the DBLP data set show that our algorithm significantly improves the classification accuracy over existing state-of-the-art methods.
Consequences of a Diagrammatic Representation of Paul Cohen’s Forcing Technique Based on C.S. Peirce’s Existential Graphs

This article examines the forcing technique developed by Paul Cohen in his proof of the independence of the Generalized Continuum Hypothesis from the ZFC axioms of set theory in light of the theory of abductive inference and the diagrammatic system of Existential Graphs elaborated by Peirce. The history of the development of Cohen’s method is summarized, and the key steps of his technique for defining the extended model M[G] from within the ground model M are outlined. The relations between statements in M and their correspondent reference values in M[G] are modeled in Peirce’s Existential Graphs as the construction of a modal covering over the sheet of assertion. This formalization clarifies the relationship between Peirce’s EG-βand EG-γ and lays the foundation for theorizing the abductive emergence of the latter out of the former.
All-Electric Ship Energy System Design Using Classifier-Guided Sampling

The addition of power-intensive electrical systems on the U.S. Navy’s next-generation all-electric ships (AES) creates significant new challenges in the area of total-ship energy management. Power intensive assets are likely to compete for available generation capacity, and thermal loads are expected to greatly exceed current heat removal capacity. To address this challenge, a total-ship zonal distribution model that includes electric power, chilled water (CW), and refrigerated air (RA) systems is developed. Classifier-guided sampling (CGS), a population-based optimization algorithm for solving problems with discrete variables and discontinuous responses, is used to identify high-performance configurations with respect to fuel consumption. This modeling approach supports early-stage design decisions and performance analyses of notional systems in response to changing operating modes and damage scenarios. A set of configurations that enhance survivability is identified. Results of a comparison study demonstrate that CGS improves the rate of convergence toward superior solutions, on average, when compared to genetic algorithms (GAs).
Privacy revelations for web and mobile apps

Users of Web and mobile apps must often decide whether to give the apps access to personal information without knowing what they will do with it. We argue that users could better manage their privacy and privacy standards would rise if the operating system simply revealed to users how their apps spread personal information. However, for this strategy to be effective, the research community must go well beyond today's low-level monitoring techniques to develop predictive, user-facing descriptions of information exposure that are grounded in measurement and analysis.
The Poetry of E. E. Cummings

Bt. E. CUMMINGS is one of the few modern poets who write about beautiful things simply. Much contemporary poetry is concerned with the analysis of states of mind for the sake of philosophic or social comment. Poetry of this sort is often written in some dramatic form, soliloquy or dialogue or drama, although not often with the theater in mind. Such forms are apparently designed to express a kind of half-spoken conversation, carried on by the poet within himself, and the argument is defined indirectly. The comment is rarely outspoken. There are exceptions, of course, but most modern poets are not concerned very much with declaring that the beauty of their experience is proof of the power of beauty. Yeats's poetry cannot be easily categorized, but Cummings is surely the modern poet who has most consistently aimed at lyric expression in the direct manner. He has persisted in this over many years although possessed with rather full knowledge of the intellectual and social confusion that has caused other poets to turn to argument. He has remained a lyric poet because he has not been interested in questioning and doubting; he has been constantly searching but he has always known what he is searching for. The constancy of his aim is even to be seen in some remarks with which he interrupted a reporter who was interviewing him recently: "Do you hear a sound? That sound isn't promising anything or proving anything or explaining or excusing anything or meaning anything or-pardon me for speaking frankly-selling or buying anything. Truth doesn't sell or buy: truth sings. I hear singing."' By this I think he does not mean some sound heard by the ear, but by an inner sense, that the truth of experience is not in the mere experience but in some informing idea, some idea comparable to that of the music of the spheres. Truth is effective and powerful because it sings, because it is beautiful. It is to such a tune running in his head-to borrow the phrase from Yeats-that Cummings has written poetry. The images he
Organic Carbon Utilization by Resting Cells of Thiosulfate-Oxidizing Marine Heterotrophs

Two thiosulfate-oxidizing marine heterotrophs, strains 12W and 16B, were tested for utilization of [C]glucose and [C]acetate, respectively, in the presence or absence of thiosulfate. Thiosulfate oxidation caused an increase in organic carbon incorporation and a corresponding decrease in respiration at pH 6.5, near the optimum pH for thiosulfate oxidation and thiosulfate-stimulated growth in these bacteria. The amount of glucose or acetate metabolized remained virtually unaffected by thiosulfate oxidation. The metabolic shift in carbon utilization was diminished by increasing the initial pH to 8.0. The results indicate that marine heterotrophs 12W and 16B exhibit a type of mixotrophic metabolism which differs from that observed in the thiobacilli.
A Review of “ The Changing Academic Library: Operations, Culture, Environments”

