cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prognostic relevance of Fédération Nationale des Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer grade and MDM2 amplification levels in dedifferentiated liposarcoma: a study of 50 cases.

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma represents a form of liposarcoma composed of a non-lipogenic sarcoma associated with well-differentiated liposarcoma. The prognostic significance of histological grading of the dedifferentiated component remains to be elucidated due to vague grading criteria employed in previous studies. Molecular markers of tumor behavior, including amplification levels of murine double minute-2 (MDM2) and cyclin-dependent kinase-4 (CDK4) genes, have been explored in a limited number of cases. Here we investigate whether 'Federation Nationale des Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer' (FNCLCC) grade and MDM2 gene amplification levels have prognostic value in dedifferentiated liposarcoma in terms of local recurrence and disease-specific survival. Fifty cases were retrieved, reviewed and FNCLCC grade was scored for the dedifferentiated component. Testing for MDM2 gene amplification was performed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Amplification was categorized as high level (≥20 copies) and as low level (<20 copies). Follow-up data was obtained through chart review. Log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine the effect of grade and level of MDM2 amplification on outcomes. Our series includes 50 patients (male n=28, female n=22) with an average age of 63 years (range, 28-88) and a median follow-up of 28 months (range, 2-120). Tumors were graded as grade 1 (6%), grade 2 (58%), and grade 3 (36%). When adjusted for age, sex, site, tumor size, and margin status, grade 3 patients had a higher recurrence rate than grades 1 and 2 (HR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.24, 7.62; P=0.015). Patients with high-level MDM2 amplification had higher recurrence rate on univariate analysis (P=0.028), but not on multivariate analysis (HR=1.69, 95% CI: 0.73, 3.94; P=0.221). FNCLCC grade 3 dedifferentiation confers a worse prognosis in dedifferentiated liposarcoma in terms of local recurrence. MDM2 amplification level remains a useful diagnostic tool in dedifferentiated liposarcoma, but has no prognostic value in terms of local recurrence.
Founder Mutations in Myosin-Binding Protein C: Maybe Not So Benign After All.

Linkage studies and genetic sequencing in families with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in the 1980s and 1990s established the sarcomere as the genetic basis for HCM.1 In contemporary cohorts, a pathogenic mutation is found in about half of patients with HCM, with ≈50% of these mutations in MYBPC3 (myosin-binding protein C).2,3 Many mutations are unique or seen in a limited number of families. However, in some geographically or culturally isolated populations, founder mutations have arisen from common ancestors many generations ago. The reported frequency of founder mutations for HCM ranges considerably among different countries, with the highest reported prevalence being in Iceland, where almost 90% of all sarcomere gene mutation carriers harbor a single founder mutation in MYBPC3 , comprising 67% of the entire HCM population.4 The vast majority of founder mutations in HCM across all reported studies are found in MYBPC3 , with fewer reported in MYH7 (myosin), TNNT2 (troponin T), and TPM1 (tropomyosin).5 Because of the need for founder mutations to withstand negative selection pressure to perpetuate through multiple generations, there is a general perception that founder mutations confer a more benign phenotype and disease course.4,6,7 This view has been supported by a previous study in France, which found that carriers of a founder mutation identified in 8% of their HCM population were diagnosed 15 years later and experienced a delayed onset of disease complications compared with carriers of other sarcomere gene mutations.8 However, other studies have observed relative equivalence between carriers of founder and nonfounder mutations.5,9 All of the previously reported studies are limited by relatively small numbers and some by incomplete genotyping in comparator HCM cohorts, which could confound results. Most studies have also not distinguished between probands and relatives of probands …
Recognition of a likely two phased extinction at the K-Pg boundary in Antarctica.

The southernmost Cretaceous – Paleogene (K-Pg) outcrop exposure is the well-studied exposure on Seymour Island, Antarctica. Deposition across the K-Pg boundary there is uninterrupted, and as a consequence the ammonite fossil record is commonly used to test statistical methods of evaluating mass extinctions to account for the incompleteness of the fossil record. Numerous detailed fossil data sets from Seymour Island, comprised dominantly of mollusks, have been published over the last 30 years, but in most cases have not received statistical treatment. Here a previously published statistical technique is modified, automated, and applied to all published macrofossil data sets available from Seymour Island. All data sets reveal likely evidence of two separate multi-species extinctions, one synchronous with bolide impact evidence at the K-Pg boundary, and another 45 ± 15 meters (~140–290 ky) below the boundary. The apparent earlier extinction primarily affects benthic mollusks, while the boundary extinction primarily affects ammonites. While there is no unique sedimentological change over the interval where the earlier extinction is identified, it is impossible to exclude the possibility that this pattern is stratigraphically controlled. The automation of this technique allows it to be applied easily to other large fossil data sets.
Amelogenin Induces Biomimetic Mineralization at Specific pH

