cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Connecting Higher-Order Separation Logic to a First-Order Outside World

Separation logic is a useful tool for proving the correctness of programs that manipulate memory, especially when the model of memory includes higher-order state: Step-indexing, predicates in the heap, and higher-order ghost state have been used to reason about function pointers, data structure invariants, and complex concurrency patterns. On the other hand, the behavior of system features (e.g., operating systems) and the external world (e.g., communication between components) is usually specified using first-order formalisms. In principle, the soundness theorem of a separation logic is its interface with first-order theorems, but the soundness theorem may implicitly make assumptions about how other components are specified, limiting its use. In this paper, we show how to extend the higher-order separation logic of the Verified Software Toolchain to interface with a first-order verified operating system, in this case CertiKOS, that mediates its interaction with the outside world. The resulting system allows us to prove the correctness of C programs in separation logic based on the semantics of system calls implemented in CertiKOS. It also demonstrates that the combination of interaction trees + CompCert memories serves well as a lingua franca to interface and compose two quite different styles of program verification.
The Risk of Cerebrovascular Accidents in Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the United States: A Population-Based National Study.

Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, but the risk of cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) remains unknown. Hypercoagulability and systemic inflammation are two proposed mechanisms by which the presence of IBD might lead to the development of CVA. Objective To assess the risk of CVA in patients with IBD compared to those without IBD with known traditional risk factors for CVA. Methods We reviewed data from a large commercial database (Explorys, IBM) that aggregated records from 26 health-care systems nationwide. Using systemized nomenclature of medicine - clinical terms, we identified adult patients diagnosed with IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) between September 1994 ﻿and September 2019. We then examined the risk of CVA in these patients. Known risk factors such as age ≥65﻿-years old, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), female gender, atrial fibrillation (Afib) were collected. A univariate binary logistic model was constructed using CVA as the dependent variable and other variables as independent variables. To adjust for possible confounding, a multivariable model adjusting for all covariates was created to test for CVA. Results A total of 52,176,550 patients were included in this analysis, and 261,890 had IBD. The prevalence of CVA was higher in IBD patients compared to non-IBD patients (6.24% versus 0.48%, p <0.0001). The univariate binary logistic regression showed 13.7 times higher odds of having CVA in IBD patients than without IBD (odds ratio (OR) 13.74, p <0.0001). In multivariate binary logistic regression, after adjusting for traditional risk factors for CVA (Afib, HTN, female gender, DM, age ≥65 years), odds ratio of CVA in IBD patients remained significantly higher (OR 8.07, 95% CI: 7.9-8.2, p<0.0001). Conclusion In our large cohort of patients, IBD appears to be an independent risk factor for CVA. Further prospective studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms by which IBD increases the risk of CVA. This may lead to early identification and intervention to reduce the risk of CVA in this highly heterogeneous group of patients.
Understanding How Residents’ Emotional Solidarity with Airbnb Visitors Influences Perceptions of Their Impact on a Community: The Moderating Role of Prior Experience Staying at an Airbnb:

A theoretical model was formulated based on cognitive-appraisal and bottom-up spillover theories and tested with structural equation modeling across two groups of residents—with and without prior e...
Interactive Infographics Improve Learning Outcomes in a Food Science Laboratory Exercise Environment

Laboratory exercises are a crucial component for many science education courses. Hands-on activities provide valuable contextualized learning experiences and allow for increased engagement between students and technical knowledge. The present study examined the efficacy of a virtual-type laboratory activity compared to a traditional hands-on activity. Food science undergraduates (N=35) were randomly assigned to two groups: (1) performing a virtual lab exercise and (2) performing a traditional hands-on exercise producing mozzarella cheese. The virtual lab exercise consisted of interactive infographics highlighting the chemistry of the mozzarella making process, incorporating clickable animation, audio voiceovers, and minimal narrative text. The virtual lab group demonstrated a significantly larger increase in cheesemaking knowledge (p<0.0001; d=1.49) than the traditional lab group (p=0.41; d=0.26). Both groups exhibited significant increases in cheesemaking self-efficacy. These data suggest that interactive infographics can function as effective learning tools in technical education.
Truth and Reconciliation in South Korea : Between the Present and Future of the Korean Wars

Introduction. Truth and Reconciliation in South Korea: Confronting War, Colonialism, and Intervention in the Asia Pacific 1. The Long Road toward Truth and Reconciliation: Unwavering Attempts to Achieve Justice in South Korea 2. Atrocities before and during the Korean War: Mass Civilian Killings by South Korean and U.S. Forces 3. No Gun Ri: Official Narrative and Inconvenient Truths 4. War Trauma, Memories, and Truths: Representations of the Korean War in Pak Wan-so's Writings and in "Still Present Pasts" 5. Politicizing Justice: Post-Cold War Redress and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Elastic and inelastic scattering of neutrons from 54, 56Fe and 63, 65Cu: (II). Scattering and nuclear structure effects from coupled channels calculations

