cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional object registration using the wavelet transform

Rapid, three-dimensional, shape-based registration is a key aspect of current challenges in applications from automated surface inspection to cancer detection and surgery. Fast, automatic registration of three-dimensional objects is an area of active research. Two main approaches exist: registration using geometric features and registration using voxel comparison. In general, registration using geometric features is faster but less accurate, while registration using voxel comparison is very accurate but requires an initial positioning as the methods tend to settle into local minima. In addition, most geometric feature methods are not designed for use on voxelized data. We present a fast, automatic, rigid registration method using wavelet features which is designed for voxelized data and which provides an excellent initial positioning for further non-rigid registration using a voxel comparison method. The efficacy of the algorithm is demonstrated through examples from solid modeling and biomedical applications.
The effect of a four-week interval on the consistency of stuttering.

Our primary purpose was to test the hypothesis that the consistency normally found in the loci of stutterings in repeated readings of a passage declines if a four-week interval is interposed betwee...
Scalar gravitation: A laboratory for numerical relativity.

While not a correct physical theory, relativistic scalar gravitation provides a simple test site for developing many of the tools of numerical relativity. In contrast with general relativity, scalar gravitation allows gravitational waves to be generated in spherical symmetry. Hence one needs only one spatial dimension to try out methods of calculating wave emission and propagation. Using this theory, we have built a mean-field particle simulation scheme to study the dynamical behavior of collisionless matter in spherical symmetry. We find that we are able to calculate smooth and accurate wave forms, despite the stochastic representation of the matter source terms caused by sampling with a finite number of particles. A similar scheme should provide accurate wave forms in general relativity, provided sufficient computer resources are used.
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy in children.

Idiopathic membranous nephropathy in children. Based on evidence obtained mainly from adult patients, membranous nephropathy is generally described as a progressive disease that leads to renal insufficiency. This paper presents the course of the disease in a group of 9 children ranging in age between 2 and 16 years at clinical onset. Three of these children, all older than 10 years, two of them hypertensive when first seen, deteriorated rapidly. Another group of three patients, younger than 9 years and normotensive at onset, followed a benign course characterized by prolonged remissions, preservation of normal kidney function and in one of them morphological evidence of healing. Yet another group of patients, ranging in age between 8 and 14 years and normotensive, maintained a normal function of the kidneys after 8, 3½ and 1yr of continuous proteinuria and hematuria. No progression was detectable on the renal biopsies in two of these patients, performed after several years of observation. The relative benign course of the disease in the majority of our patients and the morphological evidence of healing in one of them suggest a better prognosis than that reported by previous investigators. This might be particularly true for patients developing the disease at a very young age. Nephropathie membraneuse idiopathique de l'enfant. En fonction d'arguments tires essentiellement de l'etude de sujets adultes la nephropathie membraneuse est generalement decrite comme une maladie progressive qui aboutit a l'insuffisance renale. Ce travail presente l'evolution de cette maladie dans un groupe de 9 enfants dont les âges s'echelonnaient entre 2 et 16 ans au moment du debut clinique. Trois de ces enfants, âges de plus de 10 ans, dont deux etaient atteints d'hypertension arterielle des le premier examen, eurent rapidement une evolution defavorable. Un autre groupe de 3 malades âges de moins de 9 ans et dont les pressions arterielles etaient normales au premier examen ont eu une evolution benigne caracterisee par des remissions prolongees, la conservation d'une fonction renale normale et, chez l'un d'eux, preuve morphologique de guerison. Enfin, un autre groupe de malades, dont les âges s'echelonnaient entre 8 et 14 ans, et dont les pressions arterielles etaient normales, a conserve une fonction renale normale apres 8, 3½ et I an de proteinurie et d'hematurie persistantes. Aucune aggravation n'a ete observee dans les biopsies renales obtenues apres plusieurs annees d'observation chez deux de ces malades. La benignite relative de l'evolution de la maladie chez la majorite de nos malades et la preuve morphologique de guerison chez l'un d'eux suggere nu pronostic meilleur que celui rapporte anterieurement par d'autres. Cela peut etre plus particulierement vrai pour les malades atteints a un tres jeune âge.
Conducting Mathematical Research with Undergraduates

Abstract The notion that undergraduates are capable of making profound and original contributions to mathematical research is rapidly gaining acceptance. Undergraduates bring their enthusiasm, creativity, curiosity, and perseverance to bona fide research problems. This article discusses some of the key issues concerning undergraduate mathematical research: selecting good research students, finding appropriate research questions, mentoring versus collaboration, and presenting and publishing student work. Some useful professional and financial resources supporting undergraduate research are also highlighted.
Abdominal fat distribution and functional limitations and disability in a biracial cohort : the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

