cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 3D Convolutional Neural Network for Volumetric Image Semantic Segmentation

Abstract This research proposes a novel 3D Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to perform organ tissue segmentation from volumetric 3D medical images. Accurate and efficient segmentation on the 3D medical image of human organ is a critical step towards disease diagnosis. For volumetric 3D medical image segmentation tasks, the effectiveness of conventional 2D CNNs are reduced due to loss of spatial information. To overcome the obstacles, a 3D CNN that implements the convolution and pooling processes in a 3D space is applied as a substitution to the patch division scheme of 2D CNNs. By using 3D CNN, the image becomes scalable in the spatial direction, allowing accurate image detection with different frame sizes. The 3D CNN implements a cube-by-cube scanning strategy, followed by 3D transformation for each cube in terms of convolving and pooling. The segmentation results of 3D CNN is tested on a 3D OCT image dataset of human thyroid. Experimental results demonstrate that the 3D CNN approach obtains outstanding consistency and accuracy.
Clinical utility of radiomics at baseline rectal MRI to predict complete response of rectal cancer after chemoradiation therapy.

To investigate the value of T2-radiomics combined with anatomical MRI staging criteria from pre-treatment rectal MRI in predicting complete response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT). This retrospective study included patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who underwent rectal MRI before neoadjuvant CRT from October 2011 to January 2015 and then surgery. Surgical histopathologic analysis was used as the reference standard for pathologic complete response. Anatomical MRI staging criteria were extracted from our institutional standardized radiology report. In radiomics analysis, one radiologist manually segmented the primary tumor on T2-weighted images for all 102 patients (i.e., training set); two different radiologists independently segmented 66/102 patients (i.e., validation set). 108 radiomics features were extracted. Then, scanner-independent features were identified and least absolute shrinkage operator analysis was used to extract a radiomics score. Finally, a support vector machine model combining the radiomics score and anatomical MRI staging criteria was compared against both anatomical MRI-only and radiomics-only models using the deLong test. The study included 102 patients (42 women; median age = 61 years).The radiomics score produced an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.75. Comparable results were found using the validation set (AUCs = 0.75 and 0.71 for each radiologist, respectively). The anatomical MRI-only model had an accuracy of 67% (sensitivity 42%, specificity 72%); when adding the radiomics score, the accuracy increased to 74% (sensitivity 58%, specificity 77%). Combining T2-radiomics and anatomical MRI staging criteria from pre-treatment rectal MRI may help to stratify patients based on the prediction of treatment response to neoadjuvant therapy.
Data-Based Defense-in-Depth of Critical Systems

Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) are attracting intense research interest due to the explosive availability of data and connectivity. The Dynamic Data Driven Applications Systems (DDDAS) paradigm provides a suitable framework for solutions to the risks of connectivity through big data and machine learning. Computational and measurement data come together to produce integrative yet discriminating features and patterns amenable to machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) decision approaches and thus DDDAS and CPSs bridge the physical with the cyber world in numerous applications principally anchored in unique physics.
From isotropic turbulence in triply periodic cubic domains to sheared turbulence with inflow/outflow

Simulations of isotropic and shear turbulence in domains of different aspect ratios are performed. By including shear convection and introducing an inflow/outflow in the cross-stream direction, low-cost statistically stationary simulations are attained, the results of which agree very well with the results from experiments and simulations of shear-dominated turbulent flows like mixing layers, planar jets, and round jets.
Keeping It Real: Why HPC Data Services Don't Achieve I/O Microbenchmark Performance

HPC storage software developers rely on benchmarks as reference points for performance evaluation. Low-level synthetic microbenchmarks are particularly valuable for isolating performance bottlenecks in complex systems and identifying optimization opportunities. The use of low-level microbenchmarks also entails risk, however, especially if the benchmark behavior does not reflect the nuances of production data services or applications. In those cases, microbenchmark measurements can lead to unrealistic expectations or misdiagnosis of performance problems. Neither benchmark creators nor software developers are necessarily at fault in this scenario, however. The underlying problem is more often a subtle disconnect between the objective of the benchmark and the objective of the developer. In this paper we investigate examples of discrepancies between microbenchmark behavior and software developer expectations. Our goal is to draw attention to these pitfalls and initiate a discussion within the community about how to improve the state of the practice in performance engineering for HPC data services.
Does race play a role in complications and outcomes of Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms?

