cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution of galactic halos and their merger histories

We use a novel statistical tool, the mark correlation functions (MCFs), to study clustering of galaxy-size halos as a function of their properties and environment in a high-resolution numerical simulation of the LambdaCDM cosmology. We applied MCFs using several types of continuous and discrete marks: maximum circular velocity of halos, merger mark indicating whether halos experienced or not a major merger in their evolution history, and a stripping mark indicating whether the halo underwent a tidal stripping. We find that halos which experienced a relatively early (z>1) major merger or mass loss (due to tidal stripping) in their evolution histories are over-abundant in halo pairs with separations < 3 Mpc/h. This result can be interpreted as spatial segregation of halos with different merger histories, qualitatively similar to the morphological segregation in the observed galaxy distribution. The analysis presented in this paper demonstrate that MCFs provide powerful, yet algorithmically simple, quantitative measures of segregation in the spatial distribution of objects with respect to their various properties (marks).
Prediction of Highly Volatile Cryptocurrency Prices Using Social Media

Trading cryptocurrencies (digital currencies) are currently performed by applying methods similar to what is applied to the stock market or commodities; however, these algorithms are not necessaril...
Complications of articular distal humeral fracture fixation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background Distal humeral fractures are relatively rare injuries in adults. Fractures that involve the articular surface can be particularly challenging to treat. Open reduction–internal fixation (ORIF) remains the preferred treatment for most intra-articular distal humeral fractures, depending on the degree of comminution and functional demands of the patient. Many surgical approaches, fixation techniques, and potential complications have been described in the literature; however, the relative incidence and associated characteristics of these complications have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of complications and reoperations after ORIF for intra-articular distal humeral fractures. We sought to provide practical guidance to surgeons and offer insights on the avoidance and prognosis of complications through a systematic review of the published literature over the past 20 years. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting complications and reoperation rates after ORIF for intra-articular distal humeral fractures. Subgroup analysis was conducted for complication rates between type 13B and 13C fractures, olecranon osteotomy and non-osteotomy approaches, and parallel and perpendicular plating. Results Eighty-three studies met the inclusion criteria (2362 elbows; 5 level II, 2 level III, and 76 level IV studies). The mean clinical follow-up period was 2.6 years. The majority of fractures were type C (83%), the remainder were type B (17%). Of the fractures, 71% were closed whereas 9% were open; this was not reported for 20%. The mean postoperative flexion arc was 110°. The overall complication rate was 53%, and the overall reoperation rate was 21%. Although a parallel plating approach resulted in a lower rate of fixation failure requiring revision (1% vs. 6%, P Conclusions This systematic review is the largest report of complications and reoperations of intra-articular distal humeral fractures after ORIF in the current literature. These results suggest that complications may be more frequent than previously understood. In contrast to prior small comparative studies, our study observed a significantly higher overall complication rate with parallel plating than with perpendicular plating. Perpendicular plating for intra-articular distal humeral fractures may be considered if adequate fixation and biomechanical stability can be achieved.
Can social media influencer (SMI) power influence consumer brand attitudes? The mediating role of perceived SMI credibility

Abstract Social media usage is pervasive, and brands must manage this channel carefully in order to meet their strategic goals. The role of social media influencers (SMI) is progressively becoming crucial for shaping consumer brand attitudes toward the firms’ offerings. The purpose of this study is to empirically examine how SMIs can help brands build favorable brand attitudes and thus improve product acceptance and downstream business performance. Building upon naive theory, consumer socialization theory and market signaling theory, we suggest that SMI power and SMI perceived source credibility are crucial in influencing consumer attitudes toward the brand. Using rich survey data from 231 U.S. social media users on Instagram the research employs confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to access the psychometric properties of the measures and path analysis to test the proposed hypotheses. Results indicate that while SMI power is positively related to consumer attitudes toward the brand and perceived SMI expertise and trustworthiness partially mediate that relationship. This study contributes to extant literature by demonstrating that SMIs’ role in shaping consumer attitudes toward the brand is a multilevel function of SMI power, partially mediated through SMI expertise and trustworthiness. Therefore, it is incumbent on brands to pay close attention to their SMI promotional channel.
Time Is on My Side, Yes It Is: The Timing of Class Certification Appeals Pursuant to Rule 23(f)

This article analyzes the issues on appeal to the United States Supreme Court in Nutraceutical Corp. v. Lambert, argued to the Court in November 2018. The appeal involves a technical issue relating to the timing requirement that a party file a notice of appeal of a judge’s class certification order within 14 days of the issuance of the order, pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23(f). In the underlying class litigation, the plaintiff allegedly failed to file for permission to appeal a certification order within the 14-day limitation. Nevertheless, the appellate court accepted the petition, and the Ninth Circuit affirmed, applying equitable principles to relieve the plaintiff of the Rule 23(f) timing requirement. The defendant now contends that the Ninth Circuit erred in applying equitable principles to relieve the plaintiff’s alleged noncompliance with Rule 23(f). The Court’s decision is important to class action litigants who, upon losing a class certification decision, desire to appeal the court’s order.
Humanin-induced autophagy plays important roles in skeletal muscle function and lifespan extension.

