cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sleep apnea in hemodialysis patients: Risk factors and effect on survival

UNLABELLED Sleep disorders are common in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Using a simple questionnaire, we estimate the probability of sleep apnea in ESRD patients, determine the factors associated with a higher probability of sleep apnea, and determine the association between the probability of sleep apnea and cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS prevalent hemodialysis patients (n=270) in 7 urban outpatient hemodialysis units. PREDICTOR Probability of sleep apnea as quantified by the Flemons questionnaire. OUTCOMES AND MEASUREMENTS Clinical, demographic, and dialysis-related characteristics were obtained at baseline. Total and cardiovascular mortality was ascertained after a median follow-up of 34 months. The probability of sleep apnea was low in 79 (29%) patients, moderate in 116 (43%) patients, and high in 75 (28%) patients. Male gender (odds ratio [OR] 5.13, p 30, OR 7.58, p<0.01), and interdialytic weight gain (OR 1.72/kg change, p<0.004) were independently associated with a high probability of sleep apnea. A high probability of sleep apnea at baseline did not predict total (hazard ratio [HR] 0.81, p=NS) or cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.9, p=NS). The Flemons questionnaire is validated in the general population, but has not been tested specifically in hemodialysis patients. The study may not be adequately powered to detect a difference in mortality. A high proportion of hemodialysis patients are likely to have sleep apnea; a simple bedside questionnaire can be used for screening to identify these patients. Excessive interdialytic weight gain is a potentially modifiable factor that increases the likelihood of sleep apnea. Despite the presence of a strong association between sleep apnea and mortality in the general population, a similar association could not be demonstrated in ESRD patients with a high prevalence of this condition.
The lichen substances of the genus Evernia

Abstract The small, morphologically conservative genus Evernia shows a simple pattern of chemical variation. Contrary to some recent reports, usnic acid occurs in most specimens of Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. and the microchemical identifications of this constituent were confirmed by the isolation of (+ )-usnic acid from a large sample of the lichen. It was possible to identify the lichen substances in most of the other species of Evernia by using fragments of herbarium specimens for microanalyses.
Modeling trust in collaborative information systems

Collaborative systems available on the Web allow millions of users to share information through a growing collection of tools and platforms such as wikis, blogs and shared forums. All of these systems contain information and resources with different degrees of sensitivity. However, the open nature of such infrastructures makes it difficult for users to determine the reliability of the available information and trustworthiness of information providers. Hence, integrating trust management systems to open collaborative systems can play a crucial role in the growth and popularity of open information repositories. In this paper, we present a trust model for collaborative systems, namely for platforms based on Wiki technology. This model, based on hidden Markov models, estimates the reputation of the contributors and the reliability of the content dynamically. The focus of this paper is on reputation estimation. Evaluation results based on a subset of Wikipedia shows that the model can effectively be used for identifying vandals, and users with high quality contributions.
TheEnv-like Open Reading Frame of the Baculovirus-Integrated Retrotransposon TED Encodes a Retrovirus-like Envelope Protein

Abstract TED is a 7.5-kbp member of the gypsy family of retrotransposons that was first identified by its integration within the baculovirus DNA genome. This lepidopteran (moth) transposon contains three retrovirus-like genes, including functional gag and pol that yield reverse transcriptase-containing virus-like particles. To identify and characterize the product(s) of the third env -like open reading frame, TED ORF3 was expressed in homologous lepidopteran cells by using a baculovirus vector, vENV. Immunoblots and immunoprecipitations with antiserum raised against a bacterial ORF3-fusion protein detected two ORF3-encoded proteins, p68 env and gp75 env . On the basis of selective incorporation of [ 3 H]mannose and inhibition of modification by tunicamycin which blocks N-linked glycosylation, gp75 env is a glycoprotein derived from core precursor p68 env . As predicted by the presence of a transmembrane domain near the carboxyl terminus, both p68 env and gp75 env were associated with heavy membranes of vENV-infected cells. Thus, TED ORF3 encodes a membrane glycoprotein with properties characteristic of retroviral env proteins. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that TED is an invertebrate retrovirus. Moreover, TED integration within the baculovirus genome provides an example of retroelement-mediated acquisition of host genes that may contribute to virus evolution.
The role of factor Xa inhibitors in venous thromboembolism treatment

Three factor Xa inhibitors have been studied in the treatment of venous thromboembolism, both for acute therapy and as extended therapy to prevent recurrent events. Rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban have all proven to be effective in Phase III clinical trials for this indication when compared to current standard of therapy with similar or less bleeding. Nevertheless, the agents all offer different pharmacological profiles, which have an impact on patient selection and potential advantages in clinical practice.
Application and analysis of reduced state techniques on hybrid CPM demodulation