Amelogenin proteins are assumed to control the calcification of dental enamel with a nanoscale precision that facilitates the formation of fibrous apatite crystals organized in a remarkable microstucture. In this study, recombinant full-length human amelogenin induced protein-guided mineralization and the formation of an enamel-like composite material at specific physical-chemical conditions as observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Amelogenin bound specifically to fluoroapatite crystals (FAP) of a glass-ceramic substrate at Ca2+ and PO4 3- concentrations similar to in-vivo conditions and at pH 8. Layers up to 400 nm high, containing elongated crystals, formed on the (001)-planes of FAP within 24h in supersaturated solutions. In contrast, (hk0)-faces grew by only 10-30 nm, but showed nanospheres aligned parallel to the c-axis of FAP. At pHs different from 8, proteins bound non-specifically to substrate and layers on FAP reached only 5-15 nm thickness. Micro-Raman spectroscopy and AFM revealed the formation of a composite material that resembled a structure and composition comparable to human enamel. These observations suggest that certain conditions are required to activate amelogenin to control and promote crystal growth of apatite along the c-axis and to synthesize an enamel-like material.
The Relationship Between Training Load and Injury in Athletes: A Systematic Review

The relationship between training load and musculoskeletal injury is a rapidly advancing area of research in need of an updated systematic review. This systematic review examined the evidence for the relationship between training load and musculoskeletal injury risk in athlete, military, and first responder (i.e. law enforcement, firefighting, rescue service) populations. The CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SportDISCUS, and SCOPUS databases were searched using a comprehensive strategy. Studies published prior to July 2017 were included if they prospectively examined the relationship between training load and injury risk. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) and Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine levels of evidence. A narrative synthesis of findings was conducted. A total of 2047 articles were examined for potential inclusion. Forty-six met the inclusion criteria and 11 known to the authors but not found in the search were added, for a total of 57 articles. Overall, 47 studies had at least partially statistically significant results, demonstrating a relationship between training load and injury risk. Included articles were rated as poor (n = 15), fair (n = 6), and good (n = 36) based on NOS score. Articles assessed as ‘good’ were considered level 2b evidence on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Model, and articles assessed as ‘fair’ or ‘poor’ were considered level 4 evidence. Our results demonstrate that the existence of a relationship between training load and injury continues to be well supported in the literature and is strongest for subjective internal training load. The directionality of this relationship appears to depend on the type and timeframe of load measured.
Cerebral Concussion: Causes, Effects, and Risks in Sports.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the causes, effects, and risks associated with concussion in sports. BACKGROUND: Concussion is an injury associated with sports and is most often identified with boxing, football, ice hockey, and the martial arts. In addition, recent research has shown that concussion occurs in many different sports. In the decade of the 1990s, concussion became a primary issue for discussion among the media, sports sponsors, sports medicine professionals, and athletes. DESCRIPTION: Concussion is an injury that results from a wide variety of mechanisms and has numerous signs and symptoms that are common to different types of injury. Continued improvement in prevention and management strategies for concussion requires a strong body of research from a variety of different disciplines. It is essential that research efforts focus on both prevention and management and that researchers and clinicians work closely toward their common goals. CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS: Until the research community is able to provide sound recommendations for the prevention and management of the concussion, the care of the injured player falls squarely on the clinician. It is important for sports medicine professionals to continue to stay up to date on the advances in understanding concussions and how to care individually for each player who sustains a concussion. Language: en
Evaluation of a Newly Developed Tritium Calorimeter at Los Alamos National Laboratory

The Los Alamos National Laboratory tritium processing facility purchased an ANTECH Series P300 Isothermal Tritium calorimeter from the ANTECH Corporation in 2005. The instrument is used to non-destructively measure the quantity of tritium in an item based on the heat output generated by tritium beta decay. Instrument performance data collected over the past two years is presented showing that this instrument can detect as low as 0.001 W (0.003 g of tritium) within rather large measurement canisters of approximately 170 mm (6.8 in.) diameter by 610 mm (24 in.) long. With a manufacturer-stated measurement power range of 0.005 W to 15 W, this calorimeter has performed beyond the specified purchase requirements. Using a combination of sensors for its thermal element, the P300 calorimeter has demonstrated exceptional sensitivity and precision.
Electronically Excited States in Interstellar Chemistry

Abstract In the search for molecular species in the interstellar medium, theoretical methods continue to be an invaluable tool to astronomically minded chemists. This review will showcase the work done in our group to apply coupled cluster theory to the examination of excited states for molecules of interstellar interest. Using state-of-the art methods, we have characterized the excited state nature of radicals, cations, and even anions with promising results.
On the short time creep rupture