To examine the associations of abdominal fat and obesity with functional limitations and disability in late adulthood. Longitudinal, cohort study. African American and white men and women aged 45–64 y at baseline with measured waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and body mass index (BMI) who participated in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study (n=9416). Self-reported functional limitations, activities of daily living (ADLs), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) at ages 52–75 y. Waist circumference, WHR, and BMI were positively associated with functional limitations and ADL and IADL impairment approximately 9 y later among African American and white men and women. For example, in African American women the odds ratios (95% CI) associated with a one standard deviation (s.d.) increment in waist circumference (13.3 cm) for severe functional limitations and ADL and IADL impairment were 2.36 (2.00–2.79), 1.41 (1.25–1.58), and 1.49 (1.34–1.66), respectively. In white women, the odds ratios (95% CI) were 2.66 (2.39–2.96), 1.60 (1.47–1.74), and 1.42 (1.31–1.53), respectively. Similar associations were found in men. A 1 s.d. increment in WHR (0.08 U) and BMI (5.06 kg/m2) produced similar results. The associations of waist circumference and WHR with functional limitations and ADL and IADL impairment were attenuated but, in general, remained statistically significant when BMI was added to the models. Maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding increases in abdominal fat should be investigated for their potential to reduce the risk of functional limitations and disability in an aging population.
Effects of residual stenosis on infarct size and regional transmural myocardial blood flow after reperfusion.

This study in dogs was designed to determine the effects of residual stenosis on infarct size and on the transmural distribution of coronary flow in the central and peripheral ischemic perfusion bed. A plastic shunt containing a Doppler flow probe was inserted between the left anterior descending coronary artery and the subclavian artery. The dogs were divided into two groups. Group 1 (N = 7) underwent total shunt occlusion for 2 hours followed by reperfusion at 50% of control flow for 2 hours. Group 2 (N = 8) underwent 2 hours of total occlusion followed by 2 hours of total reperfusion. Regional blood flow was measured by radiolabel microspheres, and infarct areas were quantitated with triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Infarct sizes expressed as a percentage of the left ventricle or as a percentage of perfusion territory were significantly (p < 0.05) smaller in animals with total repefusion (group 2) than in dogs with partial reperfusion (group 1). Endocardial flows in the central infarct zone were significantly higher in dogs with total reperfusion than was observed with partial reperfusion; epicardial flows were not significantly different. In the peripheral region both endocardial flows and epicardial flows with total reperfusion were significantly higher than with partial reperfusion. These studies suggest that residual stenosis after thrombolysis may increase infarct size and reduce endocardial flow in the central infarct zone and transmural flow in the peripheral zone.
The infrared emission spectrum of gas-phase C60 (buckmisterfullerene)

Abstract The gas-phase infrared spectrum of C 60 has been observed in emission with the National Solar Observatory Fourier transform spectrometer at Kitt Peak. Bands attributable to the C 60 molecule are found at 527.1, 570.3, 1169.1 and 1406.9 cm −1 . Additional emission features are tentatively assigned to C 70 or combination bands of C 60 . A new, strong emission is observed at 1010.2 cm −1 belonging to an unknown molecule. None of these features can be associated with any of the strong emission bands observed so far in astronomical sources.
The roads less traveled: mapping some pathways on the global mental health research roadmap.

The global mental health (GMH) research agenda should include both culture-general and culture-specific perspectives to ensure ecological validity of findings. Despite its title, the current GMH re...
Analysis of Aminoglycosides in the Treatment of Gram-negative Infections in Surgical Patients

Hypothesis Antibiotic regimens containing aminoglycosides result in a similar outcome compared with nonaminoglycoside regimens in the treatment of gram-negative infections in surgical patients. Design An inception cohort study of hospitalized surgical patients from December 1, 1996, through September 30, 1998. Patients were observed from the time of diagnosis of infection to discharge. Setting University hospital. Patients Two hundred fifty-eight consecutive gram-negative infections occurring in general surgical and trauma patients and patients undergoing transplantation. Sixty-six patients received aminoglycosides as a component of their treatment regimen, whereas 192 received other agents. Results Patients treated with aminoglycosides were younger (mean ± SEM age, 48 ± 2 vs 53 ± 1 years;P= .04 by univariate analysis) and had a similar APACHE II (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II) score (mean ± SEM, 17 ± 1 vs 15 ± 1;P= .10), yet had a significantly higher mortality vs patients treated with other agents (29% vs 14%;P= .02). A larger proportion of patients requiring hemodialysis were treated with aminoglycosides (33% vs 13%;P= .001). Although there was no difference in the sites of infection between groups, surgical patients with gram-negative pneumonia had a higher mortality when treated with aminoglycosides (37% vs 18%;P= .04), despite similar APACHE II scores (mean ± SEM, 20 ± 1 vs 18 ± 1;P= .40). Conclusions Despite a younger age and similar severity of illness, patients with gram-negative infections treated with aminoglycosides were associated with a higher mortality rate, although this may be related to selection bias in the use of aminoglycoside agents. The mortality rate associated with gram-negative pneumonia was also higher in patients treated with aminoglycosides, despite a similar severity of illness. Future randomized studies are necessary to reanalyze the role of aminoglycosides in treating surgical patients with gram-negative infections, particularly pneumonia.
Remodeling of junctional complexes during the development of the outer blood‐retinal barrier

