cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hysteroscopy — An Evaluation

Summary: An assessment has been made of the technique of hysteroscopy. Five per cent dextrose and 32% dextran are the most satisfactory intrauterine media to employ. The procedure is a most valuable diagnostic aid in gynaecology and promises to have a place as a method for achieving female sterilization.
Convection near a cooled disk rotating with its environment

Abstract Numerical calculations have been carried out for the axisymmetric velocity and temperature profiles near a cooled infinite disk rotating at the same angular velocity as its infinite environment. It is assumed that the flow is laminar and steady. Fluid motion relative to solid body rotation is produced by the centrifugal force acting on the density gradients in the axial direction. The heat transfer to the disk is found for conditions under which the product of the Prandtl number coefficient of thermal expansion and temperature difference is order one or larger.
Synthesis, Properties, and Structure of Tethered Molybdenum Alkylidenes

A new class of molybdenum alkylidenes has been prepared where the alkylidene is tethered to an imido ancillary ligand. The amine required for the synthesis is accessible in 38% yield in five steps from 1,3-diisopropylbenzene. The amine is then installed to generate the tethered alkylidene bis(triflate) complex, which was structurally characterized as its DME adduct. The triflates are replaced by hexafluoro-tert-butoxide groups using the thallium salt of the alkoxide, and the bis(alkoxide) was characterized as its quinuclidine adduct. For comparison, an alkylidene bis(alkoxide) was prepared without the tether and having a formula similar to that of the tethered system. The structures from X-ray diffraction and NMR spectroscopy of the two complexes with and without the tether but with similar formulas are compared. The tether has the apparent effect, judging from JCH couplings in the alkylidene and angles in the solid-state structure, of reducing the strength of the α-agostic interaction. Four complexes wer...
A generalization of strongly (−1, 1) rings

In the structure theory of (1, 1) rings the identity ((x, y), z) =O, becomes a natural stepping stone. Indeed if A is the ideal generated by all associators of R then ((R, R), A) = 0 [2]. Right alternative rings satisfying ((x, y), z) = 0, are called strongly (1, l), for they are (1, 1). Here we take up the study of right alternative rings which satisfy the weaker identity ((a, b), a) = 0. Under the assumption of semi-prime and characteristc 22, 3 we prove the ring is strongly (1, 1). At this point there exist examples of even prime rings which need not be associative, due to Pchelincev [6]. On the other hand there do exist other conditions that imply associativity Cl, 7, 81. We present a non-semi-prime example which satisfies the right alternative identity and ((a, 6), a) = 0, but which is not (1, 1).
CONGENITAL MESOBLASTIC NEPHROMA, HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK, AND DISSEMINATED INTRAVASCULAR COAGULATION IN A NEWBORN INFANT

Congenital mesoblastic nephroma is a rare tumor of infancy that usually presents as an asymptomatic abdominal mass. A full-term newborn infant with an atypical variant of this neoplasm developed hemorrhagic shock and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The stormy course was complicated by persistent fetal circulation and then the inability to withdraw ventilatory support due to the mass effect of the tumor. After the removal of the tumor at 10 days of age, transient conjugated hyperbilirubinemia developed. At 15 months of age, the infant was thriving without evidence of recurrence of the tumor.
Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy of the reactive intermediate monoiodosilylene, HSiI and DSiI

Abstract The pure rotational spectra of three silicon isotopologues of HSiI and two isotopologues of DSiI have been recorded by pulsed-jet Fourier transform microwave (FTMW) spectroscopy. Neon was passed over dry ice cooled H 3 SiI or D 3 SiI and introduced into the pulsed valve of the FTMW spectrometer. The monoiodosilylenes HSiI and DSiI were produced in situ with a 1000 V DC-discharge nozzle. Only a -type transitions occur in monoiodosilylene from 6 to 26 GHz. We observe K a = 0 a -type transitions for H 28 SiI, H 29 SiI, H 30 SiI, and D 29 SiI, and both K a = 0 and 1 a -type transitions for D 28 SiI. Rotational constants, centrifugal distortion constants, iodine nuclear quadrupole coupling constants, and nuclear spin–molecular rotation constants were measured.
Ethics and values in applied social research

Introduction An Overview of Ethical Problems in Social Research Ethical Standards and Guidelines for Social Research Methodological Issues and Dilemmas Confidentiality and the Right to Privacy Special Problems in Applied Settings Attitudes and Value Commitments Conclusions and Recommendations
Efficient algorithm for computing displacement, velocity and acceleration responses of an oscillator to arbitrary ground motion

