cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constructing diverse classifier ensembles using artificial training examples

Ensemble methods like bagging and boosting that combine the decisions of multiple hypotheses are some of the strongest existing machine learning methods. The diversity of the members of an ensemble is known to be an important factor in determining its generalization error. This paper presents a new method for generating ensembles that directly constructs diverse hypotheses using additional artificially-constructed training examples. The technique is a simple, general metalearner that can use any strong learner as a base classifier to build diverse committees. Experimental results using decision-tree induction as a base learner demonstrate that this approach consistently achieves higher predictive accuracy than both the base classifier and bagging (whereas boosting can occasionally decrease accuracy), and also obtains higher accuracy than boosting early in the learning curve when training data is limited.
MULTIPLE-INSTANCE LEARNING FOR MUSIC INFORMATION RETRIEVAL

Multiple-instance learning algorithms train classifiers from lightly supervised data, i.e. labeled collections of items, rather than labeled items. We compare the multiple-instance learners mi-SVM and MILES on the task of classifying 10second song clips. These classifiers are trained on tags at the track, album, and artist levels, or granularities, that have been derived from tags at the clip granularity, allowing us to test the effectiveness of the learners at recovering the clip labeling in the training set and predicting the clip labeling for a held-out test set. We find that mi-SVM is better than a control at the recovery task on training clips, with an average classification accuracy as high as 87% over 43 tags; on test clips, it is comparable to the control with an average classification accuracy of up to 68%. MILES performed adequately on the recovery task, but poorly on the test clips.
Overproduction of a functional fatty acid biosynthetic enzyme blocks fatty acid synthesis in Escherichia coli

β-Ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthetase II (KAS II) is one of three Escherichia coli isozymes that catalyze the elongation of growing fatty acid chains by condensation of acyl-ACP with malonyl-ACP. Overexpression of this enzyme has been found to be extremely toxic to E. coli, much more so than overproduction of either of the other KAS isozymes, KAS I or KAS III. The immediate effect of KAS II overproduction is the cessation of phospholipid synthesis, and this inhibition is specifically due to the blockage of fatty acid synthesis. To determine the cause of this inhibition, we examined the intracellular pools of ACP, coenzyme A (CoA), and their acyl thioesters. Although no significant changes were detected in the acyl-ACP pools, the CoA pools were dramatically altered by KAS II overproduction. Malonyl-CoA increased to about 40% of the total cellular CoA pool upon KAS II overproduction from a steady-state level of around 0.5% in the absence of KAS II overproduction. This finding indicated that the conversion of malonyl-CoA to fatty acids had been blocked and could be explained if either the conversion of malonyl-CoA to malonyl-ACP and/or the elongation reactions of fatty acid synthesis had been blocked. Overproduction of malonyl-CoA:ACP transacylase, the enzyme catalyzing the conversion of malonyl-CoA to malonyl-ACP, partially relieved the toxicity of KAS II overproduction, consistent with a model in which high levels of KAS II blocks access of the other KAS isozymes to malonyl-CoA:ACP transacylase.
Analysis of the effects of subcutaneous musculoaponeurotic system facial support on the nasolabial crease.

The idea that traction on the subcutaneous musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) deepens the nasolabial crease has been propagated through the plastic surgery literature. This notion is contrary to the senior author’s experience. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of mobilization of the SMAS on the nasolabial fold and crease. Intraoperative examination on the effect of traction on the SMAS was performed. Ten consecutive primary facelift patients underwent facelift procedures with SMAS support. Following mobilization of the SMAS, traction was placed on the SMAS without traction on the skin. In all cases, the nasolabial fold was effaced and the nasolabial crease did not deepen. The authors concluded that traction on the SMAS did not deepen the nasolabial crease.
Liposomal Delivery of Purified Inhibitory-κBα Inhibits Tumor Necrosis Factor-α–Induced Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Proliferation

Vessel injury results in the elaboration of various cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which may influence vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function and contribute to atherogenesis. We tested the hypothesis that TNF-alpha-induced VSMC proliferation requires activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), which could be prevented by delivery of the NF-kappaB inhibitory peptide, IkappaBalpha. TNF-alpha induced concentration-dependent human VSMC proliferation, and neutralizing antibody to interleukin-6 reduced TNF-alpha-induced VSMC proliferation by 65%. In TNF-alpha-stimulated VSMCs, there was a 3-fold increase in NF-kappaB-dependent luciferase reporter activity that was associated with degradation of IkappaBalpha. To determine an essential role for NF-kappaB in TNF-alpha-induced VSMC proliferation, recombinant IkappaBalpha was introduced into VSMCs via liposomal delivery. Under these conditions, TNF-alpha-induced NF-kappaB nuclear translocation and DNA binding were inhibited, NF-kappaB-dependent luciferase activity was reduced by 50%, there was no degradation of native IkappaBalpha detected, interleukin-6 production was reduced by 54%, and VSMC proliferation was decreased by 60%. In conclusion, the mitogenic effect of TNF-alpha on human arterial VSMCs is dependent on NF-kappaB activation and may be prevented by exogenously delivered IkappaBalpha. Furthermore, liposomal delivery of endogenous inhibitory proteins may represent a novel, therapeutically accessible method for selective transcriptional suppression in the response to vascular injury.
Multilocus Sequence Typing as an Approach for Population Analysis of Medicago-Nodulating Rhizobia

