cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improving the completeness of structured MRI reports for rectal cancer staging

Assess the impact of a multifaceted intervention to improve the completeness of structured MRI reports for patients undergoing initial staging for rectal cancer. This Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective study was performed at a large academic hospital. MRI reports for initial staging of rectal cancer in 2017 and 2019 were analyzed pre- and post-implementation of multiple quality improvement interventions in 2018, including harmonizing MRI protocols across the institution, educational conferences and modules, and requiring second opinion consultation for all MRI rectal cancer examinations. The primary outcome measure was the completeness of rectal cancer staging MRI reports, classified as optimal, satisfactory, or unsatisfactory based on the inclusion of 15 quality measures pre-defined by a consensus of abdominal and cancer imaging subspecialists, colorectal surgeons, and radiation oncologists at our institution, based on published recommendations. Fisher’s exact test was used to evaluate changes in report quality and documentation of each quality measure. The study included 138 MRI reports, of which 72 (52%) were completed in 2017 pre-intervention. Post intervention, the proportion of optimal reports increased significantly from 52.8% (38/72) to 71.2% (47/66) (p = 0.035). Documentation of 1 quality measure (N stage) increased post intervention from 91.7% (66/72) to 100% (66/66) (p = 0.029). Documentation of 7 quality measures was 100% post intervention, with a documentation rate of > 95% for all quality measures except radial location of tumor. A combination of educational and system-wide interventions was associated with an improvement in the completeness of structured MRI reports for rectal cancer staging.
Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Era of COVID-19

This year, 2020, has been an exceptionally tough year. There have been multiple incursions on our social, political, and economic lives—COVID-19, the murder of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery, and presidential proclamations barring foreigners from entering the U.S. These situations have directly impacted the psychology of students, teachers, parents, and administrators throughout Georgia and beyond and have forced educators to rethink, reshape, and redesign the teaching/learning space. This special issue is a response to the current climate in the U.S. and includes articles that focus on the changes, challenges, innovation, and instructional strategies that have affected the way we think about language, multilingual identities, second language instruction, and language program administration.
Transforming task representations to perform novel tasks

An important aspect of intelligence is the ability to adapt to a novel task without any direct experience (zero shot), based on its relationship to previous tasks. Humans can exhibit this cognitive flexibility. By contrast, models that achieve superhuman performance in specific tasks often fail to adapt to even slight task alterations. To address this, we propose a general computational framework for adapting to novel tasks based on their relationship to prior tasks. We begin by learning vector representations of tasks. To adapt to new tasks, we propose metamappings, higher-order tasks that transform basic task representations. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this framework across a wide variety of tasks and computational paradigms, ranging from regression to image classification and reinforcement learning. We compare to both human adaptability and language-based approaches to zero-shot learning. Across these domains, metamapping is successful, often achieving 80 to 90% performance, without any data, on a novel task, even when the new task directly contradicts prior experience. We further show that metamapping can not only generalize to new tasks via learned relationships, but can also generalize using novel relationships unseen during training. Finally, using metamapping as a starting point can dramatically accelerate later learning on a new task and reduce learning time and cumulative error substantially. Our results provide insight into a possible computational basis of intelligent adaptability and offer a possible framework for modeling cognitive flexibility and building more flexible artificial intelligence systems.
Bilateral diffuse congenital pulmonary arteriovenous malformation in a neonate

1例新生儿时期发现的双侧弥漫性先天性肺动静脉畸形（PAVM）患儿以难以纠正的发绀为主要临床表现，胸部CT平扫无异常，增强CT提示肺内血管异常，数字减影血管造影术明确诊断PAVM。提示对病因不明的难治性全身低氧血症新生儿，应进行影像学鉴别诊断。.
Citizenship, work, and labor policy preferences

Although labor policy shapes and molds working conditions and the treatment of workers, and non-citizen Latinos are disproportionately exposed to poor working conditions, research on the relationsh...
Classifying season long livestock grazing behavior with the use of a low-cost GPS and accelerometer