Hybrid Continuous Phase Modulation (HCPM) is a variant of Continuous Phase Modulation that is optimized for low-power, wireless communications applications. Hybrid CPM uses either additional Amplitude or Phase pulses to create a higher order modulation without the increase in trellis complexity that normally accompanies higher order CPM modulation schemes. For standard CPM, an increase in the modulation order results in the increase of the symbol alphabet and a corresponding increase in the transmit bandwidth and exponential increase in the complexity of the decoder trellis structure. Hybrid CPM however achieves higher order modulation by adding parallel branches to the base CPM trellis structure thus reducing the receiver complexity. The novelty of this paper is the application of the techniques devised to reduce the demodulator complexity of standard modulation types like PSK and CPM and apply them to Hybrid CPM using a method that would not result in the loss of performance or require any sort of compromise. As an example, this paper provides an analysis of the power and spectral efficiency of the two hybrid CPM waveforms and gives specific examples of the application of reduced state techniques. Both set-partitioning and reduced-state sequence estimation with decision feedback techniques are analyzed and compared. The results will demonstrate that reduced-state sequence estimation can be coupled with Hybrid CPM demodulation without any loss in bit error rate performance.
Meiotic instability of common wheat strains derived from Triticum timopheevi Zhuk. crosses

Meiotic instability was studied in four strains of common wheat derived from crosses involving a Triticum timopheevi derivative, C.I. 13093, and the common wheat varieties Cheyenne and Minturki. A wide range in the percentage of normal cells at six stages of meiosis, MI, AI, dyad, MII, AII, and quartet, was found. The date of sporocyte sampling influenced meiotic irregularities at six stages of meiosis. Florets from the same spikes differed in the percentage of normal cells at all the meiotic stages except MII. Plants within strains differed significantly at the MI and quartet stages only. Except at AI stage, spikes collected on the same day did not differ significantly. Apparently, environment during premeiotic phase determined the extent and the pattern of meiotic instability in spikes of these strains. Chromosome counts were taken on 213 of the highly aberrant PMC at MI. Among these, 44 different chromosome numbers ranging from 4 to 76 per cell were recorded. Cells with deviating numbers from 22 to 28 were the most frequent (30.52 percent). Chromosome numbers 12, 17, 21, 22, 24, 26 and 28 occurred in 43.9 percent of the aberrant PMC, and the number of cells with these chromosome numbers ranged from 9 to 15. The metaphase 1 chromosome pairing in deviating PMC was not related to the number of chromosomes in these PMC. Apparently, deviating PMC had a random assortment of chromosomes. In aberrant PMC and others with apparently normal chromosome numbers (but irregular meiosis) homeologous chromosomes may pair. Functional gametes from such cells may perpetuate meiotic instability that had persisted in these three advanced generation common wheat strains of hybrid origin.
Experiments in a Subscale Pilot Gust Tunnel

Introduction T development of a time dependent flow test facility has been attempted by a variety of methods. Mitchell employed a technique in which the model was moved in relation to the flow, passing orthogonally through an open jet wind tunnel. Oilman and Bennett employed a tunnel in which the gusts were produced by a set of airfoils mounted in a biplane arrangement on the opposite walls of a wind tunnel. As these airfoils were oscillated in a sinusoidal fashion, they induced an oscillating flow between them. Other methods include employing moving sinusoidal waves in the test section walls, oscillating the inlet section of an open circuit tunnel, an oscillating array of airfoils, and circulation control on a set of elliptical airfoils. The method which is probably the closest to that of the present investigation is due to Simmons and Platzer, who employed a pair of jet flaps. Each of the jet flaps is a fluidically oscillating jet driven by a pair of control jets, one on either side. As a consequence of an effort to develop fluidically controlled time dependent jets for application to several diverse problems,' a new technique was proposed for the construction of a high frequency gust tunnel. The method of operation of the fluidic nozzle is as follows: the flow passes through the throat of the jet nozzle (Fig. 1) and into a rapid expansion region. Because of the relative proximity of the walls, the flow must attach to one side of the expanded region or the other. This bistable condition can be strongly influenced by a small pressure difference between the two sides of the expanded channel. In a normal fluidic oscillator or a fluidically oscillating jet,' this pressure difference is supplied by a feedback system between the two sides. In the present case, this pressure difference is created by the rotating valves shown on each side of the jet. The valves are rotated out of phase with each other, so that one is open when the other is closed. The resulting flow always attaches to the closed side and thus provides a jet which oscillates from side to side. The actual gust tunnel design involves a number of these nozzles and is shown in Fig. 1. The tunnel flow passes between the individual nozzles so that the flow actually guides the tunnel flow from side to side. Some of the potential advantages of this method of gust generation are as follows: 1) high frequency capability; 2) low torque motors required; 3) capable of producing transverse or longitudinal gusts; 4) capable of producing various wave forms; 5) capable of producing programmed transverse disturbances; 6) capable of various phase relationships between components; and 7) capable of uniform flow across tunnel.
Retardation of finger growth after injury to the flexor tendons.