When I received this book to review and realized its primary purpose is as a textbook for an academic librarianship course, I asked some library staff who have recently finished or are pursuing the...
The Automated Plate Scanner Catalog of the Palomar Sky Survey

The Automated Plate Scanner (APS) at the University of Minnesota is a unique high speed ‘flying spot’ laser scanner. It uses a rotating prism to scan the laser spot and a beam splitter to produce a pair of spots which scan across a pair of plates. It scans a pair of plates in this mode in four hours with 1 micron repeatability. The APS is currently being used to scan the 936 pairs of plates comprising the Palomar Observatory-National Geographic Sky Survey. The resultant dataset will be used to produce a catalog of a billion stellar objects and several million galaxies. This catalog will be publicly available and we have undertaken the support for an on-line version which will be available to the astronomical community over the Internet. A summary of the catalog contents is given below.
Effect of Time and Temperature in Assessing Microbial Contamination on Flat Surfaces

Experiments were performed to investigate incubation time and temperature effects for Rodac agar contact plates applied to bench top surfaces in industrial clean rooms. For studies of general microbial levels, incubation at 32 C for 43 hr was found suitable for Rodac plates containing 15.5 +/- 0.1 ml of Trypticase Soy Agar.
Extremal Optimization for Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Problems

Abstract We present an implementation of τ-EO for quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) problems. To this end, we transform modify QUBO from its conventional Boolean presentation into a spin glass with a random external field on each site. These fields tend to be rather large compared to the typical coupling, presenting EO with a challenging two-scale problem, exploring smaller differences in couplings effectively while sufficiently aligning with those strong external fields. However, we also find a simple solution to that problem that indicates that those external fields apparently tilt the energy landscape to a such a degree such that global minima become more easy to find than those of spin glasses without (or very small) fields. We explore the impact of the weight distribution of the QUBO formulation in the operations research literature and analyze their meaning in a spin-glass language. This is significant because QUBO problems are considered among the main contenders for NP-hard problems that could be solved efficiently on a quantum computer such as D-Wave.
Some quantum corrections to Calabi-Yau compactification.

The counterterms constructed by Green and Schwarz in the field-theory limit of superstrings are put into a form of Calabi-Yau compactification. Dimension-six operators are explicitly extracted. The modifications of the gauge kinetic terms and of the Kaa-italicu-italicm-italicl-italichler potential are obtained. Axion couplings and some C-italicP-italic-nonconserving interactions are given.
Effect of nucleotides on ribonucleic acid formation during development of the amphibian embryo.

Abstract 1. 1. Adenine nucleotide treatments that promote neural tube closure in Rana pipiens embryos also produce an increase in RNA synthesis. 2. 2. The order of effectiveness of treatment materials on total RNA synthesis, on 14C nucleotide incorporation into RNA, and on the morphological advance is the same: greatest with ATP, next with ADP, least with adenosine 3′-monophosphate. 3. 3. The differences in effectiveness between adenine nucleotides on morphogenesis and on RNA synthesis is not related to penetration. Adenosine 3′monophosphate, the least effective material, penetrates 10 times as fast as ATP or ADP. 4. 4. Rapid penetration of adenosine 3′monophosphate is not simply related to its level of phosphorylation. Adenosine 3′monophosphate also penetrates 10 times as fast as adenosine 5′monophosphate. 5. 5. Synthesis of RNA alone does not ensure advanced morphological development. ADP at pH 7.2 in R. pipiens does not promote neural tube closure, and adenosine 5′-monophosphate delays tube closure. In both cases excess RNA synthesis is promoted.
Objectively measured physical activity and cognitive functioning in breast cancer survivors.

This study aimed to explore the relationship between objectively measured physical activity and cognitive functioning in breast cancer survivors. Participants were 136 postmenopausal breast cancer survivors. Cognitive functioning was assessed using a comprehensive computerized neuropsychological test. Seven-day physical activity was assessed using hip-worn accelerometers. Linear regression models examined associations of minutes per day of physical activity at various intensities on individual cognitive functioning domains. The partially adjusted model controlled for primary confounders (model 1), and subsequent adjustments were made for chemotherapy history (model 2) and body mass index (BMI) (model 3). Interaction and stratified models examined BMI as an effect modifier. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was associated with information processing speed. Specifically, 10 min of MVPA was associated with a 1.35-point higher score (out of 100) on the information processing speed domain in the partially adjusted model and a 1.29-point higher score when chemotherapy was added to the model (both p < 0.05). There was a significant BMI × MVPA interaction (p = 0.051). In models stratified by BMI (<25 vs. ≥25 kg/m2), the favorable association between MVPA and information processing speed was stronger in the subsample of overweight and obese women (p < 0.05) but not statistically significant in the leaner subsample. Light-intensity physical activity was not significantly associated with any of the measured domains of cognitive function. MVPA may have favorable effects on information processing speed in breast cancer survivors, particularly among overweight or obese women. Interventions targeting increased physical activity may enhance aspects of cognitive function among breast cancer survivors.
Accounting for Cash Flows and Present Values: How Could It Change?