Abstract Background Autophagy, a highly conserved homeostatic mechanism, is essential for cell survival. The decline of autophagy function has been implicated in various diseases as well as aging. Although mitochondria play a key role in the autophagy process, whether mitochondrial-derived peptides are involved in this process has not been explored. Methods We developed a high through put screening method to identify potential autophagy inducers among mitochondrial-derived peptides. We used three different cell lines, mice, c.elegans, and a human cohort to validate the observation. Results Humanin, a mitochondrial-derived peptide, increases autophagy and maintains autophagy flux in several cell types. Humanin administration increases the expression of autophagy-related genes and lowers accumulation of harmful misfolded proteins in mice skeletal muscle, suggesting that humanin-induced autophagy potentially contributes to the improved skeletal function. Moreover, autophagy is a critical role in humanin-induced lifespan extension in C. elegans. Conclusions Humanin is an autophagy inducer. General significance This paper presents a significant, novel discovery regarding the role of the mitochondrial derived peptide humanin in autophagy regulation and as a possible therapeutic target for autophagy in various age-related diseases.
Corneal perforation in ocular graft-versus-host disease

Abstract Purpose Corneal perforation is a rare, vision-threatening complication of ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and is not well understood. Our objective was to examine the clinical disease course and histopathologic correlation in patients who progressed to this outcome. Methods This study is a retrospective case series from four academic centers in the United States. All patients received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) prior to developing ocular GVHD. Variables of interest included patient demographics, time interval between HSCT and ocular events, visual acuity throughout clinical course, corticosteroid and infection prophylaxis regimens at time of corneal perforation, medical/surgical interventions, and histopathology. Results Fourteen eyes from 14 patients were analyzed. Most patients were male (86%) and Caucasian (86%), and average age at time of hematopoietic stem cell transplant was 47 years. The mean interval between hematopoietic stem cell transplant and diagnosis of ocular graft-versus-host disease was 9.5 months, and between hematopoietic stem cell transplant and corneal perforation was 37 months. Initial best-corrected visual acuity was 20/40 or better in 9 eyes, and all eyes had moderate or poor visual outcomes despite aggressive management, including corneal gluing in all patients followed by keratoplasty in 8 patients. The mean follow-up after perforation was 34 months (range 2–140 months). Oral prednisone was used prior to perforation in 11 patients (79%). On histopathology, representative specimens in the acute phase demonstrated ulcerative keratitis with perforation but minimal inflammatory cells and no microorganisms, consistent with sterile corneal “melt” in the setting of immunosuppression; and in the healed phase, filling in of the perforation site with fibrous scar. Conclusions In these patients, an extended time interval was identified between the diagnosis of ocular graft-versus-host disease and corneal perforation. This represents a critical window to potentially prevent this devastating outcome. Further study is required to identify those patients at greatest risk as well as to optimize prevention strategies.
Architecture modeling and performance characterization of Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) network using MACHETE

As future space exploration missions will involve larger number of spacecraft and more complex systems, theoretical analysis alone may have limitations on characterizing system performance and interactions among the systems. Simulation tools can be useful for system performance characterization through detailed modeling and simulation of the systems and its environment...This paper reports the simulation of the Orion (Crew Exploration Vehicle) to the International Space Station (ISS) mission where Orion is launched by Ares into orbit on a 14-day mission to rendezvous with the ISS. Communications services for the mission are provided by the Space Communication and Navigation (SCaN) network infrastructure which includes the NASA Space Network (SN), Ground Network (GN) and NASA Integrated Services Network (NISN). The objectives of the simulation are to determine whether SCaN can meet the communications needs of the mission, to demonstrate the benefit of using QoS prioritization, and to evaluate network-key parameters of interest such as delay and throughout.
Endobronchial ultrasound fine-needle aspiration biopsy of pulmonary non–small cell carcinoma with subclassification by immunohistochemistry panel