Abstract Remote tracking of livestock through the use of GPS technology has tremendous potential for the study of livestock use patterns on the landscape. The addition of high frequency accelerometers on GPS units has potential to give researchers and managers the capability of accurately partitioning GPS points into differing behaviors, providing further insight into livestock grazing selection, pasture use, and changes in forage preference through time. Most studies to date have examined the use of GPS collars with accelerometers on small pastures and over relatively short time periods; evaluation of this technology is needed on larger pastures over extended time periods. The objective of this study was to test the effectiveness of predicting season-long livestock behavior through the use of a low-cost, non-commercial, lab-constructed GPS collar outfitted with a high frequency 3-axis accelerometer. Collars were deployed on yearling steers continuously grazing native grassland pastures for 3 months. GPS devices were set to record a fix at 1-minute intervals. Accelerometers were programmed to record X, Y, and Z positions at 12 Hz (12 records per second). The accelerometer data was aggregated to 1 s intervals initially, and mean, minimum, maximum, and standard error of X, Y, and Z axes were calculated between the start and stop time of each GPS fix. Additional metrics were calculated from the GPS fix data to include rate of travel and stationary point identification to aid in classification. Direct visual observations of cattle wearing the GPS collars were recorded for numerous time periods each grazing season to provide data for classifying GPS data into graze and non-graze behaviors. Several classification algorithms were tested to assess misclassification rates and predict behavior of unobserved data. Overall misclassification rate was lowest for a random forest model (11.2%). Time spent grazing ranged from 8.67 to 10.49 h daily, and timing of grazing tended to be heaviest during morning and evening hours, both of which were expected from yearling steers grazing native pasture in the summer. These results show there is great promise in using accelerometer-equipped GPS collars to accurately identify livestock grazing locations, which could benefit researchers and land managers monitoring rangeland use.
Formulation and Validation of an Intuitive Quality Measure for Antipodal Grasp Pose Evaluation

This letter describes a novel grasp quality measure that we developed for evaluating antipodal grasp poses in real-time. To quantify the grasp quality, we compute a set of object movement features from analyzing the interaction between the gripper and the object's projections in the image space. The normalization and weights of the features are tuned to make practical and intuitive grasp quality predictions. To evaluate our grasp quality measure, we conducted a real robot grasping experiment with 1000 robot grasp trials on 10 household objects to examine the relationship between our grasp scores and the actual robot grasping results. The results show that the average grasp success rate increases, and the average amount of undesired object movement decreases as the calculated grasp score increases. We achieved a 100% grasp success rate from 100 grasps of the 10 objects when using our grasp quality measure in planning top quality grasps. In addition, we compared our quality measure with the Q measure and deep learning-based quality measures.
Optimization of camelina gum isolation from bran and protein extraction using decortication

Abstract Camelina (Camelina sativa L. Crantz) seeds, especially their bran, contain a significant amount of monosaccharides and polysaccharides (gums). A decortication procedure was used for improving gum isolation as well as increasing the efficiency of camelina protein isolation and protein quality. The effects of bran-to-water ratio (1:30, 1:40, and 1:50 g/mL), isolation temperature (25, 50, and 75 °C), isolation time (0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 h), and their interactions on gum yield, purity, and rheological properties were studied. Response surface methodology was used to determine the optimal condition for isolating gums from the bran of camelina seed. Gum yield, purity, and viscosity data fit the second-order model (R2 = 0.995, 0.877, and 0.804) better than the first-order model (R2 = 0.813, 0.568, and 0.636). Regression results from the second-order model showed that bran-to-water ratio, isolation temperature, and isolation time all had significant effect on gum yield, purity, and viscosity. The optimal gum isolation condition was found to be: bran-to-water ratio: 1:39 g/mL; isolation temperature: 35 °C; and isolation time: 1.5 h. Under these conditions, gum yield, purity, and viscosity were 19.08% (w/w), 56.24% (w/w), and 62.80 Pa·s, respectively. The maximum predicted value of all three responses was 0.839. The yield and quality of protein extracted from decorticated endosperm were significantly improved over those from whole seed meal.
A Review of Inside the Criminal Mind

This book presents an interesting approach to working with criminals but unfortunately loses much by severe overstatement and lack of any precise delineation of the population being described. It does give a description of the thinking patterns of many criminals and it does present a cognitive type of therapy which, however, it does not acknowledge as such. The author's treatment, as well as that of Yochelson with whom he had previously collaborated, involves direct forceful confrontation to the criminal of his thinking patterns, yet at the same time maintains polite respect for him. The book is rich in pertinent clinical material, and presents an approach that encourages the criminal to take responsibility for his actions without blaming others for his behavior. As such, it is a meaningful contribution.
A Comparison of the Capability of Sensitivity Level 3 and Sensitivity Level 4 Fluorescent Penetrants to Detect Fatigue Cracks in Aluminum

Historically both sensitivity level 3 and sensitivity level 4 fluorescent penetrants have been used to perform NASA Standard Level inspections of aerospace hardware. In April 2008, NASA-STD-5009 established a requirement that only sensitivity level 4 penetrants were acceptable for inspections of NASA hardware. Having NASA contractors change existing processes or perform demonstration tests to certify sensitivity level 3 penetrants posed a potentially huge cost to the Agency. This study was conducted to directly compare the probability of detection sensitivity level 3 and level 4 penetrants using both Method A and Method D inspection processes. The study results strongly support the conclusion that sensitivity level 3 penetrants are acceptable for NASA Standard Level inspections
Cytochrome c Oxidase: One Enzyme, Two Mechanisms?

