cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Design and feasibility of a double-blind, randomized trial of peri-operative methylnaltrexone for postoperative ileus prevention after adult spinal arthrodesis

Abstract Background Postoperative ileus (POI) is a common complication with no proven prophylactic measures in place. While perioperative opioid use has been implicated in POI development, current treatments fail to target this disease mechanism. Methylnaltrexone (MNTX) has been used to prevent the effects of opioids on the bowel and could reduce the incidence of POI when administered preoperatively. Methods In this phase IIb randomized controlled trial, we assessed the effect of perioperative MNTX on time-to-first-bowel movement following spinal arthrodesis surgeries. Results 82 patients were randomly selected in a 1:1 ratio to be included in either the treatment or placebo groups. Comparison of relevant factors of included patients to patients who refused to participate (n = 21) and to a prior retrospective series (n = 241) revealed no differences in age, male sex, liver disease, and number of surgical levels. Overall treatment fidelity (98% adherence) and retention (100% at one-month follow-up) were high. The predicted POI incidence (9.3–11.1%) was also equivalent to a prior retrospective series. However, the overall observed POI incidence (3.7%) was lower than expected, which could reflect a superimposed ‘trial effect’ related to standardized care in a research setting. Conclusions Since exposure to significant opioid doses represents a barrier to enhanced recovery after surgery, the results of this innovative trial may provide further guidance for the peri-operative use of opioid-receptor blockers. Here, we show that MNTX can be effectively administered in the peri-operative period with appropriate follow-up achieved in a representative population of patients undergoing spinal surgery. Trial registration numbers Clinicaltrials.gov – NCT03852524 and Institutional Review Board – 2018H0260.
Role of phospholipids in Escherichia coli cell function

V. Summary The above examples demonstrate the utility of a combined molecular genetic and biochemical approach to acquire both the in vivo and in vitro data necessary to document the functions of phospholipids in cells. A similar approach can be taken for any membrane related process either using the existing mutants of phospholipid metabolism or designing similar mutants for specific purposes ( 23 ). This approach can certainly be generalized to eukaryotic microorganisms such as yeast. The most straightforward approach would be in studying the role of specific phospholipids in mitochondrial function since, many times, cell viability does require functional mitochondria. Although possibly a more complex problem, construction of regulatable genes that encode phospholipid biosynthetic enzymes which supply lipids to all the membranes of yeast may also be possible. Certainly, the concept of specific phospholipids being integral parts of systems organized on the membrane surface can be generalized to all cell types and utilized in probing potential functions of phospholipids in more complex systems.
Advances in signatures, encryption, and e-cash from bilinear groups

We present new formal definitions, algorithms, and motivating applications for three natural cryptographic constructions. Our constructions are based on a special type of algebraic group called bilinear groups . (1) Re-signatures. We present the first public key signature scheme where a semi-trusted proxy, given special information, can translate Alice's signature on a message into Bob's signature on the same message. The special information, however, allows nothing else, i.e., the proxy cannot translate from Bob to Alice, nor can it sign on behalf of either Alice or Bob. We show that a path through a graph can be cheaply authenticated using this scheme, with applications to electronic passports. (2) Re-encryption. We present the first public key cryptosystem where a semi-trusted proxy, given special information, can translate an encryption of a message under Alice's key into an encryption of the same message under Bob's key. Again, the special information allows nothing else, i.e. the proxy cannot translate from Bob to Alice, decrypt on behalf of either Alice or Bob, or learn anything else about the message. We apply this scheme to create a new mechanism for secure distributed storage. (3) Compact e-cash with tracing and bounded-anonymity . We present an offline e-cash system where 2e coins can be stored in O(e + k) bits and withdrawn or spent in O(e + k) time, where k is the security parameter. The best previously known schemes required at least one of these complexities to be O(2 e · k). In our system, a user's transactions are anonymous and unlinkable, unless she performs a forbidden action, such as double-spending a coin. Performing a forbidden action reveals the identity of the user, and optionally allows to trace all of her past transactions. We provide solutions without using a trusted party. We argue why features of our system are likely to be crucial to the adoption of any e-cash system. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Unintended Consequences: The Impact of Welfare Reform in the United States on NGOs

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996 dramatically transformed the structure and goals of the public welfare system in the United States. The vast body of research and evaluation generated by the 1996 welfare reforms largely overlooked nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) despite their substantial historical and contemporary involvement in the delivery of social services to low-income populations. Therefore, this paper presents a unique assessment of PRWORA’s implications based on the perspective of 90 social service NGOs operating in the Detroit metropolitan area. Examination of their services, staffing, budgets, and clients reveals many changes experienced by NGOs between 1996 and 2000 related to the welfare reforms. Overall, the findings suggest an increased role for social service NGOs in the “public” welfare system as well as concerns regarding their capacity to adequately fulfill this growing responsibility in the future.
Tracking elevated pollution layers with a newly developed hyperspectral Sun/Sky spectrometer (4STAR): Results from the TCAP 2012 and 2013 campaigns