The response calculations of a single-degree-of-freedom system typically use a recursive algorithm for computing the relative displacement and velocity responses {x[n+1], x[n+1]} from {x[n], x[n]} and the acceleration input {a[n], a[n+1]}. A fast algorithm using digital impulse and step invariant simulations of a continuous system has previously been derived for the same calculations using only 2 multiplications and 3 additions per time step1. A new improved algorithm is presented here. Besides calculating the relative displacement and velocity responses, it provides simultaneous computation of the acceleration responses with only one more addition per time step. The improvement resulted in the digital system functions for relative displacement, velocity and acceleration responses, all showing good agreement with the corresponding continuous transfer functions in both amplitudes and phases in a specified frequency range (0.07 to 25 Hz, say).
Genetic algorithms for numerical optimization

Genetic algorithms (GAs) are stochastic adaptive algorithms whose search method is based on simulation of natural genetic inheritance and Darwinian striving for survival. They can be used to find approximate solutions to numerical optimization problems in cases where finding the exact optimum is prohibitively expensive, or where no algorithm is known. However, such applications can encounter problems that sometimes delay, if not prevent, finding the optimal solutions with desired precision. In this paper we describe applications of GAs to numerical optimization, present three novel ways to handle such problems, and give some experimental results.
The communicative meaning of body oscillations in the social wasp, Polistes fuscatus (Hymenoptera, Vespidae)

The oscillatory behavior of paper wasps, Polistes fuscatus, was examined in field observations (401.9 h) of 37 preworker (pre-emergence), multiple-foundress colonies. Additional field observations were conducted on 16 multiple-foundress colonies (96 h) both before and after worker emergence, and on 10 preworker colonies (40 h) before and after eggs had hatched into larvae. In addition, we observed 18 preworker, multiple-foundress colonies: six undisturbed controls (12 h), six larvae removed (12 h), and six larvae removed and replaced (12 h). Finally, we analysed video and audio sequences of oscillatory behaviors (lateral vibrations).¶ Higher ranked foundresses performed lateral vibrations (LVs) at a significantly greater rate than lower ranked foundresses. However, there was no significant association between rates of LVs and (1) aggression or (2) magnitude of differences in dominance indices among cofoundresses. There was also no significant temporal association between LVs and departures or returns. Lateral vibrations were commonly performed by foundresses that were alone on the nest. These results and others indicate that LVs do not function in adult-adult communication. ¶Lateral vibrations were significantly, temporally associated with high activity level, primarily cell inspection. Lateral vibrations were significantly, positively correlated with abdominal wagging and antennal drumming, both of which have been implicated in adult-larval communication. Foundresses of colonies containing eggs only (compared to colonies containing eggs and larvae) rarely displayed LVs. Removal of larvae significantly reduced the rates of LVs and the replacement of removed larvae caused a marked increase in the rates of LVs. Video analyses revealed that larvae retracted their head capsules in response to an LV. All of these data indicate that LVs involve adult-larval communication via substrate vibrations. Some indirect evidence suggests that LVs signal larvae to stop secreting saliva to adult wasps.
Selective mating in a continuous model of epistasis

Epistasis is the interaction between two or more genes to control a single phenotype. We model epistasis with a two-locus two-allele problem. The resulting model allows us to examine both population sizes as well as genotypic and phenotypic frequencies. In the context of an example, we show that if epistasis results in an undesirable phenotype, such as a genetically transmitted disease or condition, elimination of undesirable phenotypes from the population through selective breeding may be possible, although such selective breeding could lead to an increase in less desirable phenotypes and possibly the elimination of desirable phenotypes.
Model-Based Software Design and Adaptation

This paper describes a modeling approach to software design and adaptation, in particular the design of evolutionary and dynamically reconfigurable software architectures. The different versions of an evolutionary system are considered a software product line, with each version of the system a product line member. After implementation, the model co-exists with the system and evolves with it. The software architecture is built out of architectural patterns. For each software architectural pattern, there is a corresponding software reconfiguration pattern, which describes how the software architecture can be dynamically adapted.
Effects of restorative agroecosystems on soil characteristics and plant production on a degraded soil in the Georgia Piedmont, USA

This work presents the results of a three-year field study of agroecosystems designed to restore soil organic matter (SOM) to degraded soils of the Georgia Piedmont. The systems combine a suite of management practices previously demonstrated to increase SOM when studied individually, and examine the effects of these techniques when used in combination in a cropping systems context on soil characteristics, crop production and weed biomass. The systems' components include organic management, alley cropping with perennial legumes, conservation tillage, use of winter cover crops, straw mulch and two compost application rates. Vegetable crops grown were a rotation of okra, hot pepper and a corn and winter squash intercrop. The systems were not able to maintain soil C or N without the addition of compost. Systems incorporating alley cropping, organic management, conservation tillage and compost maintained soil C, and increased in soil C when mulch was not applied. In organic, conservation tillage without alley cropping, soil C did not change significantly, even with annual 44.8 Mg ha−1 of compost additions. Patterns for soil N followed those of soil C. The study demonstrated that alley cropping can maintain and sequester soil C and N beyond organic conservation tillage alone, and more than conventionally tilled, chemically fertilized treatments. Crop yields did not vary by treatment due to high variation within treatments. Winter cover crop residue provided an effective weed barrier for 4 to 6 weeks in the spring, but additional hand weeding was required throughout the summer. The results of this systems-level study demonstrated interactions between management practices when used in combination that would not have been observed when studied individually. It also demonstrates that agroforestry techniques, conservation tillage and compost applications can increase soil C in degraded, clayey soils while they are in cultivation.
Fundamentals of scattering theory and resonances in quantum mechanics

