cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Technical Note: A method for quality assurance of landmark sets for use in evaluation of deformable image registration accuracy of lung parenchyma

Purpose To develop a quality control method to improve the accuracy of corresponding landmark sets used for deformable image registration (DIR) evaluation in the lung parenchyma. Methods An iterative workflow was developed as a method for quality assurance of landmark sets. Starting with the initial landmark set for a given image pair, a landmark-based deformation was applied to one of the images. A difference image and a color overlay were generated using the deformed image and the other image of the pair. Inspection of these generated images at locations of landmarks allowed for the identification of misplaced landmarks. The observer responsible for creating the initial landmark set was tasked with review and revision of points flagged by the quality assurance procedure. Using the updated landmark sets, the process was repeated until all points were acceptable to the reviewer. Results Eighteen landmark sets, containing a mean (SD) of 170 (31) landmarks, were created using CT images from non-small cell lung cancer patients exhibiting large geometric changes and atelectasis resolution, making landmark specification challenging. Following the quality assurance procedure, the final landmark sets contained a mean (SD) of 165 (25) landmarks, as points too difficult to match were removed and points were added to regions deficient in landmarks. For landmark sets in which changes were made, maximum and mean differences in landmark positions before and after quality assurance ranged between 8.7-81.5 mm and 0.3-9.6 mm, respectively. Conclusions An effective method for improving the accuracy of landmark correspondence was presented. This quality assurance approach enables more accurate evaluation of DIR for lung parenchyma in clinical image pairs in the absence of a ground truth deformation and may be applicable to other feature-rich anatomical sites.
Topological Power Grid Statistics from a Network-of-Networks Perspective

In this work we provide novel tools to evaluate the "realism" of a power system topology based combining ideas from the study of complex networks with electrical system parameters. Specifically, we show that the recent network-of-networks approach of Halappanavar, et al. can be used to gain insight into reasonable ranges for topological properties of a power system such as, diameter, average shortest path length, core size, and clustering.
Potentially Unsafe Chronic Medication Use Among Older Adult Chronic Opioid Users

Study objectives To assess chronic potentially unsafe medication use among older adults using opioids chronically versus those who did not, to assess the likelihood of chronically using medications to treat adverse effects associated with chronic opioid use, and to characterize the differences in chronic potentially unsafe medication use at three morphine equivalent dose (MED) levels/day (less than 50MED, 50-90MED, and more than 90MED). Design Retrospective cross-sectional analysis. Data source Prescription claims data from a national telehealth Medication Therapy Management (MTM) provider for the year 2015. Patients All Medicare Part D beneficiaries (65 years and older [older adults]) from one Medicare Part D plan provider in one state who were eligible to receive MTM services. Measurements and main results Medication claims were limited to refills in a 120-day window from one Medicare Part D provider. Chronic medication use was defined as having a total days' medication supply of 84 days or more. Odds ratios (ORs) and χ2 tests were used to compare chronic medication use among beneficiaries who were chronic opioid users versus nonopioid users. Analyses were repeated among chronic opioid users at the less than 50MED, 50-90MED, and more than 90MED levels. Unpaired t tests and Welch's analysis of variance paired with Games-Howell post hoc tests were used for continuous variables. Older adult (mean age 76 years) chronic opioid users were more likely to use muscle relaxants chronically (OR 2.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.20-3.25), benzodiazepines (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.87-2.31), hypnotics (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.67-2.34), antidepressants (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.51-1.77), and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.59-1.98) versus nonopioid users. Further, chronic opioid users were 3.04 times (95% CI 2.05-4.51) more likely to use muscle relaxants and benzodiazepines concomitantly chronically and also more likely to use medications chronically to treat gastrointestinal reflux disease, constipation, estrogen loss, nausea and vomiting, and edema. Very high-dose (more than 90MED/day) chronic opioid users were more likely than low-dose users (less than 50MED) to use antidepressants (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.15-1.97, p=0.003). Conclusion Older adults with chronic opioid use were more likely to use potentially unsafe medications chronically. These data demonstrated discordance between national prescribing guidelines and real-world practice among older adults with chronic pain in one Medicare Part D plan.
APPLICATIONS OF OPTICAL TECHNIQUES TO BRAIN PHYSIOLOGY