A research article in this week's issue by [ Yoshikawa et al ][1]. reports the structure of cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme critical for a large fraction of aerobic respiration. In his commentary, Gennis explains how this structure relates to two previously published structures of the same enzyme and analyzes the controversial proton-pumping mechanism that the authors propose on the basis of their structure. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/280/5370/1723
From Adolescent "Serious Offender" to Adult Felon: A Predictive Study of Offense Progression.

Abstract This study of 248 adolescents who had been in a Serious Offender Program in the Arkansas Division of Youth Serivces (DYS) was designed to examine the relative predictiveness of (a) a common risk assessment tool, (b) a battery of psychological tests, and (c) a combination of demographic and theoretical factors. The criterion outcome or measure of recidivism was entry into the Arkansas correctional system for adults within a two-year follow-up period. Logistic regression procedures indicate that the following are significant predictors (in order of predictiveness): prior commitments to DYS, male, gang members, carry weapons, peers present during committing of-fense(s), age of first offense, age first used illicit drugs, persons of color, those who had been neglected or abused, youth from larger families, higher scores on the chemical abuse scale, higer scores on alienation, mother used illicit drugs, those who scored high on social maladjustment, more siblings, youth from families where one biologi...
The Repo Man Did What? A Secured Creditor's Article 9 Right to Repossess Collateral and When Lenders Have Liability for Repossessions Gone Awry

This Article observes that there is not a clear consensus among courts in how to describe the scope and nature of a breach of the peace when a lender elects self-help repossession and things go awry. That does not mean that courts have not deduced some guideposts that parties can use in deciding whether to proceed with self-help repossession. Relevant considerations for the reasonableness of the repossession arguably fall into several components: “(1) where the repossession took place, (2) whether the debtor consented to the repossession, (3) the reaction of third parties, (4) what premises were entered into in order to repossess the collateral, and (5) whether the lender deceived the debtor.” Yet, there is no firm consensus on these core considerations or how they might be applied or weighed. Due to the factual nature of the inquiry, courts (and lenders) are seemingly left with making decisions as to matters involving repossessions, breach of the peace and remedies in general on a case by case basis. This lack of consensus in approaching self-help repossessions undermines uniformity, which ultimately underscores the policy of the Code and subjects both lenders and borrows to unpredictable outcomes. This Article argues that while amendment of Article 9 is not always needed or desired to achieve an adequate level of uniformity in UCC cases, this objective can be satisfied by employing an approach to breach of peace that recognizes a limited right of self-help that a lender can only exercise when it can ensure that no violence will occur or is likely to occur as a result of the repossession. Courts should not overextend self-help repossession under the mistaken overreliance on the lender’s property interest where the lender can use the judicial repossession mechanism of section 9-609 in all cases. That is, a lender is not always entitled to self-help repossession upon default.
Modelling canopy CO2 fluxes: are ‘big‐leaf’ simplifications justified?

1 The ‘big-leaf’ approach to calculating the carbon balance of plant canopies is evaluated for inclusion in the ETEMA model framework. This approach assumes that canopy carbon fluxes have the same relative responses to the environment as any single leaf, and that the scaling from leaf to canopy is therefore linear. 2 A series of model simulations was performed with two models of leaf photosynthesis, three distributions of canopy nitrogen, and two levels of canopy radiation detail. Leaf- and canopy-level responses to light and nitrogen, both as instantaneous rates and daily integrals, are presented. 3 Observed leaf nitrogen contents of unshaded leaves are over 40% lower than the big-leaf approach requires. Scaling from these leaves to the canopy using the big-leaf approach may underestimate canopy photosynthesis by ~20%. A leaf photosynthesis model that treats within-leaf light extinction displays characteristics that contradict the big-leaf theory. Observed distributions of canopy nitrogen are closer to those required to optimize this model than the homogeneous model used in the big-leaf approach. 4 It is theoretically consistent to use the big-leaf approach with the homogeneous photosynthesis model to estimate canopy carbon fluxes if canopy nitrogen and leaf area are known and if the distribution of nitrogen is assumed optimal. However, real nitrogen profiles are not optimal for this photosynthesis model, and caution is necessary in using the big-leaf approach to scale satellite estimates of leaf physiology to canopies. Accurate prediction of canopy carbon fluxes requires canopy nitrogen, leaf area, declining nitrogen with canopy depth, the heterogeneous model of leaf photosynthesis and the separation of sunlit and shaded leaves. The exact nitrogen profile is not critical, but realistic distributions can be predicted using a simple model of canopy nitrogen allocation.
A Social Development Model of Serious Delinquency: Examining Gender Differences

This study offers a critical review and analysis of the Social Development Model (SDM) and social control theory in delinquency. In particular, this study examines one major aspect of the SDM, social control theory, through an empirical examination of a large (self-report) data set. Results of this study show that attachment and commitment to parents, school, and peers is associated with delinquency for both boys and girls. In terms of gender, parental attachment and commitment play a stronger role in female delinquency, while alienation plays a stronger role in male delinquency.
A remark on Maxwell's conjecture for planar charges