Peter D. HislopDepartment of Mathematics,University of Kentucky,Lexington, Kentucky 40506-0027, USAemail: hislop@ms.uky.eduABSTRACTWe present the basics of two-body quantum-mechanical scattering theory and the the-ory of quantum resonances. The wave operators and S-matrix are constructed forsmooth, compactly-supported potential perturbations of the Laplacian. The meromor-phic continuation of the cut-oﬀ resolvent is proved for the same family of Schr¨odingeroperators. Quantum resonances are deﬁned as the poles of the meromorphic con-tinuation of the cut-oﬀ resolvent. These are shown to be the same as the poles of themeromorphically continued S-matrix. The basic problems of the existence of resonancesand estimates on the resonance counting function are described and recent results arepresented.RESUMENPresentamos los conceptos ba´sicos de la teor´ia de dispersi´on cuanto-mec´anica de doscuerpos y la teor´ia de resonancias cu´anticas. El operador de ondas y la matriz Sseconstruyen para perturbaciones del potencial suaves y de soporte compacto del Lapla-ciano. La continuaci´on meromorﬁca de la resolvente truncada se prueba para la mismafamilia de operadores de Schrdinger. Las resonancias cu´anticas se deﬁnen como los po-los de la continuaci´on meromorifca de la resolvente truncada. Se muestra que ellas sonlas mismas que los polos de la matriz Scontinuada meromorﬁcamente. Los problemasba´sicos de la existencia de resonancias y las estimaciones de la funci´on de conteo de laresonancia se describen y resultados recientes se presentan.Keywords and Phrases: Scattering theory, resonances, Schr¨odinger equation, wave operators,quantum mechanics2010 AMS Mathematics Subject Classiﬁcation: 35J10, 35P25, 35Q40,47A40,47A55, 81U05,81U20
Using Large Databases and Self-Organizing Maps without tears

Nowadays the need to process lots of complex multimedia databases is more frequent. Recent investigations such as MAM-SOM* and SAM-SOM* families propose the combination of self-organising maps (SOM) with access methods for a faster similarity information retrieval. In this investigation we present experimental results using recent access methods such as slim-tree and omni-sequential that show the improvement acquired by these techniques and their properties in contrast with a traditional SOM network observing up to 90% of performance improvement.
Graceful switching in hybrid models

Classical oscillators, such as the ideal pendulum and the harmonic oscillator, can be modeled as switching systems. In these models, the switching takes place in a “graceful” fashion when the rate of displacement is zero. Such examples raise the question of whether hybrid models with such “graceful” switching can be modeled using ordinary differential equations, and of how to identify cases of hybrid systems which admit alternative classical descriptions in higher dimensions. Conversely, in a similar spirit, we discuss how a relaxation oscillator which consists of an integrator in feedback with an ideal relay-hysteresis can be approximated by a second order system.
Dynamic power management of voltage-frequency island partitioned Networks-on-Chip using Intel's Single-chip Cloud Computer

Continuous technology scaling has enabled the integration of multiple cores on the same chip. To overcome the disadvantages of buses, the Network-on-Chip (NoC) architecture has been proposed as a new communication paradigm. To further mitigate the tradeoff between performance and power consumption, dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) became the de facto approach in multi-core design. DVFS-based NoC communication was implemented in Intel's most recent Single-chip Cloud Computer (SCC). Using the SCC we demonstrate a power management algorithm that runs in real time and dynamically adjusts the performance of the islands to reduce power consumption while maintaining the same level of performance.
Data reduction for the scalable automated analysis of distributed darknet traffic

Threats to the privacy of users and to the availability of Internet infrastructure are evolving at a tremendous rate. To characterize these emerging threats, researchers must effectively balance monitoring the large number of hosts needed to quickly build confidence in new attacks, while still preserving the detail required to differentiate these attacks. One class of techniques that attempts to achieve this balance involves hybrid systems that combine the scalable monitoring of unused address blocks (or darknets) with forensic honeypots (or honeyfarms). In this paper we examine the properties of individual and distributed darknets to determine the effectiveness of building scalable hybrid systems. We show that individual darknets are dominated by a small number of sources repeating the same actions. This enables source-based techniques to be effective at reducing the number of connections to be evaluated by over 90%. We demonstrate that the dominance of locally targeted attack behavior and the limited life of random scanning hosts result in few of these sources being repeated across darknets. To achieve reductions beyond source-based approaches, we look to source-distribution based methods and expand them to include notions of local and global behavior. We show that this approach is effective at reducing the number of events by deploying it in 30 production networks during early 2005. Each of the identified events during this period represented a major globally-scoped attack including the WINS vulnerability scanning, Veritas Backup Agent vulnerability scanning, and the MySQL Worm.
Generalized spatial filtering velocimetry and accelerometry for uniform and nonuniform objects