Multilocus sequence typing (MLST), a sequence-based method to characterize bacterial genomes, was used to examine the genetic structure in a large collection of Medicago-nodulating rhizobial strains. This is the first study where MLST has been applied in conjunction with eBURST analysis to determine the population genetic structure of nonpathogenic bacteria recovered from the soil environment. Sequence variation was determined in 10 chromosomal loci of 231 strains that predominantly originated from southwest Asia. Genetic diversity for each locus ranged from 0.351 to 0.819, and the strains examined were allocated to 91 different allelic profiles or sequence types (STs). The genus Medicago is nodulated by at least two groups of rhizobia with divergent chromosomes that have been classified as Sinorhizobium meliloti and Sinorhizobium medicae. Evidence was obtained that the degree of genetic exchange among the chromosomes across these groups is limited. The symbiosis with Medicago polymorpha of nine strains placed in one of these groups, previously identified as S. medicae, ranged from ineffective to fully effective, indicating that there was no strong relationship between symbiotic phenotype and chromosomal genotype.
Co-localization of GLUT1 and GLUT4 in the blood-brain barrier of the rat ventromedial hypothalamus.

Abstract The ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) has been proposed to be a glucose sensor within the brain and appears to play a critical role in initiating the counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia. Transport of glucose across the brain capillaries and into neurons in this region is mediated by different isoforms of the sodium-independent glucose transporter gene family. The objective of the present study was to identify the specific glucose transporter isoforms present, as well as their cellular localization, within the VMH. Immunohistochemistry was performed for GLUT1, GLUT2 and GLUT4 in frozen sections of hypothalami from normal rats. GLUT1 was present on the endothelial cells of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) of the VMH. GLUT2 immunoreactivity was seen in the ependymal cells of the third ventricle and in scattered cells in the arcuate and periventricular nuclei. There was no GLUT2 expression in the VMH. The insulin-sensitive GLUT4 isoform was localized to vascular structures within the VMH. Double-labeled immunohistochemistry demonstrated co-localization of GLUT4 with GLUT1 and with the tight junction protein ZO-1 in the VMH and suggested that VMH GLUT4 expression was restricted to the BBB. The role of GLUT4 in the brain and within the VMH is unknown, but given its location on the BBB, it may participate in brain sensing of blood glucose concentrations.
Electric-Field Effects on Reactions Between Oxides

Thin films of In2O3 and Fe2O3 have been deposited on (001) MgO using pulsed-laser deposition (PLD). These thin-film diffusion couples were then reacted in an applied electric field at elevated temperatures. In this type of solid-state reaction, both the reaction rate and the interfacial stability are affected by the transport properties of the reacting ions. The electric field provides a very large external driving force that influences the diffusion of the cations in the constitutive layers. This induced ionic current causes changes in the reaction rates, interfacial stability and distribution of the phases. Through the use of electron microscopy techniques the reaction kinetics and interface morphology have been investigated in these spinel-forming systems, to gain a better understanding of the influence of an electric field on solid-state reactions.
Changing Labor Markets and the U.S. Workforce Development System

For all of the 1980s and much of the 1990s, the reform of the U.S. workforce development system has been driven by anxiety about international competition. This reform was focused primarily on high schools, but at the beginning of the new century, two trends have had a significant influence on the shape and direction of the workforce development reform agenda. The boom that lasted for most of the 1990s weakened the arguments that were motivated by the fear of competition from Japan and Germany and the large and persistent differential between the earnings of high school and college graduates has made policymakers view secondary schools as college- rather than workforce-preparation institutions. Rather than asking what high schools might do to prepare young people for work, reformers are preoccupied with whether high schools are providing the academic foundation that would prepare students for college. Moreover, the high school-college earnings gap is symptomatic of a growing inequality in the country, which should be a greater preoccupation for policymakers than it has been during the era of international competition-based education reform.
The Application of the Theory of Heterogeneous Dielectrics to Low Surface Area Soil Systems

A theory of a three component heterogeneous dielectric has been developed to provide a basis for an analytic description of the electromagnetic properties of soil systems. The theory is valid for frequencies where the electromagnetic wavelength is much greater than the particle size. Essential parameters of the theory ase the amounts and properties of the separate constituents. Agreement between theory and experiment for low surface area sand systems at both audio and p-band radar frequencies is demonstrated.
Political Participation in France among Non-European-Origin Migrants: Segregation or Integration?