BACKGROUND Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are a group of hematologic malignancies with known vascular complications. The role race and ethnicity play in these complications is less defined. We aimed to further evaluate the role of race in patients without a history of previous thrombotic or hemorrhagic events. METHODS In this retrospective study, 300 adult patients with MPN were included; 270 (90.0%) were White and 30 (10.0%) were non-White. The non-White group primarily consisted of African American or Black (26 patients), followed by others. Median age at diagnosis was 58 years for White patients and 61.5 years for non-White patients. The interaction between outcomes and vascular events with race was evaluated using multivariate logistical regression models. RESULTS The incidence of thrombotic events was inversely correlated with age at diagnosis, with younger patients demonstrating a higher rate of thrombotic events over time (p < .001). The incidence of thrombotic or hemorrhagic events did not differ between White and non-White patients. A statistically significant difference in median survival was observed between White and non-White patients: 29 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.8-not reached) versus 13 years (95% CI: 5.7-22.7), respectively (p = .016). CONCLUSION This study did not find a significant difference in the rate of thrombotic or hemorrhagic events between White and non-White patients with MPN but suggested that non-White patients had significantly shorter median survival than White patients. Such observations may inform future studies to further characterize racial disparities in outcomes.
Bidirectional effects of toddler temperament and maternal overprotection on maternal and child anxiety symptoms across preschool.

Introduction Existing research highlights interactions among child temperament, parents' own anxiety symptoms, and parenting in predicting increased risk for anxiety symptom development. Theoretical models of child-elicited effects on parents have proposed that parents' behaviors are likely not independent of children's temperament; fearful children likely elicit more protective responses from parents and these parenting behaviors reinforces child anxiety and parents' own anxiety. Method The current study tests this model and examines whether there are bidirectional influences between early fearful temperament (i.e., dysregulated fear [DF]), maternal overprotection, and subsequent trajectories of maternal and child anxiety symptoms across early childhood. A total of 166 children and mothers participated in a multimethod, longitudinal study of temperament risk from 2 to 6 years. Results Results largely support our hypotheses, replicating and extending the prior literature. DF was associated with more maternal overprotective behavior, subsequent child anxiety symptoms, and maternal anxiety symptoms. Moreover, there were indirect (mediated) associations through maternal overprotective behavior and both child and mother anxiety symptoms. Conclusion Results support the hypothesis that intergenerational transmission of anxiety was meditated through maternal behaviors and that the child-driven temperament effects are central to trajectories of child and maternal anxiety trajectories.
Post-traumatic stress disorder may set the neurobiological stage for eating disorders: A focus on glutamatergic dysfunction

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a trauma and stress-related disorder which has been shown to be highly comorbid with, and commonly a precedent of, the eating disorders anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. The objective of this review is to discuss a potential overlapping neurobiological mechanism for this comorbidity. Alterations in glutamatergic neurotransmission have been observed in all four of the aforementioned disorders. Excessive excitation via glutamate contributes to excitotoxicity, and over-activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, both of which have implications for the deterioration of various brain structures. Prominent structures impacted include the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex, all of which are integral to the regulation of stress and eating. The current review suggests that altered glutamate function by trauma or extreme stress may facilitate PTSD and subsequent eating disorder onset, and that glutamatergic modulation may be a key treatment for individuals suffering from these conditions. This overlapping mechanism may help inform future research on individuals with comorbid PTSD and eating disorders, and it could also help inform ways to potentially prevent the onset of these conditions.
Data Quality Matters For Adversarial Training: An Empirical Study

Multiple intriguing problems are hovering in adversarial training, including robust overfitting, robustness overestimation, and robustness-accuracy trade-off. These problems pose great challenges to both reliable evaluation and practical deployment. Here, we empirically show that these problems share one common cause -- low-quality samples in the dataset. Specifically, we first propose a strategy to measure the data quality based on the learning behaviors of the data during adversarial training and find that low-quality data may not be useful and even detrimental to the adversarial robustness. We then design controlled experiments to investigate the interconnections between data quality and problems in adversarial training. We find that when low-quality data is removed, robust overfitting and robustness overestimation can be largely alleviated; and robustness-accuracy trade-off becomes less significant. These observations not only verify our intuition about data quality but may also open new opportunities to advance adversarial training.
An investigation of material and tribological properties of Sb2O3/Au-doped MoS2 solid lubricant films under sliding and rolling contact in different environments

Abstract Solid lubricant coatings are commonly employed in mechanical systems operating in environments where oil or grease lubrication is not feasible. In particular, solid lubricant coatings are currently being used in rolling element bearings operating in vacuum environments and/or at high temperatures. Although numerous studies have reported the tribological performance of these materials in sliding contact, few if any studies have reported their performance in rolling contact. Since the functional lifetimes of solid lubricant coatings in rolling element bearings are derived from sliding contact experiments, it is beneficial and important to understand if the actual performance of the coatings in rolling contact bears a relationship to their sliding contact performance. In this work, Sb 2 O 3 /Au-doped MoS 2 coatings are deposited onto AISI 52100 and M50 specimens by magnetron sputtering. Mechanical properties are studied by scratch tests and nano-indentation techniques; microstructural analysis is undertaken with Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Friction and wear measurements are performed on specimens in both unidirectional and reciprocating sliding, using ball-on-flat tribometers in both vacuum and humid environments. Friction coefficient values as low as ~ 0.04 and as high as ~ 0.14 are measured at different contact stresses, and depend greatly upon the test environment. Functional lifetimes of the coatings are obtained from rolling contact tests performed in a thrust ball bearing tribometer in standard laboratory conditions.
On the inherent aspectual properties of NPs, verbs, sentences and the decomposition of perfectivity and inchoativity