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the applications of optical techniques in studying brain physiology. These procedures take advantage of signals provided by the components of the mitochondrial respiratory chain as they go about the reactions of energy conservation. The principle of these methods is simple. When glucose or other substrates are broken down to CO2 through glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, or other specific pathways, hydrogen ions and electrons are passed through the mitochondrial respiratory chain from one reactant to the next up the ascending redox potentials to molecular oxygen. The respiratory chain is the final common pathway for the conservation of energy from substrates in the form of ATP. The respiratory chain consists of a series of coenzymes and cytochromes. Changes in the oxidation/reduction of states coenzymes and cytochromes provide the basis for optical probing of metabolism. Each reactant absorbs light or fluoresces at specific wavelengths and the absorption or fluorescence is dependent upon whether the molecules are in an oxidized or reduced state. The advantage of optical probes of metabolism is that it allows continuous and simultaneous measurements of physiological function in the presence of normal circulation.
Assessment of quality and consistency of monoclonal antibodies for CB1 and CB2 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND Marijuana has numerous roles as an agonist in the endocannabinoid signaling system (ESS). This study evaluated monoclonal antibodies across experimental techniques to establish a framework for studying ESS receptors, CB1 and CB2. METHODS Tissue from five patients with head and neck cancer were used to generate cell lines and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sections, which were analyzed by western blot (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF). Subgroup analysis was performed on FFPE sections from 8 marijuana users and 10 controls by IHC. Results were compared across methods for consistency. RESULTS In all patients, WB and IF were CB1 positive, whereas IHC was negative. Select samples were CB2 positive by WB, but failed IF and IHC applications. In subgroup analysis, 1 of 8 users and 3 of 10 nonusers were CB1 positive. CONCLUSIONS Interpretation of CB1/CB2 antibody data should be performed cautiously and confirmation of findings across multiple experimental methods is recommended.
Syntheses of five potential heterocyclic amine food mutagens

The syntheses of the potential heterocyclic amine food mutagens, 3,5,7-trimethyl-2-aminoimidazo-[4,5-b]pyridine, 1,4,7-trimethyl-2-aminoimidazo[4,5-c]pyridine, 1,6,7-trimethyl-2-aminoimidazo[4,5-c]-pyridine, 3,4,6-trimethyl-2-aminoimidazo[4,5-c]pyridine, and 1,4,6-trimethyl-7-aminoimidazo[4,5-c]-pyridine are described.
Serum and urinary biomarkers for detection and active surveillance of prostate cancer.

Purpose of review To provide a comprehensive review of the available biomarkers for the detection and active surveillance of prostate cancer and simplify decision-making while choosing between them. Recent findings The limitations of PSA and mpMRI and the invasive nature of prostate biopsy has led to a constant search for serum and urinary biomarkers for both the detection and monitoring during active surveillance of prostate cancer. 4K, PHI and PCA3 have been validated in prospective clinical trials for initial detection of prostate cancer and recent evidence points to potential differentiation between indolent and aggressive cancer. However, the usage in monitoring tumor dynamics is debatable because of lack of conclusive evidence. The answer to the existing problems lies in high-quality studies to establish definitive evidence and also to help choose between the plethora of biomarkers available today. Summary Despite the advancements in innovation and usage of biomarkers in prostate cancer, there exists tremendous potential in improving them to fulfil the unmet need that exists today. Studies to establish conclusive evidence and integration with imaging can tremendously aid diagnosis and monitoring.
Communication and Shared Decision Making in the Breast Cancer Treatment Consultation: A Comparative Analysis of English- and Spanish-Speaking Patients