In this article, we will approximate an upper bound for the number of critical points of a potential field produced by co-planar point charges. This is a simplified form of a problem posed by Maxwell [J.C. Maxwell, A Treatise on Electricity and Magnetism, Vol. 1 (Republication of the 3rd revised edition), Dover Publications, Inc., New York, 1954.], who conjectured an upper bound on the number of critical points of spatial configurations of the point charges. Using algebraic techniques, we will give an upper bound for planar charges that is sharper than the bound given in [A. Gabrielov, D. Novikov, and B. Shapiro, Mystery of point charges. Proc. Lond. Math. Soc. (3) 95(2) (2007), pp. 443–472.], but in a much more restricted case.
Performance and Accountability: The Challenge of Government by Proxy for Public Administration:

Conventional approaches to public administration are subtly being undermined by the steady expansion of "government by proxy": the provision of government goods and services through proxies such as...
Composition of practice: influence on the retention of motor skills.

Abstract The purpose of these experiments was to investigate further the variable practice effect found by Shea and Kohl (1990). Experiment 1 was an initial attempt to determine the locus of the retention benefits demonstrated by subjects provided variable practice experiences. All groups received 20 acquisition blocks consisting of five test trials per block at a target of 150 N. The interval between test trials was either unfilled or filled, with additional trials consisting of the same target force, variable target forces, or practice on an unrelated motor task. The results indicated retention was not incremented (relative to an unfilled interval) by requiring subjects to perform an unrelated motor task in the intertest–trial interval. However, when the intertest–trial interval was filled with practice on related motor tasks, retention was significantly improved. Experiment 2 assessed the impact of increasing the number of related motor tasks interpolated between test trials. The results indicated fill...
Visual Imagery Classification Using Shapelets of EEG Signals

The goal of this paper is to reconstruct three primitive shapes — rectangular cube, cone and cylinder — by analyzing electrical signals which are emitted by the brain. Three participants are asked to visualize these shapes. During visualization, a 14-channel neuroheadset is used to record electroencephalogram (EEG) signals along the scalp. The EEG recordings are then averaged to increase the signal to noise ratio which is referred to as an event related potential (ERP). Every possible subsequence of each ERP signal is analyzed in an attempt to determine a time series which is maximally representative of a particular class. These time series are referred to as shapelets and form the basis of our classification scheme. After implementing a voting technique for classification, an average classification accuracy of 60% is achieved. Compared to naive classification rate of 33%, we determine that the shapelets are in fact capturing features that are unique in the ERP representation of a unique class.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Assessing the Performance of a Magnetostrictive-Actuated Tool Holder to Achieve Axial Modulations with Application to Dry Deep Hole Drilling☆

Abstract For machining operations such as drilling and tapping, the challenge of achieving dry machining is difficult due to the significant role that cutting fluid plays in lubrication and chip removal. A new approach for dry deep hole drilling of aluminum is presented. This new method utilizes a magnetostrictively actuated tool holder to modulate the axial position of a drill tip and thus vary the chip size. Under appropriate modulation conditions, small chips are produced that are relatively easy to evacuate through the drill flutes. The development of the magnetostrictive tool holder system is described and its performance is evaluated. The results of drilling tests performed with the magnetostrictive tool holder system are reported, and the new tool holder is demonstrated to offer promise as an alternative to drilling with a cutting fluid.
Regulation of sucrase-isomaltase gene expression in human intestinal epithelial cells by inflammatory cytokines.

Using metabolic labeling techniques in human intestinal epithelial cell lines in tissue culture and in situ hybridization techniques in normal and inflamed (Crohn's) intestine, recent studies have shown that there is synthesis of acute phase proteins in enterocytes. Moreover, these studies have shown that acute phase protein biosynthesis in enterocytes is regulated by inflammatory cytokines in a manner characteristic of the physiologic acute phase response. In the course of these studies it was noticed that one inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6 (IL-6), mediated selective down-regulation of the enterocyte-specific, differentiation-dependent integral membrane protein sucrase-isomaltase (SI) in the Caco2 intestinal epithelial cell line. In the current study we examined the effect of several other inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interferon γ (IFNγ) on synthesis of SI in Caco2 cells, examined the possibility that inflammatory cytokines affect the synthesis of other enterocyte integral membrane proteins using lactase as a prototype, and examined the possibility that SI gene expression was down-regulated in villous enterocytes in vivo during the local inflammatory response of Crohn's disease. The results show that IL-6 and IFNγ each mediate a decrease and TNFα mediates an increase in synthesis of SI in Caco2 cells. The magnitude of down-regulation by IL-6 and IFNγ is significantly greater than the up-regulation by TNFα. IL-1β has no effect on synthesis of SI. Synthesis of lactase is not affected by any of the cytokines. There is a marked specific decrease in SI gene expression in villous enterocytes in acutely inflamed Crohn's ileum as compared to adjacent uninflamed ileum and normal ileum. Taken together, these data show that inflammatory cytokines have specific and selective effects on the expression of the brush border hydrolase SI in tissue culture and in vivo and provide evidence for a previously unrecognized mechanism for disaccharidase deficiency in intestinal inflammation.
Laminar forced convection inside ducts with periodic variation of inlet temperature