(1990). On the inherent aspectual properties of NPs, verbs, sentences and the decomposition of perfectivity and inchoativity. WORD: Vol. 41, No. 1, pp. 47-67.
Statolith extraction method improvements for use in microchemistry studies with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Major hindrances for most scientific studies involve a lack of funding, sampling, or equipment. Without large, high resolution sample sets spanning significant spatial scales, long temporal scales, or both, it can be difficult to discern accurate results. This can be the case for some population studies and fisheries management efforts. One novel approach to squid population studies involves harvesting statoliths, but the power of the studies is limited by the scales at which samples are collected. Approaches that involve the characterization of trace elemental chemistry in these aragonite structures could provide a better understanding of the life cycles and behaviors of targeted fisheries species than the common practice of length-frequency studies. Often statoliths are not collected and the absence of consistently periodic or geographically distinct samples potentially limits large scale population studies. One possible reason statoliths are not always removed may be the lack of a thorough, clearly illustrated instructional method on dissection of the statoliths from the cranial cartilage. In an effort to encourage sampling of statoliths, previously published methods are improved upon in this work by including a description of the dissection of the statoliths using layman terms accompanied by detailed photographs. The methods were tested successfully with the Ommastrephid squid Dosidicus gigas and the statoliths obtained will be used to examine trace element variations determined by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS).
Database management principles of the UCLA library's Orion system

ORION, le systeme integre online developpe par UCLA Library comporte nombre de caracteristiques de SGBD qui ameliorent l'efficacite du systeme pour la recherche et l'affichage des enregistrements. La caracteristique la plus importante est le stockage physique des enregistrements en ordre alphabetique a l'interieur de fichiers logiques. Le stockage, la recherche sont decrits ainsi que la structure des fichiers chaines qui permet le controle d'autorite et fournit a l'utilisateur des voies d'acces supplementaires a la banque de donnees. (INTD)
Transfer Pricing in Business Restructurings – Reasoning from Implausible Assumptions Issue Note 2 – (OECD, Discussion Draft)

The OECD’s Center for Tax Policy and Administration roundtable on business restructurings in January 2005 led to a Joint Working Group project later that year on permanent establishments and business restructurings. One of the results was the Discussion Draft on Transfer Pricing Aspects of Business Restructurings that was available for public comment between September 19, 2008 and February 19, 2009. This paper concerns Issue Note No. 2 in the Discussion Draft – Arm’s Length Compensation for the Restructuring Itself. Issue Note No. 2 is deeply flawed. It relies on an unproved correlation between structure and performance (profit/loss potential). The Discussion Draft contends that transfers of assets, rights, or risks “carry” profit/loss potential among related parties. What the Discussion Draft fails to see is that a unique, highly valuable intangible is the goal in a restructuring, and this is the primary determinant of profit or loss. The intangible created is a new decision-matrix. Said another way, a business restructuring is no more than an internally directed RD the conversion of a fully-fledged distributor to a stripped distributor; the development of shared service centers and contract service providers; and the transfer of intangible assets to off-shore holding companies). This paper relies on a different set of examples – the restructuring of Ford Motor Company in 2006; the restructuring of BP in 2007; and the restructuring of Xerox in 2001. The effort is to demonstrate that there is something more than asset shuffling going on in most restructurings, and the tax rules should start for this premise.
AIDS at the margin: experiences and lessons from marginalized groups in India (Part I).

This article describes the experiences of a student who traveled to Uttar Pradesh India to observe the impact of HIV/AIDS in rural and urban areas. It illustrates the marginalized groups whom the disease infects most frequently as well as lists the steps that health policymakers and doctors specifically can take to combat further spread of this disease.
Pseudo-Almost Automorphic Solutions to Some Sobolev-Type Equations

In this introductory chapter, we collect the basic background on metric, Banach, and Hilbert spaces needed in the sequel. The exposition is self-contained, with a wealth of illustrative examples. Proofs of some of the most important results are given including that of the Banach fixed-point theorem.
The tectonic significance of the Early Cretaceous forearc-metamorphic assemblage in south-central Alaska based on detrital zircon U–Pb dating of sedimentary protoliths