Short time tensile creep rupture tests were made on 7 mil lamp filament wire and on 7 mil undoped tungsten wire in the temperature range 2500 to 3100 K. Steady-state creep rate was described by an expression having the form: e =ADσ/E)m whereA is a constant,D is the self-diffusion coefficient, σ is the creep stress,E is the elastic modulus, andm is 5 for undoped tungsten and 25 for lamp grade wire. Activation energy for time to failure of lamp wire was found to vary from 150 to 185 kcal in the range 2500 to 3100 K. Failure mode in this range was slip at high stresses and intergranular brittle fracture at low stresses. The very high creep-strength observed for lamp wire was attributed to a combination of resistance to diffusional creep at low stresses and resistance to dislocation creep at high stresses. The dispersoid structure of lamp wire was suggested as the origin of strength in both cases.
The CD28/B7 Pathway: A Novel Regulator of Plasma Cell Function

The CD28/B7 pathway is pivotal for the activation, optimal function, and regulation of T cell function. While the CD28 receptor and its ligands B7.1/B7.2 are also expressed on plasma cells, little is known of the role of the CD28/B7 pathway in plasma cell function. In this chapter we discuss the recent studies that have examined the role of CD28 expression on plasma cell function. Both stimulatory and inhibitory effects of CD28 on plasma cells have been reported. Based on our findings we propose that under homeostatic conditions the CD28/B7 interaction mediates regulation of plasma cell function whereas during inflammation this pathway can be perturbed to ramp up Ab production from existing plasma cells.
Exploring the Recognizability and Nature of Media References in Female Science Fiction and Fantasy Fandom Dress

The purpose of this research was to explore the types of fandom dress worn by female science fiction and fantasy fans and discover why these items were worn within various settings and social contexts using Erving Goffman's (1959) dramaturgy and the concept of brand community. Prior to this research, types of fandom dress were not clearly defined, and the relationship between the nature and recognizability of references was unclear. Thirty-one online interviews were conducted with females who wore dress related to science fiction and fantasy films and television series. The interview data were analyzed using NVivo qualitative analysis software and the constant comparison method. The results led to the development of The Model of Fandom Dress, in which fandom dress media references were classified by their nature and recognizability, as well as a more holistic view of how different types of fandom dress function within mainstream and fan culture.
Clinical significance of HFE gene mutations in patients with refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts (RARS).

e18556Background: RARS is a subtype of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) defined by < 5% blasts and ≥15% ring sideroblasts (WHO 2008). Hereditary hemochromatosis is a disorder characterized by dysreg...
Contemporary Nigerian Politics: Competition in a Time of Transition and Terror

In 2015, Nigeria's voters cast out the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP). Here, A. Carl LeVan traces the political vulnerability of Africa's largest party in the face of elite bargains that facilitated a democratic transition in 1999. These 'pacts' enabled electoral competition but ultimately undermined the party's coherence. LeVan also crucially examines the four critical barriers to Nigeria's democratic consolidation: the terrorism of Boko Haram in the northeast, threats of Igbo secession in the southeast, lingering ethnic resentments and rebellions in the Niger Delta, and farmer-pastoralist conflicts. While the PDP unsuccessfully stoked fears about the opposition's ability to stop Boko Haram's terrorism, the opposition built a winning electoral coalition on economic growth, anti-corruption, and electoral integrity. Drawing on extensive interviews with a number of politicians and generals and civilians and voters, he argues that electoral accountability is essential but insufficient for resolving the representational, distributional, and cultural components of these challenges.
Post laminectomy instability

Abstract Laminectomy is considered to be the gold standard of decompressive techniques. While the short-term benefits of laminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis are widely accepted, concerns surrounding iatrogenic instability persist and the debate on the appropriate indications for concomitant fusion rages on. This review covers the various definitions, biomechanics, and incidence of post laminectomy instability and explores the patient, radiographic, and surgical risk factors that play a role in the development of this condition.
DNA-dependent protein kinase plays a role in inflammation independent of DNA-damage repair function and its inhibition blocks allergic inflammation in mice and modulates human CD4+ T cell function without causing SCID (HYP7P.264)

We reported that DNA- dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is critical for the expression of NF-κB-dependent genes in TNF-α -treated glioblastoma cells including VCAM-1. Here we show that DNA-PK protein level and function are critical for VCAM-1 expression in TNF-α-treated human endothelial and mouse lung smooth muscle cells and are required for monocytes adhesion. Interestingly, DNA-PK activation and subsequent VCAM-1 expression in presence of TNF occurred independently of DNA breaks/repair. Administration of the DNA-PK inhibitor, NU7441, and DNA-PK heterozygosity reduced airway eosinophilia, mucus hypersecretion, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), and OVA-specific IgE production in asthma model of mice. Such effects correlated with a marked reduction in lung VCAM-1 expression and production of several inflammatory cytokines. Remarkably, such protection occurred without causing SCID. These results were confirmed in a chronic model of asthma using house dust mite. DNA-PK inhibition reduced Th2 cytokines production without affecting Th1 cytokines production and cell proliferation in CD3/CD28-stimulated human CD4+T cells potentially by blocking gata-3 expression. In mouse CD4+T cells, DNA-PK inhibition, in vitro, severely blocked CD3/CD28-induced gata-3 and t-bet expression and prevented differentiation of Th1 and Th2 cells. Thus, our results suggest DNA-PK as a novel determinant of asthma and a potential target for the treatment of the disease.
Cerebrovascular Disease and Cognition