A recent FASB "concepts" statement could have a profound impact on future accounting and reporting standards. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Orthogonal rotations in latent semantic analysis: An empirical study

Abstract The Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) literature has recently started to address the issue of interpretability of the extracted dimensions. On the software implementation front, recent versions of SAS Text Miner ® started incorporating Varimax rotations. Considering open source software such as R, when it comes to rotation procedures the user has many more options. However, there is a little work in providing guidance for selecting an appropriate rotation procedure. In this paper we further previous research on LSA rotations by introducing two well-known orthogonal rotations, namely Quartimax and Equamax, and comparing them to Varimax. We present a study that empirically tests the influence of the chosen orthogonal rotations on the extraction and interpretation of LSA factors. Our results indicate that, in most cases, Varimax and Equamax produce factors with similar interpretation, while Quartimax tends to produce a single factor. We conclude with recommendations on how these rotation procedures should be used and suggestions for future research. We note that orthogonal rotations can be used to improve the interpretability of other SVD-based models, such as COALS.
Data dissemination in mobile peer-to-peer networks

In this paper we propose adaptive content-driven routing and data dissemination algorithms for intelligently routing search queries in a peer-to-peer network that supports mobile users. In our mechanism nodes build content synopses of their data and adaptively disseminate them to the most appropriate nodes. Based on the content synopses, a routing mechanism is being built to forward the queries to those nodes that have a high probability of providing the desired results. Our simulation results show that our approach is highly scalable and significantly improves resources usage by saving both bandwidth and processing power.
Nutrient prices and concentrations in Midwestern agricultural watersheds

This paper assesses the impact of nutrient prices on nutrient concentrations in agricultural watersheds. Specifically, we find that the price elasticity of nutrient emissions from agricultural watersheds is − 0.17 to − 0.34, suggesting that a 10% increase in nitrogen or phosphorus prices faced by farmers would lead to up to a 3.4% reduction in nitrogen or phosphorus emissions from a watershed. While this sounds modest, it is about the same size as estimates of the price elasticity of nutrient demand by farmers, a relationship which also is very inelastic. Our results suggest that when prices for nutrients rise, there is a direct effect on nutrient emissions from watersheds. Given recent concerns about phosphorus in Lake Erie, we assess the potential implications of applying a phosphorus usage fee to reduce phosphorus emissions there. We find that a 25% increase in phosphorus prices would reduce nutrient outputs from the three Lake Erie watersheds we modelled by 6.5%, or 210 t phosphorus per year, and cost about $6 ha− 1 yr− 1. These costs are similar to estimates of the costs of reducing phosphorus through waste water treatment plants, and less than the costs of other widely used agricultural best management practices like cover crops.
Interfascial technique for vertebral artery exposure in the suboccipital triangle: the road map.

Background The extradural portion of the vertebral artery (VA-V3) has a unique anatomy at the craniovertebral junction. The exposure of V3 can be accompanied by profuse bleeding from the venous plexus in addition to the potential risk of inadvertent injury of the VA during surgery at the craniovertebral junction. The natural tissue planes represent a road map to the safe exposure of the VA in the suboccipital triangle. Objective To describe the microsurgical anatomy of the tissue planes in the suboccipital region. Methods The suboccipital region was bilaterally dissected in 6 fresh silicone-injected cadaver heads. An interfascial technique was used to expose the VA-V3 following a tissue plane between the deep suboccipital muscular fascia dorsally and posterior atlantooccipital membrane, the C1 periosteal membrane, and the membrane covering the VA and venous plexus ventrally. The craniovertebral junction was harvested from 2 heads and prepared for histological sections. The same technique was applied in 25 operative cases. Results The anatomic dissections confirmed the existence of an interfascial plane that can be dissected in a blunt fashion to reach as far lateral as the transverse processes of C1 and C2. Application of the dissection technique did not require diathermy coagulation in the operating room. In 25 cases, there was no injury of the VA or bleeding from the venous plexus. Conclusion Vertebral artery exposure in the suboccipital triangle (V3) can be achieved safely with minimal blood loss using a technique that follows the natural tissue plane between the deep suboccipital muscle fascia, the posterior atlantooccipital membrane, the membrane covering VA/venous plexus, and the periosteum of the C1 and C2 laminae.
Cardiovascular function during pre-avoidance, avoidance, and post-avoidance in dogs.

