cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Edge-preserving and scale-dependent properties of total variation regularization

We give and prove two new and fundamental properties of total-variation-minimizing function regularization (TV regularization): edge locations of function features tend to be preserved, and under certain conditions are preserved exactly; intensity change experienced by individual features is inversely proportional to the scale of each feature. We give and prove exact analytic solutions to the TV regularization problem for simple but important cases. These can also be used to better understand the effects of TV regularization for more general cases. Our results explain why and how TV-minimizing image restoration can remove noise while leaving relatively intact larger-scaled image features, and thus why TV image restoration is especially effective in restoring images with larger-scaled features. Although TV regularization is a global problem, our results show that the effects of TV regularization on individual image features are often quite local. Our results give us a better understanding of what types of images and what types of image degradation are most effectively improved by TV-minimizing image restoration schemes, and they potentially lead to more intelligently designed TV-minimizing restoration schemes.
Don't care sequences and the optimization of interacting finite state machines

The authors consider the nature of incomplete specifications for a finite state machine embedded in a network of sequential machines. They show how limited controllability and observability of component machines are expressed in quite different ways. For the input don't care sequences, a general solution was known. The authors present extensions to it, both in terms of topologies contemplated and in terms of applicability to larger designs. For the output don't care sequences, they provide a general theory based on the concept of information lossyness and present algorithms to address the related optimization problem in practical cases. The implementation of the proposed techniques in a program called SEQUOIA (sequential optimization of interacting automata) shows that the proposed approach is viable and effective. >
Increasing Speed of Processing With Action Video Games

In many everyday situations, speed is of the essence. However, fast decisions typically mean more mistakes. To this day, it remains unknown whether reaction times can be reduced with appropriate training, within one individual, across a range of tasks, and without compromising accuracy. Here we review evidence that the very act of playing action video games significantly reduces reaction times without sacrificing accuracy. Critically, this increase in speed is observed across various tasks beyond game situations. Video gaming may therefore provide an efficient training regimen to induce a general speeding of perceptual reaction times without decreases in accuracy of performance.
Pressure and Temperature Variation of the Optical Rotatory Power of α-Quartz*

The optical rotatory power of α-quartz decreases linearly with uniaxial pressure along the optic axis in the visible region of the spectrum to 750 bars. By comparing with similar data on dρ/dP under hydrostatic conditions we conclude that Chandrasekhar’s coupled-oscillator theory of optical activity of α-quartz is an oversimplification. We show that though the major contribution to the optical activity arises from the interaction of oscillators along the optic axis, the contribution from the interaction of all the other oscillators in the system cannot be neglected. Further, the optical activity increases linearly with temperature in the range from 15° to 35°C in the visible region of the spectrum; this is primarily due to a volume effect rather than to a pure temperature effect.
The Politics of the Gene: Social Status and Beliefs about Genetics for Individual Outcomes.

Social scientists have predicted that individuals who occupy socially privileged positions or who have conservative political orientations are most likely to endorse the idea that genes are the root cause of differences among individuals. Drawing on a nationally representative sample of the US population, this study examines belief in the importance of genes for understanding individual differences in a series of broad domains: physical illness, serious mental illness, intelligence, personality, and success in life. We also assess whether the belief that genetics are important for these outcomes is more common among those in relatively advantaged positions or among those who are more politically conservative. Finally, we consider whether such beliefs predict attitudes toward genetics-related social policies. Our analyses suggest that belief in the importance of genetics for individual differences may well have a substantial effect on attitudes toward genetics-related policies, independent of political orientation or other measures. Our study identifies high levels of endorsement for genes as causes of health and social outcomes. We describe a cultural schema in which outcomes that are “closer to the body” are more commonly attributed to genetics. Contrary to expectations, however, we find little evidence that it is more common for whites, the socioeconomically advantaged, or political conservatives to believe that genetics are important for health and social outcomes.
The Federation as an Interorganizational Linkage Network

Although federations sometimes have been the focus of organizational research, a comprehensive discussion of the subject has yet to emerge. This paper is an in-depth examination of the federation as a type of interorganizational linkage network. Conditions conducive to federation formation are examined, three general types of federations focusing on differences in their network structure are identified, and the implications of federation affiliation for strategic level decision making autonomy are discussed.
A comparison of virulence of two strains of Legionella pneumophila based on experimental aerosol infection of guinea-pigs.