Background The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms the outer blood-retinal barrier by separating the neural retina from fenestrated capillaries in the choroid. The barrier depends upon tight junctions within the apical junctional complexes that bind neighboring cells. During development, permeability decreases as the apical junctional complex gradually matures. To investigate this process, the composition of the apical junctional complex was monitored during RPE development in chicken embryos. Methods Permeability was monitored by incubating freshly isolated RPE/choroid in medium containing horseradish peroxidase followed by histochemical staining and electron microscopy. The expression of the tight junction proteins, ZO-1 and occludin, was determined by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting. Development of the RPE apical junctional complex was to compared to the homologous complex that forms the outer limiting membrane of the neural retina. Results The apical junctional complex of the RPE was permeable to horseradish peroxidase until embryonic day 10-12. Two putative forms of ZO-1 had approximately the same molecular mass as mammalian ZO-1 and were present in the apical junctional complexes at different stages of development. We identified one form as ZO-1, because it was present in mature RPE and shared an epitope with the rodent isoforms, ZO-1α+ and ZO-1α−. The second form lacked this epitope but was identified by a polyclonal antibody to ZO-1. It was designated the ZO-1-like protein (ZO-1LP). On embryonic day 3, occludin and ZO-1LP were observed along the apical surface of the neuroepithelium that gave rise to the RPE and the neural retina. In the neural retina, occludin expression decreased just before inner segments were formed, but ZO-1LP expression continued in the outer limiting membrane throughout development. During RPE development, occludin expression was constant or increased slightly. By contrast, ZO-1LP was gradually replaced by ZO-1 and total ZO-1 immunoreactive proteins decreased more than 10×. Conclusions A gradual change in the composition of the apical junctional complexes accompanied the period of barrier formation. In RPE, ZO-1 gradually replaced ZO-1LP, but the decrease in ZO-1 expression suggests its functions during junction formation are not directly related to junction permeability. By contrast, occludin was lost and ZO-1LP retained where an adherens junction forms the permeable, outer limiting membrane. Anat. Rec. 249:380-388, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Small Heat Shock Protein αA-Crystallin Prevents Photoreceptor Degeneration in Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis

The small heat shock protein, αA-crystallin null (αA−/−) mice are known to be more prone to retinal degeneration than the wild type mice in Experimental Autoimmune Uveoretinitis (EAU). In this report we demonstrate that intravenous administration of αA preserves retinal architecture and prevents photoreceptor damage in EAU. Interestingly, only αA and not αB-crystallin (αB), a closely related small heat shock protein works, pointing to molecular specificity in the observed retinal protection. The possible involvement of αA in retinal protection through immune modulation is corroborated by adaptive transfer experiments, (employing αA−/− and wild type mice with EAU as donors and Rag2−/− as the recipient mice), which indicate that αA protects against the autoimmune challenge by modulating the systemic B and T cell immunity. We show that αA administration causes marked reduction in Th1 cytokines (TNF-α, IL-12 and IFN-γ), both in the retina and in the spleen; notably, IL-17 was only reduced in the retina suggesting local intervention. Importantly, expression of Toll-like receptors and their associated adaptors is also inhibited suggesting that αA protection, against photoreceptor loss in EAU, is associated with systemic suppression of both the adaptive and innate immune responses.
SUBTREE ISOMORPHISM IS IN DLOG FOR NESTED TREES

This research shows subtree isomorphism is in DLOG, and hence , for nested trees. To our knowledge this result provides the first interesting class of trees for which the problem is in a non-randomized version of . We also show that one can determine whether or not an arbitrary tree is a nested tree in DLOG.
Magnetic-field-induced quantum critical point in YbPtIn and Yb Pt 0.98 In single crystals

Detailed anisotropic (H$\parallel$ab and H$\parallel$c) resistivity and specific heat measurements were performed on online-grown YbPtIn and solution-grown YbPt$_{0.98}$In single crystals for temperatures down to 0.4 K, and fields up to 140 kG; H$\parallel$ab Hall resistivity was also measured on the YbPt$_{0.98}$In system for the same temperature and field ranges. All these measurements indicate that the small change in stoichiometry between the two compounds drastically affects their ordering temperatures (T$_{ord}\approx3.4$ K in YbPtIn, and $\sim2.2$ K in YbPt$_{0.98}$In). Furthermore, a field-induced quantum critical point is apparent in each of these heavy fermion systems, with the corresponding critical field values of YbPt$_{0.98}$In (H$^{ab}_c$ around 35-45 kG and H$^{c}_c\approx120$ kG) also reduced compared to the analogous values for YbPtIn (H$^{ab}_c\approx60$ kG and H$^{c}_c>140$ kG)
Homology groups of Steiner systems

A chaque systeme de Steiner (X, B) on associe un complexe simplicial fini K=K(X,B) dont les groupes d'homologie fournissent une representation du groupe d'automorphisme du systeme
Women's Prime of Life: Is It the 50s?:

The hypothesis is advanced that the early 50s is women's prime of life, an androgynous time of good health combined with autonomy and relational security. In a sample of 700 college alumnae, aged 26–80, who were studied in 1983, women in their early 50s most often described their lives as “first-rate.” In a longitudinal sample from the same institution in 1989, women in their early 50s also rated their quality of life as high. Conditions distinguishing the early 50s from earlier and/or later periods of the middle years included more “empty nests,” better health, higher income, and more concern for parents. All but the last of these conditions were related to quality of life within each sample of “prime” women. In both samples, “prime” women showed confidence, involvement, security, and breadth of personality. Prime of life is offered as a useful concept in adult development.
Female urinary retention.