Abstract The differential cross sections for neutron scattering from 54, 56 Fe and 63, 65 Cu at energies between 8 and 14 MeV, which were reported in a companion paper, have been analyzed in the framework of the coupled channels formalism. Neutron potential deformations were extracted and compared with corresponding deformations deduced from the reanalysis of proton scattering measurements and Coulomb excitation results. The size of the Coulomb correction term in the absorptive proton potential is discussed. Matter root-mean-square radii are estimated from our potential and compared with results from α-particle folding model calculations.
Sclerosis and related senile changes of the fallopian tubes

Abstract With advancing sexual age, the Fallopian tubes undergo certain changes consisting, first of all and most typically, of a marked hypertrophy and sclerosis involving the connective tissue of the folds. Later, there is also a replacement of ciliated epithelium by nonciliated and flatter cells. This sclerosis was noted in a high proportion (45 per cent) of cases with uterine leiomyofibromas. But the occurrence had little or no relationship to the size of the tumors. Moreover, an investigation of a like number of cases, which corresponded in all particulars except for the absence of even tiny fibroids, showed the condition in approximately the same proportion, the incidence increasing in both series with advancing age. Sclerosis of the Fallopian tubes showed no relationship to the history regarding previous pregnancies. The incidence of the condition was increased with the development of irregularities and anomalies of menstruation, and this was most marked with the onset of the climacteric and afterwards. The same tendency was noted also with the histologic evidences of sex hormone diminution. However, both here and with the menstrual changes there were definite exceptions to the general rules. Examination of a small series of tubes associated with pregnancy showed that sclerosis is occasionally present, and therefore it (or its cause) is not an absolute barrier to pregnancy. Left unanswered, however, were such questions as its possible role as a relative factor in sterility and also as a cause of tubal pregnancy. An interesting point incidental to the main purpose of this study was the discovery of such a high frequency of leiomyofibromas of the uterus in the material from Harper Hospital as to cast doubt on statistical studies which apparently indicate a relationship between fibroids and certain other conditions, particularly carcinoma of the uterine fundus.
Muscle Satellite Cell Structure, Proliferation and Fusion

Skeletal muscle comprises some 30–40% of body mass, consisting mainly of contractile muscle fibres. For most vertebrates, survival is compromised by any serious loss of mobility arising from failure of efficient muscle function. This places a high priority on rapid and efficient repair and on a finely tuned adjustment in size and strength both during postnatal growth and on change in imposed workload. The muscle fibres themselves are syncytia containing large numbers of myonuclei, which are postmitotic and do not proliferate during growth or repair. Thus the functions of cellular replacement in this tissue fall largely, if not entirely on a small population of ‘satellite cells’, so-called because of their position between the plasmalemma of the muscle fibre and the overlying basement membrane. The precise role of these cells and their relationships to other cell types are topics of current research and debate. Key Concepts: The differentiated skeletal muscle cell is an ‘end cell’ that cannot proliferate to replace itself. The muscle satellite cell is the predominant identified source of myogenic cells for growth repair and regeneration of postnatal skeletal muscle. The anatomically defined muscle satellite cell appears to be heterogeneous. Non-satellite cell sources of myogenic cells have been identified in skeletal muscle. There is evidence of conversion of non-satellite cells to a myogenic fate and of satellite cells to non-myogenic fates but the importance of these processes in vivo has not been ascertained. Keywords: stem cell; satellite cell; myogenesis; muscle regeneration; muscle growth; myopathy
Reflection Positivity and Phase Transitions in Lattice Spin Models

Phase transitions are one of the most fascinating, and also most perplexing, phenomena in equilibrium statistical mechanics. On the physics side, many approximate methods to explain or otherwise justify phase transitions are known but a complete mathematical understanding is available only in a handful of simplest of all cases. One set of tractable systems consists of the so called lattice spin models. Originally, these came to existence as simplified versions of (somewhat more realistic) models of crystalline materials in solid state physics but their versatile nature earned them a life of their own in many other disciplines where complex systems are of interest.
Haptic behavior in social interaction

Touch “is the core of sentience, the foundation for communication with the world around us, and probably the single sense that is as old as life itself.” Indeed, touch is “the most intimate of senses” [1]
A Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm for upscaled soil‐vegetation‐atmosphere‐transfer modeling to evaluate satellite‐based soil moisture measurements