Abstract Two strains of Legionella pneumophila (LP) serogroup I, of differing virulence, were examined in terms of numbers of viable organisms in tissues, pyrexia and mortality following aerosol infection. The Corby strain was the more virulent, with pyrexia and deaths of guinea-pigs 3 to 6 days after infection. This strain multiplied very rapidly in the lungs to reach a peak of 5 X 10(11) viable organisms/lung. Organisms were present in the blood, liver, spleen and kidney. The Philadelphia-1 strain (NCTC 11192) was unable to replicate in the lung and was cleared between 14 and 21 days after infection. Pyrexia was not observed. No guinea-pigs died and viable LP was not found in any organ other than the lung. Lung lavages on aerosol infected animals were performed and the virulent Corby strain was found to be mainly intracellular. The avirulent Philadelphia-1 strain was found predominantly in the extracellular location. There were approximately 10 times the number of viable virulent LP in the lung macrophage fraction than in the lung PMNL fraction. In comparison, there were approximately equal numbers of the viable avirulent strain in the macrophages and the PMNL. Experimental evidence suggests that the macrophage preferentially supports the growth of the virulent Corby strain compared with the PMNL. The avirulent strain on the other hand appears to be destroyed by both the macrophages and the PMNL.
Crosscorrelation functions of DS codes and probability of error evaluations for a multiple access channel

We derive a computationally feasible closed form error expression for probability of error for a small multiple access DS-BPSK system operating in a Rayleigh fading environment. Two properties of the cross-correlation functions of the DS codes help reduce the number of error probability evaluations required when one considers all possible phase shifts of the users' codes. Examination of the error rates for different phases of three maximal-length codes reveal that the probability of error is only weakly dependent on the phases.
Development of a comprehensive multidisciplinary geriatric oncology center, the Thomas Jefferson University Experience.

Abstract Background The proportion of older patients with cancer is expected to grow exponentially in the next two decades. This population has large heterogeneity and it is well known that chronologic age is a poor predictor of outcomes. Research has shown that these patients are best served with a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) to formulate individualized treatment plans for better outcomes. However, the best model for CGA has yet to be determined. Materials and Methods Our objective was to develop a highly functional model for the establishment of a comprehensive multidisciplinary geriatric oncology center in the setting of a university based NCI-designated cancer center. Each patient is evaluated by medical oncology, geriatric medicine, pharmacy, social work and nutrition. Expert navigation is provided to enhance the patient experience. At the conclusion, the inter-professional team meets to review each case and formulate a comprehensive treatment plan. The patient is classified as Fit, Vulnerable, or Frail based on the complete CGA. Results The average age of patients seen was 80.7 with the most common diagnoses being breast, colorectal and lung cancers. Twenty four percent of patients were determined to be Fit, 47% Vulnerable, and 29% Frail. Twenty one percent of patients determined to be Frail by CGA received an ECOG score of 0–1 by the oncologist. Our pharmacists made specific recommendations in over 75% of patients and social work provided assistance in over 50% of patients. Conclusions We were able to observe some interesting trends such as potential discordance with ECOG score and assessment of Fit/Vulnerable/Frail but due to limitations in the data, this paper is not able to illustrate definitive correlations. Several challenges with the development of the clinic include 1) patient related issues, 2) navigation, 3) financial reimbursement, 4) referral patterns, and 5) coordination of care during office hours. We feel that we have been able to establish a model for a comprehensive multidisciplinary geriatric oncology evaluation center in the setting of a university based cancer center.
A MODEL FOR PULSING FLOW IN COCURRENT DOWN-FLOW TRICKLE-BED REACTORS

Based on macroscopic mass and momentum balances, a model is developed to characterize the hydrodynamic behavior of pulsing flow in cocurrent down-flow trickle-bed reactors. Predictions of the model regarding liquid saturation, length and velocity of both the liquid rich slug and gas rich pulse are reported. Also presented are experimental data of an air-water system for the effects of varying gas and liquid flow rates on pulse frequency, total pulse length and apparent slug velocity. To confirm the theory, predictions are compared with measured overall pressure gradient. Agreement is reasonably good.
Nonlinear analysis of cross-coupled oscillator circuits

We study global stability properties of a class of cross-coupled oscillators which admit the representation of a dynamic system in feedback with a static nonlinearity. We present sufficient conditions for almost global convergence of the solutions to a limit cycle when the feedback gain is in the neighborhood of the bifurcation point. The result is then extended to the synchronization of interconnected identical cross-coupled oscillators.
Passive Restraint System for Floating Docks with Large Water-Level Excursions

Anchorage of a recreational two unit floating dock, a gangway-deck configuration, is achieved using a combination of a fixed pile and fixed-length mooring lines. Attached to the floating gangway is a guide that rides along the pile during fluctuations in water level. For a 15.2-m (50-ft) gangway and a pile inclined toward shore at a critical angle of 10.55° with the vertical direction, two symmetrically placed shore-anchored mooring lines attached to the deck corners and diverging at 45° remain at nearly constant length during extreme water-level excursions. Experiments employing a scale model of such a design, together with the observed behavior of a recently installed prototype system in a flood control reservoir, serve to validate the practicality of this passive restraint system for inland water applications.
Design and Fabrication of Microheaters for Localized Carbon Nanotube Growth