Abstract Laminar forced convection with periodic variations of inlet temperature is studied in both parallel-plate channels and circular ducts. The generalized integral transform technique is employed to reduce the original problem to a system of linear first-order differential equations, which is then solved utilizing the related complex matrix eigenvalue problem. Amplitudes and phase lags with respect to the inlet condition are determined for fluid bulk temperature and wall heat flux, and the results are presented in graphical form as a function of the dimensionless axial distance along the channels for different values of the dimensionless frequency of inlet oscillations.
Simultaneous coinfection by multiple strains during Burkholderia cepacia complex infection in cystic fibrosis

Much remains unknown about the natural history of respiratory tract infection by Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF). Specifically, it is not clear whether infected CF patients typically harbor a single Bcc strain or multiple strains that may be phenotypically indistinguishable. We genotyped 912 Bcc isolates recovered from CF sputum culture from in excess of 100 patients to demonstrate that chronic infection generally involves a single strain. Transient coinfection with more than 1 strain occurs infrequently and may be more common early in the course of Bcc infection.
Contact size effects on the van der Pauw method for resistivity and Hall coefficient measurement

Abstract Effects on van der Pauw's resistivity and Hall coefficient measurement due to finite size contacts with selected shapes on a square sample were investigated. For the sheet resistivity measurement, correction factors for the apparent measured values at zero magnetic field were determined from both electrolytic tank experiments and computerized over-relaxation calculations. For the Hall coefficient, correction factors for the effect of voltage shorting due to current electrodes and for the effect of current shorting due to Hall electrodes were calculated (by use of a fast-convergent over-relaxation technique) through a range of Hall angle from tan θ = 0·1–0·5. The current shorting contribution to the correction factor at zero magnetic field was also closely estimated by use of an electrolytic tank. In the symmetrical structures studied the Hall errors introduced by the voltage and current electrodes were approximately equal. The study shows that contacts of appreciable size relative to that of the sample can be a good approximation to van der Pauw's infinitesimal contact. Thus, one can utilize the simplicity and other advantages of finite size ohmic contacts for these measurements in normal semiconductor materials evaulation and still obtain precise data by using the appropriate correction factors determined in this paper.
Expression of tung tree diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 in E. coli.

Background: Diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs) catalyze the final and rate-limiting step of triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthesis in eukaryotic organisms. Database search has identified at least 59 DGAT1 sequences from 48 organisms, but the expression of any DGAT1 as a full-length protein in E. coli had not been reported because DGAT1s are integral membrane proteins and difficult to express and purify. The objective of this study was to establish a procedure for expressing full-length DGAT1 in E. coli. Results: An expression plasmid containing the open reading frame for tung tree (Vernicia fordii) DGAT1 fused to maltose binding protein and poly-histidine affinity tags was constructed and expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3). Immunoblotting showed that the recombinant DGAT1 (rDGAT1) was expressed, but mostly targeted to the membranes and insoluble fractions. Extensive degradation also occurred. Nonetheless, the fusion protein was partially purified from the soluble fraction by Ni-NTA and amylose resin affinity chromatography. Multiple proteins co-purified with DGAT1 fusion protein. These fractions appeared yellow in color and contained fatty acids. The rDGAT1 was solubilized from the insoluble fraction by seven detergents and urea, with SDS and Triton X-100 being the most effective detergents. The solubilized rDGAT1 was partially purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. PreScission protease digestion confirmed the identity of rDGAT1 and showed extensive precipitation following NiNTA affinity purification. Conclusions: This study reports the first procedure for expressing full-length DGAT1 from any species using a bacterial expression system. The results suggest that recombinant DGAT1 is degraded extensively from the carboxyl terminus and associated with other proteins, lipids, and membranes.
The transformed (initiated) human cell phenotype: study of cultured skin fibroblasts from individuals predisposed to cancer.