This article examines the political incorporation of minority migrant groups in Western Europe by analysing voting rates. I present the first quantitative data that compare turnout rates among multiple minority migrant groups in France and show that non-European-origin migrant groups have lower turnout rates than native French metropolitans. I claim neighbourhood effects can explain these turnout differences, suggesting that the underlying determinants of minority migrant voting behaviour in France are similar to those of native metropolitans. However, because non-European-origin migrants are more likely than native metropolitans to live in disadvantaged urban areas they have lower turnout rates.
Implementation of a Mobile-Based Surveillance System in Saudi Arabia for the 2009 Hajj

This paper explored the development and implementation of the Global Positioning System/ Geographic Information System (GPS/GIS) enabled mobile-based disease surveillance system as a feasible and effective way to support and strengthen preparedness for H1N1 Influenza A during the 2009 Hajj. It demonstrates mobile computing technology can provide rapid and accurate data collection for public health decision-making during mass gatherings. The GIS-based interactive mapping tool provided a pioneering example of the power of a geographically based internet-accessible surveillance system with real-time data visualization. The technical challenges in the process of implementation and in the field were also identified.
A NEW ICHNOSPECIES OF NEREITES FROM CARBONIFEROUS TIDAL-FLAT FACIES OF EASTERN KANSAS, USA: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE NEREITES–NEONEREITES DEBATE

Predominantly horizontal, gently curved to slightly sinuous traces constituting uniserial rows of imbricated, subspherical sediment pads occur in Pennsylvanian tidal-flat facies of eastern Kansas. These traces exhibit a complex, actively filled internal structure. The presence of a median tunnel enveloped by overlapping pads of reworked sediment indicates that these biogenic structures should be included in the ichnogenus Nereites MacLeay in Murchison, 1839. A new ichnospecies, N. imbricata, is erected. Externally, Nereites imbricata differs from the other Nereites ichnospecies by the large, tightly packed, imbricated pads that commonly result in an annulated appearance on bedding-planes. Internally, obliquely arranged, arcuate laminae envelope the median tunnel and tend to follow the outline of the external semispherical pads. Additionally, the behavioral pattern reflected by N. imbricata is less specialized than that of the other Nereites ichnospecies. Eione monoliformis Tate, 1859 resembles N. imbricata in general appearence, but lack the diagnostic Nereites internal structure, and is invariably preserved as positive epireliefs. Occurrence of Nereites imbricata as both median tunnels surrounded by reworked sediment (Nereites preservation) and uniserial rows of imbricated sediment pads (Neonereites preservation) supports the notion that Neonereites Seilacher, 1960 is a preservational variant of Nereites. The ichnogenus Nereites is an eurybathic form and is a common component of Paleozoic shallow-marine facies.
Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children

This article provides an overview of the evaluation and management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) in children. The common etiologies at different ages are reviewed. Conditions with endoscopic importance for diagnosis or therapy include solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, polyps, vascular lesions, and colonic inflammation and ulceration. Diagnostic modalities for identifying causes of LGIB in children include endoscopy and colonoscopy, cross-sectional and nuclear medicine imaging, video capsule endoscopy, and enteroscopy. Pre-endoscopic preparation and decision-making unique to pediatrics is highlighted. The authors conclude with a summary of current and emerging therapeutic hemostatic techniques that can be used in pediatric patients.
Essays on Human–Wildlife Conflict 10 Years After the Durban World Parks Congress: An Introduction

Events at the 2003 World Parks Congress in Durban focused on the growing concern of human–wildlife conflict. A group of practitioners and academics participated in a workshop entitled “Creating Coe...
Understanding the Invisibility of the Asian-American Television Audience: Why Marketers Often Overlook an Audience of “Model” Consumers

Asian-Americans lack the advertiser recognition and investment levels enjoyed by other ethnic groups in the United States. Given this demographic group's greater purchasing power and comparable growth rate, online survey and in-depth executive interviews reveal how U.S. Asians' income, language, and other audience traits are valued by U.S. television advertisers and compares these perceptions to those for Hispanics. Recommendations are offered to overcome reported advertiser misperceptions and agency obstacles and to help encourage investment in this growing and affluent demographic segment.
Intramolecular Cleavage of the hASRGL1 Homodimer Occurs in Two Stages.

The human asparaginase-like protein 1 (hASRGL1) is a member of the N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) family that hydrolyzes l-asparagine and isoaspartyl-dipeptides. The nascent protein folds into an αβ–βα sandwich fold homodimer that cleaves its own peptide backbone at the G167–T168 bond, resulting in the active form of the enzyme. However, biophysical studies of hASRGL1 are difficult because of the curious fact that intramolecular cleavage of the G167–T168 peptide bond reaches only ≤50% completion. We capitalized upon our previous observation that intramolecular processing increases thermostability and developed a differential scanning fluorimetry assay that allowed direct detection of distinct processing intermediates for the first time. A kinetic analysis of these intermediates revealed that cleavage of one subunit of the hASRGL1 subunit drastically reduces the processing rate of the adjacent monomer, and a mutagenesis study showed that stabilization of the dimer interface plays a critical role in this proc...
Neuropsychological Markers of Cognitive Decline in Persons With Alzheimer Disease Neuropathology