This paper presents a reliable method for the growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) at room temperature by using localized heating. A surface micromachining technique is used to create suspended microstructures for good thermal isolation. Pt resistors are integrated as the heating source, and the local growth temperature and electrical field can be controlled by the heater geometry and applied voltage. Growth of aligned nanotubes with diameters ranging from 1-10 nm has been demonstrated along the local E-field with a measured minimum resistance of approximately 12 kOmega. High-resolution thermal imaging was used to study the temperature distribution of the local heating.
Tabulation of forensic tournament results with microcomputer assistance

(1987). Tabulation of forensic tournament results with microcomputer assistance. Communication Education: Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 81-92.
Chicken Gallinacin Gene Cluster Associated with Salmonella Response in Advanced Intercross Line

Abstract Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis is a gram-negative bacterium that negatively affects human and animal health. Many eukaryotes use antimicrobial peptides (α-defensins, β-defensins, γ-defensins, and cathelicidins) in innate immune responses to fight bacterial infections. Poultry gallinacins are the functional equivalents of mammalian β-defensins. Two related advanced intercross lines of chickens were analyzed for association of gallinacin genotypic variation with Salmonella Enteritidis burden levels in the cecum and spleen after infection. Thirteen genes of the chicken β-defensin cluster (GAL1–13) were sequenced from individuals of each advanced intercross line, plus the founder broiler sire and representatives of the highly inbred Leghorn and Fayoumi founder dam lines. The mean was 17 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) per kilobase. One single-nucleotide polymorphism per gene was genotyped with SNaPshot to test for statistical associations with Salmonella Enteritidis colonization after...
William Blake’s Newton as Innovative Iconography

Scott Berkun's 2010 bestselling book "The Myths of Innovation" casts the famed scientist Isaac Newton as one of many great thinkers who solved dilemmas no one else saw as problems. During his life, Newton established the idea that mathematical laws rather than spiritual intervention frame the world around us. Berkun uses William Blake's 1795 print "Newton" in relation to the scientist’s innovative prowess, and in doing so, casts the print as an icon of innovation. This use of "Newton" is surprising, since Blake created it as a mockery of Newtonian theory. This paper will explore how Newton was transformed into an icon of innovation despite Blake's intended meaning. It will look at Blake's unique form of spirituality in relation to his innovative engraving process, as well as Eduardo Paolozzi's 1995 sculpture "Newton". After William Blake and how the work has helped to frame the original print in its innovative role.
Interplay Between Conflict, Poverty And Remittance: The Case Of Nepal

In 1996, the Maoist launched the "Peoples War" in Nepal claiming that the constitution of Nepal was inadequate in ensuring freedom, justice and welfare for the Nepalese people. The insurgency spread throughout the country and in a period of 10 years, about 13 thousand people lost their lives. In 2005, the Maoists declared a cease-fire and entered a peace agreement with other political parties, ending the decade long war and putting forth a united opposition against the monarchy. In April 2006, King Gyanendra, the ruling monarch of Nepal ceded absolute power, bringing to an end the long standing monarchy in the country. Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world with substantial variation within the country with respect to economic development and conflict intensity. In this paper, we will provide evidence of regional diversity and examine a possible relationship between the level of development and conflict intensity across regions. In the midst of the conflict, poverty rate in Nepal dropped by about 10%. We will look at remittances as a possible explanation of this phenomenon.
The Saddle Back Tamarin and other Tamarins

For many decades, various species of marmosets and tamarins, members of the family Callitrichidae, have been kept in captivity. Early on these animals were mostly kept as pets or were exhibited in zoological gardens1. Although early attempts to maintain and breed marmosets and tamarins for extended periods of time under captive conditions met with limited success, they have gradually increased our knowledge of the behavior and of the dietary and environmental requirements of callitrichids. More recently, biomedical and behavioral researchers have become interested in these small monkeys and in their potential as laboratory primates. As a result of their studies, our expertise in the maintenance of callitrichids in captivity has increased considerably2–8.
Discovery of the Ochlockonee Moccasinshell, Medionidus simpsonianus, in the Lower Ochlockonee River, Florida