Total columnar water vapor (CWV), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) are derived from a newly developed, hyperspectral airborne Sun-sky spectrometer (4STAR) for the first time during the two intensive phases of the Two-Column Aerosol Project (TCAP) in summer 2012 and winter 2013 aboard the DOE G-1 aircraft. We compare results with coincident measurements. We find 0.045 g/cm2 (4.2%) negative bias and 0.28 g/cm2 (26.3%) root-mean-square difference (RMSD) in water vapor layer comparison with an in situ hygrometer and an overall RMSD of 1.28 g/m3 (38%) water vapor amount in profile by profile comparisons, with differences distributed evenly around zero. RMSD for O3 columns average to 3%, with a 1% negative bias for 4STAR compared with the Ozone Measuring Instrument along aircraft flight tracks for 14 flights during both TCAP phases. Ground-based comparisons with Pandora spectrometers at the Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland, showed excellent agreement between the instruments for both O3 (1% RMSD and 0.1% bias) and NO2 (17.5% RMSD and −8% bias). We apply clustering analysis of the retrieved products as a case study during the TCAP summer campaign to identify variations in atmospheric composition of elevated pollution layers and demonstrate that combined total column measurements of trace gas and aerosols can be used to define different pollution layer sources, by comparing our results with trajectory analysis and in situ airborne miniSPLAT (single-particle mass spectrometer) measurements. Our analysis represents a first step in linking sparse but intense in situ measurements from suborbital campaigns with total column observations from space.
Young children's initial and changed names for form-color stimuli.

Abstract In naming form and color stimuli, 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old children responded initially more often with conventional or adequately descriptive names for form than for color. Frequency of form names increased with age; frequency of color names decreased slightly. With few exceptions, naming was by form or color alone, not by both. Those children who were subsequently trained to name stimuli by form and color used both names more often than untrained children. Training increased frequency of color names more than that of form names.
High-Order Accurate Methods for High-Speed Flow

This work focuses on high-order numerical schemes for conservation laws with emphasis on problems that admit discontinuous solutions. We will investigate several enabling techniques with the aim to construct robust methods for unstructured meshes capable of reliably producing globally high-order accurate results even in the presence of discontinuities. We use spectral and pseudo-spectral schemes in connection with such techniques as Gibbs-complementary reconstruction to recover high-order accuracy near discontinuities. I. Introduction Computational aerodynamics has been dominated by schemes which are higher than first-order accurate only in smooth regions, where they are typically restricted to second, or perhaps third order accuracy. The presence of discontinuities in transonic aerodynamics has greatly hampered the success of high-order accurate methods. In the vicinity of discontinuities the typical scheme uses restrictive limiters to damp out high-frequency oscillatory modes. While low-order schemes have been very successful due to their robustness and relative eciency, many fields of research, such as aeroacoustics, large-eddy simulation (LES), and unsteady nonperiodic flow require highly accurate numerical methods. For many applications a high-order accurate scheme for solutions with discontinuities that retains its nominal accuracy everywhere would be quite welcome. In this paper we will explore one possible route to such a scheme. We will start from a most promising new numerical scheme for unstructured meshes, namely the Spectral Dierence method,
2-Pyridinethiol/2-pyridinethione tautomeric equilibrium. A comparative experimental and computational study

The gas phase and solvent dependent preference of the tautomerization between 2-pyridinethiol (2SH) and 2-pyridinethione (2S) has been assessed using variable temperature Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) experiments, as well as ab initio and density functional theory computations. No spectroscopic evidence (νS-H stretch) for 2SH was observed in toluene, C6D6, heptane, or methylene chloride solutions. Although, Cs 2SH is 2.61 kcal/mol more stable than Cs 2S (CCSD(T)/cc-pVTZ//B3LYP/6-311+G(3df,2p)+ZPE), cyclohexane solvent-field relative energies (IPCM-MP2/6-311+G(3df,2p)) favor 2S by 1.96 kcal/mol. This is in accord with the FTIR observations and in quantitative agreement with the −2.6 kcal/mol solution (toluene or C6D6) calorimetric enthalpy for the 2S/2SH tautomerization favoring the thione. As the intramolecular transition state for the 2S, 2SH tautomerization (2TS*) lies 25 (CBS-Q) to 30 kcal/mol (CCSD/cc-pVTZ) higher in energy than either tautomer, tautomerization probably occurs in the hydrogen bond...
ELECTRON DONORS AND THE QUINONE INVOLVED IN DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE REDUCTION IN ESCHERICHIA COLI