While this chapter focuses on the cognitive consequences of cerebrovascular disease, it is also important to know that cerebrovascular disease is not a unitary condition but rather multiple conditions that affect the cerebrovascular health of the brain. These include obvious conditions such as ischemic and intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke, aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, cardiac arrest, and carotid-artery occlusion and stenosis. In addition, cerebrovascular disease often leads to conditions primarily based on the cognitive consequences of these conditions, which would include vascular cognitive impairment and vascular dementia. This chapter will include a brief discussion of cardiovascular disease and epidemiology, followed by a discussion of the specifics of cerebrovascular disease, including mechanisms of action and cognitive ramifications. We will then briefly discuss treatment for cerebrovascular disease, and the chapter will conclude with a case example detailing the cognitive effects of vascular cognitive impairment.
The Hsp90 Molecular Chaperone Regulates the Transcription Factor Network Controlling Chromatin Accessibility.

Abstract Genomic events including gene regulation and chromatin status are controlled by transcription factors. Here we report that the Hsp90 molecular chaperone broadly regulates the transcription factor protein family. Our studies identified a biphasic use of Hsp90 in which early inactivation (15 min) of the chaperone triggered a wide reduction of DNA binding events along the genome with concurrent changes to chromatin structure. Long-term loss (6 h) of Hsp90 resulted in a decline of a divergent yet overlaying pool of transcription factors that produced a distinct chromatin pattern. Although both phases involve protein folding, the early point correlated with Hsp90 acting in a late folding step that is critical for DNA binding function, whereas prolonged Hsp90 inactivation led to a significant decrease in the steady-state transcription factor protein levels. Intriguingly, despite the broad chaperone impact on a variety of transcription factors, the operational influence of Hsp90 was at the level of chromatin with only a mild effect on gene regulation. Thus, Hsp90 selectively governs the transcription factor process overseeing local chromatin structure.
The Effect of Weighted Vests and Stability Balls With and Without Psychostimulant Medication on Classroom Outcomes for Children With ADHD

Abstract Current evidence-based, school-based interventions for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include academic intervention, behavioral classroom management, and psy...
Chromatin Compaction Leads to a Preference for Peripheral Heterochromatin.

A layer of dense heterochromatin is found at the periphery of the nucleus. Because this peripheral heterochromatin functions as a repressive phase, mechanisms that relocate genes to the periphery play an important role in regulating transcription. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we show that an interaction that attracts euchromatin and heterochromatin equally to the nuclear envelope will still preferentially locate heterochromatin to the nuclear periphery. This observation considerably broadens the class of possible interactions that result in peripheral positioning to include boundary interactions that either weakly attract all chromatin or strongly bind to a randomly chosen 0.05% of nucleosomes. The key distinguishing feature of heterochromatin is its high chromatin density with respect to euchromatin. In our model, this densification is caused by heterochromatin protein 1's preferential binding to histone H3 tails with a methylated lysine at the ninth residue, a hallmark of heterochromatin. We find that a global rearrangement of chromatin to place heterochromatin at the nuclear periphery can be accomplished by attaching a small subset of loci, even if these loci are uncorrelated with heterochromatin. Hence, factors that densify chromatin determine which genomic regions condense to form peripheral heterochromatin.
Salivary Amylase Gene Copy Number Is Associated with the Obesity and Inflammatory Markers in Children.

Background We have recently shown that the copy number of salivary amylase (AMY1) gene was significantly decreased, and the obesity-related salivary biomarkers resistin, MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP were signiﬁcantly increased in overweight/obese children compared to normal weight. This study aimed to evaluate the association of AMY1 copy number variant (CNV) with obesity and inflammatory markers. Seventy-six participants aged between 6 and 10 years have participated, and the saliva samples were collected along with the anthropometric measurements. Methods AMY1 copy number was analyzed by 3D digital PCR, and obesity-related biomarkers were performed with a Bioplex multiplex analyzer. Results The mean AMY1 copy number was higher in normal weight (7.90 ± 0.38) compared to the overweight/obese group (6.20 ± 0.29). The association of AMY1 CNV with obesity and inflammatory markers showed significant negative correlation [CRP, β = -0.238 (p < 0.05); resistin, β = -0.25 (p < 0.05); MCP-1, β = -0.304 (p < 0.01)] except for complement factor D, TNF α and IL-6. The anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10 reported a positive correlation with AMY1 copy number with a β = 0.268 (p < 0.05). The multivariable model adjusted with age and gender depicted a similar correlation with obesity markers. Conclusion Our results report that AMY1 CNV is associated with obesity and inflammatory biomarkers in children's saliva sample.
Why Clinical Science Must Change or Die: Integrating Intersectionality and Social Justice