[1] A Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) based algorithm was developed to derive upscaled land surface parameters for a soil-vegetation-atmosphere-transfer (SVAT) model using time series data of satellite-measured atmospheric forcings (e.g., precipitation), and land surface states (e.g., soil moisture and vegetation). This study focuses especially on the evaluation of soil moisture measurements of the Aqua satellite based Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer (AMSR-E) instrument using the new MCMC-based scaling algorithm. Soil moisture evolution was modeled at a spatial scale comparable to the AMSR-E soil moisture product, with the hypothesis that the characterization of soil microwave emissions and their variations with space and time on soil surface within the AMSR-E footprint can be represented by an ensemble of upscaled soil hydraulic parameters. We demonstrated the features of the MCMC-based parameter upscaling algorithm (from field to satellite footprint scale) within a SVAT model framework to evaluate the satellite-based brightness temperature/soil moisture measurements for different hydroclimatic regions, and identified the temporal effects of vegetation (leaf area index) and other environmental factors on AMSR-E based remotely sensed soil moisture data. The SVAT modeling applied for different hydroclimatic regions revealed the limitation of AMSR-E measurements in high-vegetation regions. The study also suggests that inclusion of soil moisture evolution from the proposed upscaled SVAT model with AMSR-E measurements in data assimilation routine will improve the quality of soil moisture assessment in a footprint scale. The technique also has the potential to derive upscaled parameters of other geophysical properties used in remote sensing of land surface states. The developed MCMC algorithm with SVAT model can be very useful for land-atmosphere interaction studies and further understanding of the physical controls responsible for soil moisture dynamics at different scales.
Involvement of multiple distinct Bordetella receptor proteins in the utilization of iron liberated from transferrin by host catecholamine stress hormones

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a pathogen that can acquire iron using its native alcaligin siderophore system, but can also use the catechol xenosiderophore enterobactin via the BfeA outer membrane receptor. Transcription of bfeA is positively controlled by a regulator that requires induction by enterobactin. Catecholamine hormones also induce bfeA transcription and B. bronchiseptica can use the catecholamine norepinephrine for growth on transferrin. In this study, B. bronchiseptica was shown to use catecholamines to obtain iron from both transferrin and lactoferrin in the absence of siderophore. In the presence of siderophore, norepinephrine augmented transferrin utilization by B. bronchiseptica, as well as siderophore function in vitro. Genetic analysis identified BfrA, BfrD and BfrE as TonB dependent outer membrane catecholamine receptors. The BfeA enterobactin receptor was found to not be involved directly in catecholamine utilization; however, the BfrA, BfrD and BfrE catecholamine receptors could serve as receptors for enterobactin and its degradation product 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid. Thus, there is a functional link between enterobactin-dependent and catecholamine-dependent transferrin utilization. This investigation characterizes a new B. bronchiseptica mechanism for iron uptake from transferrin that uses host stress hormones that not only deliver iron directly to catecholamine receptors, but also potentiate siderophore activity by acting as iron shuttles.
Isotopic composition of bank margin carbonates on Midway Atoll: Amplitude constraint on post-early Miocene eustasy

The University of Hawaii9s continuously cored borehole through the Midway Atoll coral cap provides a record of post–early Miocene eustasy. Subaerial exposure horizons are identified by light carbon isotope signatures and, in some instances, by lithologic criteria. Sea-level highstands are recorded by aggradational units of reef sediment that are bounded by these subaerial exposure horizons. Sea-level lowstands are constrained to fall no farther than a meteoric-marine diagenetic boundary observed in the core. This diagenetic boundary is defined by an offset in both oxygen and carbon isotope data, light isotopic composition being indicative of intermittent meteoric diagenesis. These data constrain the amplitudes of three post–early Miocene glacio-eustatic sea-level falls to be no more than 32, 43, and 52 m. Absolute sea-level elevations are estimated by constructing a subsidence model for Midway Atoll. Application of this analytic approach may provide amplitude constraints on eustasy elsewhere in the geologic record.
On scalability of active learning for formulating query concepts

Query-by-example and query-by-keyword both suffer from the problem of "aliasing," meaning that example-images and keywords potentially have variable interpretations or multiple semantics. For discerning which semantic is appropriate for a given query, we have established that combining active learning with kernel methods is a very effective approach. In this work, we first examine active-learning strategies, and then focus on addressing the challenges of two scalability issues: scalability in dataset size and in concept complexity. We present remedies, explain limitations, and discuss future directions that research might take.
Green's function solution for thermal wave equation in finite bodies

Abstract The classical diffusion theory is based on the assumption of local thermal equilibrium. For conduction in thin films or at low temperature, the classical theory of heat conduction breaks down. Various investigations have shown that a wave-type conduction equation adequately describes the thermal energy transport. This paper describes a general solution technique when the wave nature of thermal energy transport is dominant. The solution for temperature distribution is derived for finite bodies. The definition of Green's functions for a wave-type conduction equation is presented and a general form of the Green's function solution method for finite bodies is introduced.
Tetrahydrocurcumin ameliorates homocysteinylated cytochrome-c mediated autophagy in hyperhomocysteinemia mice after cerebral ischemia.