Abstract The urodynamic results in 68 females with urinary retention were reviewed. Therewere two groups: 39 patients with neurologic causes for retention, and 29 patients in whom possible causes for retention included: psychological history (15 patients), gynecologic pathology, and urinary tract infection. Nine patients in the neurogenic group and 13 patients in the non-neurogenic group had undergone urethral dilatation with no improvement. Upper urinary tract evaluation was unremarkable. Detrusor failure was the prominent bladder pattern in both groups. In the neurogenic group, low pressure detrusor activity was also present in 10 patients, 3 of whom had sphincter dyssynergia. Flow rate, surface electromyography, and bethanechol supersensitivity test could not help differentiate neurogenic from non-neurogenic detrusor failure. The notation of abnormal bladder sensation did significantly differ between the groups, but was of limited accuracy as an indicator of neurogenic retention. Self-intermittent catheterization was the most effective treatment for both groups, with some patients voiding adequately in follow-up. Although no one test can accurately differentiate neurogenic from nonneurogenic female urinary retention, careful neurourologic evaluation will help guide us to more appropriate management.
Experimental investigation of photomask with near-field polarization imaging

Near-field induced polarization imaging with a solid immersion lens (SIL) is used to provide high lateral resolution for both native and induced polarization (cross polarized) images. A new technique is used to obtain height information from the near-field induced polarization image. An AltPSM mask sample is studied with this imaging technique, and compared to imaging with an AFM and a PSI interferometer. Topological data from the near-field induced polarization image are within a few nanometer of the AFM result, without contacting surface. In addition, features due to undercutting the Cr are observable in the induced polarization image.
Aggregation of dispersed human cytotrophoblastic cells: Lessons relevant to the morphogenesis of the placenta

Abstract The syncytial trophoblast of the human placenta forms by the fusion of mononuclear cytotrophoblast cells. Cytotrophoblast cells only fuse with other trophoblastic cells, indicating a specificity to this interaction. To explore the cellular aggregation which precedes fusion, we examined the association of cytotrophoblast cells isolated from term placentae and JEG-3 choriocarcinoma cells, a cytotrophoblast-like cell line, in suspension culture. Cytotrophoblast cells were isolated by dispersion of chorionic villi in trypsin-DNase in Ca 2+ Mg 2+ - free medium. JEG-3 cells were released from culture flasks by trypsinization in Versene-EDTA buffer. In suspension culture, each cell type aggregated forming tissue-like masses over a 24-hr period. Transmission electron microscope analysis demonstrated the formation of numerous desmosomes between the aggregated cells. In outgrowth culture, the aggregates created in suspension were maintained as microvilli-covered multicellular structures with hollow cores. The extent of aggregation was dependent upon the concentration of cells in the incubations with greater aggregation occurring with higher cell densities. Aggregation of both cytotrophoblast cells and JEG-3 cells progressed rapidly during the initial 10 hr of incubation and then continued at a slower rate. Aggregation took place in serum-containing and serum-free medium, but was impeded in Ca 2+ Mg 2+ - free medium. Incubation of JEG-3 and cytotrophoblast cells in the presence of the protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide, prevented aggregation, whereas the inhibitor of N-linked glycosylation, tunicamycin, did not. The inhibitor of RNA synthesis, actinomycin D, had no effect on the aggregation of the cells during the initial 6 hr of aggregation. These findings suggest that trypsin treatment in Ca 2+ Mg 2+ - poor medium removed a protein(s) from the trophoblast cell surface which must be resynthesized for cell-cell association to take place.
Modern Special Collections: Embracing the Future While Taking Care of the Past

As managers of special collections engage with evolving formats and technologies, it is imperative that these professionals remain well versed in papyrus, paper, and principles that inform archival work. The permanence of this content defines our past, informs our present, and shapes our future. However, a constricting interpretation of archival principles heavily focused on the “integrity” of recordkeeping drives collection managers further from the resources needed to do their jobs in this new age of archiving. Thinking in a nontraditional strategic manner can ensure continued collection development, access, and relevance for the next generation.
Estimating variation in surface emissivities of intertidal macroalgae using an infrared thermometer and the effects on temperature measurements