A complex array of faulted arc rocks and variably metamorphosed forearc accretionary complex rocks form a mappable arc–forearc boundary in southern Alaska known as the Border Ranges fault (BRF). We use detrital U–Pb zircon dating of metasedimentary rocks within the Knik River terrane in the western Chugach Mountains to show that a belt of Early Cretaceous amphibolite-facies metamorphic rocks along the BRF was formed when older melange rocks of the Chugach accretionary complex were reworked in a sinistral-oblique thrust reactivation of the BRF during a period of forearc plutonism. The metamorphic subterrane of the Knik River terrane has a maximum depositional age (MDA) of 156.5 ± 1.5 Ma and a detrital zircon age spectrum that is indistinguishable from the Potter Creek assemblage of the Chugach accretionary complex, supporting correlation of these units. These ages contrast strongly with new and existing data that show Triassic to earliest Jurassic detrital zircon ages from metamorphic screens in the plutonic subterrane of the Knik River terrane, a fragmented Early Jurassic plutonic assemblage generally interpreted as the basement of the Peninsular terrane. Based on these findings, we propose the following new terminology for the Knik River terrane: (1) “Carpenter Creek metamorphic complex” for the Early Cretaceous “metamorphic subterrane”, (2) “western Chugach trondhjemite suite” for the Early Cretaceous forearc plutons within the belt, (3) “Friday Creek assemblage” for a transitional melange unit that contains blocks of the Carpenter Creek complex in a chert–argillite matrix, and (4) “Knik River metamorphic complex” in reference to metamorphic rocks engulfed by Early Jurassic plutons of the Peninsular terrane that represent the roots of the Talkeetna arc. The correlation of the Carpenter Creek metamorphic complex with the Chugach melange indicates that the trace of the BRF lies ∼1–5 km north of the map trace shown on geologic maps, although, like other segments of the BRF, this boundary is blurred by local complexities within the BRF system. Ductile deformation of the melange is sufficiently intense that few vestiges of its original melange fabric exist, suggesting the scarcity of rocks described as melange in the cores of many orogens may result from misidentification of rocks that have been intensely overprinted by younger, ductile deformation.
KRAS Protein Stability Is Regulated through SMURF2: UBCH5 Complex-Mediated β-TrCP1 Degradation

Attempts to target mutant KRAS have been unsuccessful. Here, we report the identification of Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (SMURF2) and UBCH5 as a critical E3:E2 complex maintaining KRAS protein stability. Loss of SMURF2 either by small interfering RNA/short hairpin RNA (siRNA/shRNA) or by overexpression of a catalytically inactive mutant causes KRAS degradation, whereas overexpression of wild-type SMURF2 enhances KRAS stability. Importantly, mutant KRAS is more susceptible to SMURF2 loss where protein half-life decreases from >12 hours in control siRNA-treated cells to <3 hours on Smurf2 silencing, whereas only marginal differences were noted for wild-type protein. This loss of mutant KRAS could be rescued by overexpressing a siRNA-resistant wild-type SMURF2. Our data further show that SMURF2 monoubiquitinates UBCH5 at lysine 144 to form an active complex required for efficient degradation of a RAS-family E3, β-transducing repeat containing protein 1 (β-TrCP1). Conversely, β-TrCP1 is accumulated on SMURF2 loss, leading to increased KRAS degradation. Therefore, as expected, β-TrCP1 knockdown following Smurf2 siRNA treatment rescues mutant KRAS loss. Further, we identify two conserved proline (P) residues in UBCH5 critical for SMURF2 interaction; mutation of either of these P to alanine also destabilizes KRAS. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate that Smurf2 silencing reduces the clonogenic survival in vitro and prolongs tumor latency in vivo in cancer cells including mutant KRAS-driven tumors. Taken together, we show that SMURF2:UBCH5 complex is critical in maintaining KRAS protein stability and propose that targeting such complex may be a unique strategy to degrade mutant KRAS to kill cancer cells.
Interaction between an upstream facing wall jet and a supersonic stream

The flow field resulting from the interaction of an upstream facing wall jet with a supersonic counterflowing stream has been investigated. A flow field model and the main parameters governing the phenomena were determined from quantitative and qualitative experimental observations. Experimental results for different ranges of the main parameters are presented. A theoretical analysis was performed to describe the flow field in the mixing region between the two counterflowing streams. The results obtained by applying a locally similar solution compare favorably with the experimentally measured values. Large values of jet penetration were obtained with a high subsonic or low supersonic jet; large interaction forces are characteristics of higher supersonic injections. For the case of large penetration the cooling effectiveness presented as a function of the main parameters indicates the possibility of interacting cooling applications.
The Intersection of Race and Gender in Election Coverage: What Happens When the Candidates Don't Fit the Stereotypes?

Prior research has shown journalists often rely on gender and racial stereotypes when covering female and minority candidates running against a White, male for political office. This study uses a content analysis of newspaper articles and editorials to examine what changes, if any, occur in media coverage when a woman and a minority run against each other without a White, male candidate in the race. The findings of this research indicate that journalists in this study have made some progress in reducing stereotypes in their coverage; however, they are still covering candidates in significant stereotypical ways. Although these journalists are focusing less on appearance of candidates, the female candidate in this study received more coverage about her gender, and the minority candidate received more coverage of his race. Despite the candidates' previous experience to the contrary, these journalists still aligned the woman candidate with traditional female issues and the man with traditional male issues.
Observations on the surface of cells infected with Rous sarcoma virus.