Four dugs, implanted with aortic blood flow probes and catheters, were trained to press a panel during signalled shock avoidance and switched to an hour of Sidman avoidance per day for a minimum of 10 days, Cardiovascular function (heart rate=HR; stroke volume=SV: blood pressure = BP; cardiac output = CO; total peripheral resistance =TPR; and maximum aortic (dp/dt) was determined during the hour preceding avoidance, during avoidance, and during a 10 min post-avoidance period, Data from 4 dogs were analyzed. Two behaviorally reactive dogs showed elevated BP due to increased TPR during pre-avoidance and increased CO during avoidance. Increases in SV. HR. and dp/dt, most pronounced at the beginning of avoidance, suggest a change in left ventricular function. Intercorrelations between HR and dp/dt revealed apparent influences of the Frank-Starting mechanism during pre-avoidance, and cardiac contractility during avoidance. The 2 remaining animals were less reactive and showed only some of the patterns consistently seen in the 2 more reactive dogs. The data were discussed in terms, of obtaining a model for early stages of human hypertension.
Ultrahigh laser pulse energy and power generation at 10 kHz

This Letter presents results from a new master-oscillator, power-amplifier pulse-burst laser system demonstrating ultrahigh pulse energies greater than 2.0 J/pulse at 1064 nm with interpulse separations of 100 μs (10 kHz) for burst durations of 100 pulses. Each pulse generates peak powers exceeding 130 MW and an average power of approximately 20 kW is generated over a 100-pulse-burst. Pulse energies decrease by less than 10% over a 100 sequential pulses, demonstrating negligible “droop” over long-duration pulse trains. Second-harmonic generation of 532 nm with conversion efficiency greater than 50% is demonstrated for 100-pulse-burst durations.
Resonance ambiguities, Barrelet zeros, and duality in K−p→Λπ0

Abstract The method of Barrelet zeros has been used to study the ambiguities of our partial wave solutions for the reactions K−p→Λπ0 from 1550 to 2170 MeV. Details of this two-body analysis technique are presented and ambigous sets of partial waves corresponding to the same dσ/dω and (dσ/dω)P are analysed. Seven ambigous solutions have been found which maintain the dominant ∑ resonant structure [D3(1660), D5(1765), F5(1920), F7(2040)] but differ in the resonant couplings (t = Γ e Γ r /Γ ) for these states, as well as in the resonant structure in the lower partial waves. Evidence is given for the possible existence of new resonant states in the F5, D5 and F7 partial waves and for additional resonances in lower waves. The resonant structure suggested by the additional solutions is more prolific than the structure previously indicated for this reaction. Several solutions contain resonant “daughter” states at the same mass but with different JP in qualitative agreement with Veneziano models and suggestive of the Harari-Freund conjecture of purely resonant scattering in non-diffractive, inelastic channels. The ambiguities are experimentally distinguishable only by measurement of R and A, which are predicted from the solutions. Each solution has been shown to be consistent with semi-local duality from observed averaging about zero exhibited by Im A′(s,t), the invariant, t-channel helicity non-flip amplitude calculated at t = 0 and at t = m K ∗ 2 . Local averaging was not seen in B (s, t), the t-channel helicity flip amplitude. The variation of resonant coupling among these solutions for the dominant resonances suggests that SU(3) tests involving the Λπ channel should be reconsidered. The results indicate that partial wave ambiguities should be more carefully studied and that the possible ∑ resonances should be looked for in other K N reactions.
Crystal structures of trans-[Ru(dppe)2(CO)(Cl)](BF4)·2(toluene) and trans-[Ru(dppm)2(CO)(Cl)](BF4)·CH2Cl2: a study of the steric and electronic ligand effects of trans-positioned diphosphine ligands