Accurate measurements of surface temperatures with an infrared (IR) thermometer require input of the emissivities of the surfaces being measured; however, few determinations of the emissivities of intertidal organisms’ surfaces have been made. Emissivities of intertidal macroalgae were measured to determine whether algal species, measurement angle, hydration, and layering affected them. Emissivities were similar and averaged 0.94 among 11 of 13 species. The species with lower and more variable emissivities (Chondracanthus exasperatus and Desmarestia viridis) differed in morphology from the other species, which were relatively flat thin blades with little surface texture. Measurement angle caused emissivities to decrease significantly in Mazzaella splendens but not in three other species. Hydration and layering of Ulva lactuca also had no effect. At 22 °C, measured temperatures were within 1 °C of actual temperatures when thermometer emissivity settings ranged from 0.75 to 1.00. When emissivities were set lower than actual values, measured temperatures were lower than actual temperatures at 15 °C and higher than actual temperatures at 60 °C. When the IR thermometer was used to measure surface temperatures of nine species of intertidal algae immediately before they were inundated by the incoming tide, temperatures were higher in mid intertidal than low intertidal individuals and higher on a sunnier day than an overcast day. Temperatures of U. lactuca increased with increasing height on the shore, but temperatures of Ulvaria obscura did not. Temperatures were also higher in Fucus distichus blades than receptacles, and lower in U. lactuca and M. splendens occurring in the lower layers of stacks of algae.
Short hairpin RNA–expressing bacteria elicit RNA interference in mammals

RNA-interference (RNAi) is a potent mechanism, conserved from plants to humans for specific silencing of genes, which holds promise for functional genomics and gene-targeted therapies. Here we show that bacteria engineered to produce a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting a mammalian gene induce trans-kingdom RNAi in vitro and in vivo. Nonpathogenic Escherichia coli were engineered to transcribe shRNAs from a plasmid containing the invasin gene Inv and the listeriolysin O gene HlyA, which encode two bacterial factors needed for successful transfer of the shRNAs into mammalian cells. Upon oral or intravenous administration, E. coli encoding shRNA against CTNNB1 (catenin beta-1) induce significant gene silencing in the intestinal epithelium and in human colon cancer xenografts in mice. These results provide an example of trans-kingdom RNAi in higher organisms and suggest the potential of bacteria-mediated RNAi for functional genomics, therapeutic target validation and development of clinically compatible RNAi-based therapies.
Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Administration of Established Platinum Drugs

We review the pharmacology and clinical administration of the commonly used platinum-based anticancer drugs cisplatin and carboplatin, and the more recently approved diamminocyclohexane-based oxaliplatin. The development of analogues of cisplatin has been focused upon identifying compounds with less toxicity and with a different spectrum of activity. Carboplatin exemplifies the former, while the initial data with oxaliplatin support its activity in cisplatin-resistant tumours. The clinical pharmacokinetics of the drugs are reviewed. Incorporation of these data into the design of clinical regimens has permitted individualised therapy with carboplatin, and has enhanced safety. Additional investigation of the pharmacodynamics of all of these agents is expected to result in their selective application. The clinical effects of these analogues are discussed.
Concurrent modulation of cell surface fibronectin and adhesion to fibronectin in hepatoma cells

Rat hepatoma cells grown in vitro were poorly adhesive to plastic surfaces coated with fibronectin and lacked cell surface fibronectin matrix. They synthesized soluble fibronectin into the medium. The cell surface fibronectin matrix and the ability to attach to fibronectin-coated surface were restored in the 7777 cells upon passage as a tumor in rats and by coculturing these cells with normal liver-derived cells in vitro. Fibronectin matrix and the ability of cells to attach to fibronectin were thus modulated in a coordinated fashion, suggesting that the formation of a cell surface fibronectin matrix is dependent on the cell surface property that enables cells to interact with fibronectin.
Prediction of Fracture in Patients with Acute MusculosKeletal Ankle Trauma

X-rays taken for ankle trauma contribute significantly to the cost of health care in this country. In an attempt to find clinical correlates of ankle fracture 36 detailed historical and physical examination variables were collected from 587 consecutive patients with ankle trauma, and ankle x-rays were taken of all patients. The association of each variable with the final diagnosis of fracture, rupture, or sprain was tested; 21 variables were significant predictors of fracture (vs. sprain and rupture) and 15 were not significantly associated with final di agnosis. The variables were used in a linear discriminant analysis to develop a rule which would predict the final diagnosis. If only those patients predicted by the rule to have fractures had been x-rayed, all patients with fracture would have been identified but more than a fourth of all ankle trauma patients would have been spared x-rays. This compares favorably with a recently published rule that did not assess sensitivity. A simulated prospective eva...
Stochastic Regret Minimization via Thompson Sampling

The Thompson Sampling (TS) policy is a widely implemented algorithm for the stochastic multiarmed bandit (MAB) problem. Given a prior distribution over possible parameter settings of the underlying reward distributions of the arms, at each time instant, the policy plays an arm with probability equal to the probability that this arm has largest mean reward conditioned on the current posterior distributions of the arms. This policy generalizes the celebrated “probability matching” heuristic which has been experimentally and widely observed in human decision making. However, despite its ubiquity, the Thompson Sampling policy is poorly understood. Our goal in this paper is to make progress towards understanding the empirical success of this policy. We proceed using the lens of approximation algorithms and problem definitions from stochastic optimization. We focus on an objective function termed stochastic regret that captures the expected number of times the policy plays an arm that is not the eventual best arm, where the expectation is over the prior distribution. Given such a definition, we show that TS is a 2‐ approximation to the optimal decision policy in two extreme but canonical scenarios. One such scenario is the two-armed bandit problem which is used as a calibration point in all bandit literature. The second scenario is stochastic optimization where the outcome of a random variable is revealed in a single play to a high or low deterministic value. We show that the 2 approximation is tight in both these scenarios. We provide an uniform analysis framework that in theory is capable of proving our conjecture that the TS policy is a 2‐approximation to the optimal decision policy for minimizing stochastic regret, for any prior distribution and any time horizon.
Land Tenure and Allocative Efficiency in Niger