Escherichia coli can use dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as an electron acceptor during anaerobic growth on the oxidizable substrate, glycerol. During growth, the DMSO is reduced to dimethyl sulfide (DMS). For the reduction of DMSO, NADH, formate, lactate, reduced benzyl viologen, reduced methyl viologen, and dithionite can serve as electron donors. The terminal reductase and the dehydrogenases linking the various electron donors to the electron transport chain were found to be membrane bound. Chlorate-resistant mutants (chl) were unable to grow and reduce DMSO. However, in the case of thechlD mutant, growth and DMSO reduction can be restored by growth in the presence of high concentrations of molybdate. Mutants ofE. coli blocked in menaquinone (vitamin K2) biosynthesis—menB, menC, andmenD—were unable to grow with DMSO as an electron acceptor, even though the terminal reductase is present in these mutants. Both growth and DMSO reduction could be restored in these mutants by growth in the presence of the menaquinone intermediates,o-succinylbenzoate and 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoate, depending on the metabolic block of the mutant. Thus menaquinone is involved in electron transport during DMSO reduction.
Finite Element Analysis of the Distributed Vibration Absorbers for Structural Noise Control

This work presents an extensive analysis of the properties of distributed vibration absorbers (DVAs) and their effectiveness in controlling the sound radiation from the base structure. The DVA acts as a distributed mass absorber consisting of a thin metal sheet covering a layer of acoustic foam (porous media) that behaves like a distributed spring-mass-damper system. To assess the effectiveness of these DVAs in controlling the vibration of the base structures (plate) a detailed finite elements model has been developed for the DVA and base plate structure. The foam was modeled as a poroelastic media using 8 node hexahedral elements. The structural (plate) domain was modeled using 16 degree of freedom plate elements. Each of the finite element models have been validated by comparing the numerical results with the available analytical and experimental results. These component models were combined to model the DVA. Preliminary experiments conducted on the DVAs have shown an excellent agreement between the results obtained from the numerical model of the DVA and from the experiments. The component models and the DVA model were then combined into a larger FE model comprised of a base plate with the DVA treatment on its surface. The results from the simulation of this numerical model have shown that there has been a significant reduction in the vibration levels of the base plate due to DVA treatment on it. It has been shown from this work that the inclusion of the DVAs on the base plate reduces their vibration response and therefore the radiated noise. Moreover, the detailed development of the finite element model for the foam has provided us with the capability to analyze the physics behind the behavior of the distributed vibration absorbers (DVAs) and to develop more optimized designs for the same.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Steam reformation of hydrogen sulfide

Abstract A modified version of the Sulfur–Iodine cycle, here called the Sulfur–Sulfur Cycle, offers an all-fluid route to thermochemical hydrogen and avoids implications of the corrosive HI–H 2 O azeotropic mixture: (1) 4I 2(l) + 4SO 2(l) + 8H 2 O (l) ↔ 4H 2 SO 4(l) + 8HI (l) (120 °C) (2) 8HI (l) + H 2 SO 4(l) ↔ H 2 S (g) + 4H 2 O (l) + 4I 2(l) (120 °C) (3) 3H 2 SO 4(g) ↔ 3H 2 O (g) +3SO 2(g) + 1½O 2(g) (850 °C) (4) H 2 S (g) + 2H 2 O (g) ↔ SO 2(g) + 3H 2(g) (900–1500 °C) The key step in the Sulfur–Sulfur cycle is the steam reformation of hydrogen sulfide, which is highly endothermic and has a positive Gibbs free energy change. The steam reformation of hydrogen sulfide was investigated under favorable circumstances (excessive dilution with steam and inert carrier) over a variety of catalytic and non-catalytic settings in a quartz tube. Successful results were obtained by pretreating a molybdenum wire with H 2 S at high temperature. Apparent Arrhenius parameters for both thermal splitting and steam reformation of hydrogen sulfide were determined.
Sandtray Therapy for Inpatient Sexual Addiction Treatment: An Application of Constructivist Change Principles

A model of sandtray therapy, specifically designed as an adjunct intervention for a trauma-based inpatient treatment program for sexual addiction, is described using clinical illustrations. Constructivist theoretical assumptions provide the rationale for both the model and the principles of change. The process of meaning-making and reconstructing one's inner world and sense of self are foundational in trauma resolution and may be facilitated through the use of sandtray intervention.
Acute Epiglottitis Due to Serratia marcescens in an Immunocompetent Adult

Acute epiglottitis (AE) is inflammation of the epiglottis and contiguous tissues, which carries a potential for complete airway obstruction. With routine pediatric immunization for Hemophilus influenzae serotype b, epiglottitis is now more prevalent in adults, with a shift in the causative organisms and a change in the natural history of this disease. Over the past 5 decades, Serratia marcescens has gone from being recognized as a harmless saprophyte to an important opportunistic human pathogen. It is known to be associated with outbreaks of nosocomial infections, but it is an uncommon cause of serious invasive infections in patients presenting from the community. The authors present a fatal case of AE caused by S marcescens in a previously immunocompetent 58-year-old woman, which was complicated by fasciitis, myositis and bacteremia. To the authors' knowledge, till date, only 3 cases of AE by S marcescens have been reported, all in immunocompromised patients.
Coupled dipole calculation of extinction coefficient and polarization ratio for smoke agglomerates