Abstract The present study demonstrated the expression of abnormal phenotypes (biomarkers) in cultured skin fibroblasts from hereditary adenomatosis of the colon and rectum (ACR) and neurofibromatosis (NF) patients. These biomarkers occur systematically and they include cytoskeletal structures, cytotoxicity and sensitivity to transformation by oncogenic agents, expression of transformation-associated antigen, and effects by a tumor promoter. Collectively, these biomarkers define the transformed (initiated) human cell phenotype, as determined through use of cultured skin fibroblasts that were obtained from individuals at risk of cancer. In conjunction with clinical signs, these biomarkers can be used to determine gene expression and gene penetrance. Extension of these studies in the form of a multiparameter matrix may permit the early detection of cancer.
Effects of Computer Support On Group Decisions

While the use of teamwork and group decision-making increases in organiza tions, managers find meetings increasingly inconvenient. Group decision support systems (GDSS) are computer programs designed to improve processes, out comes, and speed of group decisions. The purpose of this field experiment, using restaurant managers as subjects, was to determine if GDSS could help managers make decisions more quickly and help them produce more ideas and information. The research involved two face-to-face meetings and two GDSS meetings. Results indicated no significant difference in decision time orparticipation quantity. However, when those two variables were combined into an efficiency index, the face-to-face decision discussions were found to be more efficient than the GDSS discussions. Future research should include more field experiments to reveal which decision types and group types can be assisted by GDSS.
Distinguishing between phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated peptides with ion mobility-mass spectrometry.

Mass spectrometry has become an indispensable tool in identifying post-translationally modified proteins, but multiple peptide mass-mapping/peptide-sequencing experiments are required to answer questions involving the site and type of modification present. Here, we apply ion mobility−mass spectrometry (IM−MS), a high-throughput analysis method having high selectivity and sensitivity, to the challenge of identifying phosphorylated peptides. Ion mobility separation is based on the collision cross-section of the ion. Phosphorylation can result in a conformational change in gas-phase peptide ions, which can be detected by IM. To demonstrate this point, a peptide mixture containing a variety of peptide sequences is examined with IM−MS and molecular dynamics calculations. During the course of these studies, two classes of phosphopeptide were identified: (i) phosphorylated peptide ions that have conformers that differ from the nonphosphorylated ion and (ii) phosphorylated peptide ions that have conformations th...
Segmentation of brain magnetic resonance images for measurement of gray matter atrophy in multiple sclerosis patients

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects both white matter and gray matter (GM). Measurement of GM volumes is a particularly useful method to estimate the total extent of GM tissue damage because it can be done with conventional magnetic resonance images (MRI). Many algorithms exist for segmentation of GM, but none were specifically designed to handle issues associated with MS, such as atrophy and the effects that MS lesions may have on the classification of GM. A new GM segmentation algorithm has been developed specifically for calculation of GM volumes in MS patients. The new algorithm uses a combination of intensity, anatomical, and morphological probability maps. Several validation tests were performed to evaluate the algorithm in terms of accuracy, reproducibility, and sensitivity to MS lesions. The accuracy tests resulted in error rates of 1.2% and 3.1% for comparisons to BrainWeb and manual tracings, respectively. Similarity indices indicated excellent agreement with the BrainWeb segmentation (0.858–0.975, for various levels of noise and rf inhomogeneity). The scan-rescan reproducibility test resulted in a mean coefficient of variation of 1.1% for GM fraction. Tests of the effects of varying the size of MS lesions revealed a moderate and consistent dependence of GM volumes on T2 lesion volume, which suggests that GM volumes should be corrected for T2 lesion volumes using a simple scale factor in order to eliminate this technical artifact. The new segmentation algorithm can be used for improved measurement of GM volumes in MS patients, and is particularly applicable to retrospective datasets.
Apatite nano-crystalline surface modification of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) sintered microsphere scaffolds for bone tissue engineering: implications for protein adsorption

A number of bone tissue engineering approaches are aimed at (i) increasing the osteconductivity and osteoinductivity of matrices, and (ii) incorporating bioactive molecules within the scaffolds. In this study we examined the growth of a nano-crystalline mineral layer on poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLAGA) sintered microsphere scaffolds for tissue engineering. In addition, the influence of the mineral precipitate layer on protein adsorption on the scaffolds was studied. Scaffolds were mineralized by incubation in simulated body fluid (SBF). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that mineralized scaffolds possess a rough surface with a plate-like nanostructure covering the surface of microspheres. The results of protein adsorption and release studies showed that while the protein release pattern was similar for PLAGA and mineralized PLAGA scaffolds, precipitation of the mineral layer on PLAGA led to enhanced protein adsorption and slower protein release. Mineralization of tissue-engineered surfaces provides a method for both imparting bioactivity and controlling levels of protein adsorption and release.
Decontamination of Campylobacter jejuni on chicken drumsticks using chemicals and radiation.