We present a technique to measure velocity, acceleration, and higher order derivatives of motion using periodic and nonperiodic spatial filters. The technique can be applied using a single detector or an array of detectors. In one configuration, the velocity distribution of an object such as a fluid can be measured by imaging the object onto an array of detectors. In another configuration, multiple projections of an object are used to reconstruct a cross-sectional velocity distribution using a tomography algorithm. The advantages and disadvantages of our technique applied to uniform and spatially varying motions are described.
Comparison of Stability of Thiamin Salts at High Temperature and Water Activity

Current literature indicates conflicting results as to the relative stability of thiamin mononitrate versus thiamin hydrochloride. These salts were tested for stability at 75–95°C and at aw's 0.58 and 0.86. The observed difference in stability of the two salts can be explained by the higher activation energy (26.3 vs 22.4) for the mononitrate which results in a crossover point at about 95°C in an Arrhenius plot. Below 95°C the mononitrate was more stable while above 95°C the hydrochloride is more stable. In addition, stability of both forms was slightly less at the higher aw. The loss of thiamin mononitrate in a fluctuating square wave temperature could be accurately predicted using the results of the Arrhenius plot.
A novel material handling system

In this paper, a novel material handling system is presented. An overview of the hardware is provided, and issues related to control of the arms are discussed. It is believed that when it is completed, use of this material handling system will help reduce or eliminate workplace back injuries due to repetitive lifting.
Selective Nonroutine Microbial Surveillance of In-Use Hospital Nebulizers by Aerosol Entrapment and Direct Sampling Analyses of Solutions in Reservoirs

Effluent aerosols and liquid reservoir samples from 255 in-use hospital nebulization devices were analyzed by Aero-Test samplers (Olympic Corp.) and direct dilution procedures (0.1-, 0.01-, and 0.001-ml plated samples). Thirty-five percent (89 of 255) of the in-use hospital reservoir samples were positive by direct dilution, and 24% (61 of 255) were positive by Aero- Test samplers. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus var. anitratus was found either alone or in association with Pseudomonas spp. in 50% of all the contaminated in-use reservoirs. This indicates a high endemicity for Acinetobacter in the environment studied. Viable microbes in the reservoirs of contaminated nebulizers ranged from as few as 20 to >2 × 105 colony-forming units/ml. Microbial contamination at moderate to heavy levels (1 × 104 to >2 × 105) was regularly detected by both procedures. Microbial densities of 103 colony-forming units/ml and less in contaminated reservoirs often were negative in the Aero- Test but positive by direct dilution techniques. These hospital-based results were similar to laboratory data obtained with sterile nebulizers intentionally contaminated in graduated densities with either Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Sensitivity of the Aero- Test system was best when ≥104 colony-forming units/ml were present in the reservoirs of operating nebulizers. The manufacturer suggests that five or less colonies appearing after sampling on Aero- Test plates upon 48-h incubation does not indicate contamination of the reservoir. Our data show that even a single colony, particularly if it is typical, water-associated, gram-negative bacterial species, may well indicate low levels of reservoir contamination. Both the Aero- Test and direct dilution methods indicated the need for more rigorous management of the in-use respiratory therapy equipment in the hospital surveyed. These studies demonstrate the value of selective nonroutine surveillance for identifying potential or actual contamination problems of in-use nebulizing equipment, particularly when recommended care guidelines are not followed due to choice or unawareness. Ameliorative-corrective measures, which included routine 24-h substitution of old units with new sterile units, were initiated as a result of this surveillance program.
Changing trends in the management of salivary tumors.

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful in the evaluation of salivary gland tumors, but they are not essential for treatment planning in every patient. The mainstay of therapy is a well-planned and carefully executed surgical procedure which adequately excises the tumor. Disease-free survival is very likely in patients with early stage malignant tumors. When treatment is delayed until the tumor is extensive (Stage 3,4), local recurrence and distant metastases are common and survival rates are low. Adjunctive postoperative radiation therapy can enhance locoregional control in the latter patients, but does not invariably lead to better survival. No consistently effective chemotherapy agents or combinations are presently available. Early diagnosis and consistent, high quality treatment offer the best hope for improved survival. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The effect of the arterial catheter insertion technique on the success of radial artery cannulation: A prospective and randomized study