Using field-level data, the authors investigate whether traditional land tenure systems are an impediment to allocative efficiency in Niger. They find that yields are strongly influenced by the manpower available to farming households, an indication that marginal returns to labor and land are not equalized across households. The authors uncover no relationship between manuring and whether or not local customs allow land sales. But manuring is influenced by tenure security: farmers who cultivate both borrowed and owned fields divert manure toward the latter. The authors' findings do not imply that a change in land tenure system is called for.
Anatomic and Directional Variation in the Mechanical Properties of the Mandibular Condyle in Pigs

Stereologic studies of trabecular architecture suggest that the pig mandibular condyle is strongest when loaded supero-inferiorly, and that stress is concentrated in the antero-inferior region (Teng and Herring, 1995). To test these hypotheses, we investigated the uni-axial mechanical properties of 22 pig mandibular condyles in three loading directions at a mean strain rate of 0.14 (+/- 0.12)% s-1. A total of 91 rectangular beam specimens (averaging 9.0 mm x 6.0 mm x 5.0 mm) was tested. For each specimen, 5 or 6 non-destructive tests were performed before compressive failure. Strain in both longitudinal and transverse directions was measured by foil strain gauges on the central part of the specimen. Data were normalized at a strain rate of 0.1% s-1, specimen length of 9 mm, and cross-sectional area of 30.25 mm2. Generally, modulus of elasticity (E) and ultimate stress (sigma u) in the anterior regions of the condyle were greater than those in the posterior. E, sigma u, and Poisson's ratio (upsilon) were significantly different among the test directions, but ultimate strain (epsilon u) was not. The highest values of E (4.04 GPa), sigma u (14.97 MPa), and rho (0.81 g/cm3) were seen in the anterior inferior/middle region under supero-inferior loading. The lowest values (0.94 GPa for E, 2.38 MPa for sigma u, and 0.52 g/cm3 for rho) were found in the inferior/posterior region in medio-lateral loading. Although the mechanical properties of the condyle vary depending upon location, these results verify that the condyle is strongest and stiffest under compressive loads in the supero-inferior direction, and that the anterior-inferior region is particularly strong and stiff.
Activation-induced disruption of nucleosome position clusters on the coding regions of Gcn4-dependent genes extends into neighbouring genes

We have used paired-end sequencing of yeast nucleosomal DNA to obtain accurate genomic maps of nucleosome positions and occupancies in control cells and cells treated with 3-aminotriazole (3AT), an inducer of the transcriptional activator Gcn4. In control cells, 3AT-inducible genes exhibit a series of distinct nucleosome occupancy peaks. However, the underlying position data reveal that each nucleosome peak actually consists of a cluster of mutually exclusive overlapping positions, usually including a dominant position. Thus, each nucleosome occupies one of several possible positions and consequently, different cells have distinct local chromatin structures. Induction results in a major disruption of nucleosome positioning, sometimes with altered spacing and a dramatic loss of occupancy over the entire gene, often extending into a neighbouring gene. Nucleosome-depleted regions are generally unaffected. Genes repressed by 3AT show the same changes, but in reverse. We propose that yeast genes exist in one of several alternative nucleosomal arrays, which are disrupted by activation. We conclude that activation results in gene-wide chromatin remodelling and that this remodelling can even extend into the chromatin of flanking genes.
A History of Shaker Nurse-Herbalists, Health Reform, and the American Botanical Medical Movement (1830-1860)

During the mid 19th century, herbal remedies were the platform for a major health reform movement in America known as the Botanical Medical Movement (BMM). A number of histories have been written on the BMM from the perspectives of physicians and pharmacists. Purpose: This article describes the history of nurse-herbalism during the period and the impact that Shaker nurses, in particular, had on the BMM. Method: The article traces the history and findings of a triangulated case study. Findings: Shaker nurses used herbs extensively in their caring and curing practices. They applied the botanical remedies recommended by BMM leaders. The nurses were also expert herbal medicine makers who used their own remedies in patient care. Conclusions: The Shaker infirmary was the nurses’ behind-the-scenes research and development laboratory for the Shaker herbal cottage industry, which ultimately developed into an international, entrepreneurial endeavor. The Shaker infirmary was the nurses’ organized proving ground for ...
OPTIMAL ACCUMULATION AND TRADE IN AN OPEN ECONOMY