High levels of homocysteine (Hcy) known as hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), contribute to autophagy and ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R). Previous studies have shown that I/R injury and HHcy cause increased cerebrovascular permeability; however, the associated mechanism remains obscure. Interestingly, during HHcy, cytochome-c becomes homocysteinylated (Hcy-cyto-c). Cytochrome-c (cyto-c) transports electrons and facilitates bioenergetics in the system. However, its role in autophagy during ischemia/reperfusion injury is unclear. Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) is a major herbal antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine whether THC ameliorates autophagy during ischemia/reperfusion injury by reducing homocysteinylation of cyto-c in hyperhomocysteinemia pathological condition. To test this hypothesis, we employed 8–10-week-old male cystathionine-beta-synthase heterozygote knockout (CBS+/−) mice (genetically hyperhomocystemic mice). Experimental group was: CBS+/−, CBS+/− + THC (25 mg/kg in 0.1% DMSO dose); CBS (+/−)/I/R, and CBS (+/−)/I/R + THC (25 mg/kg in 0.1% DMSO dose). Ischemia was performed for 30 min and reperfusion for 72 h. THC was injected intra-peritoneally (I.P.) once daily for a period of 3 days after 30 min of ischemia. The infarct area was measured using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Permeability was determined by brain edema and Evans Blue extravasation. The brain tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), damage-regulated autophagy modulator (DRAM), and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) by Western blot. The mRNA levels of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine hydrolases (SAHH) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genes were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to determine the homocysteinylation of cyto-c. We found that brain edema and Evans Blue leakage were reduced in I/R + THC-treated groups as compared to sham-operated groups along with reduced brain infarct size. THC also decreased oxidative damage and ameliorated the homocysteinylation of cyto-c in-part by MMP-9 activation which leads to autophagy in I/R groups as compared to sham-operated groups. This study suggests a potential therapeutic role of dietary THC in cerebral ischemia.
Strand Invasion of DNA Quadruplexes by PNA: Comparison of Homologous and Complementary Hybridization

Molecular recognition of DNA quadruplex structures is envisioned to be a strategy for regulating gene expression at the transcriptional level and for in situ analysis of telomere structure and function. The recognition of DNA quadruplexes by peptide nucleic acid (PNA) oligomers is presented here, with a focus on comparing complementary, heteroduplex-forming and homologous, heteroquadruplex-forming PNAs. Surface plasmon resonance and optical spectroscopy experiments demonstrated that the efficacy of a recognition mode depended strongly on the target. Homologous PNA readily invades a quadruplex derived from the promoter regulatory region found upstream of the MYC proto-oncogene to form a heteroquadruplex at high potassium concentration mimicking the intracellular environment, whereas complementary PNA exhibits virtually no hybridization. In contrast, complementary PNA is superior to the homologous in hybridizing to a quadruplex modeled on the human telomere sequence. The results are discussed in terms of the different structural morphologies of the quadruplex targets and the implications for in vivo recognition of quadruplexes by PNAs.
AROUSAL, CHANGEOVER RESPONSES, AND PREFERENCE IN CONCURRENT SCHEDULES

Pigeons were trained on multiple schedules that provided concurrent reinforcement in each of two components. In Experiment 1, one component consisted of a variable-interval (VI) 40-s schedule presented with a VI 20-s schedule, and the other a VI 40-s schedule presented with a VI 80-s schedule. After extended training, probe tests measured preference between the stimuli associated with the two 40-s schedules. Probe tests replicated the results of Belke (1992) that showed preference for the 40-s schedule that had been paired with the 80-s schedule. In a second condition, the overall reinforcer rate provided by the two components was equated by adding a signaled VI schedule to the component with the lower reinforcer rate. Probe results were unchanged. In Experiment 2, pigeons were trained on alternating concurrent VI 30-s VI 60-s schedules. One schedule provided 2-s access to food and the other provided 6-s access. The larger reinforcer magnitude produced higher response rates and was preferred on probe trials. Rate of changeover responding, however, did not differ as a function of reinforcer magnitude. The present results demonstrate that preference on probe trials is not a simple reflection of the pattern of changeover behavior established during training.
Antibody to Rat Kidney: In vivo Effects of Univalent and Divalent Fragments

Whereas intact antibody to rat kidney (7 S ) produced immediate and sustained proteinuria in rats, univalent fragments (papain digests) of the antibody did not, and divalent fragments (pepsin digests) produced only transitory proteinuria. The antibody fragments differed from the intact antibody in fixing little, if any, complement in vivo which may explain why they did not cause serious renal damage.
RESOLUTION LIMITS FOR OPTICAL TRANSILLUMINATION OF ABNORMALITIES DEEPLY EMBEDDED IN TISSUES