Background. Communication in the breast cancer treatment consultation is complex. Language barriers may increase the challenge of achieving patient-centered communication and effective shared decision making. Design. We conducted a prospective cohort study among Spanish- and English-speaking women with stage 0 to 3 breast cancer in two urban medical centers in the Midwestern United States. Patient centeredness of care and decisional conflict were compared between Spanish- and English-speaking participants using the Interpersonal Processes of Care (IPC) and Decision Conflict Scale (DCS), respectively. Clinician behaviors of shared decision making were assessed from consultation audio-recordings using the 12-item Observing Patient Involvement in Decision Making (OPTION) scale. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to control for differences in baseline characteristics and clinician specialty. Results. Fifteen Spanish-speaking and 35 English-speaking patients were enrolled in the study. IPC scores (median, interquartile range [IQR]) were higher (less patient centered) in Spanish- versus English-speaking participants in the domains of lack of clarity (2.5, 1-3 v. 1.5, 1-2), P = 0.028; perceived discrimination (1.1, 1-1 v. 1.0, 1-1), P = 0.047; and disrespectful office staff (1.25, 1-2 v. 1.0, 1-1), P < 0.0005 (Wilcoxon rank-sum test). OPTION scores (median, IQR) were lower in Spanish- versus English-speaking participants (21.9, 17.7-27.1 v. 31.3, 26.6-39.6), P = 0.001 (Wilcoxon rank-sum test). In multivariate analysis, statistically significant differences persisted in the IPC lack of clarity and disrespectful office staff between Spanish- and English-speaking groups. Conclusions. Our findings highlight challenges in cancer communication for Spanish-speaking patients, particularly with respect to perceived patient centeredness of communication. Further cross-cultural studies are needed to ensure effective communication and shared decision making in the cancer consultation.
Analysis of a New 15-kV SiC n-GTO under Pulsed Power Applications

Silicon carbide (SiC) gate turn-off thyristors (GTOs) are an appropriate option for increased power density and thermal dissipating capabilities in pulsed power and power electronics applications due to their enhanced material characteristics. For the transition of silicon (Si)power devices to SiC, it is imperative to evaluate the long-term reliability of newly developed SiC devices. The testbed for this experiment consists of a pulse forming network (PFN) () that subjects the device under test (DUT) a 15-kV SiC n-type (n-doped epi layer) GTO, up to a current level of 1.0 kA with a pulse width of 120 µs, The static electrical characteristics of the device, such as the forward I- V curve, forward gate conduction, and forward hold-off were taken between testing. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging was used to find physical evidence of degradation on the device. The DUT was subjected to 20,000 high-current density pulses, at which point it exhibited no major changes in blocking capability.
Heart Transplantation Outcomes in Patients with Marfan Syndrome: UNOS Registry Analysis

Purpose Marfan syndrome (MS) is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder that causes a defect in the gene fibrillin-1. MS patients develop advanced cardiomyopathies, in which previous studies have demonstrated the presence of a discrete cardiomyopathy associated with MS. Given the vascular complications associated with MS and unclear impact immunosuppression may have on systemic vascular disease, little evidence guides suitability of patients with MS for heart transplant. We sought to investigate long-term heart transplant outcomes of patients with MS listed in the UNOS registry. Methods The UNOS database was queried for all cardiac transplants in the registry from 1987 to 2019 to compare characteristics and outcomes of patients with MS and all other heart transplant patients. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. Survival curves were generated with Kaplan Meier method. Results Between 1987 and 2019, 22 patients with MS were listed for a heart transplant with a mean age of 35.0 ± 16.3 years. Most patients were male (73%) and Caucasian (73%). Patients with MS were more likely to have prior cardiac surgery (non-transplant) compared to all other heart transplant patients (54.5% vs. 18.3%, p Conclusion Survival of Marfan patients was comparable to non-Marfan patients despite increased surgical complexity and greater association with prior cardiac surgery. While further study is warranted, heart transplant is a suitable treatment option in patients with Marfan syndrome and advanced heart failure.
9 – Political Kidnapping

Political Kidnappings typically occur for one of four motives: to demonstrate that the government cannot protect its own citizens, to generate publicity for a specific cause, to cause civil discontent, or to demand the release of incarcerated group members. Chapter 9 explores dynamics that are correlated with the prevention, investigation and prosecution of Political Kidnappings, including training of high-profile targets, Stockholm Syndrome, and negotiating with terrorists.
Market Exclusivity Length for Drugs with New Generic or Biosimilar Competition, 2012‐2018