Abstract Purpose The main objective of the current investigation was to compare a single wall puncture to vessel transfixing on the success of radial artery cannulation by resident physicians. Material and Methods The study was a prospective and randomized investigation. Twelve anesthesiology residents performed radial arterial insertions in 126 patients using both the single wall and vessel transfixing technique in random order. The primary outcome was successful cannulation of the radial artery in 4 or less attempts. Other data collected included the total number of attempts and total time to catheter cannulation. Results Successful radial artery cannulation was achieved in 88% and 86% of patients using the transfixing technique and single wall group, respectively (difference 2%; 95% CI, 14-9, P = 0.8, Fisher exact test). Cannulation was successfully on the first attempt in 38% of the transfixing compared to 54% using the single wall technique (difference − 16%; 95% CI, 32-2, P = 0.1, Fisher Exact test). The median (interquartile range) time to successful cannulation was longer in the transfixing group, 105 (69-176) seconds compared to 65 (25-114) seconds in the single puncture group (P = .009, log-rank test). Conclusions Our findings suggest that there does not appear to be an advantage of the transfixing technique over the single wall puncture method for cannulating the radial artery by resident physicians. Cannulation was achieved in shorter time using the single wall puncture technique even after accounting for differences between residents and prior levels of experience.
RELIABILITY OF PERSONAL INTERVIEW DATA IN A HOSPITAL-BASED CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Responses to interview questions were compared for concordance among 492 individuals interviewed more than once in a hospital-based case-control surveillance system in the United States, Canada, and Israel between 1976 and 1982. Reliability of the data was determined using the Kappa statistic and the intraclass correlation coefficient. Reliability was good to excellent for demographic factors, such as birthplace, and for medical conditions/procedures that require hospitalization or continuing medical care, such as hysterectomy. Reliability was fair to good for less serious or less well-defined medical conditions/procedures, such as cystic breast disease, and for current habits, such as daily coffee consumption. Regarding medication use, reliability was poor to fair for drugs taken intermittently, such as aspirin and penicillin, and good to excellent for drugs taken on a regular basis, such as oral contraceptives. As expected, medications were reported more consistently when duration of use was prolonged. The data were also analyzed according to two intervals between interviews (less than 1 year and greater than or equal to 1 year). For most factors, reliability was not materially affected by interval. Where differences were observed, reliability tended to be better when the second interview followed the first by less than 1 year. These results suggest that structured interviews administered to hospital patients by trained personnel can elicit reliable data on demographic and medical history factors.
Micro-NMR for Rapid Molecular Analysis of Human Tumor Samples

Although tumor cells obtained from human patients by image-guided intervention are a valuable source for diagnosing cancer, conventional means of analysis are limited. Here, we report the development of a quantitative micro-NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) system for rapid, multiplexed analysis of human tumors. We implemented the technology in a clinical setting to analyze cells obtained by fine-needle aspirates from suspected lesions in 50 patients and validated the results in an independent cohort of another 20 patients. Single fine-needle aspirates yielded sufficient numbers of cells to enable quantification of multiple protein markers in all patients within 60 min. Moreover, using a four-protein signature, we report a 96% accuracy for establishing a cancer diagnosis, surpassing conventional clinical analyses by immunohistochemistry. Our results also show that protein expression patterns decay with time, underscoring the need for rapid sampling and diagnosis close to the patient bedside. We also observed a surprising degree of heterogeneity in protein expression both across the different patient samples and even within the same tumor, which has important implications for molecular diagnostics and therapeutic drug targeting. Our quantitative point-of-care micro-NMR technique shows potential for cancer diagnosis in the clinic.
A least square fit program

Abstract A versatile computer program written in Fortran IV is described which will least square fit experimental data points that are typically accumulated in measurements using a multichannel analyzer. Convenience in output is a primary factor of the program. Several applications in Mossbauer spectroscopy are presented to illustrate various features of the program.
Gathering advance customer information: enhancing customers' partnerships

The authors describe the effort of Kingston Information Development to gather customers' requirements to improve the conversion information provided for moving from previous versions of IBM's VM operating system to a new version. The VM/XA SP Conversion Notebook was created to minimize the effect of this conversion, and the customers were questioned directly to understand what type of information was needed. Descriptions are given of the philosophy and approach, the requirements gathering sessions, draft evaluation, and follow-on activities. >
The Impact of House Prices on Consumer Credit: Evidence from an Internet Bank

This paper shows that house price fluctuations can have a significant impact on credit availability. Data from Prosper.com, a peer-to-peer lending site that matches borrowers and lenders to provide unsecured consumer loans, indicate that homeowners in states with declining house prices experience higher interest rates, greater credit rationing, and faster delinquency. We find especially large effects for subprime borrowers whose balance sheets are likely most exposed to asset price declines. This evidence suggests that asset price fluctuations can play an important role in determining credit conditions and are thus a potentially significant mechanism for propagating macroeconomic shocks.
Validation that metabolic tumor volume predicts outcome in head-and-neck cancer.