To evaluate cognitive performance among persons who did and did not develop clinical Alzheimer disease (AD) but had AD neuropathology at autopsy, we examined neuropsychological performance in cognitively healthy (Clinical Dementia Rating [CDR] = 0) participants who returned for at least 1 follow-up and died within 2 years of their last assessment. Nonprogressors remained at CDR = 0 until death; progressors developed symptomatic AD during life (CDR > 0). Cognitive performance at baseline was compared between progressors and nonprogressors on a global cognitive composite and 4 domain-specific composites (episodic memory, language, attention/working memory, and executive function). Models adjusted for age, education, sex, and non-AD neuropathology. Progressors (n = 173) had worse performance than nonprogressors (n = 141) in nearly all cognitive domains. Progressors scored lower on composites of global cognition (P < 0.001), executive function (P = 0.0006), language (P < 0.0001), and episodic memory (P = 0.0006) but not on attention/working memory (P = 0.91). These data indicate that individuals with underlying AD neuropathology who are clinically healthy but who later develop symptomatic AD have worse performance in a wide range of domains versus individuals with underlying AD neuropathology who are clinically healthy but do not become symptomatic during life. Therefore, subtle cognitive decline at baseline may indicate an increased risk of progression to symptomatic AD.
The United States as an Essential Forum for Litigating the Genocide in Rwanda

While the majority of the current population of Rwanda was born after the bleakest chapter of Rwandan history, the vestiges of the genocide remain, affecting much of the present social and political discourse in Rwanda. Traditional criminal legal systems are no more equipped to deal with such mass atrocities than are individuals. As a result, unique transitional justice mechanisms were implemented, including the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the gacaca, government-established grassroots tribunals based in name and in form, to a certain degree, on traditional tribal dispute resolution mechanisms. Other countries, including the United States, have served as forums for additional litigation involving the genocide.This chapter introduces a wide compilation of United States federal cases, involving various aspects of the genocide, and compares and contrasts issues identified in the federal cases with those at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) and, to a lesser degree, those in Rwandan national courts and the gacaca. Upon review of the relevant federal cases, one sees that the United States courts, despite significant challenges, provide a unique and occasionally only possible forum for obtaining novel information and evidentiary determinations about the genocide and more recent political concerns in Rwanda. Although U.S. courts lack experience with the genocide, they do not have the potential biases found in other jurisdictions. As a result of U.S. litigation, many victims have seen a perpetrator convicted or found liable for their unfathomable conduct. Others have been protected from coerced confessions or improper deportation. Various judicial determinations may serve as precedent or persuasive authority in future U.S. and international litigation. Ultimately, some measure of justice has been provided to those affected by the genocide that would not have been otherwise available.
Politics, historicity, and persuasion: A feminist materialist engagement with Linda Zerilli's politics of freedom

Following in Joan Scott's anti-foundationalist footsteps, Linda Zerilli argues for a theory of feminist political judgement not framed in terms of epistemological certainty but assimilated to aesthetic judgement. Tani Barlow criticises Zerilli for not taking adequate account of history in her theory. I analyse the implications of Zerilli's ‘abyssal’ approach to political judgement and Barlow's critique of it. Despite their shared concerns, Zerilli's, Barlow's, and Scott's abyssal approaches struggle to effectively ground the validity of historical analysis and political judgement within a context of plurality and historical difference. All three thinkers focus extensively on discursive and imaginative potential for change while marginalising the role of materiality in the creation of new horizons for women. Incorporating a dynamic account of the materiality of human life into their work would allow them to tie politics and history to an explanation of the role material life plays in constituting plurality...
Optimization of the Cathode Catalyst Layer Composition using a Novel 2-step Preparation Method

For optimal performance and high durability PEM fuel cells run at high water saturation levels. Excess liquid water can block pores in both the gas diffusion layer and the catalyst layer and reactant gasses can't access the active catalyst sites. Thus, to prevent electrode flooding the catalyst layer structure has to provide pathways for both gas and liquid water transport as well as high ionic and electronic conductivity. This study presents a 2-step preparation method for such a catalyst layer and also gives an optimal composition of the catalyst ink resulting in high fuel cell performance. Teflon® has been incorporated into the catalyst layer to provide a hydrophobic pathway without blocking active catalyst sites. In general, less Nafion® content needed more Teflon® in the catalyst ink. The optimal ratio was found to be C:Nafion®:Teflon® = 1:0.875:0.875.
The effect of renal function on outcomes in the adjuvant treatment of older women with breast cancer

P11 Paclitaxel and bevacizumab as first-line treatment in elderly women with HER-2 negative locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer: Preliminary results a multicenter phase II trial from Hellenic Oncology Research Group L. Vamvakas, A. Karampeazis, Ch. Nikolaou, A. Ardavanis, E. Saloustros, K. Kalbakis, Z. Zafeiriou, D. Stoltidis, A. Kalykaki, V. Georgoulias, D. Mavroudis. Hellenic Oncology Research Group (HORG), Athens, Greece
Cantilever member optimal design using improved genetic algorithm