Abstract An unknown population of Medionidus simpsonianus (Ochlockonee Moccasinshell) was discovered in the lower Ochlockonee River downstream of Jackson Bluff Dam in 2014. This discovery confirms that the species is extant, extends its known range by nearly 100 rkm, and represents only the second known collection of this species in the lower Ochlockonee River Basin. Ochlockonee Moccasinshell is endemic to the Ochlockonee River Basin (ORB) in Florida and Georgia. It was historically known from 9 locations in the upper ORB upstream of Lake Talquin and from 1 record in the lower ORB downstream of Jackson Bluff Dam. Collections of Ochlockonee Moccasinshell decrease in regularity after 1950, and the last record of a live individual was 1995. We surveyed 55 sites downstream of Jackson Bluff Dam in a reach of river having received little effort in the last 20 years. We employed visual/tactile searches using mask and snorkel from shore to a depth of 2.5 m and found 22 live individuals of Ochlockonee Moccasinshel...
Kinetics Model for Designing Grignard Reactions in Batch or Flow Operations

This paper describes the development of a “fit for use” model for a Grignard reaction, which was used to produce an intermediate compound during the manufacture of API for edivoxetine hydrochloride. The model includes three parameters, one (kSLa) of them representing the mass-transfer component and two others (k and Ea) representing the Arrhenius dependent rate constant. Several different experiments under various conditions were conducted to fit the parameters and test the model. The model achieves several goals, namely, (1) provides an understanding of the kinetics and mass transfer, useful for designing a batch or continuous process, (2) fits and predicts the mass and energy balance for laboratory data under different conditions of reactant stoichiometry or temperatures for process safety monitoring, (3) successfully predicts process dynamics at different scales of operation, from 0.25 to 1900 L to minimize uncertainty during scale-up, (4) presents a simple way to tune the model to predict dynamics usi...
The genus Paratriatoma in western North America (Hemiptera: Reduviidae).

The ecology, distribution records, systematics and literature of the monotypic genus Paratriatoma in western North America are reported on. Hybridization studies were conducted among 5 populations of Paralriatoma , i.e., P. hirsute hirsuta rough and smooth egg populations, P. hirsuta kamiensis, P. hirsuta pimae , and P. hirsuta yumanensis.
The Fate of Sediment Plumes Discharged From the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers: An Integrated Observation and Modeling Study for the Louisiana Shelf, Usa

The dispersal behavior of river sediment plumes from the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers were investigated using a 3-D hydrodynamic and sediment transport model implemented for the Louisiana inner shelf to demonstrate the application of numerical models, field data and satellite images to study river sediment plumes for the area. The key tasks of calibration and skill assessment of the model were performed using vertical current profile data from ADCP’s deployed at WAVCIS coastal observing stations. Seasonal hydrodynamic features, including inertial oscillations, were also considered for fine tuning of the calibration parameters. Plume dispersion patterns, computed from the sediment transport model, were verified using satellite-derived suspended sediment concentration data. Sediment transport characteristics on the innershelf were simulated for a typical spring season river plume discharge scenario and also when significant sediment resuspension occurred along the shelf, resulting from waves generated during the passage of cold fronts. The results show that the river plumes were significantly influenced by the prevailing spring hydrodynamics along the Louisiana shelf and that the waves also facilitated the resuspension and the transport of fine grained sediments.
Abstract B38: Factors associated with little cigar and cigarillo use among college students

Introduction: While cigarette smoking has declined among youth in the United States in the past decade, use of other tobacco products, such as little cigars and cigarillos, has increased. From 1997–2007, little cigar consumption in the United States increased by 240%, and cigarillo consumption increased by 150%. Growing qualitative evidence suggests that little cigars and cigarillo smoking is popular among young adults. Evidence suggests that little cigar and cigarillo smoking is addictive and contains as many carcinogens as cigarette smoking; understanding factors associated with its use is important. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of use of these types of cigars, termed “small cigars,” among a sample of young adults attending colleges and universities in the southeast United States. We compared small cigar users (i.e., users of either little cigars or cigarillos) to nonusers on demographic, tobacco and substance use, and psychosocial variables. Methods: Students attending six colleges in the southeastern United States were recruited to complete an online survey. Random samples of 5,000 students at each school were invited to complete the survey. To encourage participation, students received up to three e-mail invitations to participate over the course of four weeks. Of students who received the invitation to participate, 20.1% (n=4,840/24,055) returned a completed survey that assessed demographic characteristics; past 30-day tobacco use (i.e., cigarillos, little cigars, cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, hookah); other substance use (i.e., alcohol, marijuana); perceived harm of cigars, cigarillos, and little cigars; smoking attitudes; self-identification as a smoker; sensation-seeking; perceived stress; and depressive symptoms. Results: Of respondents, 12.1% (n=529) reporting smoking small cigars during the past 30 days. Of these, 5.1% (n=224) reported smoking cigarillos, and 10.2% (n=446) reported smoking little cigars, indicating that 3.2% (n=141) reported smoking both cigarillos and little cigars. Compared to nonusers, small cigar users were more likely to be younger, male, and African-American (all ps Conclusions: The current study highlights important risk factors related to small cigar use. Particularly notable is the rate of concurrent use of other tobacco products and substances among this population. Evidence-based programs that address psychosocial factors associated with use and cooccurrence of tobacco and other substance use among young adult small cigar smokers are needed. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2011;4(10 Suppl):B38.
Streamlining metadata for economic time series data: a project report