Random walk theory is used to calculate the line spread function (LSF) of photons as they cross the midplane of a slab of finite thickness. The relationship between the LSF and the photon transit time in transillumination time-resolved experiments is investigated. It is found that the LSF is approximately Gaussian distributed, with a standard deviation, sigma, which can be used as a criterion of the spatial resolution of the imaging system. Results are substantiated by comparison with actual data in the literature. Any given resolution can be improved by reducing the excess transit time delta t, but heterogeneity of the scattering medium and low levels of detected light enormously complicate the achievement of subcentimeter spatial resolution. The latter point is discussed by using optical parameters of breast tissues for visible and near-infrared radiation (NIR) light.
Numerical ellipsometry: Ellipsometer analysis in the n–k plane for select combinations of metals, semiconductors, and insulators

Abstract Ellipsometry is an optical analytical method based on measuring the change in polarization state of reflected or transmitted polarized light. A major challenge for those utilizing this method has been the computation of reflecting surface physical parameters of interest from the raw measured data. The methods in common use are plagued by local minima and algorithm performance. The mathematics of the light reflection has long taken advantage of some aspects of Complex Analysis. The authors have used Complex Analysis to treat the case of a metal film on a transparent insulator substrate (nickel on BK7 glass). The work presented here explores this advanced treatment considering other combinations of metal, semiconductor, and insulator materials. While there are differences between these material combinations, all could be treated successfully with the new method. These results lay the groundwork for a set of solution algorithms which are much more powerful and convenient than existing algorithms and also provides guidance for eliminating the multiple solution problems inherent in least squares methods.
Phase II Trial of Hypofractionated IMRT With Temozolomide for Patients With Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme

Purpose To report toxicity and overall survival (OS) in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) treated with hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy (hypo-IMRT) with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ). Methods and Materials Patients with newly diagnosed GBM after biopsy or resection and with adequate performance status and organ or bone marrow function were eligible for this study. Patients received postoperative hypo-IMRT to the surgical cavity and residual tumor seen on T1-weighted brain MRI with a 5-mm margin to a total dose of 60 Gy in 10 fractions (6 Gy/fraction) and to the T2 abnormality on T2-weighted MRI with 5-mm margin to 30 Gy in 10 fractions (3 Gy/fraction). Concurrent TMZ was given at 75 mg/m 2 /day for 28 consecutive days. Adjuvant TMZ was given at 150 to 200 mg/m 2 /day for 5 days every 28 days. Toxicities were defined using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0. Results Twenty-four patients were treated, consisting of 14 men, 10 women; a median age of 60.5 years old (range, 27–77 years); and a median Karnofsky performance score of 80 (range, 60–90). All patients received hypo-IMRT and concurrent TMZ according to protocol, except for 2 patients who received only 14 days of concurrent TMZ. The median number of adjuvant TMZ cycles was 6.5 (range, 0–14).With a median follow-up of 14.8 months (range, 2.7–34.2 months) for all patients and a minimum follow-up of 20.6 months for living patients, no instances of grade 3 or higher nonhematologic toxicity were observed. The median OS was 16.6 months (range, 4.1–35.9 months). Six patients underwent repeated surgery for suspected tumor recurrence; necrosis was found in 50% to 100% of the resected specimens. Conclusion In selected GBM patients, 60 Gy hypo-IMRT delivered in 6-Gy fractions over 2 weeks with concurrent and adjuvant TMZ is safe. OS in this small cohort of patients was comparable to that treated with current standard of care therapy.
Solid state ionic tools for catalysis and materials research: In honor of Robert A. Huggins

Abstract This article is written in honor of Bob Huggins for his many decades of contributions to solid state ionics and materials research. It also reviews oxide-based solid state ionic probes and tools developed by Bob Huggins and his coworkers to study and understand the properties of ionically transporting materials, and to affect and enhance catalytic behavior. Fundamental properties ranging from phase equilibria and diagrams, to stability regimes and thermodynamic functions, to oxygen transport, to sensing and catalysis can be investigated using these powerful tools. Several examples from author's previous work were provided to discuss their principles and to illustrate their utility and versatility.
Giant hepatic hemangioma studied with intravenous total body arteriography technique. A case report.

Hepatic hemangiomas are the most common benign tumors of the liver. They are usually single, small, and asymptomatic. However, giant hepatic hemangiomas have been reported in the past, usually detected as incidental findings. Radionuclide blood pool imaging studies are used to confirm the presence o
Ultrastructural pathology of a case of halothane hepatitis.