BACKGROUND: With the introduction of new treatment modalities and guidelines, it is important to subclassify primary pulmonary non–small cell carcinoma (NSCCA). Subsequent treatment and testing is dependent on accurate subclassification. Endobronchial ultrasound fine-needle aspiration (EBUS FNA) is used for primary evaluation and diagnosis, and can provide a cell block for ancillary testing. METHODS: EBUS FNA cases from primary pulmonary NSCCA with an immunohistochemical (IHC) panel performed on a cell block with concomitant surgical pathology biopsy were analyzed. Cell block preparations underwent an IHC panel including monoclonal antibodies for napsin A (nap-A), thyroid transcription factor (TTF-1), p63, and cytokeratin 5/6 (CK5/6). RESULTS: A total of 81 cases from 81 patients were identified. Of these, 69 cases (85%) were provided a specific diagnosis of adenocarcinoma (ADCA) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) on the EBUS FNA. In 12 cases (15%), a diagnosis of NSCCA, not otherwise specified was provided. For specific subclassifications, there were 35 ADCA cases, 34 SCCA cases, and 12 NSCCA, not otherwise specified cases. For ADCA, nap-A showed granular cytoplasmic staining and TTF-1 nuclear staining. For SCCA, CK5/6 showed cytoplasmic staining and p63 nuclear staining. Surgical pathology concomitant material was present in 29 of 81 cases with 18 correlations and 11 noncorrelations. CONCLUSIONS: With new treatment guidelines for patients with primary pulmonary NSCCA, specific diagnosis is increasingly important. EBUS FNA with cell block provided a specific subclassification of NSCCA in 85% of cases when used in conjunction with a specific IHC panel including nap-A, TTF-1, CK5/6, and p63. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Science, Sociology of

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by T. Gieryn, volume 20, pp. 13691–13698, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
Tsunesaburo Makiguchi: Teacher, Philosopher, Value Creator.

... the most important consideration in formulating purpose in education is the happiness of the students themselves. — T. Makiguchi
TELRIC Pricing with Vintage Capital

We study the dynamic effects of technical progress on competitive prices. The model facilitates comparison between competitive prices and the TELRIC prices the FCC adopted for determining universal service subsidies. The prices differ due to differences in (1) discount factors, (2) the stream of operating costs, and (3) the method used to discount revenues. A calibrated comparison reveals the last difference as most important, with TELRIC prices understating competitive prices by billions of present value dollars nationwide. Competitive prices can be derived without any depreciation assumptions, contrary to regulatory practice, but cannot be calculated in advance of costs once capital utilization is endogenized.
Exploring olfactory population coding using an artificial olfactory system.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the devices that incorporate the two defining characteristics of an artificial nose— namely, an array of cross-reactive sensors and a means of pattern recognition. These devices provide support for the hypothesis that a system using an array of cross-reactive sensors is capable of molecular recognition and discrimination. The studies with the artificial olfactory system suggest that distributed neuronal processing modeled directly after the biological olfactory system identifies odorants over a range of concentrations. The aspects of the OB population code are not explicitly included in the equations and definitions of the computer simulation. They are: instead properties that emerge as a result of olfactory sensory neurons (OSN) input patterns modified by lateral interactions in the OB. These studies suggest a number of testable hypotheses about various aspects of odorant coding in the biological olfactory system. Imaging of voltage-sensitive dye signals and/or multisite, single-unit recordings from OB and piriform cortex could be used to investigate the relationship between firing latency in populations of neurons and odorant identity and concentration coding. The resulting device serves the dual purposes of providing a real world chemical sensing device, as well as providing a platform for developing hypotheses about odorant coding for testing in the biological olfactory system.
Drones, Spies, Terrorists and Second Class Citizenship in Pakistan - A Review Essay

This essay reviews seven recent books and reports that focus upon the use of U.S. armed drones in Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). This essay synthesizes a historical account of the program, critically interrogates key arguments and evidence advanced by the various authors, and draws attention to the particular problems that confront those who live in the FATA and the second-class citizenship that the Pakistani state has bestowed upon them for reasons of domestic and foreign policy concerns. This review essay does not intend to be the final word on any of the ongoing policy debates. But it does hope to enable a wider audience to take part in these important deliberations.
The mRNA Secondary Structure Impact on Translation of the KCNH2 Channel Protein

The gene KCNH2 encodes the K+ channel responsible for the repolarizing IKr current essential for normal cardiac physiology. Genetic, translational and post-translational perturbation of KCNH2 causes hereditary (Locus LQT2) and acquired Long QT Syndrome. Over 600 deleterious mutations have been identified as causes of LQT2, most leading to protein trafficking or assembly malfunction. Investigation has focused on the impact the changed amino acids have on the protein product, but little is known about mutational effects on mRNA function. KCNH2 is unusual in that its GC content is ∼66% and there is increased use of rare codons when compared to other human mRNA. Previous studies from our lab have shown that KCNH2 channel translation and trafficking efficiencies are dependent on “extra-coding” elements in the mRNA sequence. CM-KCNH2, a codon modified version of the KCNH2 mRNA, was made with reduced GC content (51%) and decreased use of rare codons, while maintaining the exact amino acid sequence. CM-KCNH2 protein product was a more efficiently trafficked protein, but was translated less efficiently when compared to native KCNH2 (NT-KCNH2). Whether codon-usage, GC content or mRNA 2° structure controls these processes is unknown. To address this, we employ a combined approach of ribosomal profiling to analyze precisely where translational slowing/pausing occurs, and RNA SHAPE analysis to investigate the secondary structure of the KCNH2 mRNA. We hypothesize that the indicated sites of ribosomal pausing, caused by secondary mRNA structure and rare codon placement, allow for correct secondary and tertiary structure formation of the KCNH2 protein, indicating that mRNA impacts not only the primary structure of a protein, but through ‘extra-coding’ features, impacts the folding efficiency and function of the protein product. Ongoing studies will have implications for evaluation and treatment of hereditary and acquired arrhythmias.
Expression of Oct4, a stem cell marker, in the hamster pancreatic cancer model.