The absence of any part of the total mechanical force (i.e., flexor tendons) may be responsible for retardation of bone growth during a child's growth phase. The cause of retardation may be dedifferentiation of cartilage cells at the epiphyseal plate. Four cases in which unrepaired flexor tendons in digits caused retardation of growth illustrate this possible phenomenon. We feel that this is not a well recognized problem and thus deserves mention to stimulate further study. We believe that meticulous primary repair in children is desirable not only to preserve function, but also to prevent growth disturbances.
HYDRO-JET ASSISTED LAPAROSCOPIC PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMY: INITIAL EXPERIENCE IN A PORCINE MODEL

Purpose: Hemostasis represents a challenge when performing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Hydro-Jet cutting is an advanced technology that has been used to create an ultra-coherent water force that functions like a sharp knife. In the surgical field, it has mainly been used for liver surgery and initial clinical experience with laparoscopic cholecystectomies has been favorable. This technique allowed selective parenchymal cutting with preservation of vessels and bile ducts. We describe a novel Hydro-Jet assisted dissection technique for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy in a porcine model. Materials and Methods: Ten partial nephrectomies were performed in 5 pigs using a Muritz 1000 (Euromed Medizintechnik, A. Pein, Schwerin, Germany) Hydro-Jet generator. A thin stream of ultra coherent fluid is forced at a high velocity through a small nozzle. A modified probe allows both blunt dissection concomitantly with high-pressure water application. Coagulation can be applied via a bipolar thermoapplicator as needed. Results: Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy was successful in all animals. Water-jet cutting through the parenchyma was virtually bloodless and preserved the vasculature and the collecting system. The vessels were then ligated or coagulated under direct vision. The continuous water flow established a bloodless operating field and a clear view for the surgeon. The mean dissection time and warm ischemia time were 45 ± 9 and 17 ± 3 minutes, respectively. Conclusions: This preliminary study supports the suitability of this technique for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy to improve hemostasis. The improved anatomical dissection and hemostasis may further decrease morbidity and operative time. Further studies are underway to compare this technique with laser coagulation for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
Using nurse practitioners for skin cancer screening: A pilot study

Abstract Background: Skin cancer screening has the potential to detect early precancerous lesions and may ultimately be important in reducing melanoma mortality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of trained nurse practitioners to accurately identify suspicious lesions in a clinical setting. Methods: We identified five nurse practitioners who had no previous experience in evaluating skin lesions. Each nurse practitioner participated in a training program for skin cancer detection consisting of a workshop, clinical apprenticeship, and didactic lectures. Results: Evaluation of nurse practitioner competency involved three assessments. First, the nurse practitioner’s ability to distinguish benign and malignant lesions was assessed using clinical color slides. The sensitivity of all five nurse practitioners to refer benign and malignant lesions for dermatologic follow-up based on the slides was 100%, whereas the specificity ranged from 53% to 100%. Second, each nurse practitioner evaluated approximately 25 different patients along with a single dermatologist. The nurse practitioner’s ability to correctly refer patients with suspicious lesions for dermatologic follow-up was determined based on the dermatologist’s assessment of need for referral. Results suggested a referral sensitivity and specificity ranging from 67% to 100% and 62% to 100%, respectively. In the final clinical assessment, 30 patients were independently examined by two dermatologists and four nurse practitioners. Using the consensus clinical diagnosis of the dermatologists as the gold standard, the nurse practitioner’s sensitivity for detecting significant skin cancer lesions ranged from 50% to 100% and the detection specificity was 99% to 100%. Conclusions: These preliminary results have important implications for skin cancer screening efforts and suggest that nurse practitioners can be trained to accurately identify and triage suspicious lesions.
Differences in graph theory functional connectivity in left and right temporal lobe epilepsy

Summary Purpose To investigate lateralized differences in limbic system functional connectivity between left and right temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) using graph theory. Methods Interictal resting state fMRI was performed in 14 left TLE patients, 11 right TLE patients, and 12 controls. Graph theory analysis of 10 bilateral limbic regions of interest was conducted. Changes in edgewise functional connectivity, network topology, and regional topology were quantified, and then left and right TLE were compared. Results Limbic edgewise functional connectivity was predominantly reduced in both left and right TLE. More regional connections were reduced in right TLE, most prominently involving reduced interhemispheric connectivity between the bilateral insula and bilateral hippocampi. A smaller number of limbic connections were increased in TLE, more so in left than in right TLE. Topologically, the most pronounced change was a reduction in average network betweenness centrality and concurrent increase in left hippocampal betweenness centrality in right TLE. In contrast, left TLE exhibited a weak trend toward increased right hippocampal betweenness centrality, with no change in average network betweenness centrality. Conclusion Limbic functional connectivity is predominantly reduced in both left and right TLE, with more pronounced reductions in right TLE. In contrast, left TLE exhibits both edgewise and topological changes that suggest a tendency toward reorganization. Network changes in TLE and lateralized differences thereof may have important diagnostic and prognostic implications.
OSKI: A Library of Automatically Tuned Sparse Matrix Kernels