According to the shortcoming of conventional design method used to select optimal plan in engineering field, genetic algorithm was proposed to optimize cantilever member. Project cost was choose as the optimal objective function, bending resistance capacity, shearing resistance capacity and the requirement ruled by standard as constraint condition, and then optimal design was carried out. Design variables are discrete and simple genetic algorithm converge slowly, so the selection operator,crossover operator and mutation operator were modified for parallel relationship, punishment function was applied for keeping the difference among individuals. Through a case study, the results show that the improved genetic algorithms can converge to optimal solution, and steady. When the algorithm was introduced to engineering design field to design cantilever member, the design plan is not only satisfied in bearing capacity and normal request aspect, but also save cost.
Bred for the Race: Thoroughbred Breeding and Racial Science in the United States, 1900–1940

In the first four decades of the twentieth century, horse racing was one of America’s most popular spectator sports. Members of America’s elite took to breeding and racing horses as one of their preferred pastimes. Coinciding with an increase in immigration and the rediscovery of Mendelian genetics, the idea that careful breeding of thoroughbreds would result in improved horses resonated with Americans worried about racial degeneration. Scientists committed to racial ideologies looked to thoroughbreds—whose owners and breeders maintained extensive pedigree records—to understand the science of genetic inheritance. Harry H. Laughlin, superintendent of research at the Eugenics Record Office at Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island, pored over breeding charts and race results to develop a mathematical model of inheritance that he called the “inheritance coefficient.” He believed his careful study of horses would yield findings that he and his fellow eugenicists could apply to humans. Thoroughbred breeders followed trends in genetics while contributing to the production of scientific knowledge. Pedigree charts available to bettors at race tracks helped normalize concepts of biological inheritance for race track attendees of all classes. Horse racing’s popularity in the United States contributed to the diffusion of the concept of biological race that originated as an ideological project of the ruling class. This paper analyzes the role of thoroughbred breeding and racing in the formation and popularization of racial ideology by situating breeding farms as sites of knowledge production and racecourses as places that exhibited performances of racial science for large audiences.
U.S. Agriculture and the Global Environment

This article transcribes the contributions of various experts on topics at the intersection of domestic agricultural policy and global environmental issues from the Environmental Law Institute's 2013 Miriam Hamilton Keare Policy Forum.
Cowden syndrome (multiple hamartoma syndrome).

Cowden syndrome is a genodermatosis with multiple hamartomatous neoplasms. With a high incidence of breast cancer in females, this syndrome must be recognized early for adequate treatment. Many other organ systems may be involved, including thyroid and gastrointestinal lesions.
The electrochemical behaviour of TTF in Li–O2 batteries using a TEGDME-based electrolyte

The electrochemical behaviour of tetrathiafulvalene (TTF), a redox mediator proposed to improve the recharge kinetics of Li–O2 batteries, was investigated via synchrotron and lab X-ray diffraction. Using the LiFePO4 anode, TTF causes chemical lithiation of the FePO4 phase. TTF is also found to be unstable during discharge/charge cycles.
Sociosexual Attitudes, Sociosexual Behaviors, and Alcohol Use.

Objective:Prior studies have demonstrated an association between high-risk sexual behavior and alcohol use, and there is emerging evidence that dating status and sexual behavior are related to risk for subsequent alcohol use. However, relatively little is known regarding the specific attitudinal or behavioral indicators of alcohol-related risk associated with sexual behavior. The present study distinguished between sociosexual attitudes and sociosexual behaviors, two aspects of sexual risk that may contribute to individual differences in drinking behavior. The primary hypothesis was that sociosexual attitudes would indirectly contribute to heavier drinking through greater engagement in sociosexual behaviors.Method:Study hypotheses were tested using baseline data from an alcohol challenge study in a sample of young adult heavy drinkers (n = 211, 73.7% male). Participants completed surveys assessing typical drinking behavior and both sociosexual attitudes and sociosexual behaviors.Results:As hypothesized, s...
Genetics of Menkes Disease

Fibroblast cultures from 12 unrelated patients with classical Menkes disease, an X-linked disorder of copper metabolism, were analyzed for mutations in the MNK gene at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco.
Evolution of heart failure management: Miles to go.

Despite progress, too many patients still suffer, too many die too young, and the costs are still too great.
Financial exploitation of older adults

Surveys have repeatedly found that financial exploitation is the most common type of elder mistreatment [1, 58], and the loss of financial resources can be devastating for older adults. Despite this, there has been very little theory development in elder financial exploitation. Part of the problem is that it encompasses a wide range of crimes—theft, scams, abuse of powers of attorney, unauthorized joint tenancies, etc.—each involving perpetrators with varying relationships to their victims. In this chapter, we review several currents of thought on financial exploitation, describe and test a plausible theoretical model based on current understandings, and discuss practical actions that may prevent exploitation and help investigate it when it has been reported or is suspected. We close by suggesting directions for future research to test pressing theoretical propositions and intervention approaches.
Long-Term Endocrine Outcomes Following Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Surgery for Acromegaly and Associated Prognostic Factors.