Background: Oct4 has been shown to present a stem cell marker that is expressed in embryonic cells and in germ cell tumors. Recently, its expression in a few human tissues and cancer cells has been reported. Because in the hamster pancreatic cancer model most tumors develop from within islets presumably from stem cells, we investigated the expression of Oct4 in this model. Methods: Two normal pancreases and 15 pancreatic cancers induced by N-nitrosobis(2-oxypropyl)amine (BOP) were processed for immunohistochemistry using a monoclonal Oct4 antibody at a concentration of 1:500. Results: In the normal pancreas, Oct4 was expressed only in islet cells in a diffuse cytoplasmic pattern. No nuclear staining was found in any cells. In 14 of the pancreatic cancers, nuclear staining was detected in many cells or in small foci. Diffuse cytoplasmic but no nuclear staining was found in one tumor and a mixed Golgi type and nuclear staining in two cases. Nuclear staining was also identified in early intrainsular ductular and in Ca in situ lesions. Conclusions: BOP reactivates the Oct4 gene and can be considered an early tumor marker in this model.
RELATIONS AMONG MOCK JURORS' ATTITUDES, TRIAL EVIDENCE, AND THEIR SELECTIONS OF AN INSANITY DEFENSE VERDICT: A PATH ANALYTIC APPROACH

This study examined an important question relevant to the domain of the insanity defense: What are the interrelationships among important evidential and attitudinal factors which influence how jurors decide their final verdicts? To answer this question, a mock trial in which the insanity defense was argued was presented to 224 college undergraduates by means of an audiotape and slide show. Following the presentation, participants were asked to answer a series of questions regarding the trial. A path model was specified with four evidential factors as endogenous variables, i.e., evaluation of the defendant's mental status, belief that the defendant could be rehabilitated, beliefs regarding the accuracy of the expert witnesses, and mock-jurors' predeliberation verdicts. In addition, three attitudinal factors were specified as exogenous variables, i.e., attitudes toward the insanity defense, attitudes towards due process vs crime control, and attitudes towards the death penalty. The path model was consistent with previous literature, suggesting that jurors' attitudes toward the death penalty and the insanity defense had a direct effect on how they evaluated the accuracy of the expert testimony and their evaluation of the defendant's over-all mental status. In turn, mock jurors' evaluations of the defendant's mental status had a direct effect on their selections of verdict. Importantly, mock jurors' evaluations of the evidential factors, particularly the mental status of the defendant, were a stronger predictor of their selections of verdict than were their initial attitudes.
A Missed Opportunity for Peace in Vietnam—1966

Historians often point to the Geneva Conference in 1954 or South Vietnamese domestic turmoil in 1963 and 1964 as occasions when the U.S. might have avoided its eventual involvement in the Vietnam War. This article argues that the 1966 Buddhist crisis in South Vietnam also presented members of the Johnson administration with an opportunity to get out of Vietnam, but fear of the domestic and international repercussions from an American withdrawal rendered them incapable of pulling out. In rejecting withdrawal, Johnson and his advisors missed another chance to depart from Vietnam with far less political damage than some feared; pervasive dissatisfaction in Congress over the conflict, mounting questions among American citizens about the hostilities, and the realization among some officials that the nation had become hopelessly stalemated in a war few wanted to fight all made withdrawal a politically viable option.
Dixon techniques in spiral trajectories with off-resonance correction: a new approach for fat signal suppression without spatial-spectral RF pulses.

Spiral imaging has recently gained acceptance in MR applications requiring rapid data acquisition. One of the main disadvantages of spiral imaging, however, is blurring artifacts that result from off-resonance effects. Spatial-spectral (SPSP) pulses are commonly used to suppress those spins that are chemically shifted from water and lead to off-resonance artifacts. However, SPSP pulses may produce nonuniform fat signal suppression or unwanted water signal suppression when applied in the presence of B(0) field inhomogeneities. Dixon techniques have been developed as methods for water-fat signal decomposition in rectilinear sampling schemes since they can produce unequivocal water-fat signal decomposition even in the presence of B(0) inhomogeneities. This article demonstrates that three-point and two-point Dixon techniques can be extended to conventional spiral and variable-density spiral data acquisitions for unambiguous water-fat decomposition with off-resonance blurring correction. In the spiral three-point Dixon technique, water-fat signal decomposition and image deblurring are performed based on the frequency maps that are directly derived from the acquired images. In the spiral two-point Dixon technique, several predetermined frequencies are tested to create a frequency map. The newly proposed techniques can achieve more effective and more uniform fat signal suppression when compared to the conventional spiral acquisition method with SPSP pulses.
Bactericidal activity of amebocytes from the horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus

Abstract The role of amebocytes in the host defense mechanisms of the horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus , was examined in a series of in vitro systems. Amebocytes were assayed for their ability to kill one of four bacterial strains in the presence or absence of hemolymph factors. No significant cidal effect was seen with unsupplemented amebocytes during the 1-hr incubation period. Escherichia coli was significantly inactivated when incubated with amebocytes plus either homologous pooled serum or plasma; Aerococcus viridans, Serratia marcescens , and Micrococcus luteus were not. The results are similar to those previously reported for serum from L. polyphemus and suggest an opsonizing activity in the fluid hemolymph.
Atrium of stone: A case of confined left atrial calcification without hemodynamic compromise.

Atrium of stone: A case of confined left atrial calcification without hemodynamic compromise
Human fibroblast-derived growth factor is a mitogen and chemoattractant for endothelial cells.

Human fibroblasts were found to produce a potent mitogen and chemoattractant for fetal bovine aortic endothelial cells. Homogenates from AG1523 and AG1518 foreskin, CCD18Lu lung, and CCD18Co colon fibroblasts produced half-maximal stimulation of endothelial cell growth at concentrations of 1–7 μg/ml. The factor was purified from large-scale cultures of the CCD18Co fibroblasts using cation exchange chromatography and heparin-Sepharose chromatography. Such preparations were mitogenic for endothelial cells in vitro at concentrations of about 5–10 ng/ml, and promoted chemotaxis at 0.1-1 ng/ml. Heparinase treatment of the cells prevented the chemotactic response. These properties suggest that the factor may be related to fibroblast growth factor.
Vision-Based Landing of a Simulated Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with Fast Reinforcement Learning

Landing is one of the difficult challenges for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). In this paper, we propose a vision-based landing approach for an autonomous UAV using reinforcement learning (RL). The autonomous UAV learns the landing skill from scratch by interacting with the environment. The reinforcement learning algorithm explored and extended in this study is Least-Squares Policy Iteration (LSPI) to gain a fast learning process and a smooth landing trajectory. The proposed approach has been tested with a simulated quadro copter in an extended version of the USAR Sim (Unified System for Automation and Robot Simulation) environment. Results showed that LSPI learned the landing skill very quickly, requiring less than 142 trials.
A/D converter circuit and architecture design for high-speed data communication

As modern electrical and optical communication systems transition toward advanced modulation schemes, there exists a pressing need for power efficient A/D converters operating at tens of gigasamples per second. Within this context, this tutorial will cover relevant circuit-and architecture-level design techniques for high-speed CMOS A/D converters. At the circuit level, we will discuss fundamental challenges in the design of track-and-hold circuits and voltage comparators, which will also include a review of clock jitter and metastability. At the architecture level, we consider tradeoffs in the design of time-interleaved SAR and flash converters as well as techniques for the estimation, system-level budgeting and calibration of circuit imperfections.
Embodied writing: choreographic composition as methodology

This paper seeks to examine how embodied methodological approaches might inform dance education practice and research. Through a series of examples, this paper explores how choreographic writing might function as an embodied writing methodology. Here, choreographic writing is envisioned as a form of visual word choreography in which words move, pause, gain emphasis, and flow as if dancing across the open page. To explore writing as choreography, this paper primarily draws from three theoretical perspectives on embodiment: phenomenological, new materialist, and Deleuzian. For each of these perspectives, this paper describes its approach to embodiment, provides choreographic writing examples, and discusses the implications thereof for dance education practice and research. Given the increasing importance of practice-as-research and creative arts inquiry, this paper finds that choreographic writing provides an alternative mode of communication for dance writers and qualitative researchers alike. Significantl...
Optical Disk Media Parameters And Their Relationship To Equipment Design

Optical disk media para.oeters are examined with respect to recording capability, dimensional constraints, and the necessary interface with recording equipment. The parameters discussed include recording properties such as Media sensitivity and recorded signal quality. The mechanical dimensional tolerances required to proimote media. interchange ability, and to permit effective optical tracking and focus control are also discussed. The stated values reflect the current understanding of requirewents for automated, optical disk systems, and the reasons for the selection of these values are presented. A recording equipment of primary interest is the multidisk jukebox, with its requirements for disk protection and automated. deployment. Consequently, emphasis is given to the interface of disk media with the optical and mechanical subsystems of random-access, multiple-disk equipment.
Primary postoperative chemotherapy without radiotherapy for intracranial ependymoma in children