Brand-name drugs have periods of market exclusivity before generic competition begins. Due to high brand-name drug prices charged during this period, market exclusivity is an important determinant of US prescription drug spending. We used claims data to estimate the market exclusivity period for 264 small molecule and 4 biologic drugs that faced new generic or biosimilar competition from 2012-2018. Exclusivity periods were longer for biologics compared with new small molecule drugs (median 21.5 vs. 14.4 years, P = 0.02), longer for drugs with annual revenue < $75 million compared with those with revenue ≥ $500 million (16.6 vs. 14.2 years, P = 0.01), and shorter in cases for which the first generic was granted 180 days of exclusivity, which is an incentive designed to expedite generic competition (14.1 vs. 15.9 years, P < 0.01). Modified versions of existing products had shorter exclusivities than new drugs (9.9 vs. 14.5 years, P < 0.01), with variation by route of administration, therapeutic area, and use of expedited approval pathways. Exclusivity periods for new drugs ranging from 13-17 years are similar to older estimates, but longer exclusivity among the small number of biologics in the cohort raises concern that overall median exclusivity may lengthen in the future because biologics represent a larger fraction of new drug approvals over the last decade than they did the previous decade. Unnecessarily long exclusivity periods delay patient access to lower-priced medications, and policymakers should consider options to encourage timely competition, particularly among biologic drugs.
Anti-poverty policy and health: Attributes and diffusion of state earned income tax credits across U.S. states from 1980 to 2020.

Purpose The U.S. federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is often considered the most effective antipoverty program for families in the U.S., leading to a variety of improved outcomes such as educational attainment, work incentives, economic activity, income, and health benefits for mothers, infants and children. State EITC supplements to the federal credit can significantly enhance the magnitude of this intervention. In this paper we advance EITC and health research by: 1) describing the diffusion of state EITC policies over 40 years, 2) presenting patterns in important EITC policy dimensions across space and time, and 3) disseminating a robust data set to advance future research by policy analysts and scientists. Methods We used current public health law research methods to systematically collect, conduct textual legal analysis, and numerically code all EITC legislative changes from 1980 through 2020 in the 50 states and Washington, D.C. Results First, the pattern of diffusion across states and time shows initial introductions during the 1990s in the Midwest, then spreading to the Northeast, with more recent expansions in the West and South. Second, differences by state and time of important policy dimensions are evident, including size of credit and refundability. Third, state EITC benefits vary considerably by household structure. Conclusion Continued research on health outcomes is warranted to capture the full range of potential beneficial effects of EITCs on family and child wellbeing. Lawyers and policy analysts can collaborate with epidemiologists and economists on other high-quality empirical studies to assess the many dimensions of policy and law that potentially affect the social determinants of health.
Methionine stress induces a ferroptotic gene signature in methionine dependent cancer cells

Dietary methionine restriction is associated with a reduction in tumor growth in preclinical studies and an increase in lifespan in animal models. The mechanism by which methionine restriction inhibits tumor growth while sparing normal cells is incompletely understood, except for the observation that normal cells can utilize methionine or homocysteine interchangeably (methionine independence) while most cancer cells are strictly dependent on methionine availability. Here, we compared a typical methionine dependent and a rare methionine independent melanoma cell line. We found that replacing methionine with homocysteine generally induced hypomethylation in gene promoters. We isolated nuclear proteins and submitted it for tandem mass tag (TMT) proteomics. This analysis revealed that several proteins involved in the mitochondrial integrated stress response (ISR) were upregulated in response to the replacement of methionine to homocysteine in both cell lines, but to a much greater degree in the methionine dependent cell line. Consistent with the ISR signature, a proteomic analysis of a subcellular fraction enriched for mitochondrial content revealed a strong enrichment for proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation. Analysis of cellular bioenergetics confirmed that homocysteine induces a decrease in ATP production from oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis, but to a similar extent in methionine dependent and methionine independent cells. The mitochondrial integrated stress response shared a signature with ferroptosis. Methionine dependent cells displayed a strong ferroptotic signature, which was decreased by half in methionine independent cells. Consistent with ferroptosis, lipid peroxidation was increased in methionine independent cells grown in homocysteine, and viability could be rescued with the inhibitor ferrostatin. Therefore, we propose that methionine stress induces ferroptotic cell death in methionine dependent cancer cells.
The Picornavirus Precursor 3CD Has Different Conformational Dynamics Compared to 3Cpro and 3Dpol in Functionally Relevant Regions