The macroeconomic data domain is complex, and the plethora of metadata practices and standards makes using and harmonizing datasets more difficult for researchers. This poster explains the impetus behind and the progress made in the first year of a cooperative project to improve and streamline metadata for economic time series data.
Rising Inequality in Family Incomes and Children's Educational Outcomes

Increases in family income inequality in the United States have translated into widening gaps in educational achievement and attainments between children from low- and high-income families. We describe the mechanisms that have produced this disturbing trend. We argue that the three dominant policy approaches states and the federal government have used to improve the education of the disadvantaged have had at best modest success in improving education for disadvantaged children. To conclude, we describe the building blocks for an American solution to the problem of growing inequality of educational outcomes.
PREPARING FOR SURGERY : THIS PRACTICAL WORKUP PINPOINTS PREOPERATIVE DANGERS

Older patients undergo 20 to 40% of surgical procedures and account for 50% of surgical emergencies. Your presurgical workup can pinpoint potential cardiac, pulmonary, or metabolic problems that could endanger your patient in the operating room. Not everyone needs an extensive cardiac workup. To determine who does, you can use the Goldman criteria to predict the risk for postoperative cardiac complications. Preoperative test selection is based on these predicted risks and on information from the patient history and physical exam. Medication adjustments and discharge planning are important considerations as well.
Skin Cancer in U.S. Elderly Adults: Does Life Expectancy Play a Role in Treatment Decisions?

Objectives To examine whether life expectancy influences treatment pattern of nonmelanoma skin cancer, or keratinocyte carcinoma (KC), the most common malignancy and the fifth most costly cancer to Medicare. Design Nationally representative cross-sectional study. Setting Nationally representative Health and Retirement Study linked to Medicare claims. Participants Treatments (N = 9,653) from individuals aged 65 and older treated for basal or squamous cell carcinoma between 1992 and 2012 (N = 2,702) were included. Measurements Limited life expectancy defined according to aged 85 and older, medical comorbidities, Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 3 or greater, difficulty in at least one activity of daily living (ADL), and a Lee index of 13 or greater. Treatment type (Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) (most intensive, highest cost), excision, or electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C) (least intensive, lowest cost)), according to procedure code. Results Most KCs (61%) were treated surgically. Rates of MMS (19%), excision (42%), and EDC participants who died within 1 year of diagnosis were treated in the same way as those who lived longer. Conclusion A one-size-fits-all approach in which advanced age, health status, functional status, and prognosis are not associated with intensiveness of treatment appears to guide treatment for KC, a generally nonfatal condition. Although intensive treatment of skin cancer when it causes symptoms may be indicated regardless of life expectancy, persons with limited life expectancy should be given choices to ensure that the treatment matches their goals and preferences.
CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CMAS) Corrosion of Gd2Zr2O7 and Sm2Zr2O7

Ceramic thermal barrier coatings are applied to superalloys used in gas turbine engineering to increase the operating temperature and the energy conversion efficiency. However, dust consisting of CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CMAS) from the air can be injected into the engines and corrode the thermal barrier coatings. Lanthanide zirconates are promising materials in thermal barrier coatings due to their low thermal conductivities, good phase stability and good corrosion resistance. However, the corrosion resistance mechanism of CMAS on lanthanide zirconates is still not clearly understood. In this work, the corrosion mechanism of Gd2Zr2O7 and Sm2Zr2O7 in CMAS is studied. Here, the results show that the CMAS can easily react with lanthanide zirconate thermal barrier coatings to form a dense layer, which can resist further corrosion
Identifying language groups within multilingual cybercriminal forums

Online cybercriminal communities exist in various geopolitical regions, including America, China, Russia, and more. Some multilingual forums exist where cybercriminals of differing geopolitical origin interact and exchange hacking knowledge and cybercriminal assets. Researchers can study such forums to better understand the global cybercriminal supply chain and cybercrime trends. However, little work has focused on identifying members of different language groups and geopolitical origin within such forums. One challenge is the necessity of a technique that scales across multiple languages. We are motivated to explore computational techniques that support automated and scalable categorization of cybercriminal forum participants into varying language groups. In particular, we make use of Paragraph Vectors, a state-of-the-art neural network language model to generate fixed-length vector representations (i.e., document embeddings) of messages posted by forum participants. Results indicate Paragraph Vectors outperforms traditional n-gram frequency approaches for generating document embeddings that are useful for clustering cybercriminals into language groups.
Exploring patient perceptions of healthcare service quality through analysis of unstructured feedback