The mass specific extinction coefficient and the polarization ratio at 90° of simulated smoke agglomerates are computed for clusters with 3 to 1390 primary spheres and for size parameter from 0.05 to 0.6 using the coupled electric and magnetic dipole (CEMD) method. For the size parameter range of interest for postflame smoke, the specific extinction coefficient computed by CEMD is 21% to 36% greater than Rayleigh prediction, and for this size range for clusters with 100 to 1000 primary spheres, the range in the specific extinction coefficient is about 12%. Agreement between measured and predicted specific extinction coefficient would require selection of a refractive index outside the range of values widely used by the combustion community. The polarization ratio at 90° is found to be a monotonic function of primary sphere size and relatively independent of agglomerate size. Comparison with the limited experimental results indicates potential for polarization ratio as a diagnostic for primary sphere size.
The behavior of the cost of living at different levels of real income

Abstract The cost of living in the Netherlands from 1952 to 1977 is analyzed at three different levels of real income. The increase in the cost of living is larger for the more well-to-do.
Evaluation of minimum zone for flatness by normal plane method and simplex search

This paper presents an optimization approach for evaluating the minimum zone flatness for a data set obtained from a Coordinate Measuring Machine. The search for the minimum zone is performed in the parameter space of a plane. The perpendicular distance (p) from the origin to a normal plane intersecting each point in the data set is determined. The difference between the maximum ‘p’ and the minimum ‘p’ for a particular set of parameters (direction cosine angles) determines the minimum zone for flatness. The parameters defining the orientation of a plane through each point in the data set are searched systematically. The set of parameters that determine the minimum zone is found by simplex search. The new method is applied to six example data sets and the results are compared with other methods.
Endoscopic assessment of the duodenum in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

Background Endoscopy is performed for direct inspection of the mucosa and acquisition of biopsies in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Aim To evaluate the interobserver agreement in the endoscopic assessment of duodenal mucosa in dogs with IBD. Methods Thirty-five archived endoscopic images of grossly normal (n = 6) and inflamed (n = 29) duodenal mucosa were displayed to 3 expert and 5 trainee endoscopists. Each image was assessed independently by endoscopists for mucosal abnormalities using established indices (of hyperemia, granularity, friability, lymphatic dilatation, and erosions) or interpreted as normal mucosa (trial 1). A repeated trial (trial 2) was performed with the same images presented in random order 1 month later, and accompanied by a visual template. Results There was slight interobserver agreement in initial mucosal assessment for expert and trainee endoscopists in trial 1 (kappa ≤ 0.02, P > .05). Interobserver agreement improved in trial 2 for both expert and trainee endoscopists (kappa = 0.2, P > .05) for experts and (P < .05) for trainees. There was a significant (P < .01) improvement in trainee endoscopy scores of lesions from trial 1 to trial 2. Regression analysis showed a significant (P < .01) difference between expert versus trainee endoscopy scores in trial 1. Repeat lesion assessment aided by use of a visual template (trial 2) improved the overall scores of trainee endoscopists to near that of expert endoscopists (P = .06). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Interobserver agreement of IBD mucosal appearance from endoscopic findings benefitted from operator experience.
A one-dimensional infiltration game

Description des strategies minimax obtenues pour un jeu d'infiltration dans lequel un seul joueur doit bouger a l'interieur d'un intervalle a 1 dimension defendu par l'autre joueur
Alcohol dehydrogenase in maize: genetic basis for multiple isozymes.

There are two distinct sets of alcohol dehydrogenase isozymes from maize, but they have subunits in common. Induced mutations at the (Adh1) locus altered the migration rate of both Set I and Set II isozymes.
Laser based rangefinder for underwater applications

Autonomous vehicles working in unknown environments require tools that allow them to learn about their surroundings. Once a vehicle knows about the environment in which it is working, then it is able to move about the environment freely and in an optimized pattern to fulfill the required tasks while staying out of harms way. While various sensors have been developed for vehicles operating out of the water, the number of sensors available for use by underwater vehicles is smaller. A low cost sensor prototype for cluster distance measurements is developed for use in underwater environments. The proposed sensor makes use of a camera and two laser line generators. Using an algorithm based on the pinhole camera model, the sensor is able to determine distance information about surrounding environment. The prototype results in distance measurements with an error of 10% of the distance with a tested distance up to 5m.
An epidemiologic basis for estimating optimal vitamin D3 intake for colon cancer prevention and a public health recommendation for greater vitamin D intake