Purpose We have previously reported that metabolic tumor volume (MTV) obtained from pretreatment 18 F-fluorodeoxydeglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET)/ computed tomography (CT) predicted outcome in patients with head-and-neck cancer (HNC). The purpose of this study was to validate these results on an independent dataset, determine whether the primary tumor or nodal MTV drives this correlation, and explore the interaction with p16 INK4a status as a surrogate marker for human papillomavirus (HPV). Methods and Materials The validation dataset in this study included 83 patients with squamous cell HNC who had a FDG PET/CT scan before receiving definitive radiotherapy. MTV and maximum standardized uptake value (SUV max ) were calculated for the primary tumor, the involved nodes, and the combination of both. The primary endpoint was to validate that MTV predicted progression-free survival and overall survival. Secondary analyses included determining the prognostic utility of primary tumor vs. nodal MTV. Results Similarly to our prior findings, an increase in total MTV of 17 cm 3 (difference between the 75th and 25th percentiles) was associated with a 2.1-fold increase in the risk of disease progression ( p = 0.0002) and a 2.0-fold increase in the risk of death ( p = 0.0048). SUV max was not associated with either outcome. Primary tumor MTV predicted progression-free (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.94; p p p p = 0.0029) survival in patients with p16 INK4a -positive oropharyngeal cancer. Conclusions This study validates our previous findings that MTV independently predicts outcomes in HNC. MTV should be considered as a potential risk-stratifying biomarker in future studies of HNC.
Study of the Racemization Observed in the Amide Bond Forming Reaction on Silica Gel

Racemization resulting from the coupling of N-(3,5-dinitrobenzoyl)-L-leucine and 3-aminopropyl silica gel with several amide-coupling reagents is further investigated in order to explain the much higher degree of racemization on silica gel, as compared with the similar reaction in solution. Based on experiments using different types of solid supports, limited pore access and surface microchemical environment are ruled out as the possible reason for the higher degree of racemization that occurred on silica gel. Steric hindrance of the solid support is thought to have caused the amino group to be more basic relative to its nucleophilicity, leading to a higher degree of racemization.
Interactions Among Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Yellow Foxtail, and Corn

Field studies at sites with two contrasting soil types investigated effects from the presence of yellow foxtail [Setaria pumila (Poir.) Roem. and Schult.], established in bands parallel to corn rows, on western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) survival, corn root injury, lodging, biomass production, and yield. Results suggested that the presence of foxtail as an alternate host influenced the degree and progression of corn rootworm damage and adult emergence in a given locality. Rootworm adults emerged later from foxtail band areas and had smaller head capsule size than did individuals from areas without foxtail, consistent with earlier findings that foxtail in the diet of western corn rootworm was a poor nutritional substitute for corn. Lodging was reduced in the presence of yellow foxtail in some cases, but corn stover biomass and yield also were lower. Influences, if any, of soil type on rootworm survival were unclear because of differences in planting date between the two sites. Foxtail may function as a buffer to reduce rootworm damage to corn and serves as an alternate host that should be considered in the development of resistance management strategies for transgenic corn modified for rootworm resistance.
Molecular proximity of seprase and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor on malignant melanoma cell membranes: dependence on β1 integrins and the cytoskeleton

Previous studies have shown that several proteolytic enzymes are associated with membrane protrusions at the leading edge of migrating tumor cells. In this study we demonstrate that seprase and the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), co-localize in the plasma membrane of LOX malignant melanoma cells. Cells were labeled with fluorochrome-conjugated monoclonal antibodies (mAb) directed against seprase and uPAR. Proximity between these two molecules was detected with resonance energy transfer (RET) imaging, single-cell emission spectrophotometry, and single-cell excitation spectrophotometry. Significant RET signals were detected on LOX cells when adherent to uncoated and extracellular matrix (ECM)-coated surfaces. This indicates that seprase and uPAR are within approximately 7 nm in the plasma membrane of LOX cells. When LOX cells adhered to a 3D extracellular-like matrix, seprase-uPAR complexes were found to be associated with invadopodia. Further microscopy experiments demonstrated gelatinolytic activity, a functional attribute of seprase, in association with seprase-uPAR membrane domains. Formation of seprase-uPAR membrane complexes is dependent upon both the cytoskeleton and integrins. Specifically, the involvement of beta(1)-integrins was demonstrated by the inhibition of RET by an inhibitory anti-beta(1)-integrin mAb. Based on these findings, we speculate that formation of heterogeneous lytic domains in the invading membranes of LOX cells increases the efficiency of directed pericellular proteolysis.
Exactness of approximate MAP inference in continuous MRFs

Computing the MAP assignment in graphical models is generally intractable. As a result, for discrete graphical models, the MAP problem is often approximated using linear programming relaxations. Much research has focused on characterizing when these LP relaxations are tight, and while they are relatively well-understood in the discrete case, only a few results are known for their continuous analog. In this work, we use graph covers to provide necessary and sufficient conditions for continuous MAP relaxations to be tight. We use this characterization to give simple proofs that the relaxation is tight for log-concave decomposable and log-supermodular decomposable models. We conclude by exploring the relationship between these two seemingly distinct classes of functions and providing specific conditions under which the MAP relaxation can and cannot be tight.
How to approach sequencing therapy in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer.