Introduction: Intracranial ependymomas are the third most common histologic subtype of childhood brain tumor. Although ependymomas may occur at any age, about 50% are diagnosed in children younger than 5 years of age. In adults, most ependymomas are cortical, but 70% to 80% of the tumors that arise in children involve posterior fossa structures [1]. Ependymomas are often laterally placed, involving the brainstem and cerebellar peduncles, with contiguous involvement of multiple cranial nerves. The intramixture of the tumor with the cranial nerves and portions of the brainstem makes surgical resections diffi cult, and there is often a quandary as to whether to attempt a gross total resection, given the potential morbidity. This decision is made even more diffi cult because many studies suggest that patients who undergo total resections are more likely to have long-term disease control [1–3]. The histologic grading of ependymomas has been variably related to outcome, with most but not all studies demonstrating poorer survival for anaplastic tumors [1–3]. Most reports conclude that less than 5% of ependymomas are disseminated at the time of diagnosis. Thus, stratifi cation based on the extent of disease at the time of diagnosis is usually not particularly helpful. Similarly, robust prospective biologic predictors of outcome have yet to be identifi ed. Recent reports have demonstrated excellent 3to 5-year survival rates in children with totally resected ependymomas of the posterior fossa who receive postoperative radiotherapy to the primary tumor site [2]. Conformal radiotherapy techniques result in excellent disease control, with the caveat that many posterior fossa ependymomas extend to the lower brainstem or upper cervical cord, and these regions may need to be included in the radiation portal [2–4]. Somewhat reassuringly, neurocognitive outcome has been reported to be relatively unimpaired by the radiotherapy delivered, although this assumption must be considered somewhat preliminary [5]. The benefi t of chemotherapy for children with ependymomas is far from proven. Early studies suggested no benefi t from the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy when given during and after radiotherapy. Recently, other studies have suggested that chemotherapy given prior to radiation therapy may be of benefi t, especially in patients with anaplastic tumors. One of the rationales for the use of chemotherapy is to couple it with radiotherapy to improve survival. Another is to use chemotherapy to try to delay the need for radiotherapy, especially in patients thought to be most vulnerable to the deleterious long-term effects of radiotherapy—primarily children with large cortical lesions or younger children with lesions anywhere in the neuroaxis. There is no consensus on the age at which radiotherapy, including conformal radiotherapy, is safe. Some studies have used conformal radiotherapy in children as young as 1 year of age, and others have suggested the use of chemotherapy in order to delay radiation therapy until the child is at least 3 years old [2].
Multiple camera-based chamfer matching for pedestrian detection

This paper presents a vision system for detecting pedestrians using chamfer matching. We verify the effectiveness of chamfer matching for single cameras and propose a novel method for combining results from multiple views. A key insight is that making independent decisions in each camera and combining them in a higher level is prone to error. By communicating during the template matching stage, camera nodes can avoid making hard decisions. Incorporating observations from multiple cameras should in theory reduce detection error. Additionally, we provide a conceptually straightforward algorithm for building a database that maximizes the space of poses in a minimum number of templates which results in real-time performance.
Surface Alterations of Cells Carrying RNA Tumour Virus Genetic Information

CELLS transformed by the DNA tumour viruses, polyoma virus and SV40, are agglutinated by lectins such as wheat germ agglutinin1, concanavalin A (Con A)2 and soybean agglutinin3. Agglutination in these cases presumably reflects changes in the cell surface related to the transformed properties of the cell; studies with a temperature-dependent mutant of polyoma virus has shown that cell surface changes are controlled by viral genes4. Here we describe experiments in which we investigated the agglutinability of cells transformed by RNA tumour viruses. One recent report had suggested that cells transformed by RNA tumour viruses were not specifically agglutinated5, whereas a second more recent report claimed the specific agglutination of cells transformed by RSV6. We find that transformed rat, mouse and cat cells that replicate the sarcoma-leukaemia virus complex of murine (MSV) and feline (FeSV) origin are strongly agglutinated by Con A, but mouse and human cells that replicate the murine and feline leukaemia virus components alone are not agglutinated. The ability to agglutinate is rapidly acquired by normal mouse cells on infection with the murine sarcoma virus at a rate that parallels virus replication. In contrast to the results obtained with cells producing virus, non-virus-producing transformed hamster and mouse cells that synthesize virus-specific RNA are either not agglutinated or are agglutinated to a lesser degree. These results suggest that the cell surface alterations responsible for agglutination are not necessarily associated with the transformed state of the cell, but rather with the possession of sarcoma virus-specific information.
Electrical Strength Reduction of Porcelain Suspension Insulators on AC Transmission Lines

Porcelain suspension insulators that were in service for up to 38 years on 115-500 kV AC transmission lines were evaluated for residual electrical strength. It was seen that the reduction in electrical strength or aging, was significant for some insulators causing them to puncture. The reasons for the reduction in electrical breakdown strength were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction. The marked reduction in electrical breakdown strength with time has been correlated with large number and size of defects in the porcelain microstructure. It has been shown that local field enhancement created by these defects is sufficient to initiate progressive dielectric breakdown that ultimately leads to puncture.
Elliptic Crystals and Modular Motives