Analyze 23,537 ratings and comments provided by patients of 3712 physicians.Examine how the text commentary relates to measures of perceived service quality.Determine process quality satisfaction is important to patient perceived quality.Determine clinical quality better reflects physician perceived quality. Mechanisms for collecting unstructured feedback (i.e., text comments) from patients of healthcare providers have become commonplace, but analysis techniques to examine such feedback have not been frequently applied in this domain. To fill this gap, we apply a text mining methodology to a large set of textual feedback of physicians by their patients and relate the textual commentary to their numeric ratings. While perceptions of healthcare service quality in the form of numeric ratings are easy to aggregate, freeform textual commentary presents more challenges to extracting useful information. Our methodology explores aggregation of the textual commentary using a topic analysis procedure (i.e., latent Dirichlet allocation) and a sentiment tool (i.e., Diction). We then explore how the extracted topic areas and expressed sentiments relate to the physicians' quantitative ratings of service quality from both patients and other physicians. We analyze 23,537 numeric ratings plus textual feedback provided by patients of 3,712 physicians who have also been recommended by other physicians, and determine process quality satisfaction is an important driver of patient perceived quality, whereas clinical quality better reflects physician perceived quality. Our findings lead us to suggest that to maximize the usefulness of online reviews of physicians, potential patients should parse them for particular quality elements they wish to assess and interpret them within the scope of those quality elements.
The determinants of the vote for Trump: an analysis of Texas 2016 primary results

This article analyses the 2016 primary vote for Donald Trump in Texas. Much of Trump’s campaign rhetoric has been anti-immigrant. A major Trump campaign theme was his proposal to build a wall along...
Prostate cancer family history and eligibility for active surveillance: a systematic review of the literature

Active surveillance (AS) is an increasingly prevalent treatment choice for low grade prostate cancer. Eligibility criteria for AS are varied and it is unclear if family history of prostate cancer should be used as an exclusion criterion when considering men for AS. To determine whether family history plays a significant role in the progression of prostate cancer for men undergoing active surveillance, PubMed searches of 'family history and prostate cancer', 'family history and prostate cancer progression' and 'factors of prostate cancer progression' were used to identify research publications about the relationship between family history and prostate cancer progression. These searches generated 536 papers that were screened and reviewed. Six publications were ultimately included in this analysis. Review of the six publications suggests that family history does not increase the risk of prostate cancer progression, whilst a subgroup analysis in one study found that family history increases the risk of prostate cancer progression only in African-Americans. A family history of prostate cancer does not appear to increase a patient's risk of having more aggressive prostate cancer and is therefore unlikely to be an important factor in determining eligibility for AS. Further studies are needed to better understand the relationship between race, family history, and eligibility for AS.
Barriers to laparoscopic colon resection for cancer: a national analysis

Level one evidence has shown that minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for colon cancer improves short-term outcomes with equivalent long-term oncologic results when compared to open surgery. However, the adoption of MIS for patients with colon cancer has not been universal. The goal of this study is to identify barriers to the use of MIS surgery in colon cancer resection across the United States. The National Cancer Database was queried for all cases of colonic adenocarcinoma resection from 2010 to 2012. Patients undergoing an MIS approach were compared with those undergoing open surgery (OS). MIS was defined as either robotic or laparoscopic surgery. Patients with metastatic disease, surgery for palliation, or tumors >8 cm were excluded. Multivariable modeling was used to identify variables associated with the use of open surgery. After applying exclusion criteria, 124,205 cases were identified. An MIS approach was used in only 54,621 (44%) patients. In a multivariable model adjusting for stage and tumor size, a number of important factors were associated with decreased odds of a MIS approach including black race (OR .91; p < .0001), lack of insurance (OR .51; p < .0001), lower education (OR .88; p < .0001), lower income (OR .83; p < .0001), treatment at a community program (OR .86; p < .0001), and treatment at a low-volume center (OR .79; p < .0001). Utilization of MIS increased over the study period (2010: 38.7%, 2011: 44.0%, 2012: 49.1%; p < .0001). MIS approach is utilized in less than half of all colon resections in this national database, which accounts for over 70% of all diagnosed cancers in the US. Significant variability exists among age, race, insurance status, socioeconomic status, region, and facility type. In light of the recognized benefits of the MIS approach, local and national policy should focus on narrowing these disparities and continuing the upward trend of MIS utilization.
Scratching the Surface of Immunotherapeutic Targets in Neuroblastoma