Purpose Dose response curves derived from population-based studies can provide an epidemiological basis for estimating optimal vitamin D 3 intake for prevention of colon cancer. Methods There have been 20 recent population-based epidemiological studies analyzing vitamin D status and risk of colon cancer. Five were studies of vitamin D metabolites in serum, and 16 analyzed oral intake of vitamin D 3 . Four of the five serum studies reported statistically significantly lower risk of colon cancer associated with higher serum 25(OH)D levels. Twelve of 16 studies of oral vitamin D 3 intake found significantly lower risk of colon cancer associated with higher vitamin D 3 intake. Dose-response gradients from these studies were plotted as trend lines. Results Overall, individuals with >1000 IU/day oral vitamin D 3 (p 33 ng/ml (82 nmol/L) serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 (p 3 could be associated with as much as a 50% reduction in colon cancer incidence. Conclusions A variety of epidemiologic studies have found that inadequate photosynthesis or oral intake of vitamin D 3 is associated with high incidence or mortality rates of colorectal cancer. Vitamin D 3 intake of 1000 IU daily is associated with a 50% reduction in colon cancer incidence based on dose-response curves derived from population-based epidemiologic studies. This is 2.5 to 4 times higher than the current RDA for vitamin D 3 . Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in the United States and is readily treatable. Fortification of foods with vitamin D 3 could dramatically reduce colon cancer incidence and would be an effective public health intervention.
A Tale of Two Crises: Mental Health Treatment in Corrections

ABSTRACT A delayed result of deinstitutionalization has been to plunge a beleaguered mental health system into a correctional system that is in serious need of reform. Mentally ill individuals caught in the “net” of criminalization now find themselves in a doubly precarious situation. Not only have they been unable to receive adequate mental health treatment in the community, but they must also now seek treatment in a correctional system that has become increasingly punitive and unhealthy. Efforts to provide mentally ill offenders with adequate treatment must be fashioned with an understanding of both systems. Recent developments in the criminal justice and correctional systems provide some reason for optimism, and may signal an impending age of progress.
Flat channel-passband-wavelength multiplexing and demultiplexing devices by multiple-Rowland-circle design

A new robust optical design for widening the channel passband of wavelength demultiplexers is presented. Instead of a traditional one-Rowland-circle design, a multi-Rowland-circle structure is proposed to tailor the focused image formed by the grating. The properties of channel passband can be controlled by adjusting the positions of the circles. Nearly perfect flat-channel passband was achieved by our simulation.
Initial rupture of earthquakes in the 1995 Ridgecrest, California Sequence

Close examination of the P waves from earthquakes ranging in size across several orders of magnitude shows that the shape of the initiation of the velocity waveforms is independent of the magnitude of the earthquake. A model in which earthquakes of all sizes have similar rupture initiation can explain the data. This suggests that it is difficult to estimate the eventual size of an earthquake from the initial portion of the waveform. Previously reported curvature seen in the beginning of some velocity waveforms can be largely explained as the effect of anelastic attenuation; thus there is little evidence for a departure from models of simple rupture initiation that grow dynamically from a small region. The results of this study indicate that any “precursory” radiation at seismic frequencies must emanate from a source region no larger than the equivalent of a M0.5 event (i.e. a characteristic length of ∼10 m). The size of the nucleation region for magnitude 0 to 5 earthquakes thus is not resolvable with the standard seismic instrumentation deployed in California.
A computationally efficient Galerkin technique for approximating transient diffusion—reaction equations in composite media

Abstract Non-linear transient two-point boundary value problems which describe the interaction between diffusion and chemical reaction in a catalyst pellet are The technique is illustrated with a transient diffusion—reaction problem in poisoned automotive catalysts pellets.
Metaphysics and the philosophical imagination

Methods and goals in philosophy are discussed by first describing an ideal, and then looking at how the ideal might be approached. David Lewis’s work in metaphysics is critically examined and compared to analogous work by Mackie and Carnap. Some large-scale philosophical systematic work, especially in metaphysics, is best treated as model-building, in a sense of that term that draws on the philosophy of science. Models are constructed in a way that involves deliberate simplification, or other imaginative modification of reality, in order to make relationships visible or problems tractable.
Factors influencing visualization of vertebral metastases on MR imaging versus bone scintigraphy.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the location and size of vertebral body metastases influence the difference in detection rates between MR imaging and bone scintigraphy.MATERIALS AND METHODS. We retrospectively evaluated the vertebral body lesions detected on MR imaging in 74 patients with known widely disseminated metastatic disease. Three radiologists independently reviewed the MR images and bone scintigraphs. MR imaging findings included lesion size and its spatial relationship to the bony cortex (intramedullary, subcortical, and transcortical) and results were correlated with those of planar technetium 99m bone scintigraphy.RESULTS. Findings on bone scans were negative for all intramedullary lesions without cortical involvement shown on MR imaging, regardless of their size. Findings on bone scans (71.3% for transcortical and 33.8% for subcortical) were frequently positive for lesions with cortical involvement (trans- or subcortical), and the probability of positive findi...
Recurrence and Survival in Patients Undergoing Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Analysis of 153 Patients from a Single Institution