The Optimized Sparse Kernel Interface (OSKI) is a collection of low-level primitives that provide automatically tuned computational kernels on sparse matrices, for use by solver libraries and applications. These kernels include sparse matrix-vector multiply and sparse triangular solve, among others. The primary aim of this interface is to hide the complex decision-making process needed to tune the performance of a kernel implementation for a particular user's sparse matrix and machine, while also exposing the steps and potentially non-trivial costs of tuning at run-time. This paper provides an overview of OSKI, which is based on our research on automatically tuned sparse kernels for modern cache-based superscalar machines.
Oral treatment of murine cytomegalovirus infections with ether lipid esters of cidofovir.

To improve the oral bioavailability of cidofovir (CDV), a series of ether lipid ester prodrugs were synthesized and evaluated for activity against murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection. Four of these analogs, hexadecyloxypropyl (HDP)-CDV, octadecyloxyethyl (ODE)-CDV, oleyloxyethyl (OLE)-CDV, and oleyloxypropyl (OLP)-CDV, were found to have greater activity than CDV against human CMV and MCMV in vitro. The efficacy of oral treatment with these compounds against MCMV infections in BALB/c mice was then determined. Treatment with HDP-CDV, ODE-CDV, OLE-CDV, or OLP-CDV at 2.0 to 6.7 mg/kg of body weight provided significant protection when daily treatments were initiated 24 to 48 h after viral inoculation. Additionally, HDP-CDV or ODE-CDV administered twice weekly or as a single dose of 1.25 to 10 mg/kg was effective in reducing mortality when treatment was initiated at 24 h, 48 h, or, in some cases, 72 h after viral inoculation. In animals treated daily with HDP-CDV or ODE-CDV, virus titers in lung, liver, spleen, kidney, pancreas, salivary gland, and blood were reduced 3 to 5 log10-fold, which was comparable to CDV given intraperitoneally. These results indicated that HDP-CDV or ODE-CDV given orally was as effective as parenteral CDV for the treatment of experimental MCMV infection and suggest that further evaluation for use in CMV infections in humans is warranted.
Developing domain knowledge through the reuse of project experiences

Software development is no longer a homogenous field. Software is being developed for an increasingly diverse set of applications and user populations, each with different characteristics and development constraints. As a consequence, researchers and practitioners have begun to realize the importance of identifying and understanding the characteristics and special development needs of application domains. This paper presents a method for developing and refining knowledge about application domains by creating a repository of project experiences. Subsequent projects can then benefit from these experiences by locating similar projects and reusing the knowledge accumulated in the repository. We develop a framework for a system to capture relationships between development projects and resources for developing software, including process models, methods, technologies, and tools. We then show how this information can be reused to improve the productivity and quality of software development efforts.
An improved synthesis of D-perosamine and some derivatives.

On part du α-D-mannose protege en 1, 2 et 3. L'oxydation du OH en position 4 en cetone puis le psaage par un mesylate puis par un azidure permet d'obtenir la O-methyl-1 α-D-perosamine
Novel optical sensor based on morphology-dependent resonances for measuring thermal deformation in microelectromechanical systems devices

We have reported a novel optical sensor based on whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonance for measuring thermal deformation in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. New asymptotic expressions for transverse electric and transverse magnetic waves are developed based on electromagnetic theory derivations for the large size parameter ( times diameter divided by wavelength of light) limits. The optical thermal deformation sensor is characterized both theoretically and experimentally by considering the fact that the size parameter of the microspheres is very large at optical wavelengths. As a prototype thermal deformation sensor, an optical fiber experimental setup with tunable laser diode has been used for realizing the effect of WGM resonances due to change in surrounding temperature of a dielectric microsphere made of BK-7 glass. The quality factor of experimental resonance spectra observed in the laboratory is calculated approximately on the order of 104, which is sensitive enough for detecting micro or nano level deformation changes in the surrounding medium. The novel optical sensor can measure the thermal deformation in the MEMS devices as small as the submicron or nanometer level. This sensor could potentially be used for nanotechnology, MEMS devices, biomedical applications, and other microdevices.
Role of embolization for cerebral arteriovenous malformations.