BACKGROUND Long-term remission rates from endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for acromegaly and their relationship to prognostic indicators of disease aggressiveness are not well documented. OBJECTIVE To investigate long-term remission rates in patients with acromegaly after endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery, and correlate this with molecular and radiographic markers of disease aggressiveness. METHODS We identified all patients undergoing endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for acromegaly from 2005 to 2013 at Cedars-Sinai Pituitary Center. Hormonal remission was established by normal insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, basal serum growth hormone <2.5 ng/mL, and growth hormone suppression to <1 ng/mL following oral glucose tolerance test. Oral glucose tolerance test was performed at 3 months after surgery, and then as indicated. IGF-1 was measured at 3 months and then at least annually. We evaluated tumor granularity, nuclear expression of p21, Ki67 index, and extent of cavernous sinus invasion, and correlated these with remission status. RESULTS Fifty-eight patients that underwent surgery had follow-up from 38 to 98 months (mean 64 ± 32.2 months). There were 21 microadenomas and 37 macroadenomas. Three months after surgery 40 of 58 patients (69%) were in biochemical remission. Four additional patients were in remission at 6 months after surgery, and 1 patient had recurrence within the first year after surgery. At last follow-up, 43 of 44 (74.1%) of patients remained in remission. Cavernous sinus invasion by tumor predicted failure to achieve remission. CONCLUSIONS Prognostic markers of disease aggressiveness other than cavernous sinus invasion did not correlate with surgical outcome. Long-term remission after surgery alone was achieved in 74% of patients, indicating long-term efficacy of endoscopic surgery.
Optimizing the antisepsis protocol: Effectiveness of 3 povidone-iodine 1.0% applications versus a single application of povidone-iodine 5.0.

Purpose To determine the minimum effective concentration of povidone–iodine that reduces the bacterial load by 3-log10, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requirement for antiseptic agents, and to study alternative dosing schedules of povidone–iodine to optimize its bactericidal effect. Setting Microbiology Laboratory, Evanston Hospital, Evanston, Illinois, USA. Design Experimental study. Methods A standard 0.5 McFarland solution of Staphylococcus epidermidis was applied to blood agar plates. The plates were treated with a single application of povidone–iodine solutions from 10.0% to 0.1% to define the range of interest. Another set of plates received 3 applications of various povidone–iodine solutions. Microbial growth was evaluated after 24 hours. Standard deviations with 99.0% and 99.9% confidence intervals for each concentration were estimated and used to estimate the minimum concentration that reduced the colony counts by at least 3-log10. Results Povidone–iodine at 2.5% and higher concentrations was effective in eliminating S epidermidis with a single application. Three 30-second applications of povidone–iodine at concentrations of 0.7% and higher resulted in at least a 3-log10 reduction of colonies. Conclusions Povidone–iodine 5.0% has been the standard of care for preoperative ocular antisepsis for 3 decades. Povidone–iodine 0.7% was as effective as a bactericidal agent when applied multiple times. This suggests povidone–iodine 1.0%, applied in three 30-second applications for preoperative surface disinfection might be as effective for preoperative antisepsis.
Ronald Dworkin: An Appreciation

This is a brief tribute to Ronald Dworkin and an overview of the contributions that he made to jurisprudence. It is a written version of remarks that were presented at the Memorial Service for Professor Dworkin, at St. John's Smith Square, London, on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. The remarks cover his view of adjudication, the right answer thesis, and the obligation that lawyers, scholars and judges have to the whole body of the law. It also covers the view – which I call the artery of Dworkin's jurisprudence – that legal reasoning is a form of moral reasoning. And it relates all this to the unifying ideas about dignity in "Justice for Hedgehogs."
Reliability Characteristics and Mechanisms of HRL’s T3 GaN Technology

HRL’s T3 GaN MMIC technology is evaluated using dc reliability experiments, including a voltage step-stress test, a temperature step-stress test, and a 3-temperature life test. The drain voltage step-stress test revealed three distinct regions of operation through gate leakage characteristic changes: burn-in stabilization up to 5 V, followed by stable operation up to 20 V, then voltage-dependent degradation up to catastrophic failure around 30 V. As a result, a de-rated recommended safe-operating limit of Vds = 12 V was established. The temperature step-stress test resulted in clear Arrhenius temperature-dependent degradation of the device on-resistance above 250 °C. Similarly, a recommended safe-operating limit of 150 °C was established for the technology. Finally, the 3-temperature life test resulted in clear temperature group separation and an activation energy of 2.52 eV, with a mean time-to-failure of 4 million hours at 150 °C with only a +0.2 ohm.mm increase in device on-resistance. Physical failure analysis of degraded parts showed the mechanism was a defect formation in the epitaxial barrier layer at the drain edge of the gate. Finite-element electrical simulations duplicated this degradation mechanism by modeling the defect as a void, which depleted the 2DEG and therefore increased device on-resistance.
Abstract B040: MERTK activates Akt by antagonizing SAV1 binding