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasm with propensity for lymphatic spread. The rarity of MCC has limited analysis of factors associated with a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and survival. Review of a prospective MCC database was performed. Factors associated with SLNB positivity were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses of factors associated with recurrence and survival were performed using the cumulative incidence (CI) function, treating death from other causes as a competing risk. From 1996 to 2010, a total of 153 patients with localized MCC underwent SLNB, of whom 45 (29%) were positive. Factors associated with SLNB positivity were primary tumor size (25% ≤2 cm vs. 45% >2 cm; P = 0.02) and presence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (55% LVI positive vs. 4% LVI negative; P < 0.01). SLNB-positive patients were more likely to receive radiation or chemotherapy (60% vs. 7%, P < 0.01). With median follow-up of 41 months, there were 16 nodal/distant recurrences (10%), 11 deaths from MCC (7%), and 27 death from other causes (18%). The 2-year CIs of recurrence or death from MCC were 12% and 6%, respectively. There was no difference in recurrence or death from MCC between SLNB-positive and -negative patients. The 2-year CIs of recurrence or death from MCC for LVI-positive patients were 30% and 15%, respectively. No LVI-negative patient experienced recurrence of disease or died of MCC. SLNB identifies occult nodal metastases in 29% of patients with localized MCC. Predictors of SLNB positivity are tumor size and presence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI). Patients with SLNB-positive disease are more likely to receive further treatment; however, sentinel lymph node (SLN) status is not associated with recurrence or survival. In contrast, LVI is strongly associated with both recurrence and survival.
Time-independent perturbation theory by gauge transformations

Abstract It is shown that a given time-dependent solution Ψ0(x, t) of a one-electron Schrodinger equation for Hamiltonian H 0, is also the solution to the Schrodinger equation when a time-dependent perturbation of H 0 is added to the Hamiltonian for ν H 0 transformed by a particular gauge transformation. This transformation is obtained from solutions to inhomogeneous partial differential equations in x and t with appropriate boundary conditions and has the virtue of showing succinctly and explicitly (where possible) the time-dependence of Ψ when the solution is gauge-transformed back to the original (momentum) coordinate system. The physically interesting cases of an adiabatically switched on perturbation and an oscillatory perturbation are discussed in detail. As an example of the procedure the low- and high-frequency refractive indices of a 1s hydrogen atom are calculated.
A framework for Interlibrary-loan implementation (in one semester)

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework for implementing and “going live” with a new interlibrary loan system (ILL), ILLiad Document delivery system and RAPID ILL, in one semester. Design/methodology/approach – This paper provides a framework for implementing ILLiad and RAPID ILL through conducting a needs assessment, review of the existing practices and selection process of hardware/software, collaboration with stakeholders within the library and university for implementation, training and “going live”. Findings – This paper demonstrates how to implement a new interlibrary system in one semester. There are many benefits to implementing and “going live” in one semester. Staff training coupled with “going live” is essential to retain the new skill set and put it into practice. Finally, the most immediate and important impact of the new system was giving the university community (students and faculty) expanded access to collections and providing an overall better user experience. Origi...
Effects of arginine vasopressin and oxytocin on glucagon release from clonal α-cell line In-R1-G9: Involvement of V1b receptors

Abstract Receptor antagonists were used to determine which receptor mediates the effect of arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT) on glucagon release from hamster glucagonoma In-R1-G9 cells. Both AVP (10−9–10−6 M) and OT (10−8–10−5 M) increased glucagon release from In-R1-G9 cells in a concentration-dependent manner and AVP was ~30-fold more potent than OT in this aspect. The antagonists with potent V1b receptor blocking activity, CL-4-84 (10−9–10−6 M), dP[Tyr(Me)2]AVP and AO-2-44 (10−8–10−6 M), antagonized the effect of both AVP and OT in a concentration-dependent manner. Other receptor antagonists at 10−6 M failed to block the effect of AVP and OT; these included a highly selective OT-receptor antagonist, L-366,948 and a V 1a V 2 receptor antagonist WK-3–6. However, these antagonists at higher concentrations (10−5 and 10−4 M) caused inhibition of AVP- and OT-induced glucagon release. The order of antagonistic potency was estimated as CL-4-84 ≈ dP[Tyr(Me)2]AVP ≈ AO-2-44 > WK 3–6 > L366,948. d[D-3-Pal]VP (10−8–10−5 M), a V1b receptor agonist, also increased glucagon release in a concentration-dependent manner, which was antagonized by dP[Tyr(Me)2]AVP (10−8-10−6 M) and CL-4-84 (10−9–10−6 M), but not by WK-3–6 (10−6 M) or L-366,948 (10−6 M). Therefore, the stimulatory effects of both OT and AVP on glucagon release may be mediated by V1b receptors, but not by V1a, V2 or OT receptors.
Immobilization of active α-chymotrypsin on RF-plasma-functionalized polymer surfaces