Abstract Viral antigen could be demonstrated at the surface of cells infected with Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) 24 hours after infection. Fluorescent RSV-antibody stained small granules of viral antigen and some of the elongated filaments extending from the cell periphery. In sparsely seeded cultures infected with an inoculum of 1 focus-forming unit of RSV per cell, almost all cells were stained by fluorescent RSV antibody by the third day after infection. Intercellular contacts in chick fibroblast cultures were studied with the dark-field microscope. Normal fibroblasts were found to have long cytoplasmic protrusions, termed filopodia, with which they established contacts with the glass substrate and with other cells. Infection with RSV induced rounding of the fibroblasts which was accompanied by a rupture of the filopodia. In an advanced stage of infection very few filopodia could be detected on the rounded cells. The time of appearance and distribution of viral particles at the cell periphery were studied with whole cell mounts in the electron microscope. The first viral particles were seen on the second day after infection. Their number increased rapidly, and by the fourth day about 10 3 particles were counted per cell. These particles were concentrated in patches along the cell border, but some occurred on top of the cells. Fluorescence and electron microscopy carried out on the same cells on the third and fourth days after infection revealed an identity between cell surface areas containing viral antigen and those showing viral particles.
The circular dichroism spectrum of S(+)-sec-butyl benzene

Abstract The absorption and CD spectra of S(+)-sec-butyl benzene are reported in the spectral region 195–180 nm. The CD spectrum contains two bands of opposite sign at 190.5 nm and 187 nm. The results are interpreted to confirm previous results for 1-methylindan in this spectral region. The observed bands are assigned to the state derived from the benzene E 2g state.
Separating linear features from textured backgrounds

The problem of separating linear features from a textured background is of importance in many applications. It has been shown that the Fourier transform can be used in conjunction with polar transformation to "lift" linear features from the background texture. However, while the Fourier transform works well with lines that are spread throughout the entire image, it is less effective when the linear features are of varied length and thickness. We propose approaches based on a windowed Fourier transform and wavelet packet decomposition to lift randomly located lines of varied lengths and thickness. The reasoning underlying the development of the approaches is presented along with comparative examples.
The inverted spectrum

(1986). The inverted spectrum. Australasian Journal of Philosophy: Vol. 64, No. 4, pp. 471-476.
ASYNAPSIS OF THE SALIVARY CHROMOSOMES OF HYBRIDS BETWEEN ANOPHELES PUNCTIPENNIS AND ANOPHELES FREEBORNI.

BURGESS1 showed by crossing Anopheles punctipennis with A. freeborni that these two species were more closely related to each other than was generally thought. In crossing experiments between these two species when A. punctipennis was the female, 8.3–15.2 per cent of the eggs hatched, from which only one adult emerged, although it died because it could not free its tarsi from the pupal case. In the reciprocal cross with A. freeborni females, 2.2–25.1 per cent of the eggs hatched, but showed high mortality in the first and second instars and only one larva reached fourth instar.
Low-Frequency EPR Detection of Chromium(V) Formation by Chromium(VI) Reduction in Whole Live Mice

Abstract Measurements by direct low frequency EPR spectroscopy provide the first evidence that Cr(V) is generated in one-electron. reduction of Cr(VI) in live mice. The Cr(V) yield reached a maximum about 10 min following Cr(VI) intravenous injection and then decayed slowly with a life time of approximately 37 min. The time for the Cr(V) EPR signal to reach maximum intensity increased with the dose of Cr(VI). A discernible EPR signal was still observable at a dose as low as 0.1 mmol/kg. The Cr(V) was found predominantly in the liver, with a small amount in the blood. No Cr(V) signal was detectable in heart, spleen, kidney, and lung. Pretreatment of the animals with metal ion chelators, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, and 1,10-phenanthroline significantly reduced the intensity of the Cr(V) signal that was observed.
Phospho-specific flow cytometry in drug discovery.

Here we present phospho-specific flow cytometry as a new tool for drug discovery with applications throughout the drug development pipeline, from target identification to library screening, disease model assessment and clinical screening and diagnostics. The single cell, multiparameter nature of flow cytometry generates high-content datasets, and current improvements in the technology are rapidly increasing its high-throughput capacity, making it a valuable platform in modern drug discovery.
Generalized quantum defects: Their variations with energy and radius

A unified interpretation of single-channel quantum-defect behavior is presented, and illustrated with the example of a square well. As an application the quantum defects for the lowest three partial waves of potassium are calculated and discussed as continuous functions of the energy above, near, and far below the ionization threshold, with emphasis on their non-Rydberg spectral properties; results for other atoms are discussed. The quantum defect for the radial motion of a /sup 1/P/sup o/ electron pair of H/sup -/ is also calculated, thereby combining Macek's hyperspherical-coordinate approach with quantum-defect theory.
Pediatric Research in Office Settings (PROS): A National Practice-Based Research Network to Improve Children's Health Care