In this issue of Cancer Cell, Bosse et al. report GPC2 as a therapeutic target in neuroblastoma. They show that GPC2 is selectively expressed on the cell surface of neuroblastoma and is a dependency in this disease. Moreover, they demonstrate the therapeutic potential of an antibody-drug conjugate targeting GPC2.
First Report of Woodchucks (Marmota monax; Sciuridae) in the City of Derby, Sedgwick County, Kansas; Successful Adaptation to a Suburban Environment

According to recent state records, Woodchucks (Marmota monax) have been spreading slowly westward across Kansas, moving most rapidly along the river systems in the northern half of the state. Here I report on a well-established population of woodchucks within the city limits of Derby (Sedgwick County), Kansas. Data consists of a voucher specimen (skeleton) collected in 2017, photographs (2017) and previous sightings by the author, trappings by city animal control personnel and accounts of other citizens. Three voucher specimens are also known from Sumner and Cowley counties to the south.
Quantum materials for brain sciences and artificial intelligence

A hallmark of life is plasticity, which enables reproduction, evolution, and environmental adaptivity. It is natural to wonder if these remarkable features in nature and biology can be realized in the materials world and implemented in the emerging fields of autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and animal–machine interfaces. First, we describe fundamental features of neurons and synapses in the brain that are responsible for information processing. Then we discuss mechanisms governing electronic plasticity in correlated electronic quantum materials that mimic organismic behavior. We give examples of learning networks and circuits designed using quantum materials that can be implemented for machine intelligence. We conclude with suggestions for future interdisciplinary research wherein synergistic interactions between orbital filling, defects, and strain could give rise to new functionality of relevance to sensory interfaces (e.g., haptics), neural information processing, and neuroscience.
Inquiry on early childhood teachers preparation and retention

The purpose of this study is to analyze early childhood teacher preparation and investigate the factors that motivated individuals to become early childhood teachers and that have kept them in the profession. This study reports the results of an online survey investigating motives of staying or leaving the early childhood profession. The results of this inquiry point to factors that influenced their choice, taking into consideration their professional preparation. Advice for new early childhood educators just entering the profession is also provided.
Judging Incumbents’ Character: The Impact of Scandal

This article uses panel survey data from 2010 to 2012 to examine how scandals affect perceptions of House incumbents’ character. Scandals negatively impact impressions of the incumbent’s integrity,...
Comparison of suture anchor vs. interference screw technique for patellar fixation for medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction

Summary Background There are numerous techniques for MPFL reconstruction, however, one single technique has not been proven to be superior to another. Suture anchor reconstruction has been shown to provide stable fixation while decreasing the risk of patellar fracture. Purpose The aim of the study was to compare the stiffness and clinical load to failure of two common MPFL reconstruction techniques. Our hypothesis was that there would be no significant difference in the stiffness and the clinical load to failure between the suture anchor and interference screw reconstructions. Methods Eight pairs of fresh frozen cadaveric knees were randomized into two groups undergoing MPFL reconstruction using either a suture anchor technique (n = 8) or an interference screw technique (n = 8). Testing was performed at 0, 30, 60, and 90 degrees of flexion for the native knee, transected medial structures, and reconstructed MPFL. Next, the reconstructed MPFL specimens were tested until failure in 0 degrees of flexion. t-Test, One-Way ANOVA, and repeated measures of ANOVA were used for statistical analysis, p values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results The average stiffness for the suture anchor and interference screw reconstructions was 12.02 ± 3.96 N/mm and 14.21 ± 4.20 N/mm, respectively (t-test, p = 0.27), while average clinical load to failure was 256.57 ± 54.1 N and 237.81 ± 23.82 N, respectively (t-test, p = 0.38). There was no significant difference in stiffness between the suture anchor and interference screw techniques at 0, 30, and 60 degrees of flexion. Conclusions The suture anchor and interference screw reconstruction techniques produce comparable stiffness for sub-failure testing at 0 and 30 degrees of flexion. For testing to failure, the initial stiffness for both reconstruction techniques have been shown to be concordant with previously published values for the native MPFL. Both reconstruction techniques provide greater ultimate failure loads than those reported for the native MPFL in previous studies. Suture anchor reconstruction described in our study provides another reliable option for the reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament. Clinical relevance Our study provides biomechanical data that the suture anchor technique described in this study provides comparable fixation compared to interference screw fixation and has the potential of reducing fracture to patella particularly in the pediatric population with small patellae.
Isolated malleus fixation: A pediatric case series.