A trial was conducted to compare the efficacy of four disinfectants and radiation to reduce the level of C. jejuni contamination on poultry meat. Two levels of each treatment were applied to chicken drumsticks inoculated with a known concentration of a strain of Campylobacter jejuni, biotype 1, isolated from a human patient with diarrhea. Radiation using a cobalt-60 source at a level of 0.5 KGy effected a 99% surface reduction in C. jejuni. With a mean initial surface contamination level of 1.1 × 103 Colony Forming Units/cm2, 1 KGy completely eliminated C. jejuni. Glutaraldehyde at 0.5% concentration for 30 minutes had an efficacy similar to the lower dose of radiation. Chlorine showed a negligible effect on C. jejuni. Succinic acid and Poly (hexamethylenebiguanide hydrochloride) were statistically similar in their effectiveness, ranking between glutaraldehyde and chlorine. These results strongly indicate that, of the alternatives tested, low-dose radiation is the method of choice for reducing Campylobacter contamination of poultry products.
Reduced Sleep Spindles and Spindle Coherence in Schizophrenia: Mechanisms of Impaired Memory Consolidation?

Background Sleep spindles are thought to induce synaptic changes and thereby contribute to memory consolidation during sleep. Patients with schizophrenia show dramatic reductions of both spindles and sleep-dependent memory consolidation, which may be causally related. Methods To examine the relations of sleep spindle activity to sleep-dependent consolidation of motor procedural memory, 21 chronic, medicated schizophrenia outpatients and 17 healthy volunteers underwent polysomnography on two consecutive nights. On the second night, participants were trained on the finger-tapping motor sequence task (MST) at bedtime and tested the following morning. The number, density, frequency, duration, amplitude, spectral content, and coherence of stage 2 sleep spindles were compared between groups and examined in relation to overnight changes in MST performance. Results Patients failed to show overnight improvement on the MST and differed significantly from control participants who did improve. Patients also exhibited marked reductions in the density (reduced 38% relative to control participants), number (reduced 36%), and coherence (reduced 19%) of sleep spindles but showed no abnormalities in the morphology of individual spindles or of sleep architecture. In patients, reduced spindle number and density predicted less overnight improvement on the MST. In addition, reduced amplitude and sigma power of individual spindles correlated with greater severity of positive symptoms. Conclusions The observed sleep spindle abnormalities implicate thalamocortical network dysfunction in schizophrenia. In addition, the findings suggest that abnormal spindle generation impairs sleep-dependent memory consolidation in schizophrenia, contributes to positive symptoms, and is a promising novel target for the treatment of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
Comments on "Couple-mode analysis for nonuniform crossed-field drift beams"

Howes [l] has described the effects of the encapsulation on Gunn device performance, and has derived theoretical tuning characteristics from an analysis of the microwave circuit. We have carried out similar studies, and obtained results that differ in certain respects from those of Howes. Our results will be briefly summarized here, with comments on the reasons for the apparent discrepancies. Like Howes, we have derived the input impedance of the packaged Gunn device, although we have employed the results of the detailed measurements on the S4 microwave package that are reported upon elsewhere [2]. We find three resonances that in order of increasing frequency are series, parallel, and series. The input impedance of the package may now be equated to the complex conjugate of the input reactance of the waveguide resonator combined with the load resistance. It is important to decide whether the load is in series or in parallel with the resonator, since close to the package resonances the solutions for the waveguide cavity length are entirely different-the resonance condition may be met either with a low reactance in series with a resistance, or by a high reactance in parallel with a resistance. It is on this point that our studies differ from those of Howes. The analysis given by Howes implies a load resistance in series with the resonator. R‘e suggest that this is inconsistent with his microwave circuit, which is more appropriately represented by the parallel load configuration. This approach is supported by the work
Enzymatic synthesis of esters using an immobilized lipase.

Various esters were synthesized in nearly anhydrous hexane from alcohols and carboxylic acids using a lipase from Candida cylindracea. The enzyme was immobilized on a nylon support and protein loadings as high as 10 mg/g were obtained. The activity of the immobilized enzyme was maximum in a range of temperatures from 25 to 37°C. Ethylpropionate was formed from ethanol and propionic acid at a rate of 0.017 mol/h g immobilized protein. Different esters were formed at comparable rates and equilibrium conversions could generally be approached in less than 10 h in a batch reaction system. The immobilized lipase catalyst was quite stable and retained about one third of the initial activity after repeated experiments during the course of 72 days. A stirred tank continuous flow reactor was used successfully for the continuous production of esters.
The Spectrum of Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) in Childhood

The evaluation of inflammatory central nervous system disorders in childhood with predominant involvement of the optic nerves and spinal cord has been greatly enhanced over the last decade with identification of a group of disorders unified by the detection of neuromyelitis optica (NMO)-IgG, an antibody targeting the central nervous system-predominant water channel aquaporin-4. Clinical syndromes are predominated by the relapsing form of NMO but also include encephalopathic variants that can mimic acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Maintenance immunotherapy is used to prevent relapses in NMO-IgG-seropositive patients. In contrast, NMO-IgG-seronegative children with NMO more commonly have a monophasic course (simultaneous occurrence of optic neuritis and transverse myelitis) and do not require remission-maintaining immunotherapy, but close surveillance is advised. Current clinical, pathological, and pathogenetic knowledge is reviewed with a focus on clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, serological investigations, and treatment of children with disorders within the spectrum of central nervous system aquaporin-4 autoimmunity.
Pseudoseizures, Families, and Unspeakable Dilemmas