Abstract Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies were carried out on the complexes trans-[Ru(dppe)2(CO)(Cl)](BF4) ·2(toluene) (1) (where dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane) and trans-[Ru(dppm)2(CO)(Cl)](BF4) ·CH2Cl2 (2) (where dppm = bis(diphenylphosphino)methane). Complex 1 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P21212 with a = 14.366(3), b = 17.075(3), c = 12.433(2) A , V = 3049.8(10) A 3 and Z = 2 . The structure was refined to R = 3.02% for 3233 reflections above 6σ (R = 4.46% for all 3991 point-group independent data); the Ru-cation lies on a site of C2 symmetry, leading to disorder of the Cl and CO ligands. Complex 2 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pna2 1 , with a = 22.425(7), b = 11.515(4), c = 19.511(10) A , V = 5038(3) A 3 and Z = 4 . The structure was refined to R = 4.43% for 4770 reflections above 6σ (R = 7.09% for all 6631 point-group independent data). The crystal structure data suggest increased intramolecular interligand interactions with the trans-bis(dppe) complexes relative to the trans-bis(dppm) complexes. In order to furth assess the steric ligand effects of dppm and dppe on the redox chemistry of ruthenium complexes, the electrochemical data for complexes 1 and 2 as well as for trans-Ru(dppe)2(Cl)2 and trans-Ru(dppm)2(Cl)2 were analyzed. The Epa value for the oxidation of complex 1 was more positive than the Epa value for the oxidation of complex 2; similarly, the E 1 2 value for the oxidation of trans-Ru(dppe)2(Cl)2 was more positive than the E 1 2 value for the oxidation of trans-Ru(dppm)2(Cl)2. The increase in the redox potentials for the oxidation of the dope complexes may be due to the enhanced intramolecular interligand interactions of the dppe ligands, which is in agreement with the crystal structure data.
Types of Flatidae XIII, lectotype designations and taxonomic notes on African species in the Zoological Museum of the Humboldt‐University Berlin (Homoptera, Fulgoroidea)

Type specimens of 31 African species of Flatidae named by Jacobi, Karsch, Melichar, and Schmidt, were examined. The genital characters of 25 holotype, lectotype or plesiotype males were illustrated. New combinations: Gyariella cuspidata (Melichar), from Gyaria; Cryptoflata obsoletus (Melichar), from Paranotus; Flatida ochreata (Melichar), from Flatina; Phylliana praetextus (Melichar), from Paranotus. New synonymies: Flatina chloris Melichar, a junior synonym of Flatidissa furcigera (Haglund); Ormenis fuscula Melichar, a junior synonym of Ulundia madagascariensis (Signoret).
The Missile Crisis: His Finest Hour Now

The Cuban missile crisis has become something of a misleading “model” of the foreign policy process. There are seven central tenets of this model, each of which was considered “confirmed” by the “lessons” of the Cuban crisis: (1) Crises are typical of international relations; (2) Crises are assumed to be manageable; (3) The domestic sector is not especially critical in “crisis management”; (4) Crisis management is the practical ability to reconcile force with negotiation; (5) The process of crisis negotiation is not only manageable but can be “won”; (6) The Soviets seldom negotiate except under duress; (7) Crisis management can and must be a civilian enterprise. After the crisis, there were the beginnings of detente with the Soviet Union. The test-ban treaty, the hot line, and a more civil exchange between the two powers are widely believed to stem from die favorable resolution of the missile crisis. Yet the model and its inherent assumptions on the meaning of Cuba can be challenged. Nevertheless, Cuba stands as a watershed in the cold war and in the history of the international system.
Clinical transplantation tolerance: The promise and challenges

Clinical transplantation tolerance: The promise and challenges. Organ transplantation is now well established as a preferred option for the treatment of end-stage organ failure. However, there is a severe shortage of donor organs and continued loss of a significant number of organ grafts due to chronic allograft dysfunction. Induction of tolerance of a transplant recipient toward their foreign organ graft, therefore, remains the "Holy Grail" of transplantation immunobiologists. Recently, clinical trials to explore pilot tolerance protocols in humans have been initiated. Defining the ideal strategy(ies) and the role of immunosuppressive drugs, developing tolerance assay(s), and enhancing cooperation between transplant professionals, industry, and the government are some of the challenges to achieving clinical transplantation tolerance. This article reviews the promise and the challenges of achieving clinical transplantation tolerance in human organ transplant recipients.
2-Amino-N-pyrimidin-4-ylacetamides as A2A receptor antagonists: 1. Structure-activity relationships and optimization of heterocyclic substituents.

Previously we have described a novel series of potent and selective A2A receptor antagonists (e.g., 1) with excellent aqueous solubility.(1) While these compounds are efficacious A2A antagonists in vivo, the presence of an unsubstituted furyl moiety was a cause of some concern. In order to avoid the potential metabolic liabilities that could arise from an unsubstituted furyl moiety, an optimization effort was undertaken with the aim of replacing the unsubstituted furan with a more metabolically stable group while maintaining potency and selectivity. Herein, we describe the synthesis and SAR of a range of novel heterocyclic systems and the successful identification of a replacement for the unsubstituted furan moiety with a methylfuran or thiazole moiety while maintaining potency and selectivity.
Socioeconomic factors associated with adjuvant hormone therapy use in older breast cancer survivors.