INTRODUCTION Rapid progress has recently been made in understanding the biology of advanced prostate cancer. This has translated into the development of a number of novel agents to treat metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). MATERIALS AND METHODS The relevant literature was retrieved from a search of MEDLINE with appropriate key words. RESULTS Therapeutic approaches to mCRPC include chemotherapy, hormonal manipulation, immunotherapy and radioisotope therapy. Docetaxel and cabazitaxel are cytotoxic agents which have demonstrated a modest impact on survival. Hormonal manipulation with abiraterone and enzalutamide have also been reported to be beneficial in mCRPC. The radioisotope radium 223 utilizes a novel approach in treating mCRPC and was recently described in a positive phase III trial. Finally, sipuleucel-T is an immunotherapy that has a demonstrated overall survival benefit in mCRPC. CONCLUSIONS A number of phase III trials have been published that describe agents which are beneficial in treating mCRPC. Future research will focus on sequencing these agents in a clinically rational and economically viable manner.
Transferring Wealth, Developing Poverty

When large-scale mining companies alight in remote locations, their arrival has significant social and environmental effects on the communities and ecosystems that receive them. In recent years, these effects have been measured by impact assessment reports and this article is driven by the observation that these reports are often sterile in comparison to the complexity and texture of an investment’s actual effects. This Article is informed by countless hours of interviews in the highlands of Colombia and brings to light some of the impacts not included in traditional impact assessments. In particular, it describes how a variety of stakeholders have received a proposed gold mining project and the legal strategies they have employed to resist the project. As a counterpoint, the Article also articulates the legal and financial tools available to companies in these contexts. By inquiring into the legal and extra-legal strategies companies and communities have to protect their interests, this Article takes a critical perspective on the argument that this type of foreign direct investment is a positive development outcome and instead concludes that mining projects like the one under investigation herein have the capacity to facilitate large-scale wealth transfers from resource rich countries to the companies that invest in them.
Building Blocks of the Maker Movement: Modularity Enhances Creative Confidence During Prototyping

Can we enable anyone to create anything? The prototyping tools of a rising Maker Movement are enabling the next generation of artists, designers, educators, and engineers to bootstrap from napkin sketch to functional prototype. However for technical novices, the process of including electronic components in prototypes can hamper the creative process with technical details. Software and electronic modules can reduce the amount of work a designer must perform in order to express an idea, by condensing the number of choices into a physical and cognitive “chunk.” What are the core building blocks that might make up electronics toolkits of the future, and what are the key affordances? We present the idea that modularity, the ability to freely recombine elements, is a key affordance for novice prototyping with electronics. We present the results of a creative prototyping experiment (N = 86) that explores how tool modularity influences the creative design process. Using a browser-based crowd platform (Amazon’s Mechanical Turk), participants created electric “creature circuits” with LEDs in a virtual prototyping environment. We found that increasing the modularity of LED components (i) increased the quantity of prototypes created by study participants; and (ii) increased participants’ degree of perceived self-efficacy, self-reported creative feeling, and cognitive flow. The results highlight the importance of tool modularity in creative prototyping.
ENHANCED ENDOTHELIN-1 AND ENDOTHELIN RECEPTOR GENE EXPRESSION IN CHRONIC HYPOXIA

To test the hypothesis that endothelin (ET)-1 synthesis and ET receptor levels are increased selectively in the lung of rats with chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension, the current study examined the effects of exposure to chronic hypoxia (10% O2, 1 atm, 4 wk) on pulmonary arterial pressure, ET-1 levels in plasma and lung, and ET-1 and ETA and ETB receptor mRNA levels in lung, heart, pulmonary artery, aorta, kidney, spleen, and liver. Hypoxic exposure was associated with increases in pulmonary arterial pressure, plasma ET-1 levels, ET-1 mRNA in lung and pulmonary artery, and ET-1 stores and ETA and ETB receptor mRNA levels in lung. In thoracic aorta and the four heart chambers, ETA and ETB receptor mRNA levels were increased, but ET-1 mRNA levels were unchanged from air control levels. No change in ET-1 or ET receptor mRNA levels was seen in organs perfused by the systemic vascular bed, except in liver, where ETA receptor mRNA levels were decreased. The findings of concomitant increases in gene transcript levels for ET-1 and the ETA and ETB receptors in lung, but not in the great vessels or any other organ examined, are consistent with the hypothesis that increased ET-1 synthesis in the lung contributes to pulmonary vascular remodeling and the maintenance of chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.
Plenary lecture 1: wireless FSO WDM mesh networks for ultra-broadband and super-computing