Viruses have evolved numerous strategies to maximize the use of their limited genetic material, including proteolytic cleavage of polyproteins to yield products with different functions. The poliovirus polyprotein 3CD is involved in important protein-protein, protein-RNA and protein-lipid interactions in viral replication and infection. It is a precursor to the 3C protease and 3D RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, but has different protease specificity, is not an active polymerase, and participates in other interactions differently than its processed products. These functional differences are poorly explained by the known X-ray crystal structures. It has been proposed that functional differences might be due to differences in conformational dynamics between 3C, 3D and 3CD. To address this possibility, we conducted nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy experiments, including multiple quantum relaxation dispersion, chemical exchange saturation transfer and methyl spin-spin relaxation, to probe conformational dynamics across multiple timescales. Indeed, these studies identified differences in conformational dynamics in functionally important regions, including enzyme active sites, and RNA and lipid binding sites. Expansion of the conformational ensemble available to 3CD may allow it to perform additional functions not observed in 3C and 3D alone despite having nearly identical lowest-energy structures.
Towards achieving the UNs data revolution: combining earth observation and socioeconomic data for geographic targeting of resources for the sustainable development goals

Abstract The UN has called for a ‘data revolution’ to help overcome the low quality and lack of regularly updated statistical data available in developing countries. But how do we achieve this with limited financial resources and insufficient capacity in national statistical offices around the world? Recent studies have demonstrated how information captured by satellite imagery can be combined with social datasets to increase our understanding of socioeconomic systems. Thus, in the future, satellite data may offer a cost-effective way to reliably measure and monitor progress towards development goals. We examine how satellite data can be linked with household and census datasets to provide information on socioeconomic conditions. We suggest that the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach provides an appropriate framework for which to develop remotely sensed earth observation (EO) data proxies for key socioeconomic conditions because it will allow the linking of data in a way that reflects more the way in which populations interact with landscapes. The aim of using EO data for mapping and predicting socioeconomic conditions is not to replace survey data but to provide more frequent information on likely socioeconomic conditions between census and survey enumeration. Timely recalibration of models predicting poverty from EO data would be necessary to reflect often rapid social, economic and political changes. However, if we are to acheive the SDGs more frequent data at finer spatial scales will be required and EO data provides a cos effective solution.
Near-Complete Genome Sequence of GI-17 Lineage Infectious Bronchitis Virus, Circulating in Iowa

Avian infectious bronchitis virus (AvIBV) is the causative agent of a highly contagious respiratory disease in chickens which results in significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Here, we report a near-complete genome sequence of the strain, designated IA1162/2020, identified in tracheal swabs from chickens in Iowa in 2020.
Automation and integration of a novel restricted single-isocenter stereotactic body radiotherapy (a-RESIST) method for synchronous two lung lesions.

Synchronous treatment of two lung lesions using a single‐isocenter volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) plan can decrease treatment time and reduce the impact of intrafraction motion. However, alignment of both lesions on a single cone beam CT (CBCT) can prove difficult and may lead to setup errors and unacceptable target coverage loss. A Restricted Single‐Isocenter Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (RESIST) method was created to minimize setup uncertainties and provide treatment delivery flexibility. RESIST utilizes a single‐isocenter placed at patient’s midline and allows both lesions to be planned separately but treated in the same session. Herein is described a process of automation of this novel RESIST method. Automation of RESIST significantly reduced treatment planning time while maintaining the benefits of RESIST. To demonstrate feasibility, ten patients with two lung lesions previously treated with a single‐isocenter clinical VMAT plan were replanned manually with RESIST (m‐RESIST) and with automated RESIST (a‐RESIST). a‐RESIST method automatically sets isocenter, creates beam geometry, chooses appropriate dose calculation algorithms, and performs VMAT optimization using an in‐house trained knowledge‐based planning model for lung SBRT. Both m‐RESIST and a‐RESIST showed lower dose to normal tissues compared to manually planned clinical VMAT although a‐RESIST provided slightly inferior, but still clinically acceptable, dose conformity and gradient indices. However, a‐RESIST significantly reduced the treatment planning time to less than 20 min and provided a higher dose to the lung tumors. The a‐RESIST method provides guidance for inexperienced planners by standardizing beam geometry and plan optimization using DVH estimates. It produces clinically acceptable two lesions VMAT lung SBRT plans efficiently. We have further validated a‐RESIST on phantom measurement and independent pretreatment dose verification of another four selected 2‐lesions lung SBRT patients and implemented clinically. Further development of a‐RESIST for more than two lung lesions and refining this approach for extracranial oligometastastic abdominal/pelvic SBRT, including development of automated simulated collision detection algorithm, merits future investigation.
Confined Exciton Interaction of Erbium Doped GaAs Quantum Wells Elucidated by Multidimensional Coherent Spectroscopy