Abstract Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are complex high-flow lesions that can result in devastating neurological injury when they hemorrhage. Embolization is a critical component in the management of many patients with cerebral AVMs. Embolization may be used as an independent curative therapy or more commonly in an adjuvant fashion prior to either micro- or radiosurgery. Although the treatment-related morbidity and mortality for AVMs—including that due to microsurgery, embolization, and radiosurgery—can be substantial, its natural history offers little solace. Fortunately, care by a multidisciplinary team experienced in the comprehensive management of AVMs can offer excellent results in most cases.
Lasers and electro-optics for ground-based astronomy

To expand their science reach, terrestrial observatories have long demanded innovative optical technologies. Today, photonics enabling the active control, compensation, and detection of astronomical light are once again opening new vistas on our Universe.
The Impact of Migration on the Health of Voluntary Migrants in Western Societies: A Review of the Literature

The authors reviewed literature on the health of voluntary migrants to Western societies and factors affecting their health. Health indicators include mortality rates and life expectancy, birth outcomes, risk of illness, patterns of deteriorating health, cardiovascular disease, body mass index, hypertension, and depression. Multiple factors explain variability, including length of residence and acculturation, disease exposure, life style and living conditions, risky behaviors, healthy habits, social support networks, cultural and linguistic barriers, experiences with racism, and levels of awareness of cultural health practices among health care providers. Evidence exists for superior health among many migrants to Western countries relative to native-born persons, but the differential disappears over time. Migration is a dynamic, extended process with effects occurring years after physical relocation. Systemic change is required, including health policies that ensure equity for migrants, culturally appropr...
Urinary retention rates after intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA injection for idiopathic overactive bladder in clinical practice and predictors of this outcome.

Aims The purpose of this study was to find the rate of urinary retention in clinical practice after treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA (BTN/A) for refractory overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms and determine factors that predict this outcome. Methods This is a retrospective study of BTN/A for treatment of non-neurogenic, refractory OAB symptoms. Patients were analyzed with respect to their first and second BTN/A injections. The primary outcome measure was postoperative urinary retention. Statistical significance was assessed with multivariate logistic regression. Results Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, the study population was 160. Mean age was 64 ± 13.2 years and 24% of the patients were men. The rate of urinary retention was 35% (n = 56). For the first BTN/A treatment, multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative PVR (post-void residual volume) (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.13–1.43, P < 0.001) and preoperative bladder capacity (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.08, P = 0.005) were associated with postoperative urinary retention. In patients with a preoperative PVR of ≥100 ml, 94% (n = 17) went into urinary retention. For those who underwent a second BTN/A treatment, preoperative PVR, BTN/A units injected and retention after the first BTN/A were associated with an increased rate of postoperative retention. Conclusions Increased preoperative PVR was associated with urinary retention. The retention rate is higher than that reported in recent clinical trials. The inclusion of patients with a preoperative PVR ≥100 ml and a lower threshold to initiate clean intermittent catheterization contributed to this high rate of retention. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:???–???, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Political leadership and regime formation: on the development of institutions in international society

Leadership plays a critical but poorly understood role in determining the success or failure of the processes of institutional bargaining that dominate efforts to form international regimes or, more generally, institutional arrangements in international society. An examination of the nature of institutional bargaining serves as a springboard both for pinpointing the role of leadership in regime formation and for differentiating three forms of leadership that regularly come into play in efforts to establish international institutions: structural leadership, entrepreneurial leadership, and intellectual leadership. Because much of the real work of regime formation occurs in the interplay of different types of leadership, the study of interactions among individual leaders is a high priority for those seeking to illuminate the processes involved in the creation of international institutions. Not only does such a study help to explain the conditions under which regimes form or fail to form, but it also provides an opportunity to bring the individual back in to an important area of international affairs.
Factors affecting the long term stability of Cu / Al ball bonds subjected to standard and extended HTS

This paper will present the findings of work performed on 20-micron diameter copper wire of five different wire types from three suppliers with gold wire added as a control. The test die was mounted on BT resin substrates. The bonding parameters were optimized for each wire used. Part of the optimization process involved monitoring the flatness of the bonded ball and the amount of aluminum remaining under the bond. The crystal structure of the bonded interconnects were examined using composite imaging techniques. Visual data such as ball size, thickness, and shape were collected. First and second bonds were subjected to destructive testing, such as ball shear and wire pull, throughout the preparation process. The samples were subjected to an industry-standard, high temperature stress test to determine the long-term stability of the interface of each wire type. Data will be presented on all tests performed and will provide useful information on the material and process set best suited for long term reliability.
Model checking a fault-tolerant self-stabilizing synchronization stabilizing synchronization stabilizing synchronization stabilizing synchronization stabilizing synchronization protocol for arbitrary digraphs

• Local oscillators/hardware clocks operate at slightly different rates, thus, they drift apart over time. • Local logical clocks, i.e., timers/counters, may start at different initial values. • The synchronization problem is to adjust the values of the local logical clocks so that nodes achieve synchronization and remain synchronized despite the drift of their local oscillators.
Test-Retest Reliability of fMRI During Nonverbal Semantic Decisions in Moderate-Severe Nonfluent Aphasia Patients