Objectives. To describe the establishment of a national pediatric primary care research network to improve children9s health care—Pediatric Research in Office Settings (PROS), and to evaluate the network9s progress toward achieving its objectives. Setting. Pediatric practices in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Participants. Approximately 1400 pediatric practitioners from more than 470 practices. Results. Beginning in 1986, a core of volunteer pediatrician coordinators from participating American Academy of Pediatrics chapters were identified to oversee local PROS efforts, represent practitioners, and inform the development of proposed research studies. PROS subsequently recruited practitioners from around the country, building a research infrastructure and a system of collaboration between the practitioners, research staff at the AAP, and investigative teams at academic institutions. This PROS collaboration has developed and conducted 10 primary care research studies that have added to the knowledge base of pediatric primary care. Conclusions. PROS has accomplished two of its initial objectives—development of a structure and process for pediatric practice-based research and provision of research experience to practitioners. Successful and consistent achievement of a third objective—meaningful dissemination of study results to relevant audiences—will depend on meeting several challenges. primary care, health services research, child health, ambulatory care.
Risk assessment: Theoretical considerations

Measurements of bone mass and several other skeletal characteristics can effectively identify women at high risk for fractures. These measurements are now widely available, and other clinical data cannot provide equivalent information. Treatments exist that will preserve bone mass and presumably reduce fracture risk (although for newer treatments this requires further study). It should also be noted that the prevention of very rapid bone loss may also protect against the development of micro-architectural abnormalities, thereby further reducing risk. Even in the very old, for whom preservation of bone mass may be of less value, there now appears to be an intervention that diminishes the impact trauma associated with falls. In this group bone mass measurements may also aid in identification of the highest risk groups. It is worth noting that measurement of bone mass may further serve to motivate patients to accept or to continue with a therapy.
The polymerization of phenylacetylene in the presence of ferric acetylacetonate and triethylaluminum

The polymerization of phenylacetylene initiated by ferric acetylacetonate and triethylaluminum was studied over the temperature range −30°−70°, in bulk as well as in the presence of diluents, and over a range of catalyst compositions and concentrations. The product consisted of four major fractions: crystalline polymer of molecular weight about 7000 and a very narrow molecular-weight distribution (MWD), (fraction I); somewhat lower-molecular-weight amorphous polymer with a broader MWD (fraction II); linear oligomer (fraction III); and the asymmetric cyclic triphenyl-benzene (fraction IV). The average degree of polymerization, of fraction I (65–70) is independent of all polymerization variables, that is, temperature from −30° to 70°C, the presence or absence of diluent (tetralin or benzene), and catalyst concentration and composition. The MWD is narrow with Mw/Mn equal to 1.05 or less. The results suggest that thermodynamic rather than kinetic factors limit the size of the polymer. A possible mechanism is proposed.
Olfaction shapes host–parasite interactions in parasitic nematodes

Many parasitic nematodes actively seek out hosts in which to complete their lifecycles. Olfaction is thought to play an important role in the host-seeking process, with parasites following a chemical trail toward host-associated odors. However, little is known about the olfactory cues that attract parasitic nematodes to hosts or the behavioral responses these cues elicit. Moreover, what little is known focuses on easily obtainable laboratory hosts rather than on natural or other ecologically relevant hosts. Here we investigate the olfactory responses of six diverse species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) to seven ecologically relevant potential invertebrate hosts, including one known natural host and other potential hosts collected from the environment. We show that EPNs respond differentially to the odor blends emitted by live potential hosts as well as to individual host-derived odorants. In addition, we show that EPNs use the universal host cue CO2 as well as host-specific odorants for host location, but the relative importance of CO2 versus host-specific odorants varies for different parasite–host combinations and for different host-seeking behaviors. We also identified host-derived odorants by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and found that many of these odorants stimulate host-seeking behaviors in a species-specific manner. Taken together, our results demonstrate that parasitic nematodes have evolved specialized olfactory systems that likely contribute to appropriate host selection.
Monkeypox virus viral chemokine inhibitor (MPV vCCI), a potent inhibitor of rhesus macrophage inflammatory protein-1.

Monkeypox virus (MPV) is an orthopoxvirus with considerable homology to variola major, the etiologic agent of smallpox. Although smallpox was eradicated in 1976, the outbreak of MPV in the U.S. highlights the health hazards associated with zoonotic infections. Like other orthopoxviruses, MPV encodes a secreted chemokine binding protein, vCCI that is abundantly expressed and secreted from MPV infected cells. EMSA data shows vCCI efficiently binds rhesus MIP-1α (rhMIP-1α) at near one to one stoichiometry. In vitro chemotaxis experiments demonstrate that vCCI completely inhibits rhMIP-1α mediated chemotaxis, while in vivo recruitment assays in rhesus macaques using chemokine-saturated implants show a decrease in the number of CD14+ cells responding to rhMIP-1α when vCCI is present, suggesting vCCI is effectively inhibiting chemokine function both in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, we demonstrate that vCCI can diminish the severity of the acute phase and completely inhibit the relapsing phase of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) disease. These data represent the first in vitro and in vivo characterization of vCCI emphasizing its function as a potent inhibitor of rhMIP-1α. Furthermore, the ability of vCCI to inhibit relapsing EAE disease represents a novel therapeutic approach for treating chemokine-mediated diseases.
Serum withdrawal-induced post-transcriptional stabilization of cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA in MDA-MB-231 mammary carcinoma cells requires the activity of the p38 stress-activated protein kinase.