Electromagnetic-based wireless technology provides two major advantages to the end user, mobility and freedom from wired medium connectivity. However, it has a major disadvantage that limits high-quality and highbandwidth service applicability, small product {(bit rate) × (distance)}. As such, the applicability of this technology has been limited to short range access. A wireless technology that delivers very high bandwidth is free space optical or FSO. FSO technology was initially deployed in point-to-point topologies, but recently FSO has become more pervasive in mesh topology, promising better survivability, ultra-high bandwidth and longer reach for communications and data. When FSO is combined with WDM technology, then the transportable bandwidth is yet higher and WDM-FSO becomes suitable to disperse-grid super-computing. In such case, WDM FSO combined with short-distance EM wireless clusters, allows for a large product {bit rate} × {distance} which can be several orders of magnitude than pure E-M technology. In this talk, we describe the FSO and the WDM technologies as well as the mesh WDM-FSO applicable to communications, data and grid supercomputing, and we make comparisons between EM-based and mesh WDM FSO technologies.
IMPROVEMENT IN QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH DEGENERATIVE MITRAL REGURGITATION ST PROHIBITIVE SURGICAL RISK FOLLOWING TRANSCATHETER MITRAL VALVE REPAIR WITH THE MITRACLIP SYSTEM

Improvement in quality of life in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation at prohibitive surgical risk following transcatheter mitral valve repair with the MitraClip system. MitraClip repair was performed in 42 prohibitive risk DMR patients with 4+ MR after a multi-disciplinary heart team
En route to plentiful food production in Africa.

Africa south of the Sahara is going through a major agricultural transformation. Low crop productivity, hunger and pessimism are being replaced by a rapid rise in food production, an increasingly vibrant agricultural value chain and convergence towards a common goal.
Materials Challenges and Solutions for the Packaging of High Power LEDs

Abstract form only given. As a future lighting source, high power LED lighting is significant in that it provides decades of lifetime under normal operation, requiring a fraction of the power required for traditional lighting solutions. For LED lighting to be a viable lighting source, there are many technical challenges to be resolved. Among them the light extraction efficiency, the chip over heating, the thermal and radiation degradation of the optical output power are the key issues, which turn out are all related to the packaging materials. This work will outline those challenges in details and report the recent progress in resolving those key problems
Black flight: Heterogeneous accounts of Mexican immigration in a diverse community

Abstract Once a predominantly White and Black community, since 1990 Marshall has experienced a 900% increase in residents of Mexican origin. This rapid demographic shift is particularly evident in changes to how commercial and residential spaces are owned and utilized. This article examines how residents of Marshall use spatiotemporal scales to imagine the economic and social trajectories of their town, and assign roles to different groups of people within these trajectories. We analyze how Marshall residents spacialize their accounts of community change by attending to two narratives that circulate simultaneously—the first is about community renewal following the arrival of Mexican residents; the second is about Black flight in response to perceived community disintegration. By tracing the production and circulation of these narratives, we move beyond an analysis of “othering” that presupposes a native “us” and immigrant “them.” Instead, we explore how Marshall's diverse history of immigration, segregation, industrial development and decline produces heterogeneous, complex and shifting “others.”
Quantifying high-dimensional entanglement with Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen correlations

Quantifying entanglement in a quantum system generally requires a complete quantum tomography followed by the NP-hard computation of an entanglement monotone---requirements that rapidly become intractable at higher dimensions. Observing entanglement in large quantum systems has consequently been relegated to witnesses that only verify its existence. In this article, we show that the violation of recent entropic witnesses of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox also provides tight lower bounds to multiple entanglement measures, such as the entanglement of formation and the distillable entanglement, among others. Our approach only requires the measurement of correlations between two pairs of complementary observables---not a tomography---so it scales efficiently at high dimension. Despite this, our technique captures almost all the entanglement in common high-dimensional quantum systems, such as spatially or temporally entangled photons from parametric down-conversion.
Strategic games in society: the geography of adult play

The hypothesis presented in anthropology that games of strategy are more likely to be found in complex societies appears not to be informed by historical research on board and card games. The geogr...
Maximally rotating supermassive stars at the onset of collapse: the perturbative effects of gas pressure, magnetic fields, dark matter, and dark energy

The discovery of quasars at increasingly large cosmological redshifts may favour 'direct collapse' as the most promising evolutionary route to the formation of supermassive black holes. In this scenario, supermassive black holes form when their progenitors - supermassive stars - become unstable to gravitational collapse. For uniformly rotating stars supported by pure radiation pressure and spinning at the mass-shedding limit, the critical configuration at the onset of collapse is characterized by universal values of the dimensionless spin and radius parameters J/M2 and R/M, independent of mass M. We consider perturbative effects of gas pressure, magnetic fields, dark matter, and dark energy on these parameters, and thereby determine the domain of validity of this universality. We obtain leading-order corrections for the critical parameters and establish their scaling with the relevant physical parameters. We compare two different approaches to approximate the effects of gas pressure, which plays the most important role, find identical results for the above dimensionless parameters, and also find good agreement with recent numerical results.