Hyperactivation of the PI3K-Akt pathway is observed in virtually all solid tumors. Multiple genetic events such as PTEN loss and PIK3CA amplification partially account for the increase in the pathway activation. In addition to genetic changes, dysregulation of post-translational modifications of Akt, including phosphorylation, acetylation, hydroxylation, methylation, and others that are necessary for Akt activation is also frequently observed in various types of cancers. However, whether and how Akt is regulated by its binding partners is minimally understood. To this end, through a proteomic approach, we have identified the tumor suppressor SAV1 as a novel Akt-interacting partner to suppress Akt activation. Furthermore, we identified MERTK as a major upstream kinase phosphorylating Akt1-Y26 to disrupt SAV1 binding and subsequently activate Akt. Mechanistically, MERTK-mediated Akt1-Y26 phosphorylation facilitates Akt plasma membrane recruitment by PI(3,4,5)P3 and promotes PDK1 binding to promote Akt activation. Importantly, cancer patient-derived SAV1 mutants and Akt1 mutants were identified to exert elevated oncogenicity by bypassing SAV1 binding and suppression, further supporting a pathophysiologic role of the identified MERTK/Akt/SAV1 signaling in tumorigenesis. Citation Format: Pengda Liu, Yao Jiang. MERTK activates Akt by antagonizing SAV1 binding [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2017 Oct 26-30; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2018;17(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B040.
Elastic constants of self-healing polyethylene co-methacrylic acid determined via resonant ultrasound spectroscopy

Self-healing polyethylene co-methacrylic acid (EMAA) is a thermoplastic material that can be shaped into structures that are capable of autonomously healing after being cut, punctured, or shot. In this work, we present results from several samples of self-healing EMAA-0.6 Na, with 60% of the methacrylic acid groups neutralized by sodium, known as DuPont Surlyn 8920. This ionomer, unlike typical crystals with extremely high quality factors and easily identifiable ultrasonic resonances, is a relatively soft polymeric material with significant damping, resulting in sample resonances that can overlap and are often difficult to identify and isolate. In this work, we show the resonant spectrum of several different EMAA-0.6 Na samples as well as the methods used to isolate individual resonances and determine the elastic constants.Self-healing polyethylene co-methacrylic acid (EMAA) is a thermoplastic material that can be shaped into structures that are capable of autonomously healing after being cut, punctured, or shot. In this work, we present results from several samples of self-healing EMAA-0.6 Na, with 60% of the methacrylic acid groups neutralized by sodium, known as DuPont Surlyn 8920. This ionomer, unlike typical crystals with extremely high quality factors and easily identifiable ultrasonic resonances, is a relatively soft polymeric material with significant damping, resulting in sample resonances that can overlap and are often difficult to identify and isolate. In this work, we show the resonant spectrum of several different EMAA-0.6 Na samples as well as the methods used to isolate individual resonances and determine the elastic constants.
In-Operando Tracking and Prediction of Transition in Material System using LSTM

The structures of many material systems evolve as they are treated with physical processing. For instance, organic and inorganic crystalline materials frequently coarsen over time as they are thermally treated; with domains (grains) rotating and growing in size. When a material system undergoing the structural transformation is probed using x-ray scattering beams, the peaks in the scattering images will sharpen and intensify, and the scattering rings will become increasingly 'textured'. Accurate identification of the transition frame in advance brings multiple benefits to the NSLS-II in-operando experiments of studying material systems such as minimal beamline damage to samples, reduced energy costs, and the optimal sampling of material properties. In this paper, we formulate the prediction and identification of the structural transition event as a classification problem and apply a novel LSTM model to identify sequences having transition event. The preliminary results of the experiments are encouraging and confirm the viability of the detection and prediction of transition in advance. Our ultimate goal is to deploy such a prediction system in the real-world environment at the selected beamline of NSLS-II for improving the efficiency of the experimental facility.
Automating datacenter operations using machine learning

Today's Internet datacenters run many complex and large-scale Web applications that are very difficult to manage. The main challenges are understanding user workloads and application performance, and quickly identifying and resolving performance problems. Statistical Machine Learning (SML) provides a methodology for quickly processing the large quantities of monitoring data generated by these applications, finding repeating patterns in their behavior, and building accurate models of their performance. This dissertation argues that SML is a useful tool for simplifying and automating datacenter operations and demonstrates application of SML to three important problems in this area: characterization and synthesis of workload spikes, dynamic resource allocation in stateful systems, and quick and accurate identification of recurring performance problems.
Strategy of Insertion of Merge Features in a Sea of Wires SADP Integration

SADP are one of the important patterning techniques for all the FEOL/BEOL levels in 7 nm technology node and beyond. In BEOL, not only the minimum features, but wide lines are also important for power distribution even in the thin wire levels. However, in the conventional SADP integration, insertion of wide features in the sea-of-wires area cannot be achieved easily. In this paper, various strategies are presented for creating merge features in SADP/SAQP integration. Firstly, using an add on lithography, the mandrel can be selectively merge or remove before the spacer deposition, as a result, merged mandrels or non-mandrels without touching others are created. On the other hand, a spacer cut lithography can be applied after the mandrel pull, then, there is a freedom to cut the spacer between the select features that will merge all the features in the area. Nevertheless, the undesired connections can be cut off by adding one more block-lithography. Therefore, it is possible to create any arbitrary shapes with this technique. The last block-lithography can also be eliminated by introducing pre-defined cuts in the mandrel cut or non-mandrel cut step.
Hypoperfusion ratio predicts infarct growth during transfer for thrombectomy.