Cortical reorganization in poststroke aphasia is not well understood. Few studies have investigated neural mechanisms underlying language recovery in severe aphasia patients, who are typically viewed as having a poor prognosis for language recovery. Although test-retest reliability is routinely demonstrated during collection of language data in single-subject aphasia research, this is rarely examined in fMRI studies investigating the underlying neural mechanisms in aphasia recovery. The purpose of this study was to acquire fMRI test-retest data examining semantic decisions both within and between two aphasia patients. Functional MRI was utilized to image individuals with chronic, moderate-severe nonfluent aphasia during nonverbal, yes/no button-box semantic judgments of iconic sentences presented in the Computer-assisted Visual Communication (C-ViC) program. We investigated the critical issue of intra-subject reliability by exploring similarities and differences in regions of activation during participants' performance of identical tasks twice on the same day. Each participant demonstrated high intra- subject reliability, with response decrements typical of task familiarity. Differences between participants included greater left hemisphere perilesional activation in the individual with better response to C-ViC training. This study provides fMRI reliability in chronic nonfluent aphasia, and adds to evidence supporting differences in individual cortical reorganization in aphasia recovery.
Daily Physical Activity Enhances Resilient Resources for Symptom Management in Middle-Aged Women

OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to evaluate the direct and indirect associations between physical activity and menopausal symptoms. METHODS Community-dwelling middle-aged women (N = 103; age range 40-60 years) completed daily Internet surveys at the end of the day and wore an accelerometer for the objective assessment of physical activity for 21-days. 1-1-1 multilevel mediation models were estimated to test whether resilient resources (i.e., positive affect and coping efficacy) mediated the association between physical activity and symptom burden at the between- and within-person level. RESULTS Analyses demonstrated physical activity had an indirect effect (-0.16) on symptom burden through the enhancement of positive affect at the within-person level (p < .05; 95% confidence interval [CI] based on 20,000 Monte Carlo replications [-0.25, -0.08]). In models that tested coping efficacy as the mediator, it was found that the indirect effect of physical activity on symptom burden at the within-person level was -0.08 (p < .05; 95% CI based on 20,000 Monte Carlo replications [-0.14, -0.03]). CONCLUSIONS These effects were nonsignificant at the between-person level, suggesting one route in which physical activity may help a woman to cope with her symptoms is through the enhancement of positive affect and coping efficacy on a day-to-day basis.
The role of F-cadherin in localizing cells during neural tube formation in Xenopus embryos

The cell adhesion molecule F-cadherin is expressed in Xenopus embryos at boundaries that subdivide the neural tube into different regions, including one, the sulcus limitans, which partitions the caudal neural tube into a dorsal and ventral half (alar and basal plate, respectively). Here we examine the role of F-cadherin in positioning cells along the caudal neuraxis during neurulation. First, we show that ectopic expression of F-cadherin restricts passive cell mixing within the ectodermal epithelium. Second, we show that F-cadherin is first expressed at the sulcus limitans prior to the extensive cell movements that accompany neural tube formation, suggesting that it might serve to position cells at the sulcus limitans by counteracting their tendency to disperse during neurulation. We test this idea using an assay that measures changes in cell movements during neurulation in response to differential cell adhesion. Using this assay, we show that cells expressing F-cadherin localize preferentially to the sulcus limitans, but still disperse when located away from the sulcus limitans. In addition, inhibiting cadherin function prevents cells from localizing precisely at the sulcus limitans. These results indicate that positioning of cells at the sulcus limitans is mediated in part by the differential expression of F-cadherin.
Assisted Highway Lane Changing with RASCL

Lane changing on highways is stressful. In this paper, we present RASCL, the Robotic Assistance System for Changing Lanes. RASCL combines state-of-the-art sensing and localization techniques with an accurate map describing road structure to detect and track other cars, determine whether or not a lane change to either side is safe, and communicate these safety statuses to the user using a variety of audio and visual interfaces. The user can interact with the system through specifying the size of their “comfort zone”, engaging the turn signal, or by simply driving across lane dividers. Additionally, RASCL provides speed change recommendations that are predicted to turn an unsafe lane change situation into a safe situation and enables communication with other vehicles by automatically controlling the turn signal when the driver attempts to change lanes without using the turn signal.
Mantle flow at the highly arcuate northeast corner of the Lesser Antilles subduction zone: Constraints from shear-wave splitting analyses

Seismic anisotropy is used to investigate deformation in subduction zones, where many dynamic processes are at play. Recently, a global pattern of trench-parallel subslab mantle deformation in subduction zones has emerged through shear-wave splitting measurements. We investigated the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean to find that the northeast corner of the subduction zone presents an interesting setting in which to observe seismic anisotropy, where the trench-parallel subslab splitting signal may become complicated due to oblique subduction. Here, we present 201 shear-wave splitting measurements of SKS and SKKS phases from teleseismic events recorded at 20 broadband seismic stations in the northeastern Caribbean. We observe average apparent fast polarization directions (ϕ) that are primarily trench-parallel, with average delay times (δ t ) ranging from 0.5 s to 2.0 s. Our results suggest trench-parallel mantle flow is continuous along the northeastern plate boundary where the Lesser Antilles subduction zone changes strike from nearly east-west trending to north-south trending. Our preferred explanation for the observed splitting pattern is that the dominant process is subslab mantle return flow.
The Role of the Commission on Interracial Cooperation in War and Peace