Overexpression of thecyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene is observed in several neoplastic diseases. However, molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of expression of COX-2 are not well understood. In this report, we describe a unique post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism of COX-2 mRNA stabilization in MDA-MB-231 cells, a highly metastatic cell line derived from a human mammary tumor. High levels of COX-2 mRNA, protein, and enzyme activity were induced by serum withdrawal, which were potently inhibited by the addition of serum or >100-kDa serum factor. Nuclear run-on analysis and actinomycin D chase experiments indicate that regulation is primarily at the level of post-transcriptional mRNA stability. Interestingly, SB203580, an inhibitor of the p38 stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK), and overexpression of the dominant-negative p38α construct potently inhibited the serum withdrawal-induced COX-2 mRNA levels. Indeed, the half-life of COX-2 mRNA decreased from 9 to 4.5 h after SB203580 treatment, suggesting that signal transduction by the p38 SAPK pathway is required for COX-2 mRNA stability.
Mujer, Latina, Lesbiana-Notes on the Multidimensionality of Economic and Sociopolitical Injustice

Abstract This paper examines the impact of economic and sociopolitical injustice on Latina lesbians on four dimensions of injustice and oppression: (1) vigilance about anti-gay violence and sexual harassment/victimization, (2) employment discrimination, (3) marginalization by the larger, White lesbian and gay community, and (4) heterosexism within traditional, Hispanic communities. The layered effects of injustices combine to increase psychoemotional vulnerability for this group of women. Multiple challenges experienced by Latina lesbians highlight the fact that challenges presented by economic and sociopolitical injustice will remain challenges for lesbians of color even after such challenges are overcome by White gay males and, to some extent, White lesbians. Implications for gay/lesbian services and the gay rights movement are discussed.
Potato germplasm resistant to corky ringspot disease.

Potato germplasm was assessed for resistance to corky ringspot disease (CRS) incited by transmission of tobacco rattle virus (TRV). TRV is transmitted by the stubby root nematode,Paratrichodorus allius, in the Pacific Northwest, and characterized by necrotic areas in the tuber. Four tests were conducted at two different problem fields in Umatilla, OR and Pasco, WA. The fields differed in the virulence of the virus isolates. Some clones and named varieties showed resistance only in the field with the relatively mild Umatilla isolate, while others remained symptomless at both sites. The host suitability of test potatoes to threeP. allius populations from the region was determined in greenhouse pot tests, and expressed as reproductive values [Rf = (final population of nematode at 55 days) / (initial population)]. TheR f values for the nematodes were not correlated with resistance ratings based on visual scoring of CRS symptoms in field grown potatoes. Thus, it appears that CRS resistance is based on reaction of potato genotypes to virus and not the vector. The availability of resistant clones inin vitro form is indicated.
Nuclear recoil induced in238U by high-energy protons

Recoil-range measurements of the products of238U, bombarded by protons with energies greater than 100 MeV, are surveyed. Values of 2W(F+B) and F/B from thick-target thick-catcher experiments are tabulated, where W is the thickness of the uranium target and F and B are the fraction of a given product which recoils into the forward and backward catchers, respectively. The mass number of the recoiling nucleus is given by AREC. For AREC 50, the neutron-deficient nuclei generally have recoil properties which are noticeably different from those of other types of nucleus. Their recoil ranges are smaller and the values of F/B are larger. The values of 2W(F+B) for these nuclei drop by a factor of approximately 2 above EP≅1 GeV. The values of F/B peak, as noted above. These quantities for the other types of nucleus decrease slightly with proton energy. Recoil ranges from a thin238U target into aluminium and mylar are also given.
Theoretical quasar emission line ratios. I - Transfer and escape of radiation. II - Hydrogen L-alpha, Balmer, and Paschen lines, and the Balmer continuum

We describe a formalism for the solution of the frequency-integrated radiative transfer equation and the atomic steady state equation appropriate to an externally irradiated, semi-infinite medium. The source functions are cast into equivalent two-level forms, and the equations linking the emergent flux, the line center source function, the flux divergence coefficient p, and the atomic steady state equations are given. Asymptotic forms for scaling law solutions to the radiative transfer equation are developed. Escape probabilities appropriate to the above scaling law solutions are discussed for subordinate lines, strongly interlocked resonance lines, weakly interlocked resonance lines, and the bound-free continua.
Redo-aortic valve replacement after previous bilateral internal thoracic artery bypass grafting