Clinical science must begin to embrace the richness and nuance involved in centering social justice, intersectionality, and diversity and creating space for these topics to exist within scholars, c...
Utilization and Performance Benchmarking for Postoperative Imaging in Children With Complicated Appendicitis: Results From a Multicenter Collaborative Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to characterize hospital-level variation and establish diagnostic performance benchmarks for postoperative imaging in children with complicated appendicitis. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Wide variation in preoperative imaging in children with suspected appendicitis has been previously described. Variation in the use and accuracy of postoperative imaging to diagnose suspected organ space infection (OSI) following appendectomy has not been characterized. METHODS Multicenter retrospective analysis of children who underwent appendectomy for complicated appendicitis using data from the NSQIP-Pediatric Appendectomy Pilot Collaborative. Resource utilization measures included rates of postoperative imaging [ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT)] and imaging-associated diagnostic efficiency ratio (DER; number of OSIs diagnosed/study obtained). Radiation stewardship measures included US utilization process measures (rate of US as the initial diagnostic study and rate of CTs preceded by an attempt at US) and CT-associated DER. Hospital-level observed-to-expected ratios (O/Es) were calculated for each measure after adjusting for demographic characteristics and disease severity using multivariable regression. RESULTS A total of 1316 patients from 20 hospitals were included. Overall, 18.3% of patients underwent postoperative imaging (hospital range: 4.8%-33.3%), and O/Es varied 3.5-fold among hospitals (P < 0.01). The overall imaging-associated DER was 0.56 OSIs/study (hospital range: 0-1.00), and O/Es varied 2.7-fold among hospitals (P < 0.01). Significant variation was also observed for US as the initial diagnostic study (overall: 41.5%; O/E range: 0.40-2.01, P < 0.01), CTs preceded by US (overall: 27.3%; O/E range: 0-3.66, P < 0.01), and CT-associated DER (overall: 0.69 OSI's/CT; O/E range: 0-1.80, P < 0.01). Fifty percent of hospitals were a statistical outlier on at least 1 measure. CONCLUSION Significant variation exists across hospitals in imaging practices to diagnose suspected OSI following appendectomy. Imaging utilization benchmarking may assist hospitals in prioritizing quality improvement efforts to optimize resource utilization and radiation stewardship.
Infection control response to an outbreak of OXA-23 carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in a skilled nursing facility in Utah.

Background Antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter species are a growing public health threat, yet are not nationally notifiable, and most states do not mandate reporting. Additionally, there are no standardized methods to detect Acinetobacter species colonization. Methods An outbreak of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) was identified at a Utah ventilator unit in a skilled nursing facility. An investigation was conducted to identify transmission modes in order to control spread of CRAB. Culture-based methods were used to identify patient colonization and environmental contamination in the facility. Results Of the 47 patients screened, OXA-23-producing CRAB were detected in 10 patients (21%), with 7 patients (15%) having been transferred from out-of-state facilities. Of patients who screened positive, 60% did not exhibit any signs or symptoms of active infection by chart review. A total of 38 environmental samples were collected and CRAB was recovered from 37% of those samples. Whole genome sequencing analyses of patient and environmental isolates suggested repeated CRAB introduction into the facility and highlighted the role of shared equipment in transmission. Conclusions The investigation demonstrated this ventilated skilled nursing facility was an important reservoir for CRAB in the community and highlights the need for improved surveillance, strengthened infection control and inter-facility communication within and across states.
The attention schema theory in a neural network agent: Controlling visuospatial attention using a descriptive model of attention

In the attention schema theory (AST), the brain constructs a model of attention, the attention schema, to aid in the endogenous control of attention. Growing behavioral evidence appears to support the presence of a model of attention. However, a central question remains: does a controller of attention actually benefit by having access to an attention schema? We constructed an artificial deep Q-learning neural network agent that was trained to control a simple form of visuospatial attention, tracking a stimulus with an attention spotlight in order to solve a catch task. The agent was tested with and without access to an attention schema. In both conditions, the agent received sufficient information such that it should, theoretically, be able to learn the task. We found that with an attention schema present, the agent learned to control its attention spotlight and learned the catch task. Once the agent learned, if the attention schema was then disabled, the agent's performance was greatly reduced. If the attention schema was removed before learning began, the agent was impaired at learning. The results show how the presence of even a simple attention schema can provide a profound benefit to a controller of attention. We interpret these results as supporting the central argument of AST: the brain contains an attention schema because of its practical benefit in the endogenous control of attention.
Trajectories of Blood Pressure Control a Year after Randomization and Incident Cardiovascular Outcomes in SPRINT