We investigate the exciton exchange interaction of erbium doped GaAs quantum well using MDCS. We observe an energy shift of ~100µeV consistent with the predicted exchange energy and different pulse sequences activate specific excitonic pathways.
The Making of the Chicago Project

Many social science studies appear rather antiseptic in their description, as if data cleanly appeared on the analyst’s computer screen without any blood, sweat, or tears. The Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN) generated lots of the latter, and I believe that the story of its making is relevant to an understanding of how social science works, how cities work, and the interplay between them in producing a human outcome. The role of scientific investigators in such endeavors is usually overlooked, as is the process by which ideas generate the construction of data. Paraphrasing Goethe, one might say that “data are theory.” Also underappreciated are the twists, turns, and compromises that researchers encounter once the research design texts are closed and data collection commences. I thus make an effort to breathe life into those key moments in the project. I begin with the intellectual backdrop to PHDCN, which might be subtitled: “What happens when social science gets into bed with big science?”
Systematic study of work function engineering and scavenging effect using NiSi alloy FUSI metal gates with advanced gate stacks

We present a systematic examination of work function modulation and scavenging effect on fully silicided gates using different NiSi alloys (Ti, Hf, Zr, Pd, Pt, and Al) as well as different phases (Ni31Si12 and Nirich-Pt-Si). It is shown that the interface layer between gate FUSI and dielectric is the key to modulate the work function. FUSI alloys were able to prevent Fermi level pining on HfSiO and HfO2 by modification of the top interface. A ~400 meV work function shift was achieved toward the conduction band edge using NiAlSi demonstrating a mobility of 300 cm2/Vs at peak, matching NiSi control devices on Hfx SiOy. Interface engineering with FUSI alloy gate has not only shown threshold voltage modulation but also enabled further gate oxide scaling (0.15 ~ 0.2nm) compared to NiSi control device. Additional gate oxide scaling is due to the increase of effective dielectric constant in the FUSI gate stack. TEM, EELS, and EDX showed that work function modulation is attributed to the Al pile up at interface. Ni rich silicide FUSI gates showed a ~250mV shift from mid gap toward valence band edge with elimination of Fermi-level pining by modification of the top dielectric interface
Facial Swelling as a Primary Manifestation of Multiple Myeloma

Facial swellings are commonly encountered in the dental office, the cause of which could range from a congenital etiology to an acquired one or it may even be a manifestation of an underlying systemic disease. The clinician must have a thorough knowledge of the various clinical and imaging manifestations and the sites of occurrence of the various conditions to arrive at the appropriate diagnosis. Facial swellings can be classified into different groups which include acute swellings with inflammation, nonprogressive swellings, and slowly or rapidly progressive swellings. The various imaging modalities like CT and MRI are useful for assessing the extent of the swelling as well as evaluating the soft tissue and osseous involvement of the swelling. Multiple myeloma represents clonal proliferation of plasma cells and is a condition in which a facial swelling might be present, though not common. This paper reports a case of a patient with a unilateral facial swelling, which on investigation led to a diagnosis of multiple myeloma.
Structure-Borne Noise Measures and Their Correlation to Sound Radiation over a Broad Range of Frequencies

Structure-borne noise within vehicle structures is often transmitted in a multi-dimensional manner and thus the vibro-acoustic model(s) of automotive powertrain or chassis must incorporate longitudinal and transverse (flexural) motions as well as their couplings. In this article, we employ the continuous system theory to model a typical vibration isolator (say the engine mounting system) and a compliant receiver that could simulate the body structure. The powertrain source is however assumed to be rigid, and both harmonic force and moment excitations are considered. Our analysis is limited to a linear time-invariant system, and the frequency domain based mobility method is utilized to synthesize the overall system. Contributions of both in-plane and flexural motions to structure-borne and radiated noise are incorporated. Two examples are considered to illustrate the methodology. First, multi-dimensional transmissibility and effectiveness terms are analytically and comparatively evaluated along with vibration power-based measures for an inverted 'L' beam receiver and selected source configurations. Further, free field sound pressures are calculated and correlated with structure-borne power transmitted to the receiver. Second, sound measurements and predictions for an experimental inverted 'L' plate receiver demonstrate that a rank order based on free field sound pressures may be regarded as a measure of structure-borne noise reduction. Measured insertion losses for sound pressure match well with those computed.
Data Representation for Flash Memories