As HAS LONG BEEN RECOGNIZED, a complete analysis of the benefits of foreign trade must look not only at the traditional static aspects of comparative advantage, but also at the intertemporal pattern of the allocation of all resources available to an economy-both foreign and domestic. Studies of the optirmal paths of capital accumulation in a two-sector neoclassical model by Uzawa and Srinivasan1 have established an excellent framework for the study of optimal intertemporal decisions as they affect foreign trade. Building on this work, this dissertation constructs two open models and examines optimal accumulation in them. The first model opens the Uzawa-Srinivasan model by allowing the country to engage in balanced trade at terms dependent on the amount and direction of trade. The objective is to maximize the discounted value of per-capita consumption over the infinite future. The model treats two goods (an investment good and a consumption good), assuming linearly homogeneous production functions with smooth substitution between the two factors (capital and labor). The model rules out technical progress and reversals of factor intensity. We show that these assumptions imply a unique optimal path. The qualitative nature of this path will be strongly influenced by the configuration of specialization patterns, but a few generalizations may be indicated. If the initial capital-labor ratio is quite low, the optimal policy will begin with specialization in investment. Whether this should be achieved by autarky or by complete or partial international specialization is essentially astatic question, to be determined at each instant by the relative marginal rates of transformation in production and trade. During an initial period of austerity which lasts until some critical capital-labor ratio is reached, capital will be accumulated at the maximum rate consistent with the survival of the population. Beyond this point, consumption will (in general) be gradually increased as the economy approaches asymptotically a long-run stationary state in which the capital-labor ratio, per-capita output and per-capita consumption are constant. The introduction of dynamic optimization does not alter the nature of static allocation, but merely generates a shadow price for the guidance of essentially static allocation decisions. The second model introduces endogenous technical progress of the "learning by doing" sort in the investment-good sector only. To avoid unnecessary complications, the model assumes fixed terms of trade and equal factor intensities in each sector. Depending on the parameters and initial conditions, there may no longer be a unique path satisfying the necessary conditions for optimality. The choice between locally optimal paths must be made by comparing the value of the criterion along each such path. In particular, it may be optimal for a country to specialize in the investment good even though its initial comparative advantage is in the consumption good.
Single-stranded gaps as localized targets for in vitro mutagenesis.

Short single-stranded gaps in circular DNA molecules can be generated enzymatically, often at predetermined sites. These can serve as targets for in vitro mutagenesis procedures that result in alterations in nucleotide sequence within or very near the gap. Deamination of unpaired cytosine residues with sodium bisulfite has been used to induce mutations in the BglI restriction site of SV40 DNA and within defined regions of the β-lactamase gene on pBR322. A new method of induction of mutations at gaps, called “gap misrepair,” has been developed; it was used to cause changes at the HindIII and ClaI restriction sites on pBR322 DNA. Gap misrepair reactions using DNA polymerase I of Micrococcus luteus in the presence of T4 DNA ligase and three of the four deoxynucleoside triphosphates yielded all three possible substitutions for adenine and cytosine residues in the DNA.
Fighting a Hydra: A Note on the Network Embeddedness of the War on Terror

Author(s): Moody, James | Abstract: While we typically count the number of people directly affected by violence, war and state action with casualty reports, we often ignore how these people are embedded in larger networks. In this paper, I estimate the number of people who know somebody who has been killed, injured or detained in the US war on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan, and thus likely at higher risk to joining a resistance movement. Since such numbers are constantly changing, an on-line web-calculator for the estimates is included so that readers can make their own estimates as well. Better understanding how friends and families are affected by such actions will help us understand the wider implications of military action.
FROM PROTEIN SYNTHESIS TO GENETIC INSERTION

▪ Abstract In 1946, 14C-cyanide made its appearance as an offshoot of the Atomic Energy Program. Our colleague Robert Loftfield built it into 14C-alanine by the Strecker synthesis, and a lusty program directed toward uncovering the unknown mechanism of protein synthesis grew out of this beginning. The necessity for an undiscovered series of steps and enzymes was soon evident. A cell free system was developed, and a succession of components necessary for this new pathway tumbled out. ATP dependence, amino acid activation, the ribosome as the site of polypeptide formation, discovery of tRNA as the translation molecule linking the gene and protein sequence, and GTP as the essential energy ingredient in peptide chain extension all appeared from our laboratory within the next decade. A little later the AP4N family, whose functions remain imperfectly defined, of intracellular molecules was discovered. Isolation of specific species of RNA became a high priority, and we sequenced a small segment of the 3′ end of ...
Mixed Ramsey Numbers Revisited

Given a graph $H$ with no isolates, the (generalized) mixed Ramsey number $r(H, \overline{I}_m)$ is the smallest integer $r$ such that every $H$-free graph of order $r$ contains an $m$-element irredundant set. We consider some questions concerning the asymptotic behaviour of this number (i) with $H$ fixed and $m \rightarrow \infty$, (ii) with $m$ fixed and $(H_n)$ a sequence of dense graphs, in particular for the sequence $(K_n), \; n \rightarrow \infty$. Open problems are mentioned throughout the paper.
Methotrexate levels and outcome in osteosarcoma.