Fourteen videotaped family interviews of patients with diagnosed pseudoseizures were studied to determine the relationship of the symptoms to unspeakable dilemmas as forced choices imposed by family or social circumstances under conditions that also require the ensuing distress to be hidden. An unspeakable dilemma was evident in 13 of 14 interviews, with the patient the most silent family member in 13 interviews. In six cases, there was revealed a realistic threat of physical or sexual assault to a person involved in the problem, although not always the patient. These findings point to an important role for family therapy skills in the evaluation and treatment of pseudoseizures.
Transitions between strongly correlated and random steady-states for catalytic CO-oxidation on surfaces at high-pressure

We explore simple lattice-gas reaction models for CO-oxidation on 1D and 2D periodic arrays of surface adsorption sites with CO adsorption and desorption, dissociative O2 adsorption and recombinative desorption (at low rate), and CO + O reaction to form CO2. Adspecies interactions are neglected, and adspecies diffusion is effectively absent. The models are motivated by studies of CO-oxidation on RuO2(110) at high-pressures. Despite the lack of adspecies interactions, negligible adspecies diffusion results in kinetically induced spatial correlations. A transition occurs from a random primarily CO-populated steady-state at high CO-partial pressure, pCO, to a strongly correlated near-O-covered steady-state for low pCO as noted by Matera et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 134, 064713 (2011)]. In addition, we identify a second transition to a random near-O-covered steady-state at very low pCO. Furthermore, we identify and analyze the slow “diffusive dynamics” for very low pCO and provide a detailed characterization of the crossover to the strongly correlated O-covered steady-state as well as of the spatial correlations in that state.
High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine monophosphate diglyceride, an anti-HIV glycerophospholipid

Abstract A reversed-phase chromatographic method is described for the analysis of an experimental anti-AIDS drug 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine monophosphate diglyceride (AZT-MP-DG) [J.M. Steim et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 171 , 458–464 (1990)] [1], a phosphatidic acid derivative of AZT. Analytical conditions were based upon conventional separations of glycerophospholipid species. Where AZT-MP-DG was monitored by UV absorption, there were two wavelength maxima. The response was linear in the concentration range used in this study. The peak was characterized by absorbance ratios with a rapid scanning UV detector.
Infusion of imaging and therapeutic molecules into the plant virus-based carrier cowpea mosaic virus: Cargo-loading and delivery

This work is focused on the development of a plant virus-based carrier system for cargo delivery, specifically 30nm-sized cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV). Whereas previous reports described the engineering of CPMV through genetic or chemical modification, we report a non-covalent infusion technique that facilitates efficient cargo loading. Infusion and retention of 130-155 fluorescent dye molecules per CPMV using DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride), propidium iodide (3,8-diamino-5-[3-(diethylmethylammonio)propyl]-6-phenylphenanthridinium diiodide), and acridine orange (3,6-bis(dimethylamino)acridinium chloride), as well as 140 copies of therapeutic payload proflavine (PF, acridine-3,6-diamine hydrochloride), is reported. Loading is achieved through interaction of the cargo with the CPMV's encapsidated RNA molecules. The loading mechanism is specific; empty RNA-free eCPMV nanoparticles could not be loaded. Cargo-infused CPMV nanoparticles remain chemically active, and surface lysine residues were covalent modified with dyes leading to the development of dual-functional CPMV carrier systems. We demonstrate cargo-delivery to a panel of cancer cells (cervical, breast, and colon): CPMV nanoparticles enter cells via the surface marker vimentin, the nanoparticles target the endolysosome, where the carrier is degraded and the cargo is released allowing imaging and/or cell killing. In conclusion, we demonstrate cargo-infusion and delivery to cells; the methods discussed provide a useful means for functionalization of CPMV toward its application as drug and/or contrast agent delivery vehicle.
N-substituted derivatives of polyaniline

Fully N-methylated polyaniline was obtained analytically pure by the oxidative polymerization of C6H5N (CH3) (H) with (NH4)2S2O8 in 1.0M aqueous HCl. The resulting black-green polymer (σ ∼10−4 s/cm) was shown to have a similar backbone structure to parent polyaniline, and upon heating, lost HCl and H2O, yielding a black-brown solid, (σ < 10−8 s/cm) containing ∼14% oxidized groups. “Pseudo-protonic” acid doping of “emeraldine” base with neat (CH3)2SO4 yielded polymers whose extent of doping could be monitored continuously. The ∼50% methylated “emeraldine” base (σ = ∼10−2 s/cm) had a χPauli approximately half that of 50% proton doped “emeraldine” base, consistent with the symmetrically effect of the methyl groups.