Abstract Background Aortic valve replacement (AVR) after coronary artery bypass using bilateral internal thoracic arteries (ITAs) is a challenge. Management of these patent grafts and myocardial protection are important issues. Moreover the risk and outcome of these complex operations have not been clearly defined. Methods Eighteen consecutive patients (all male) who exhibited previous bilateral ITA grafts underwent subsequent AVR surgery from 1990–2001 at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Their medical records were retrospectively analyzed. Results At the time of reoperation, the mean age of the patients was 67 ± 6.4 years and 33 out of 36 (92%) ITAs were patent. The interval between previous coronary bypass and aortic valve surgery was 10.3 ± 5.3 years. All patients underwent redo-median sternotomy with aortic cannulation in 12 patients (67%) and femoral or axillary artery cannulation in 6 patients (33%). The patent ITAs were clamped during aortic cross-clamping in 15 patients. In 3 patients the ITAs were not dissected. These 3 patients underwent deep hypothermic arrest for myocardial protection. Concomitant coronary revascularization was performed in 8 patients (44%). There were no hospital deaths. One stroke occurred but there were no other major complications. Average intubation time was 23.1 ± 27.1 hours, intensive care unit stay was 2.3 ± 3.1 days, and postoperative hospital stay was 10.3 ± 7.6 days. Conclusions Reoperative aortic valve surgery in the patients with patent bilateral ITA grafts can be performed safely.
Organometallic Chemistry of [W2(OCH2tBu)8] (M=M): Substrate Uptake and Activation at a Tungsten–Tungsten Double Bond

The 1:1 adducts of [W2(OCH2tBu)8] with ethyne, allene, carbon monoxide, and benzophenone have been characterized by 1H, 13C NMR, and IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The structures of the ethyne and allene adducts were also characterized by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. Their reactivity is compared with that of related [W2(OR)6](M≡M) compounds and with that of M=M-bonded species such as [Cp*2Re2(CO)4] and “[Os2(CO)8]”.
Assessment of three dead detector correction methods for cone-beam computed tomography.

Purpose: Dead detectors due to manufacturing defects or radiation damage in the electronic portal imaging devices (EPIDs) used for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can lead to image degradation and ring artifacts. In this work three dead detector correction methods were assessed using megavoltage CBCT (MVCBCT) as a test system, with the goals of assessing the relative effectiveness of the three methods and establishing the conditions for which they fail. Methods: MVCBCT projections acquired with four linacs at 8 and 60 MU (monitor units) were degraded with varying percentages (2%-95%) of randomly distributed dead single detectors (RDSs), randomly distributed dead detector clusters (RDCs) of 2 mm diameter, and nonrandomly distributed dead detector disks (NRDDs) of varying diameter (4-16 mm). Correction algorithms were bidirectional linear interpolation (BLI), quad-directional linear interpolation (QLI), and a Laplacian solution (LS) method. Correction method failure was defined to occur if ring artifacts were present in the reconstructed phantom images from any linac or if the modulation transfer function (MTF) for any linac dropped below baseline with a p value, calculated with the two sample t test, of less than 0.01. Results: All correction methods failed at the same or lower RDC/RDS percentages and NRDD diameters for themore » 60 MU as for the 8 MU cases. The LS method tended to outperform or match the BLI and QLI methods. If ring artifacts anywhere in the images were considered unacceptable, the LS method failed for 60 MU at >33% RDS, >2% RDC, and >4 mm NRDD. If ring artifacts within 4 mm longitudinally of the phantom section interfaces were considered acceptable, the LS method failed for 60 MU at >90% RDS, >80% RDC, and >4 mm NRDD. LS failed due to MTF drop for 60 MU at >50% RDS, >25% RDC, and >4 mm NRDD. Conclusions: The LS method is superior to the BLI and QLI methods, and correction algorithm effectiveness decreases as imaging dose increases. All correction methods failed first due to ring artifacts and second due to MTF drop. If ring artifacts in axial slices within a 4 mm longitudinal distance from phantom section interfaces are acceptable, statistically significant loss in spatial resolution does not occur until over 25% of the EPID is covered in randomly distributed dead detectors, or NRDDs of 4 mm diameter are present.« less
The development of muscle fiber type identity in zebrafish cranial muscles

Cranial skeletal muscles underlie breathing, eating, and eye movements. In most animals, at least two types of muscle fibers underlie these critical functions: fast and slow muscle fibers. We describe here the anatomical distribution of slow and fast twitch muscle in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) head in the adult and at an early larval stage just after feeding has commenced. We found that all but one of the cranial muscles examined contain both slow and fast muscle fibers, but the relative proportion of slow muscle in each varies considerably. As in the trunk, slow muscle fibers are found only in an anatomically restricted zone of each muscle, usually on the periphery. The relative proportion of slow and fast muscle in each cranial muscle changes markedly with development, with a pronounced decrease in the proportion of slow muscle with ontogeny. We discuss our results in relation to the functional roles of each muscle in larval and adult life and compare findings among a variety of vertebrates.