We hypothesized that automated assessment of collaterals on computed tomography perfusion can predict the rate of infarct growth during transfer from a primary to a comprehensive stroke center for endovascular stroke treatment. We identified consecutive patients (N = 28) and assessed their collaterals based on the hypoperfusion intensity ratio (HIR) prior to transfer. Infarct growth rate was strongly correlated with HIR (r = 0.78, p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis identified HIR ≥ 0.5 as optimal for predicting infarct growth. Patients with HIR ≥ 0.5 had a median infarct growth rate of 10.1ml/h (interquartile range [IQR] = 6.4-18.4) compared with 0.9ml/h (IQR = 0-2.8; p < 0.001) in patients with HIR < 0.5. Patients with HIR ≥ 0.5 had an 83% probability of significant core growth, whereas patients with HIR < 0.5 had an 88% probability of core stability. These preliminary data have the potential to guide decision making regarding whether repeat brain imaging should be performed after transfer to a comprehensive stroke center. Ann Neurol 2018;84:616-620.
Ultrasonic resistance welding of TRIP-780 steel

Abstract A hybrid ultrasonic resistance spot welding process is developed, which integrates high-power ultrasonic vibrations into conventional resistance spot welding process. Weldability of galvanized transformation induced plasticity (TRIP-780) steel is studied based on this process. Ultrasonic resistance welds showed nugget pullout failure mode and more ductility compared with conventional resistance spot welds. Optical and scanning electron microscopic analysis revealed the refined microstructure in the fusion zone and heat affected zone of ultrasonic resistance welds. Coalesced bainite is present the fusion zone of conventional resistance spot welds while possible tempered martensite and feathery bainite is observed in ultrasonic resistance welds, which accounts for their higher ductile behavior.
The Landscape of Cellular and Gene Therapy Products: Authorization, Discontinuations, and Cost

Background: Cell and gene therapy products belong to a diverse class of biopharmaceuticals known as advanced therapy medicinal products. Cell and gene therapy products are used for the treatment and prevention of diseases that until recently were only managed chronically. The objective of this study was to examine the characteristics of market authorizations, discontinuations, and prices of cellular and gene therapy products worldwide. Data and Methods: We conducted an electronic search of authorized cell, tissue-engineered, and gene therapy products from the databases of the main drug regulatory agencies. The analysis excluded hematopoietic progenitor cell cord blood products authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Price information was derived from the Red Book (Truven Health Analytics) for the United States, health technology assessment agencies for Europe, and other public sector sources and company news for other countries. We also searched the scientific literature for authorizations, discontinuations, and price information using MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and EMBASE databases. All cost data were converted to U.S. dollars. Descriptive analysis was conducted in this study. Results: There were 52 different cell, tissue engineering and gene therapy products with 69 market authorizations in the world as of December 31, 2018. The products included 18 (34%) cell therapies, 23 (43.4%) tissue engineered products, and 12 (22.6%) gene therapies. There were 21 (30.4% of all authorizations) cell therapy, 26 (37.7%) tissue-engineered, and 22 (31.9%) gene therapy market authorizations. The EMA withdrew the authorization for two tissue engineering products, one cell therapy and one gene therapy, and New Zealand lapsed approval of one cell therapy. Most products were first authorized after 2010, including 10 (83.3%) gene therapies, 13 (72.2%) cell therapies, and 13 (56.5%) tissue-engineered products. The treatment price for four allogenic cell therapies varied from $2,150 in India to $200,000 in Canada. The treatment price for three autologous cell therapies ranged from $61,500 in the United Kingdom to a listed price of $169,206 in the United States. Tissue-engineered treatment prices varied from $400 in South Korea to $123,154 in Japan. Gene therapy treatment prices ranged from $5,501 for tonogenchoncel-L in South Korea to $1,398,321 for alipogene tiparvovec in Germany. Conclusions: A significant number of new cell, tissue, and gene therapies have been approved in the past decade. Most products were conditionally authorized and targeted rare cancers, genetic diseases, and other debilitating diseases. However, there are also products approved for cosmetic reasons. Cell, tissue, and gene therapies are among the most expensive therapies available. Healthcare systems are not prepared to assume the cost of future therapies for a myriad of rare diseases and common diseases of epidemic proportions.
Mobile Gaming for Medical Students and Learners

AbstractLibraries and medical libraries should be aware of the different delivery methods of medical knowledge and information. In today’s gaming society, even toddlers are adept at playing games o...