BACKGROUND: The authors sought to identify socioeconomic (SES) factors associated with adjuvant hormone therapy (HT) use among a contemporary population of older breast cancer survivors. METHODS: Telephone surveys were conducted among women (ages 65-89 years) residing in 4 states (California, Florida, Illinois, and New York) who underwent initial breast cancer surgery in 2003. Demographic, SES, and treatment information was collected. RESULTS: Of 2191 women, 67% received adjuvant HT with either tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor (AI); 71% of those women were on an AI. When adjusting for multiple demographic and SES factors, predictors of HT use were better education (high school degree or higher), better informational/emotional support, and younger age (ages 65-79 years). Race/ethnicity, income, and insurance coverage for medication costs were not associated with receiving HT. For those on HT, when adjusting for all other factors, women were more likely to receive an AI if they had insurance coverage for some or all medication costs, if they were wealthier, if they had better informational/emotional support, and if they were younger (ages 65-69 years). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of older women in this population-based cohort received adjuvant HT, and the adoption of AIs was early. The results indicted that providers should be aware that a woman's education level and support system influence her decision to take HT. Given the high cost of AIs, their benefits in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and the current finding that women with no insurance coverage for medication costs were significantly less likely to receive an AI, we recommend that policymakers address this issue. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
An intelligent approach for sensor integration based on fuzzy set theory and Dempster's rule for combining beliefs

Humans use variety of sensors, such as sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste, to gather information from the environment and to make an appropriate decision accordingly. This paper introduces an intelligent model for combination of information collected from variety of sensors. The model input is data collected from multi-sensor framework and the output is a combined signature representing the factual evidence for decision-making process. The approach is based on Fuzzy Set Theory where membership sets are defined, then aggregated using Dempster-Shafer Theory of Evidence. The approach is demonstrated with examples.
Mechanisms of chromosomal rearrangement in the human genome

Many human cancers are associated with characteristic chromosomal rearrangements, especially hematopoietic cancers such as leukemias and lymphomas. The first and most critical step in the rearrangement process is the induction of two DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). In all cases, at least one of the two DSBs is generated by a pathologic process, such as (1) randomly-positioned breaks due to ionizing radiation, free radical oxidative damage, or spontaneous hydrolysis; (2) breaks associated with topoisomerase inhibitor treatment; or (3) breaks at direct or inverted repeat sequences, mediated by unidentified strand breakage mechanisms. In lymphoid cells, one of the two requisite DSBs is often physiologic, the result of V(D)J recombination or class switch recombination (CSR) at the lymphoid antigen receptor loci. The RAG complex, which causes the DSBs in V(D)J recombination, can cause (4) sequence-specific, pathologic DSBs at sites that fit the consensus of their normal V(D)J recombination signal targets; or (5) structure-specific, pathologic DSBs at regions of single- to double-strand transition. CSR occurs specifically in the B-cell lineage, and requires (6) activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) action at sites of single-stranded DNA, which may occur pathologically outside of the normal target loci of class switch recombination regions and somatic hypermutation (SHM) zones. Recent work proposes a seventh mechanism: the sequential action of AID and the RAG complex at CpG sites provides a coherent model for the pathologic DSBs at some of the most common sites of translocation in human lymphoma – the bcl-2 gene in follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and the bcl-1 gene in mantle cell lymphoma.
Improving Switching Characteristics of 4H-SiC Junction Rectifiers Using Epitaxial and Implanted Anodes with Epitaxial Refill

The on-state and switching performance of high voltage 4H-SiC junction rectifiers are compared using numerical simulations and experimental characterization. Epitaxial and implanted anode PiN diodes as well as novel, advanced rectifiers have been fabricated in 4H-SiC using 110μm thick drift layers. The relatively low forward voltage drop of these epi-anode diodes (4.2V @ 100A/cm2) indicates moderate conductivity modulation, while the superior switching performance of the “MPS-like” rectifiers is demonstrated with reverse recovery characteristics at various temperatures and forward current densities.
Phase variation of type 1 fimbriae in Escherichia coli is under transcriptional control

An operon fusion of the lac genes to those required for synthesis of type 1 fimbriae (pili) has been achieved in a K12 strain of Escherichia coli lysogenized by the bacteriophage mu d (Ap4, lac). Synthesis of beta-galactosidase, therefore, reflected pil gene transcription and was used as a probe of fimbrial regulation. Expression of the operon fusion was found to oscillate, demonstrating that phase variation between fimbriate and nonfimbriate states is under transcriptional control. The transition rates from fimbriate to nonfimbriate were 1.05 X 10(-3) per bacterium per generation and from nonfimbriate to fimbriate, 3.12 X 10(-3) per bacterium per generation.
Rotation-Invariant Synthetic Discriminant Function Filter for Pattern Recognition