BACKGROUND While studies have assessed the association between blood pressure trajectories and cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes using observational data, few have assessed these associations using clinical trial data. We sought to identify systolic blood pressure (SBP) trajectories and to determine if these trajectory patterns carry inherent CVD risk, irrespective of baseline blood pressure. METHODS SBP trajectories were identified using latent class group-based modeling among a cohort of Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) participants by incorporating SBP measures during the first 12 months of the trial postrandomization. Cox models were used to evaluate the association between SBP trajectory with CVD and all-cause mortality. RESULTS Four distinct SBP trajectories were identified: "low decline" (41%), "high decline" (6%), "low stable" (48%), and "high stable" (5%). Relative to the "low decline" group, the "low stable" group was associated with a 29% increased risk of CVD (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06-1.57) and the "high stable" group was associated with a 76% increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.15-2.68). Relative to the "low stable" group, the "high stable" group was associated with a 54% increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.05-2.28). CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that SBP trajectory patterns are associated with important cardiovascular outcomes, irrespective of baseline blood pressure, which may help better identify individuals at risk and assist with accurate adjudication of antihypertensive therapy to reduce future events.
Hysteresis effect on earthquake risk assessment of moment resisting frame structures

Abstract It is essential to estimate the earthquake-induced risks of buildings. However, most popularly used earthquake fragility curves of moment-resisting frame buildings, such as the Hazards United States (HAZUS) Earthquake model, did not consider the effects of different hysteresis behaviors. This study aims at analyzing the hysteresis effects on the earthquake fragility curves of the Moment Resisting Frame Structures (MRFs) to extend applications of these curves. The SAC projected 3-story and 9-story MRF buildings were used in this study as examples. Hysteresis behaviors of the beam-column joint were used to describe the different behaviors of different types of National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) MRF structures. ELEMENT 10 in the DRAIN-2DX program was adopted to model these hysteresis behaviors of MRF joints. The fragility curves of 3-story and 9-story steel and RC MRF buildings with different hysteresis behavior models were successfully constructed using the cumulative lognormal distribution function. Based on these fragility curves, the seismic damage safeties of all MRF buildings with different hysteresis models and at different damage limit states were analyzed and compared. The results suggested that designers could utilize some reduction factors to conservatively design the structures when using the existing earthquake fragility analysis procedure for MRF structures, such as HAZUS, given the hysteresis behaviors of NEHRP MRF types. The earthquake fragility curves presented in this study could be directly adopted for the analysis of hysteresis behaviors of NEHRP MRF structures.
CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, AND ASSOCIATIONS Revised Georgia Business Corporation Code

HB 1272 completely revises the Georgia Business Corporation Code. The new Code is based to a significant extent upon the 1984 Revised Model Business Corporation Act developed by the American Bar Association. HB 1444 creates a state-wide computerized network, providing local public access to any information filed with the Secretary of State under Title 14.
The Personal Computer: A Hot Rod for the Mind

"DO IT," SHE SAYS, FLATLY, "and I'11 leave you," an ultimatum she has delivered only once before in ten years of marriage. A handsome woman with long hair and a face that shapes most naturally for a smile, she scowls and bites deeply into the middle of her sandwich. I divide my own, sending each of the children away with a quarter. "It's really simple." Wiping her mouth without erasing the disap proval, she continues, "That's the problem. I don't really feel I have to explain. It should be obvious; you're obsessed. Even when you're not reading about it, you're thinking about it. It's all you want to talk about. It's true! Put your hand down. I admit, I don't understand half or a quarter of what you're saying. It's not the first time. I still don't really understand how my car works, or electricity, or the atomic bomb, but I don't feel compelled to. I can live with what I already know about those things. I know what I think. But not you. I don't think there is anything you could resist looking into, except, on occasion, your own motives. Usually I can stand that part of you. You drag me along, I learn things, I'm grateful, I like to learn things I can use. I just don't want to learn about this."
A Review of: “Principles and Practices of Stress Management, Third Edition,” by Paul M. Lehrer, Robert L. Woolfolk, and Wesley E. Sime”

The third edition of this text reclaims its preeminent position as the primary text of its type in the field of stress management. Its degree of scholarship is uncommon and very welcomed as the aut...
Presenting Complex Teacher Evaluation Data: Advantages of Dossier Organization Techniques Over Portfolios

The development of extensive and authentic teacher evaluation raises questions about how best to organize and present the increased amount and variety of assessment materials. Portfolios have been suggested for teacher evaluation because they are well suited to capture the complexities of teaching. However, portfolios 1) are difficult to judge, 2) are difficult to archive, 3) lack key information, 4) miss excellent teachers with simple materials, 5) rarely plan for audiences, 6) distort when required, and 7) bring conflicts of interest. Teacher dossiers are compressed collections of objective data which are easier to judge, demonstrably reliable, and cost-effective.
Trends In The Rentier Income Share In OECD Countries, 1960-2000