An unusual case of hepatitis following repeated surreptitious administration of halothane was studied. Light microscopy showed necrosis and ballooning of liver cells in central areas without nuclear unrest and with minimal inflammatory activity. Electron microscopy showed cell shrinkage with dark-staining liver cells, myelin-like figures, enlargement of the intercellular space and intercellular villus formation. The balloon cells contained large intracellular areas free of organelles. Mitochondria appeared quite well preserved, even in areas adjacent to intracellular ballooning. Some cells contained bundles of fibrillar material. The pattern of injury appears to be largely nonspecific.
Early Predictors of Urban Adolescents’ Community Violence Exposure

This study examined the extent to which individual, peer, and family factors predicted the onset of community violence exposure in middle and high school, as well as the indirect effects of early factors. We were particularly interested in the timing of exposure to community violence during adolescence, and thus conducted survival analyses on data from 632 urban youth, followed from first grade through high school. Early aggressive behavior and poor academic readiness were associated with an earlier onset of community violence exposure in adolescence. The effects of early aggression on community violence exposure and victimization were accounted for, in part, by peer rejection and deviant peer affiliation; there was no evidence of moderation by gender or parental monitoring. Findings highlight potential targets for preventive interventions with youth at risk of community violence exposure.
Semi-Markov Decision Processes with Unbounded Rewards

We consider a semi-Markov decision process with arbitrary action space; the state space is the nonnegative integers. As in queueing systems, we assume that {0, 1, 2,..., n + N} is the set of states accessible from state n in one transition, where N is finite and independent of n. The novel feature of this model is that the one-period reward is not required to be uniformly bounded; instead, we merely assume it to be bounded by a polynomial in n. Our main concern is with the average cost problem. A set of conditions sufficient for there to be an optimal stationary policy which can be obtained from the usual functional equation is developed. These conditions are quite weak and, as illustrated in several queueing examples, are easily verified.
HWRFx: Improving Hurricane Forecasts with High-Resolution Modeling

Using the hurricane weather research and forecasting experimental modeling system (HWRFx), researchers examined the impact of increased model resolution on system performance in forecasting a select sample of tropical cyclones from the 2005 and 2007 hurricane seasons.
Metal-binding Sites in the Major Groove of a Large Ribozyme Domain

Abstract Background Group I self-splicing introns catalyze sequential transesterification reactions within an RNA transcript to produce the correctly spliced product. Often several hundred nucleotides in size, these ribozymes fold into specific three-dimensional structures that confer activity. The 2.8 a crystal structure of a central component of the Tetrahymena thermophila group I intron, the 160-nucleotide P4–P6 domain, provides the first detailed view of metal binding in an RNA large enough to exhibit side-by-side helical packing. The long-range contacts and bound ligands that stabilize this fold can now be examined in detail. Results Heavy-atom derivatives used for the structure determination reveal characteristics of some of the metal-binding sites in the P4–P6 domain. Although long-range RNA–RNA contacts within the molecule primarily involve the minor groove, osmium hexammine binds at three locations in the major groove. All three sites involve G and U nucleotides exclusively; two are formed by G.U wobble base pairs. In the native RNA, two of the sites are occupied by fully-hydrated magnesium ions. Samarium binds specifically to the RNA by displacing a magnesium ion in a region critical to the folding of the entire domain. Conclusions Bound at specific sites in the P4–P6 domain RNA, osmium (III) hexammine produced the high-quality heavy-atom derivative used for structure determination. These sites can be engineered into other RNAs, providing a rational means of obtaining heavy-atom derivatives with hexammine compounds. The features of the observed metal-binding sites expand the known repertoire of ligand-binding motifs in RNA, and suggest that some of the conserved tandem G.U base pairs in ribosomal RNAs are magnesium-binding sites.
What’s in a Name?: Providing Clarity in the Definition of Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy

In recent years minimally invasive parathyroidectomy has become the procedure of choice for many surgeons, but the meaning of the term is unclear. This is confusing for both the medical community and patients. We hypothesize that because the definition of minimally invasive parathyriodectomy in the literature is so variable this term has little meaning. We performed a Pubmed search using the terms: parathyroidectomy, minimally invasive, localized, focused, unilateral, radio-guided, video-assisted, and endoscopic. Data were collected for: author, journal title, year published, and all described aspects of parathyroidectomy. We analyzed 443 (44 %) articles after applying the exclusion criteria. Eighteen words were used in 75 different combinations to describe minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. We established four categories that encompassed all 75 definitions: 1. operative approach (incision size, describing as open; endoscopic; robotic; or video-assisted), 2. number of glands explored, 3. operative adjuncts, and 4. anesthesia type. Operative approach was the most commonly described attribute and was mentioned in 47 % (n = 207) of the articles (mean incision size was found to be 2.2 cm), followed by number of glands explored, operative adjuncts, and anesthesia type. The finding that there are 75 different definitions for minimally invasive parathyroidectomy confirms that this term is too generic to be useful. We propose a new taxonomic format to describe minimally invasive parathyroidectomy based on the four descriptive categories identified: (operative approach), (# of glands explored), parathyroidectomy using (operative adjuncts) under (anesthesia type). For example, “2 cm, single gland parathyroidectomy using intraoperative parathyroid hormone measurement, under general anesthesia”.
Zeptomole-sensitivity electrospray ionization--Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry of proteins.