Various polymeric surfaces (polyester, polyethylene, polystyrene) were functionalized under oxygen and dichlorosilane-RF-cold-plasma environments and were employed as substrates for further in situ derivatization reactions and immobilization of α-Chymotrypsin. The nature and morphology of the derivatized substrates and the substrates with immobilized enzymes were analyzed using survey and high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), laser desorption fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, chemical derivatization, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. It was demonstrated that the tacticity of the polystyrene substrate did not notably influence the activity of the immobilized enzyme, however, spacer molecules intercalated between the polymeric substrates (e.g., polyethylene) and the enzyme significantly increased the enzyme activity (comparable with that of the free enzyme). Computer-aided conformational modeling of the substrate-spacer systems indicated that the longer the spacer chain, the greater the mobility of the enzyme. It is suggested that the greater mobility of the enzyme molecules is responsible for the enhanced activity. It has also been shown that the stability of the immobilized enzyme systems was good; they retained their activity during several washing/assay cycles. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 78: 1783–1796, 2000
Nitrate-stimulated mineralization of ammonium in anaerobic soils.

Nitrate addition to soil stimulated mineralization of soil organic nitrogen more than twenty-fold over controls to which no nitrate was added. Addition of 15NO 3- showed that very little of the increased ammonium came from nitrate reduction.
Efficient nonlinear parameter estimation via interactive switching between function minimization algorithms

Abstract Nonlinear parameter estimates must be obtained by iterative processes that can consume large amounts of computer time, so it is important that the function minimization or optimization process be efficient. Standard algorithms are based on varying hypotheses about the hypersurface of the objective function (the function to be minimized). The characteristics of this surface vary with the functional form of the objective function, the experimental data, and the current position of the search pattern in the parameter space. No one algorithm is best for all problems or even for all phases of the same problem. Strategies were developed for dynamically selecting the algorithm whose underlying hypotheses most closely match the local geometry of the parameter space. The results presented here indicate that interactive switching between algorithms can increase the robustness and efficiency of the optimization process.
Conformational studies on copolymers of L-lysine and L-leucine: circular dichroism and potentiometric titration studies.

Conformational aspects of a series of copolymers of L-Leucine and L-leucine [poly-(LysxLeuy)] containing 0 to 0.41 mole fraction L-leucine have been studied by circular dichroism (CD) and potentiometric titration in 0.05M KF solution. CD studies on the α-helical conformation showed a dependence of the magnitude of the CD ellipticity band at 222 nm on copolymer composition; the [θ]222 decreasing with higher leucine contents. This was interpreted as the result of an increase of the hydrophobicity of the environment of the amide group due to the presence of the leucyl residues. Values of the Zimm-Rice parameter, σ, for the copolymers were obtained from the potentiometric titrations and used to fit theoretical curves to the experimental data. Using the variation of σ with polymer composition, a value of σ for the leucyl residue was estimated to be 6.3 × 10−2, assuming independence of σ on the amino acid sequence in the copolymer. The free energy change for the conversion of one mole residue from uncharged helix to uncharged coil, ΔGhc°, was also obtained from the titration data for each copolymer up to a leucine mole fraction of 0.16; a value of 385 cal mole−1 was estimated for ΔGhc° for a leucyl residue. These values for σ and ΔGhc° are compared with other values in the literature for various amino acid residues obtained from titration and melting curve data.
Harnessing NASA Goddard’s Grey Literature: The Power of a Repository Framework

The NASA Goddard Library collaborated with several projects on-Center to create a framework for the development of web-accessible repositories of grey literature. Tools and methods for collaboration were developed through a series of prototypes with a variety of Goddard projects based on the Library's Digital Asset System (DAS), a repository to describe and provide access to project information including images, videos, web sites, and technical reports. Metadata is a key component of this framework. The Goddard Core Metadata Element Set, an extension of the Dublin Core, is used to describe these resources. Additional elements include project name, project code and instrument name. A taxonomy of controlled subject terms has been developed which can also be extended and tailored for each project. This provides consistent searching across the DAS, while at the same time enhancing the search precision for each project collection when it is accessed as a separate collection in the DAS or through its own web site. To-date, the Library has used the framework with a number of different projects. A commemorative CD with key documents, web sites and oral histories by the project managers was developed for the Hitchhiker Project as it was being disbanded. Metadata from the Swift project library was transformed and made more accessible with pointers to documents in the Swift project library. The Landsat Legacy Project, a joint project with the Landsat Program Science Office, the US Geological Survey, and the NASA History Office, is creating an archive of essential technical-, policy-, and science-related documentation. To gather significant documentation from the over 35-year-multi-agency history of Landsat, the Library added components for external submission of documents for potential inclusion in the new repository and for scanning paper documents. In addition, video histories are being captured from Landsat veterans. Through these projects, the NASA Goddard Library has developed a methodology for collaborating with different kinds of projects. It involves procedures for analyzing the needs of a project and determining how the metadata, taxonomy, and interface might need to change, while remaining consistent with the DAS framework for cross-repository access. Ultimately, the Library plans to extend the effort to other projects. (At any given point in time, Goddard has more than 30 projects in various stages of completion.) As part of Goddard's knowledge management activities, the DAS provides a framework for sharing grey literature that would otherwise be scattered across independent project libraries. Benefits include the ability to more quickly find and reuse information to decrease project costs, enhance safety and promote innovation.
Towards the sub-50 nm magnetic device definition: Ion beam etching (IBE) vs plasma-based etching