AN APPRAISAL of the work of the Commission on Interracial Cooperation is not an easy task. There are no similar agencies with which comparisons of accomplishments might be made. Much of the work of the Commission has been done through other organizations. Many of its efforts have been in the field of education, specifically functioning in the attempt to change traditional racial attitudes, to improve interracial cooperation, and to increase understanding between races. These areas of knowledge and endeavor do not lend themselves readily to scientific measurement or objective appraisal. The entire culture of a people ties in so closely in shaping attitudes and in influencing action patterns that it is very difficult to segregate and to examine the influence of any single agency or institution from that of other institutions or the mass impact of the total culture. Method of Appraisal. Irrespective of these limitations, it is worth while to appraise as carefully as possible the work of the Commission. This has been done through interviews and correspondence with some 300 persons (1942), most of whom have observed or participated in the work of the Commission, have served on state or local interracial committees, or have shown an interest one way or another in race problems or southern problems. In addition, there has been consultation with Commission personnel and a somewhat detailed scrutiny of the publications and official minutes of the Commission. From these collective sources, there is evidence and testimony to the following accomplishments of the Commission:
Asthma in the inner city: a growing public health problem.

Asthma in the inner city impacts people of all ages and is most pronounced in African Americans and other minorities. During the past decade, the prevalence of asthma has increased by 42%, a rate consistently higher in African Americans. Along with the increase in asthma prevalence, the costs associ
Tobacco Cessation Training for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practitioners: Results of a Practice-Based Trial.

Introduction Brief behavioral intervention (BI) is a tobacco-cessation best practice well established among conventional healthcare practitioners. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioners treat significant numbers of tobacco users, but do not systematically receive BI training. The CAM Reach study developed and evaluated a tobacco cessation BI training program/practice system intervention adapted specifically for CAM practitioners, and evaluated in real-world CAM practices. Study design Single-arm intervention. Data were collected in 2010–2014 and analyzed in 2015. Setting/participants Private practices of 30 chiropractors, 27 acupuncturists, 42 massage therapists (N=99), in metropolitan Tucson, Arizona. Intervention Eight-hour tobacco cessation BI continuing education workshop, in-office BI skills practice/assessment, and system intervention. Training tailored to the CAM practice setting addressed tobacco cessation best practices from the U.S. Public Health Service Guidelines. Main outcome measures Seventeen items (assessing practitioner behavior, motivation, and self-efficacy with tobacco cessation) comprising three factors, Tobacco Cessation Activity, Tobacco Cessation Motivation, and Non-CAM Tobacco Cessation Comfort, were assessed at baseline and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-training by practitioner self-report. Research staff visited practices at approximately the same intervals to directly observe changes in clinical practice systems. Results At 3 months, there were significant increases in practitioners' tobacco cessation activities, motivation and confidence in helping patients quit tobacco, and comfort with providing information and referrals for guideline-based tobacco cessation aids ( p Conclusions Results suggest CAM practitioners are willing and able to offer BIs, and are an important, yet overlooked channel for promoting tobacco cessation and use of evidence-based cessation aids.
Observation of hypertension in children with 21-hydroxylase deficiency: a preliminary report.

The most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia is 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21 OHD). The prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in children with 21 OHD is unknown, and HTN has not been reported to be a component of this disorder. As children with 21 OHD are at risk of developing obesity, we hypothesized that an elevated body mass index (BMI) would be a predictive factor in the development of HTN. A retrospective chart review of children with 21 OHD seen in our pediatric endocrine clinics for the past 21 yr was performed. Ninety-one children with 21 OHD were identified (54% female). Of these children, six (6.6%) had HTN, and five (5.6%) had essential HTN, which was defined as HTN of unknown etiology. Elevated body mass index was not a determining factor in the development of HTN. Children with 21 OHD do appear to have a higher prevalence of HTN when compared to historical reports of pediatric populations. The coexistence of HTN with a salt-wasting state and mineralocorticoid deficiency in some children with 21 OHD is paradoxical and of unclear etiology.
Integrated chronostratigraphic calibration of the Oligocene-Miocene boundary at 24.0 ± 0.1 Ma from the CRP-2A drill core, Ross Sea, Antarctica COMMENT