The ring synthetic discriminant function (RSDF) filter for rotation-invariant response is discussed for pattern recognition. This method uses one half of a slice of the Fourier transform of the object to generate the transfer function of the filter. This is accomplished by rotating the one half of a slice in the Fourier domain through 2? rad about the zero-frequency point of the Fourier plane. This filter has the advantage of always matching at least one half of a slice of the Fourier transform of any rotation of the image. An analytical discussion of the filter construction and correlation results are presented along with simulated correlation results for a particular target image. These results and established metrics are used for comparison with benchmark algorithms.
Dynamic response of an embedded rectangular foundation to antiplane shear waves

Abstract The steady state response of a deep, narrow, rectangular foundation to antiplane shear waves is studied. Consideration is given first to the dynamic response of a single rigid line inclusion. This result is used to model a rectangular foundation in a manner similar to Haritos and Keer who studied the problem of a rigid block partially embedded in an elastic half-space. Because the problem is antiplane, the results arrived at for the deep, narrow, rectangular foundation also apply to a shallow, wide, rectangular foundation.
The Secretory Phospholipase A2 Gene is Required for Gastroesophageal Reflux-Related Changes in Murine Esophagus

The initial response of esophageal mucosa to gastroduodenal reflux is inflammation and hyperplasia. Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) is a known mediator of gut inflammation, and its levels are increased in Barrett’s esophagus. We hypothesized that the sPLA2 gene is required to produce esophageal mucosal hyperplasia in response to gastroduodenal reflux. C57BL/6 (n = 5) sPLA2 −/− mice and C57BL/6 Cg-Tg(PLA2G2A)703N16 mice (n = 4) sPLA2 −/+ underwent a side-to-side surgical anastomosis between the duodenum and gastroesophageal junction (DGEA). Control animals [sPLA2 −/− (n = 5), sPLA2 −/+ (n = 4)] underwent laparotomy with incision and repair of the esophagus. Tissue was harvested after 4 weeks, and H&E staining was performed to quantify esophageal mucosal thickness. Ki67 and sPLA2 immunostaining were performed to quantitate differences in cell division and sPLA2 expression. Mice expressing human sPLA2 had a 2.5-fold increase in thickness of the esophageal mucosa as compared to controls (p = 0.01). A 6.5-fold increase in proliferation (p = 0.02) and a twofold increase in sPLA2 expression (p = 0.04) were demonstrated in animals exposed to gastroduodenal reflux. The presence of sPLA2 is necessary for early mucosal hyperplasia produced by exposure of the esophagus to gastroduodenal contents. sPLA2 expression is upregulated by gastroduodenal reflux, strengthening its role as a critical mediator of early mucosal hyperplasia.
Localized benign pleural mesothelioma arising in a radiation field

Localized benign pleural mesothelioma is a rare neoplasm representing less than 5% of all pleural tumors. Unlike the malignant diffuse pleural mesothelioma, there is no evidence of a relationship to asbestos exposure. Essentially, the cause of localized benign pleural mesotheliomas remains obscure. We propose that one mechanism of the development of this tumor is prior ionizing radiation to the tumor field. Ionizing radiation is a well-known human oncogen and leads to an increased incidence of benign tumors as well. A 65-year-old woman had a localized benign pleural mesothelioma of her left upper chest 22 years following adjuvant radiation therapy to the left breast and axillary region for a breast carcinoma.
A genetic algorithm for integrating lot-sizing and sequencing in scheduling a capacitated flow line

Abstract In this paper we present a genetic algorithm for solving an important but difficult scheduling problem: that of integrating the lot-sizing and sequencing decisions in scheduling a flow line involving sequence dependent setup times, capacity constraints, limited buffer capacity between machines, and due dates. The problem is based on a real world manufacturing facility that is also described. Novel crossover and mutation operators are presented for both the lot-sizing and sequencing parts of the scheduling problem and the performance of the genetic algorithm is compared to a heuristic approach of integration previously shown to have been effective.
Mutational inversion of control of the lactose operon of Escherichia coli.