Methods are being developed for ultrasensitive protein characterization based upon electrospray ionization (ESI) with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR-MS). The sensitivity of a FTICR mass spectrometer equipped with an ESI source depends on the overall ion transmission, which combines the probability of ionization, transmission efficiency, and ion trapping in the FTICR cell. Our developments implemented in a 3.5 tesla FTICR mass spectrometer include introduction and optimization of a newly designed electrodynamic ion funnel in the ESI interface, improving the ion beam characteristics in a quadrupole-electrostatic ion guide interface, and modification of the electrostatic ion guide. These developments provide a detection limit of approximately 30 zmol (∼18 000 molecules) for proteins with molecular weights ranging from 8 to 20 kDa.
Using conditional moments of asset payoffs to infer the volatility of intertemporal marginal rates of substitution

Previously Hansen and Jagannathan (1990a) derived and computed mean-standard deviation frontiers for intertemporal marginal rates of substitution (IMRS) implied by asset market data. These frontiers give the lower bounds on the standard deviations as a function of the mean. In this paper we develop a strategy for utilizing conditioning information efficiently, and hence improve on the standard deviation bounds computed by Hansen and Jagannathan. We implement this strategy empirically by using the seminonparametric (SNP) methodology suggested by Gallant and Tauchen (1989) to estimate the conditional distribution of a vector of monthly asset payoffs. We use the fitted conditional distributions to calculate both conditional and unconditional standard deviation bounds for the IMRS. The unconditional bounds are as sharp as possible subject to robustness considerations. We also use the fitted distributions to compute the moments of various candidate marginal rates of substitution suggested by economic theory, and in particular the time-nonseparable preferences of Dunn and Singleton (1986) and Eichenbaum and Hansen (1990). For these preferences, our findings suggest that habit persistence will put the moments of the IMRS inside the frontier at reasonable values of the curvature parameter. At the same time we uncover evidence that the implied IMRS fails to satisfy all of the restrictions inherent in the Euler equation. The findings help explain why Euler equation estimation methods typically find evidence in favor of local durability instead of habit persistence for monthly data.
Centralization in the global avoided deforestation collaboration network

Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation projects currently cover an area approximately twice the size of Germany and challenge traditional concepts of centralization and decentralization in studies of environmental governance. Emerging from the interactions of a complex network of actors, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation demonstrates that transnational governance networks of organizations can become spatially centralized. Using a historical analysis of the development of Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, we argue that the evolution of Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation policy has been directed primarily from donor countries, especially in North America and Europe. Adopting a social network analysis approach, we present findings from a new dataset of collaboration on 276 Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation, avoided deforestation, and sustainable forest management projects that began some on-the-ground operations between 1989 and June 2012, finding that organizations in donor countries have from the beginning been the central actors in the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation network. We conclude that Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation exhibits spatial centralization within transnational governance architectures despite institutional fragmentation, raising important normative questions about participation in transnational forest governance.
Neurocutaneous vascular syndromes.

There have been significant recent advances in the past several years in the field of neurocutaneous vascular syndromes, including the development of more stringent diagnostic criteria for PHACE syndrome, the renaming of macrocephaly-cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita to macrocephaly-capillary malformation to accurately reflect the true nature of the syndrome, and discovery of new genetic mutations such as RASA-1. There have also been advances in the understanding and management of Sturge-Weber syndrome. PHACE syndrome is a constellation of neurologic, arterial, cardiac, ophthalmologic, and sternal abnormalities associated with infantile hemangiomas. PHACE is an acronym for Posterior fossa malformation, Hemangioma, Arterial anomalies, Coarctation of the aorta, Eye abnormalities. Some authors include an “S” for PHACE(S) to denote the association of ventral defects including Sternal clefting and Supraumbilical raphe. The accurate diagnosis and work-up of these patients require coordination of care across multiple disciplines, including neuroradiology, radiology, dermatology, neurology, surgery, and interventional radiology, among others. This paper is meant to update clinicians and researchers about important advances in these rare, important vascular syndromes, to improve care, and lay the foundation for future directions for research.
Postradiation metabolic tumor volume predicts outcome in head-and-neck cancer.