Background Peak serum concentrations of methotrexate (MTX) have been reported to correlate with outcome in osteosarcoma (OS). Modification of the MTX dose to achieve peak levels between 700 and 1,000 µmol/L has been recommended. The goal of the study was to assess whether there is a correlation between histologic necrosis of the tumor and/or prognosis with peak MTX serum concentration. Procedure Treatment included multi-agent adjuvant chemotherapy, including high-dose MTX (12 g/m2). Peak MTX levels were drawn following a 4-hr infusion. Histologic evaluation for percent necrosis was done at the time of definitive resection. Results The median peak MTX level (n = 52 patients) was 1,060 µmol/L (range: 410–4,700 µmol/L), with significant intra-patient and inter-patient variability. Fifty-eight percent of the levels were 1,000 µmol/L or higher. Response to pre-operative chemotherapy was: 18% Grade I necrosis, 35% Grade II, 31% Grade III, and 16% Grade IV. No significant association was found between the mean peak MTX levels and necrosis (P = 0.44). Event-free survival (EFS) for the 48 patients with non-metastatic disease at diagnosis was 76% at 4 years of follow-up, with no association between the mean peak MTX level and EFS (P = 0.24). Conclusions The absence of a demonstrable correlation between peak MTX levels and histologic necrosis or EFS may suggest that most patients achieve therapeutic levels when MTX is given at a dose of 12 g/m2. The significant degree of intra-patient variability in peak levels poses a dilemma for pharmacokinetic adjustment. Continued use of HD-MTX in all patients, rather than dose adapted therapy, may be justified. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2005;44:638–642. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fourier analysis of object boundaries from two dimensional digitized images

Contours of objects obtained from two dimensional image segmentation can be used to identify an object shape or define a projection or slice of a three dimensional object. When a contour is compared to reference contours or to adjacent slices or projections, it is necessary to extract the important features of the curves, reduce the effects of noise, and normalize the contours. The method of Fourier descriptors is compared with the method of B-splines for achieving these goals for three dimensional sampled boundary curves. The effective filters in both space and frequency domains are examined, and the results are demonstrated with simulations.
Reclaiming Our Lives: HIV and AIDS, Women's Land and Property Rights and Livelihoods in southern and East Africa – Narratives and Responses

Reclaiming Our Lives: HIV and AIDS, Women's Land and Property Rights and Livelihoods in southern and East Africa – Narratives and Responses, edited by Kaori Izumi. Cape Town, South Africa: HSRC Pre...
Cell cycle and adhesion defects in mice carrying a targeted deletion of the integrin β4 cytoplasmic domain

The cytoplasmic domain of the integrin beta4 subunit mediates both association with the hemidesmosomal cytoskeleton and recruitment of the signaling adaptor protein Shc. To examine the significance of these interactions during development, we have generated mice carrying a targeted deletion of the beta4 cytoplasmic domain. Analysis of homozygous mutant mice indicates that the tail-less alpha6beta4 binds efficiently to laminin 5, but is unable to integrate with the cytoskeleton. Accordingly, these mice display extensive epidermal detachment at birth and die immmediately thereafter from a syndrome resembling the human disease junctional epidermolysis bullosa with pyloric atresia (PA-JEB). In addition, we find a significant proliferative defect. Specifically, the number of precursor cells in the intestinal epithelium, which remains adherent to the basement membrane, and in intact areas of the skin is reduced, and post-mitotic enterocytes display increased levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27(Kip). These findings indicate that the interactions mediated by the beta4 tail are crucial for stable adhesion of stratified epithelia to the basement membrane and for proper cell-cycle control in the proliferative compartments of both stratified and simple epithelia.
Trends in admission and death rates due to paediatric head injury in England and Wales 2000-2012

Over the last ten years there has been a steady rise in short paediatric admissions. This is likely to be multi-factorial but is in part attributed to the introduction of the four hour Emergency Department (ED) target and changes in primary care provision. Head injury is the most common paediatric injury presentation. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published guidance for head injury management in 2003 and 2007. Both prioritised early definitive diagnosis by early brain imaging although paediatric practice often includes a period of observation. We aimed to establish whether introduction of national guidance resulted in significant change of death or admission rates. Methods A retrospective observational study of admissions and deaths due to paediatric head injury between 2000 and 2012 was performed using Hospital Episode Statistics and Office for National Statistics publications. Results See Figures 1-3. Correcting for changes in population size, per 100,00 children aged 0–14 years there is a downward trend in mortality (Figure 1) (R 2 = 0.7 p 2 = 0.3 p = 0.05). Admission rates for paediatric head injury as a percentage of all admissions decreased (Figure 3) (R 2 = 0.65 p Conclusion We have found statistically significant changes in rates of death and admission due to paediatric head injury over this time period. However even accounting for implementation delays, the trends that we have demonstrated do not directly correlate with the timings of national guidance, ED targets or changes to primary care provision. For a more complete understanding of the impact of the guidelines this analysis should now be expanded to incorporate ED attendance rates and length of stay. However these existing data provide a useful benchmark against which to compare the effect of the 2014 update to NICE guidance.