The goal of this paper is to investigate the crystalline properties of families of elliptic curves or, more precisely, to study the families of crystals (elliptic crystals) attached to families of elliptic curves. Elliptic crystals over a point can be defined and classified very simply in terms of semilinear algebra, and this is how we begin (1.1). Our definition is cast in the logarithmic setting, so that it applies also to semistable (degenerate) elliptic curves. Roughly speaking, an elliptic crystal over a (logarithmic) perfect field k of characteristic p is a free W-module E of rank two equipped with a Frobenius-linear endomorphism 8, a nilpotent linear endomorphism N, a two-step Hodge filtration A on k E, and an isomorphism tr: 4E W. These data are required to satisfy various compatibilities: for example, A(k E) is the kernel of idk 8. When N is not zero, such a crystal is quite rigid, and in particular its canonical coordinates are very precisely determined (1.3). Liftings of elliptic crystals from k to its Witt ring are determined by specifying a lifting B of the Hodge filtration A of k E, and the classification is made explicit in (1.5). Our first main result (2.2) concerns the relationship between deformation theory and elliptic crystals on a curve. Let X k be the reduction modulo p of a smooth log curve Y W over W, let (E, B) be an elliptic crystal on Y W, and let (E, A) be the restriction of (E, B) to X k. Following Mochizuki [8] and Gunning [6], we shall say that E is indigenous if its Kodaira-Spencer mapping is an isomorphism, a condition which can be checked either on Y W or on X k. If f: X$ X is a morphism of smooth log curves over k then a lifting g: Y$ Y of f determines a lifting g*(BEY) ( f *E)Y$ of A( f *E)X$ k . Theorem (2.2) shows that if p is odd and E is indigenous, the resulting map from the set of liftings of f to the set of liftings of the mod p Hodge filtration of f *EX is a bijection. As a consequence we show (reprising some of the results of Mochizuki) in Theorem (2.4) that (when the degree of AEX is positive and p is odd) an indigenous bundle on X k determines a unique lifting Y W, characterized by the fact doi:10.1006 aima.2001.1976, available online at http: www.idealibrary.com on
Contextual effects on the perception of duration

Abstract In the experiments reported here, listeners categorized and discriminated speech and non-speech analogue stimuli in which the durations of a vowel and a following consonant or their analogues were varied orthogonally. The listeners’ native languages differed in how these durations covary in speakers’ productions of such sequences. Because auditorist and autonomous models of speech perception hypothesize that the auditory qualities evoked by both kinds of stimuli determine their initial perceptual evaluation, they both predict that listeners from all the languages will respond similarly to non-speech analogues as they do to speech in both tasks. Because neither direct realist nor interactive models hypothesize such a processing stage, they predict instead that in the way in which vowel and consonant duration covary in the listeners’ native languages will determine how they categorize and discriminate the speech stimuli, and that all listeners will categorize and discriminate the non-speech differently from the speech stimuli. Listeners’ categorization of the speech stimuli did differ as a function of how these durations covary in their native languages, but all listeners discriminated the speech stimuli in the same way, and they all categorized and discriminated the non-speech stimuli in the same way, too. These similarities could arise from listeners adding the durations of the vowel and consonant intervals (or their analogues) in these tasks with these stimuli; they do so when linguistic experience does not influence them to perceive these durations otherwise. These results support an autonomous rather than interactive model in which listeners either add or apply their linguistic experience at a post-perceptual stage of processing. They do not however support an auditorist over a direct realist model because they provide no evidence that the signal's acoustic properties are transformed during the hypothesized prior perceptual stage.
A hypothesis for the selection of chelate antidotes for toxic metals

The problem of finding antidotes for toxic metal species for which antidotes have not been previously reported can be approached via a consideration of the metal-ion preferences of chelating agents already in clinical use. The metal ion preferences of six types of chelating agents together with information on antidotes used for other elements in the same family in the periodic table can be used to obtain a preliminary notion of which of these six structural types might furnish efficacious antidotes. The results of animal tests on a few of these chelate types can then serve as a guide in the selection of further compounds for testing. The data from the literature on antidotes for 20 toxic metal ions is summarized to assist the selection process.
Class Participation: How it Affects Results on Examinations

Abstract This article reports on a study to determine whether in-class participation helped students improve their scores on take-home essay examinations. The study included four sections of legal environment classes and two sections of law of commercial transactions classes. In three sections, points were given for in-class participation. Participation was not encouraged in the other three sections. Results indicate that participation in less technical classes (legal environment) may have benefitted the section as a whole, while not having an incremental effect on test scores of individual participants. Participation in more technical classes (law of commercial transactions) did not provide significant results for either individuals or the section. The effects of active participation, therefore, may depend on students' preparation prior to coming to class and the technical nature of the class.
Career Counseling: 101+ Things You Can Do with a Degree in Biology.