This paper presents the first set of estimates of the rentier share of income for twenty-nine OECD countries. We define rentier share to mean the income accruing to financial institutions and the holders of financial assets. The years of coverage vary by country, but span the period 1960-2000. The paper presents the estimates, describes in detail the methods used to construct the series, and presents comprehensive information on our data sources. In addition, we compare the trends in rentier shares with the share of income going to non-financial corporations. Overall we find that the rentier share of income rose in most countries between the 1960's and 1970's on the one hand, and the 1980's and 1990's, on the other. At the same time, movements in rentier income over this period vary from country to country, and are quite variable over time. We also present estimates for rentier shares including capital gains for a subset of countries in the 1980's and 1990's. Including capital gains substantially alters the trend of rentier shares in the 1990's, in most cases, causing them to increase.
Does Help Help? Introducing the Bayesian Evaluation and Assessment Methodology

Most ITS have a means of providing assistance to the student, either on student request or when the tutor determines it would be effective. Presumably, such assistance is included by the ITS designers since they feel it benefits the students. However, whether--and how--help helps students has not been a well studied problem in the ITS community. In this paper we present three approaches for evaluating the efficacy of the Reading Tutor's help: creating experimental trials from data, learning decomposition, and Bayesian Evaluation and Assessment, an approach that uses dynamic Bayesian networks. We have found that experimental trials and learning decomposition both find a negative benefit for help---that is, help hurts! However, the Bayesian Evaluation and Assessment framework finds that help both promotes student long-term learning and provides additional scaffolding on the current problem. We discuss why these approaches give divergent results, and suggest that the Bayesian Evaluation and Assessment framework is the strongest of the three. In addition to introducing Bayesian Evaluation and Assessment, a method for simultaneously assessing students and evaluating tutorial interventions, this paper describes how help can both scaffold the current problem attempt as well as teach the student knowledge that will transfer to later problems.
Quantifying Acoustic Uncertainty Due to Marine Mammals and Fish Near the Shelfbreak Front off Cape Hatteras

Abstract : The long term goals of our work on acoustic uncertainty due to fish and marine mammals are to: 1) understand the nature of low-to-medium frequency (100-2000 Hz) acoustic scattering (specifically reverberation and attenuation) by fish schools and larger marine mammals, 2) advance our acoustic methods of quantitatively imaging fish schools and tracking vocalizing marine mammals, and 3) understand the correlation between the detailed physical oceanography and the biology and acoustics.
Gastric Hypersecretory States: Investigation and Management

Hypersecretory conditions affecting the stomach account for significant morbidity and mortality manifested in some cases with peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and/or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The diagnosis of gastric acid hypersecretory states can be challenging and relies on the use of quantitative assays to measure gastric acid secretion and serum gastrin. The most common etiology for hypergastrinemia is the use of potent gastric acid inhibitors such as the proton pump inhibitors. The differential diagnosis of this condition is of critical importance, and will dictate management decisions. Conditions such as atrophic gastritis are relatively benign and can lead to hypergastrinemia without the presence of gastric acid hypersecretion. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, on the other hand, causes hypergastrinemia with profound gastric acid hypersecretion [1]. More common causes of hypergastrinemia include gastric outlet obstruction, ileus, and chronic renal failure [2]. In most cases, proton pump inhibitors will be used to manage these conditions. In some instances, surgical therapy may be required. This chapter will review the important clinical causes of gastric acid hypersecretion and provide insights to the best medical management options to better care for patients with these disorders.
Pre-operative image-based segmentation of the cranial nerves and blood vessels in microvascular decompression: Can we prevent unnecessary explorations?

Abstract Objectives This study was conducted to validate the accuracy of image-based pre-operative segmentation using the gold standard endoscopic and microscopic findings for localization and pre-operative diagnosis of the offensive vessel. Patients and methods Fourteen TN and 6 HS cases were randomly selected. All patients had 3T MRI, which included thin-sectioned 3D space T2, 3D Time of Flight and MPRAGE Sequences. Imaging sequences were loaded in BrainLab iPlanNet and fused. Individual segmentation of the affected cranial nerves and the compressing vascular structure was performed by a neurosurgeon, and the results were compared with the microscopic and endoscopic findings by two blinded neurosurgeons. For each case, at least three neurovascular landmarks were targeted. Each segmented neurovascular element was validated by manual placement of the navigation probe over each target, and errors of localization were measured in mm. Results All patients underwent retro-sigmoid craniotomy and MVD using both microscope and endoscope. Based on image segmentation, the compressing vessel was identified in all cases except one, which was also negative intraoperatively. Perfect correspondence was found between image-based segmentation and endoscopic and microscopic images and videos (Dice coefficient of 1). Measurement accuracy was 0.45 ± 0.21 mm (mean ± SD). Conclusion Image-based segmentation is a promising method for pre-operative identification and localization of offending blood vessels causing HFS and TN. Using this method may prevent some unnecessary explorations on especially atypical cases with no vascular contacts. However, negative pre-operative image segmentation may not preclude one from exploration in classic cases of TN or HFS. A multicenter study with larger number of cases is recommended.
Proliferation of non-physician providers as reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), 1998.