Purpose To explore the prognostic value of metabolic tumor volume measured on postradiation 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in patients with head-and-neck cancer. Methods and Materials Forty-seven patients with head-and-neck cancer who received pretreatment and posttreatment PET/computed tomography (CT) imaging along with definitive chemoradiotherapy were included in this study. The PET/CT parameters evaluated include the maximum standardized uptake value, metabolic tumor volume (MTV 2.0 –MTV 4.0 ; where MTV 2.0 refers to the volume above a standardized uptake value threshold of 2.0), and integrated tumor volume. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models were used to test for association between PET endpoints and disease-free survival and overall survival. Results Multiple postradiation PET endpoints correlated significantly with outcome; however, the most robust predictor of disease progression and death was MTV 2.0 . An increase in MTV 2.0 of 21cm 3 (difference between 75th and 25th percentiles) was associated with an increased risk of disease progression (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.5, p = 0.0001) and death (HR = 2.0, p = 0.003). In patients with nonnasopharyngeal carcinoma histology ( n = 34), MTV 2.0 3 and MTV 2.0 ≥18 cm 3 yielded 2-year disease-free survival rates of 100% and 63%, respectively ( p = 0.006) and 2-year overall survival rates of 100% and 81%, respectively ( p = 0.009). There was no correlation between MTV 2.0 and disease-free survival or overall survival with nasopharyngeal carcinoma histology ( n = 13). On multivariate analysis, only postradiation MTV 2.0 was predictive of disease-free survival (HR = 2.47, p = 0.0001) and overall survival (HR = 1.98, p = 0.003). Conclusions Postradiation metabolic tumor volume is an adverse prognostic factor in head-and-neck cancer. Biomarkers such as MTV are important for risk stratification and will be valuable in the future with risk-adapted therapies.
Tools for Combinatorial Chemistry: In Situ Infrared Analysis of Solid-Phase Organic Reactions

Methodology for in situ infrared monitoring and analysis of solid-phase organic reactions has been developed. The real-time, single-bead capabilities of this technique are illustrated through the analysis of solvent diffusion into, and subsequent wash-out from, a 70-μm aminomethyl polystyrene bead. This report further illustrates application of this technology for solid-phase synthesis with real-time analysis using two example reactions. Analytical hardware and the inherent benefits of real-time analysis with respect to precursor referencing and the quality, utility, and interpretation of the infrared data are also discussed.
IMAGE MIRRORING AND ROTATION IN THE WAVELET DOMAIN

JPEG2000, the international standard for still image compression, uses wavelet transform. The filters used by JPEG2000 for transformation are the 9/7 Daubechies filter and the 5/3 Le Gall filter. In this paper, we present a method for image mirroring and rotation in the wavelet domain, by manipulating the transformation coefficients. Our technique requires no additional complexity and the perfect reconstruction property is preserved.
Bitot's Spots Responsive and Nonresponsive to Vitamin A: Clinicopathologic Correlations

• Conjunctival biopsy specimens from patients with Bitot's spots responsive and nonresponsive to vitamin A were studied by light and electron microscopy. In both types, the lesions demonstrated keratinization with granular cells, irregular maturation, inflammatory infiltration of the conjunctival substantia propria, and loss of goblet cells. Only in the responsive cases were these changes generalized. Prominent Bitot's spots represented massive accumulations of Gram-positive bacilli and keratin debris. Responsive cases improved histologically within seven days of treatment, and goblet cells began to return within two weeks. These results support our previous suggestions that there is little basis for attempting to differentiate, clinically, between the two types of lesions and that at least some nonresponsive lesions represent a persistent metaplastic change induced during a prior episode of vitamin A deficiency.
Repricing executive stock opition in a down market

Abstract This paper analyzes the repricing of employee stock options after market-wide crash. The model identifies sufficient conditions for renegotiation to be optimal and for optimal compensation to be a fixed salary plus stock options. Empirical results support the renegotiation prediction. Stock opition grants increase in both number and value after the 1987 crash. Firms with underwater options grant significantly more options post-crash than pre-crash, whereas firm with in-the-money options don't. Furthermore, firms suffering the largest impact from the crash are the most likely to increase grants after the crash.
Up-regulated cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator after anal stenosis in rats

Abstract Background The pathophysiology of fecal incontinence from fecal impaction and rectal distension is poorly understood. We hypothesize that fecal impaction elicits up-regulation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a cAMP-activated mucosal chloride channel. Methods The anus was ligated to produce 75% stenosis in rats. Controls received ligation without inducing stenosis. 24 to 48 hours after ligation the colon was removed. Mucosal short-circuit current was measured by Ussing chamber. Western blot analysis was used to detect CFTR expression in the colonic mucosa. Ligated rats failed to defecate, whereas control rats stooled normally. Results Ligated colons were markedly stool filled and dilated. Water content of feces was significantly increased to 66.5% ± 1.1% ( P μ A/cm 2 , n=8, P μ A/cm 2 , n=8, P μ A/cm2, n=8). CFTR expression was significantly increased 24 hours after ligation in the mid and distal colon. Conclusion We observe that fecal impaction from anal ligation induces early compensatory up-regulation of CFTR, altering function from net absorption to net secretion in the mid and distal colon.