Abstract Objectives The goal of this review was to review our series of isolated malleus fixation in pediatric patients, a rare entity causing conductive hearing loss. Malleolar fixation is poorly described in this patient population. Methods A retrospective review of pediatric tympanoplasties by the senior author over a four-year period was performed. Only cases with isolated fixation of the malleus were reviewed. Primary outcome of interest was post-operative hearing. Paired t-tests were used to calculate pre- and post-operative hearing outcomes. Results Five cases were analyzed. Mean age at time of surgery was 9.1 years (range 4.4–16.0 years). Average follow-up after surgery was 13.9 months (range 4.4–31.2 months). Patients were otherwise healthy and typically presented after a failed school hearing test despite previously good hearing. Three out of five cases showed radiographic evidence of bony fixation (60%) on computerized tomography (CT). Otoscopy was unremarkable in all cases. Average procedure time was 41.2 min and consisted of transcanal tympanoplasty with excision of fixed bony segment. A significant improvement in both pre- and post-operative air bone gaps was observed (p = 0.005)., with average ABG of 14.75 dB. Conclusions Isolated pediatric malleolar fixation is an uncommon cause of pediatric conductive hearing loss. CT scan is useful for identifying this abnormality, and surgical correction results in improved post-operative hearing outcomes, potentially obviating the need for hearing amplification.
Reproducibility of Structural and Diffusion Tensor Imaging in the TACERN Multi-Center Study.

Background Multi-site MRI studies are often necessary for recruiting sufficiently sized samples when studying rare conditions. However, they require pooling data from multiple scanners into a single data set, and therefore it is critical to evaluate the variability of quantitative MRI measures within and across scanners used in multi-site studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of structural and diffusion weighted (DW) MRI measurements acquired on seven scanners at five medical centers as part of the Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Autism Center of Excellence Research Network (TACERN) multisite study. Methods The American College of Radiology (ACR) phantom was imaged monthly to measure reproducibility of signal intensity and uniformity within and across seven 3T scanners from General Electric, Philips, and Siemens vendors. One healthy adult male volunteer was imaged repeatedly on all seven scanners under the TACERN structural and DW protocol (5 b = 0 s/mm2 and 30 b = 1000 s/mm2) over a period of 5 years (age 22-27 years). Reproducibility of inter- and intra-scanner brain segmentation volumes and diffusion tensor imaging metrics fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) within white matter regions was quantified with coefficient of variation. Results The American College of Radiology Phantom signal intensity and uniformity were similar across scanners and changed little over time, with a mean intra-scanner coefficient of variation of 3.6 and 1.8%, respectively. The mean inter- and intra-scanner coefficients of variation of brain structure volumes derived from T1-weighted (T1w) images of the human phantom were 3.3 and 1.1%, respectively. The mean inter- and intra-scanner coefficients of variation of FA in white matter regions were 4.5 and 2.5%, while the mean inter- and intra-scanner coefficients of variation of MD in white matter regions were 5.4 and 1.5%. Conclusion Our results suggest that volumetric and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measurements are highly reproducible between and within scanners and provide typical variation amplitudes that can be used as references to interpret future findings in the TACERN network.
Church-based interventions to address obesity among African Americans and Latinos in the United States: a systematic review.

Context Multilevel church-based interventions may help address racial/ethnic disparities in obesity in the United States since churches are often trusted institutions in vulnerable communities. These types of interventions affect at least two levels of socio-ecological influence which could mean an intervention that targets individual congregants as well as the congregation as a whole. However, the extent to which such interventions are developed using a collaborative partnership approach and are effective with diverse racial/ethnic populations is unclear, and these crucial features of well-designed community-based interventions. Objective The present systematic literature review of church-based interventions was conducted to assess their efficacy for addressing obesity across different racial/ethnic groups (eg, African Americans, Latinos). Data sources and extraction In total, 43 relevant articles were identified using systematic review methods developed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s Task Force on Community Preventive Services. The extent to which each intervention was developed using community-based participatory research principles, was tailored to the particular community in question, and involved the church in the study development and implementation were also assessed. Data analysis Although 81% of the studies reported significant results for between- or within-group differences according to the study design, effect sizes were reported or could only be calculated in 56% of cases, and most were small. There was also a lack of diversity among samples (eg, few studies involved Latinos, men, young adults, or children), which limits knowledge about the ability of church-based interventions to reduce the burden of obesity more broadly among vulnerable communities of color. Further, few interventions were multilevel in nature, or incorporated strategies at the church or community level. Conclusions Church-based interventions to address obesity will have greater impact if they consider the diversity among populations burdened by this condition and develop programs that are tailored to these different populations (eg, men of color, Latinos). Programs could also benefit from employing multilevel approaches to move the field away from behavioral modifications at the individual level and into a more systems-based framework. However, effect sizes will likely remain small, especially since individuals only spend a limited amount of time in this particular setting.