Abstract Conventionally, the tunneling magneto resistive (TMR) devices for both hard drive and magnetic random access memory (MRAM) are defined via photolithography and subsequent ion mill processes. Due to non-volatility of ion milling byproducts, re-deposition of device materials across the tunneling barrier will increase the critical dimension (CD) and reduce the pattern transfer fidelity; moreover, it causes electrical shunting and TMR ratio drop. Therefore, either relatively large angle primary or two-step mill with a subsequent large angle side mill is required to clean-up such re-deposition across the barrier. Such primary milling angle and side milling time at a fixed primary mill angle have been determined experimentally to be ∼20–30° and above 30 s, respectively, in this study. However, it was found that extended side milling can cause substantial damage for sub-∼30 nm. We also investigated the plasma-based etching of such TMR devices using various chemistries and presented optical emission spectrum of such chemistries. The plasma etched TMR device profile and the possible interaction between the chemistry with the MgO barrier was also discussed.
Variable Pricing in Oligopoly Markets

Behavioral research has found that consumers respond to variability in prices in addition to price levels. We show that this finding can explain why some firms vary their prices more frequently than others. We examine pricing strategies composed of an average price and price variability and employ logit market share models to analyze equilibrium pricing strategies in an oligopoly. Two competing logit specifications termed price sensitivity and payoff sensitivity are considered and are shown to yield contradictory implications for pricing policy. From three empirical studies on restaurant choice, we find that the price sensitivity model is the better model.
Liberalisme i Independentisme, O L'Esperit Treballador Català

An emergent discourse in contemporary Catalonia has linked economic liberalism and the project to constitute an independent state. By examining the journalistic texts of economist Xavier Sala i Martin and executive Xavier Roig, I show how this discourse reacts against two main and closely related phenomena: first, the fact that the restoration of the Generalitat after Francoism has entailed the statalization of Catalan civil society; and, second, the vanishing of the «entrepreneurial Catalan» as a central figure of the collective imaginary. My paper argues that the statalization of civil society and the devalorization of work are not conjunctural phenomena specific to Catalonia but structural tendencies of finance capitalism. To illustrate this point, I analyze Jordi Galceran's play El metode Gronholm, in which the main character, Ferran Auge, is the perfect expression of the contradiction between the «entrepreneurial Catalan» and multinational capitalism. I further argue that liberalism cannot contest these structural tendencies; on the contrary, these are the consequence of the fusion of the state and the market that is essential to neoliberal capitalism. In this respect, the separatism of this liberal discourse emerges as the desire that Catalonia can fully participate in the interstate competition for global capital.
Progress Review of the Psychosocial Treatment of Child Conduct Problems

I assess current methods for reviewing advances in psychotherapy research and describe a new method for evaluating such work—the progress review. The need for progress reviews is highlighted and the usefulness of this technique is demonstrated via an evaluation of the extant literature on the psychosocial treatment of child conduct problems. Overall, an impressive body of research has amassed in support of the efficacy of several different treatment approaches for child conduct problems. However, information about which treatment components are responsible for therapeutic change, which mechanisms are involved, and which factors influence therapeutic change is lacking for each of the treatment approaches discussed. A theoretically based plan for future research is outlined for each treatment approach, in accordance with the results of this review. The continued use of progress reviews in all areas of psychotherapy research will help ensure that all of the goals of such research are attended to and will increase our ability to develop more effective and efficient psychotherapeutic interventions.
Saccadic Localization of Random Dot Targets

The targets for saccadic eye movements in natural visual scenes are spatially extended objects, yet saccades land at a single position within them. To characterize the spatial transformation that determines the saccadic goal position within attended objects, we studied saccadic localization of large patterns of random dots. Saccades landed with a high degree of precision near the center-of-gravity of the patterns (average error
Tracheal fenestration; experimental aspect.

Experiments leading to a satisfactory operative technic in the production of fenestration of the trachea of dogs are presented. The advantages of the fenestrated animals as experimental subjects are emphasized. The clinical possibilities of a window in the cervical trachea are discussed with particular reference to the management of widespread pulmonary suppuration.
Forward scattering in systems with non-central potentials: an analysis of the infinite order sudden approximation

Abstract The l -labelled version of the IOS is re-examined in detail. It is shown that recent severe criticism of the method, based on studies of a system with a long-range attractive anisotropy and spherically symmetric hard core and assuming a weak anisotropy and straight-line Trajectories, is unjustified.