Biology is the science of life and of how living things work. Our students choose to major in biology in college because of a fascination with understanding how living things function, but often they have difficulty in identifying a career that uses their foundation in biology despite the variety of biology-based careers available. The purpose of this discussion is to assist biology students and the career counselors who work with them in identifying satisfying careers that build upon their interest and foundation in biology. The categories of career options include research, healthcare, teaching, science writing, administration/management, government, industry, and miscellaneous careers that do not fit into the other categories.
Response of combination platinum and gemcitabine chemotherapy for recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

Abstract Objective. It has been postulated that gemcitabine inhibits DNA repair, and platinum resistance is due to increased DNA repair activity. The addition of gemcitabine to platinum-based agents may have synergistic tumoricidal activity. Methods. Retrospective chart review of all patients with recurrent, persistent, or progressive fallopian tube or ovarian carcinoma treated with a platinum-based compound and gemcitabine from 2001 to present was performed. Results. Twenty-nine patients on second to eight line chemotherapy met inclusion criteria. The median age was 53 years. Twenty-two patients received cisplatin and gemcitabine, and 7 patients received carboplatin and gemcitabine based on results of chemoresistance assays or prior chemorelated toxicities. The intent to treat was with six cycles of gemcitabine (1000 mg/m 2 ) and either cisplatin (75 mg/m 2 ) or carboplatin (AUC 5) day 1 and gemcitabine only on day 8 of a 21-day cycle. The median number of cycles administered was six. There were 20 grade 3 and 4 toxicities and 63% of patients by cycle 6 needed erythropoietin marrow support and 19% needed GCSF support by cycle 4. Twenty-one patients required discontinuation of day 8 that most commonly occurred at cycle 4. Eleven (38%) had CR, 5 (17%) had PR, 6 (21%) had SD, and 7 (24%) had PD, which is a 55% overall response. Nineteen of 29 patients (66%) showed platinum resistance to initial therapy. Of those, four (21%) had CR, four (21%) had PR, six (32%) had SD, and five (26%) with PD, which demonstrates a 42% overall response rate for this particular subset of patients. Conclusions. Adjuvant combination platinum-based agent with gemcitabine is a very effective and well-tolerated treatment for recurrent fallopian tube or ovarian carcinoma; even in those who exhibit initial platinum resistance.
Treatment of detrusor instability with oxybutynin rectal suppositories.

Our aim was to determine whether oxybutynin hydrochloride suppositories can be used as a treatment for detrusor instability in patients who have not been able to tolerate oral pharmacological agents. A retrospective chart review of 25 women diagnosed with detrusor instability and treated with oxybutynin rectal suppositories was conducted. Each suppository contained 5 mg oxybutynin, 15 mg micronized Sila gel, and 1.25 g of a fatty acid base. Patients were started on one suppository twice daily and then dose titrated as tolerated. The range of the total daily dose was 5–20 mg. Nine of 25 women (36%) had greater than a 50% overall subjective improvement and 3 (12%) had some improvement. Seven of the 12 responders (58%) continued to use the suppositories for a prolonged period of time (>90 days). The most common side effects reported were dry mouth 48% and constipation 14.3%. One patient with polymyositis developed a serious anticholinergic reaction which required hospitalization. It was concluded that patients who are unable to tolerate oral anticholinergic and antispasmodic agents for the treatment of detrusor instability may benefit from oxybutynin rectal suppositories.
Observation of optical limiting and backscattering of nanosecond laser pulses in liquid-crystal fibers.

We report the recent observation of nonlinear-optical phenomena occurring in isotropic liquid-crystal-cored optical including passive all-optical self-limiting effects, stimulated backscattering, and phase conjugation. These fibers, processes occur at relatively low thresholds and short fiber lengths.
Reactions of propane on modified metal oxides

Transformation of propane over Mo-, Ni-, Pd-, and Zr-incorporated silica titania and zirconia was studied. The reaction of propane on these catalysts was significantly different from that on ZSM-5. Dehydrogenation was the main reaction of propane on metal-incorporated silica titania and zirconia catalysts. Comparison of the performance of different dispersed metals showed that Pd-exchanged catalysts had the highest activity. Relations between catalyst acidity and reaction mechanisms were also studied.
Meaning of the terms "overweight" and "obese" among low-income women.

Abstract Objective To determine how low-income, US women understand the meanings of the terms “overweight” and “obese.” Methods Low-income women (n = 145; 72% white, 12% black, and 8% Hispanic; 59% obese and 21% overweight) each participated in an individual semi-structured interview during which they were asked to explain what the terms “overweight” and “obese” mean to them. Responses were transcribed and the constant comparative method was used to identify themes. Results Three themes emerged: (1) The terms are offensive and describe people who are unmotivated and depressed and do not care about themselves; (2) obese is an extreme weight (eg, 500 lb and being immobile); (3) being overweight is a matter of opinion; if a woman is “comfortable in her own skin” and “feels healthy,” she is not overweight. Conclusions and Implications Health education focused on obesity should consider that vulnerable populations might consider the terms “overweight” and “obese” offensive and stigmatizing.