[Wilson et al. (2002)][1] use 40Ar/39Ar data from the Cape Roberts Project CRP-2A core to assign absolute ages to polarity chrons in the vicinity of the Oligocene-Miocene (O-M) boundary, and estimate an age of 24.0 Ma for the O-M boundary. The identification of polarity chron 6Cn.2n, marking the O-M
Effects of white matter integrity and brain volumes on late life depression in the Framingham Heart Study

BACKGROUND It is unclear whether brain white matter hyperintensities (WMHI) causes or is a result of late life depression. We used the Framingham Heart Study offspring to examine whether indices of brain aging are related to incident depression in the elderly. METHODS The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was administered along with a brain MRI scan at baseline and was re-administered (n = 1212) at an average 6.6 + 0.6 year follow-up. The outcomes (i) change in CES-D scores from baseline; (ii) depression defined as CES-D ≥16; (iii) severe depression defined as CES-D ≥21; and (iv) CES-D cutoff scores and/or on antidepressant were used. RESULTS Among those who did not have depression at baseline, 9.1% (n = 110) developed depression, 4.0% (n = 48) developed severe depressive symptoms, and 11.1% (n = 135) were put on antidepressants. When depressive symptoms only was the outcome, we found that baseline WMHI was positively associated with change in CES-D scores and that those with an extensive WMHI at baseline had a high risk of developing severe depressive symptoms; the relationship was strengthened in the absence of cardiovascular diseases. In contrast, when depressive symptoms or taking antidepressant was the outcome, larger total cerebral brain volume and temporal lobe brain volume, but not WMHI, were negatively associated with the development of depression. CONCLUSIONS Brain WMHI is a probable risk factor for vascular depression in the elderly. The depression outcomes with and without antidepressant were related to different brain pathologies. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comment on “Aminoacyl tRNA Synthetase–Interacting Multifunctional Protein 1 Acts as a Novel B Cell–Activating Factor In Vitro and In Vivo”

I read with interest the article by M.S. Kim and T.S. Kim ([1][1]), in which the authors demonstrate that AIMP1 activates B cells and promotes Ag-specific production of Ab. Certain patients suffer from antisynthetase syndrome, an illness characterized by muscle and skin inflammation accompanied by
Is there any benefit to laparoscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma if a salvage liver transplant is needed later

Background/Purpose: In patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a previous liver resection (LR) may compromise subsequent liver transplantation (LT) by creating adhesions and increasing surgical difficulty. Initial laparoscopic LR (LLR) may reduce such technical consequences, but its effect on subsequent LT has not been reported. We report the operative results of LT after laparoscopic or open liver resection (OLR). Methods: Twenty-four LT were performed, 12 following prior LLR and 12 following prior OLR. The LT was performed using preservation of the inferior vein cava. Indication for the LT was recurrent HCC in 19 cases (salvage LT), while five patients were listed for LT and underwent resection as a neoadjuvant procedure (bridge resection). Results: In the LLR group, absence of adhesions was associated with straightforward access to the liver in all cases. In the OLR group, 11 patients required long and hemorrhagic dissection. Median durations of the hepatectomy phase and whole LT were 2.5 and 6.2 h, and 4.5 and 8.3 h in the LLR and OLR groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Median blood loss was 1200 ml and 2300 ml in the LLR and OLR groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Median transfusions of hepatectomy phase and whole LT were 0 and 3 U, and 2 and 6 U, respectively (P < 0.05). There were no postoperative deaths. Conclusions: In our study, LLR facilitated the LT procedure as compared with OLR in terms of reduced operative time, blood loss and transfusion requirements. We conclude that LLR should be preferred over OLR when feasible in potential transplant candidates.
Mother-Daughter Workshops: An Interactive Encounter

This article describes a mother-daughter experience led by a mother and daughter in which women come together to communicate, share, and overcome the barriers that impede the intimacy of their relationship. Through experiential and educational means, participants are encouraged to use the power of the group experience to break through their isolation. Overall, women leave the experience feeling more hopeful about the possibility of a closer relationship.
Orthogonally Spin-Coated Bilayer Films for Photochemical Immobilization and Patterning of Sub-10-Nanometer Polymer Monolayers.

Versatile and spatiotemporally controlled methods for decorating surfaces with monolayers of attached polymers are broadly impactful to many technological applications. However, current materials are usually designed for very specific polymer/surface chemistries and, as a consequence, are not very broadly applicable and/or do not rapidly respond to high-resolution stimuli such as light. We describe here the use of a polymeric adhesion layer, poly(styrene sulfonyl azide-alt-maleic anhydride) (PSSMA), which is capable of immobilizing a 1–7 nm thick monolayer of preformed, inert polymers via photochemical grafting reactions. Solubility of PSSMA in very polar solvents enables processing alongside hydrophobic polymers or solutions and by extension orthogonal spin-coating deposition strategies. Therefore, these materials and processes are fully compatible with photolithographic tools and can take advantage of the immense manufacturing scalability they afford. For example, the thicknesses of covalently grafted p...