Recently in JAMA, a series of articles (Cooper, Henderson, & Dietrich, 1998; Cooper, Laud, & Dietrich, 1998; Grumbach & Coffman, 1998) was published about the growing trend of non-physician health care providers, such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, and certified nurse midwives. In an article by a physician-led interdisciplinary team R.A. Cooper and colleagues wrote about the growth in numbers, scope, prescriptive authority, and independent practice of nurses.
Prenatal diagnosis of juvenile granulosa cell tumor of the testis

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor is a rare benign neoplasm of the testicular stroma that accounts for 1-5% of all prepubertal testis tumors [Metcalfe PD, Farivar-Mohseni H, Farhat W, McLorie G, Khoury A, Bagli DJ. Pediatric testicular tumors: contemporary incidence and efficacy of testicular preserving surgery. J Urol 2003;170:2412-2416; Ross JH, Rybicki L, Kay R. Clinical behavior and a contemporary management algorithm for prepubertal testis tumors: a summary of the prepubertal testis tumor registry. J Urol 2002;168:1675-1679]. A prior case series retrospectively identified a cystic testis tumor on prenatal ultrasound images which was subsequently diagnosed as a juvenile granulosa cell tumor [Bryan DE, Cain MP, Casale AJ. Juvenile granulosa-theca cell (sex cord-stromal) tumor of the infant testis. J Urol 2003;169:1497-1498]. We report a case of a prenatally diagnosed testis tumor which was subsequently diagnosed as a juvenile granulosa cell tumor.
Lasing in Cs at 852.1 nm pumped by the photoexcitation of Cs-rare gas collision pairs

We demonstrate the first Cs atomic laser operating at 852.1 nm pumped by photoassociating transient Cs-rare gas pairs. This scheme is well suited for high-power diode pumping and indicates that collisional relaxation is not required.
Polarized caco-2 cells : effect of reactive oxygen metabolites on enterocyte barrier function

Reactive oxygen metabolites are implicated in gastrointestinal disease and enterocyte injury associated with ischemia-reperfusion, bacterial translocation, inflammatory bowel disease, and necrotizing enterocolitis. The ileal-like, human colon carcinoma cell line, Caco-2, was used to investigate oxidative damage. After challenging Caco-2 cells with reactive oxygen metabolites, the permeability, viability, and energy charge of Caco-2 cells were assessed. Permeability was determined by transepithelial electrical potential and flux of small molecules. Viability was determined by release of 51Cr. Cell energy was evaluated by determining adenylate energy charge. The source of reactive oxygen metabolites, with the exception of menadione, did not affect viability of Caco-2 cells; cell permeability was increased. The increased varied with the source and location of the reactive oxygen metabolite. There was no change in energy charge. This study suggests that reactive oxygen metabolites could cause enterocyte damage and that the source of the reactive oxygen metabolite is an important variable in determining the extent of damage. Antioxidants might prevent injury.
BEZIER AND B-SPLINE CURVES WITH KNOTS IN THE COMPLEX PLANE

We extend some well known algorithms for planar Bezier and B-spline curves, including the de Casteljau subdivision algorithm for Bezier curves and several standard knot insertion procedures (Boehm's algorithm, the Oslo algorithm, and Schaefer's algorithm) for B-splines, from the real numbers to the complex domain. We then show how to apply these polynomial and piecewise polynomial algorithms in a complex variable to generate many well known fractal shapes such as the Sierpinski gasket, the Koch curve, and the C-curve. Thus these fractals also have Bezier and B-spline representations, albeit in the complex domain. These representations allow us to change the shape of a fractal in a natural manner by adjusting their complex Bezier and B-spline control points. We also construct natural parameterizations for these fractal shapes from their Bezier and B-spline representations.
Recent advances in endpoint and in-line monitoring techniques for chemical-mechanical polishing processes

We present a summary of the recent advances in endpoint and in-line monitoring techniques for chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) processes. We discuss the technical challenges and review some of the approaches that have been published and/or patented. These methods include optical, thermal (pad temperature), friction (torque motor current), electrochemical, chemical, electrical, and acoustic (vibration). We also present experimental data obtained in our laboratory using selected endpoint methods for metal and oxide CMP.
Decision Making: Neural Correlates of Response Time

Recent studies have measured the time taken by neural processes to decide between alternative stimuli. Overt responses are produced only as soon as neural processes are completed. The brain throttles the mind.
Do localized electric fields cause the structure of the aurora

The aurora, which has fascinated mankind for centuries, is characterized by thin, discrete auroral arcs, also referred to as auroral curtains and draperies. Their latitudinal thickness is often only a few hundred meters or less, as measured by Akasofu [1961], Maggs and Davis [1968], and Borovsky et al. [1991]. Explaining this thin structure still remains one of the major mysteries of auroral research. Borovsky [1993] has recently shown that no currently accepted theory can account for this remarkable feature of the aurora. It is therefore relevant to reexamine the underlying assumptions for these theories, virtually all of which are premised on localized electric fields in the high-altitude auroral zone being the cause of the structure of the aurora.