Abstract An unusual Lac regulatory mutant of Escherichia coli K12 has been isolated and studied by genetic, physiological and biochemical techniques. In this mutant galactosides which are inducers for the wild-type organism act as corepressors, shutting off Lac enzyme synthesis. Mapping and dominance tests indicate the mutation is in the i-gene. Both in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate that Lac repressor is made only in the presence of certain galactosides, and that the product so produced has the normal or wild-type affinity for such galactosides, yet is immune to their normal inducing action. The unusual properties of this mutant make it an excellent tool for determining the relationship between the intracellular repressor concentration and the resulting rate of Lac enzyme synthesis.
Identification of a distinct glucocorticosteroid-insensitive pulmonary macrophage phenotype in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary macrophages increase in number, release increased levels of inflammatory mediators, and respond poorly to glucocorticosteroids. Whether this is due to a change in macrophage phenotype or localized activation is unknown. Objective We sought to investigate whether macrophages from patients with COPD are a distinct phenotype. Methods Macrophage populations were isolated from human lung tissue from nonsmokers, smokers, and patients with COPD by using Percoll density gradients. Five macrophage populations were isolated on the basis of density (1.011-1.023, 1.023-1.036, 1.036-1.048, 1.048-1.061, and 1.061-1.073 g/mL), and cell-surface expression of CD14, CD16, CD163, CD40, and CD206 was assessed by using flow cytometry. Release of active matrix metalloproteinase 9, TNF-α, CXCL8, and IL-10 was measured by using ELISA. Results The 2 least dense fractions were more than 90% apoptotic/necrotic, with the remaining fractions greater than 70% viable. Macrophages from nonsmokers and smokers were CD163 + , CD206 + , CD14 + , and CD40 − , whereas macrophages from patients with COPD were less defined, showing significantly lower expression of all receptors. There were no differences in receptor expression associated with density. Macrophages from patients with COPD of a density of 1.036 to 1.048 g/mL released higher levels of active matrix metalloproteinase 9 compared with cells from nonsmokers, with no difference between the remaining fractions. This population of macrophages from patients with COPD was less responsive to budesonide compared with those from nonsmokers and smokers when stimulated with LPS. Glucocorticosteroid insensitivity was selective for proinflammatory cytokines because budesonide inhibition of LPS-stimulated IL-10 release was similar for all macrophages. Conclusions This study identifies a specific macrophage phenotype in the lungs of patients with COPD who are glucocorticosteroid insensitive with a density of 1.036 to 1.048 g/mL but do not correspond to the current concept of macrophage phenotypes.
The Intersection of Gender and Ethnicity in HIV Risk, Interventions, and Prevention: New Frontiers for Psychology

This article articulates a contextualized understanding of gender and ethnicity as interacting social determinants of HIV risk and acquisition, with special focus on African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos--2 ethnic groups currently at most risk for HIV/AIDS acquisition in the United States. First, sex and gender are defined. Second, a conceptual model of gender, ethnicity, and HIV risk and resilience is presented. Third, a historical backdrop of gender and ethnic disparities is provided, with attention to key moments in history when notions of the intersections between gender, ethnicity, and HIV have taken important shifts. Finally, new frontiers in psychology are presented, with recommendations as to how psychology as a discipline can better incorporate considerations of gender and ethnicity as not only HIV risk factors but also as potential avenues of resilience in ethnic families and communities. Throughout the article, we promulgate the notion of a syndemic intersectional approach, which provides a critical framework for understanding and building the conditions that create and sustain overall community health by locating gendered lived experiences and expectations within the layered conceptual model ranging from the biological self to broader societal structures that define and constrain personal decisions, behaviors, actions, resources, and consequences. For ethnic individuals and populations, health disparities, stress and depression, substance abuse, and violence and trauma are of considerable concern, especially with regard to HIV risk, infection, and treatment. The conceptual model poses new frontiers for psychology in HIV policy, research, interventions, and training.
The cellular basis of allograft rejection

Rejection of a vascularized human organ allograft is associated with a wide variety of pathological and clinical patterns. In normal experimental animals solid tissue allografts elicit remarkably similar histological reactions which can be termed ~cetlular rejection' because of the mass of infiltrating mononuclear leukocytes. Most of the cells which arrive in the graft early after transplantation are lymphocytes which migrate out of the capillary and venous beds and increase in size, but after 4-7 days a remarkably heterogeneous collection of cell types have appeared, with those of the lymphocytic series~predominating over the monocyte/macrophages and few polymorphonuclear leukocytes. When the host has been primed to donor antigens before transplantation, a more accelerated process, often marked by antibody-mediated vasculitis, is common. However, the spectrum of cellular to humoral rejection is not well correlated with the absence or presence of sensit izat ion./Primary rejection of rat renal allografts involves a major antibody-mediated vascular component, for example, while accelerated cellular responses can be seen after priming ~. Hence, it would not be surprising if direct investigation of the effector components of organ-graft rejection in animals and man revealed several different themes. However, there is remarkable agreement on the major immunological events occurring during graft rejection. I will summarise these main points before giving more details of studies employing murine (rat) organ allografts, sponge matrix allografts, multicellular spheroid allografts and human renal allografts.
Terrorists are just patients.

According to the target article (Gesundheit et al. 2009), “the rights of terrorists for protection under humanitarian law raise legal, philosophical and emotional questions.” Gesundheit and colleag...