In this chapter, we introduce theories on data representation for flash memories. Flash memories are a milestone in the development of the data storage technology. The applications of flash memories have expanded widely in recent years, and flash memories have become the dominating member in the family of non-volatile memories. Compared to magnetic recording and optical recording, flash memories are more suitable for many mobile-, embeddedand mass-storage applications. The reasons include their high speed, physical robustness, and easy integration with circuits. The representation of data plays a key role in storage systems. Like magnetic recording and optical recording, flash memories have their own distinct properties, including block erasure, iterative cell programming, etc. These distinct properties introduce very interesting coding problems that address many aspects of a successful storage system, which include efficient data modification, error correction, and more. In this chapter, we first introduce the flash memory model, then study some newly developed codes, including codes for rewriting data and the rank modulation scheme. A main theme is understanding how to store information in a medium that has asymmetric properties when it transits between different states.
Information management in ambulatory care: the nurse and computerized records.

COSTAR V, originally developed at the Massachusetts General Hospital and now in the public domain, [1] has been extensively modified by users to fit specific practice needs. Our implementation in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) has been no exception, with major changes over the last six years primarily designed to better support what we believe must be an interactive use of computerized medical information.
The Ethnography of Contradiction: Studying Post‐Unification Germany

Crumbling Walls and Tarnished Ideals: An Ethnography of East Germany before and after Unification. Hans Baer. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 1998 155 pp. Where the World Ended: Re-Unification and Identity in the German Borderland. Daphne Berdahl. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1999. 294 pp.
Other Surface Imaging Methods with Electrons

There are many other surface imaging methods, which are competing or complementary to cathode lens microscopy with slow electrons. Scanning probe microscopy in various imaging modes extends the resolution down to the atomic level and is frequently combined with the imaging methods discussed in this book. Here we make only a short comparison with imaging methods using reflected or emitted electrons, independent of energy and experimental setup.
Human Horizontal Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex Initiation: Effects of Acceleration, Target Distance, and Unilateral Deafferentation

Crane, Benjamin T. and Joseph L. Demer. Human horizontal vestibulo-ocular reflex initiation: effects of acceleration, target distance, and unilateral deafferentation. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 1151–1166...
Multiple regulatory effects of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) gL on trafficking patterns and fusogenic properties of VZV gH

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is an extremely cell-associated alphaherpesvirus; VZV infection is spread almost exclusively via cell membrane fusion. The envelope glycoprotein H (gH) is highly conserved among the herpesviruses. A virus-encoded chaperone, glycoprotein L (gL), associates with gH, and the gH:gL complex is required for gH maturation and membrane expression. We recently demonstrated that in the VZV system, the gH:gL complex facilitated cell membrane fusion and extensive polykaryon formation in transfected cells (K. M. Duus, C. Hatfield, and C. Grose, Virology 210:429-440, 1995). To further define the functions of the unusual VZV gL chaperone protein, we have performed a series of mutagenesis experiments with both gH and gL and analyzed the mutants by laser scanning confocal microscopy in a transfection-based fusion assay. We established the fact that immature gH exited the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) when coexpressed with either gE or gI and appeared on the cell surface in a patch pattern. A similar effect was observed on the cell surface with gH with a cytoplasmic tail mutagenized to closely resemble the vaccinia virus hemagglutinin cytoplasmic tail. Site-directed mutagenesis of the five gL cysteine residues demonstrated that four of five cysteines participated in the gL chaperone function required for proper maturation of gH. On the other hand, the same gL mutants facilitated transport of immature gH to the cell surface, where patching occurred. Studies of gL processing demonstrated that maturation did not require transport beyond the medial-Golgi; furthermore, gL was not detected in the outer cell membrane, nor was it secreted into the medium. Colocalization studies with 3,3'-dihexyloxa-cabocyanine iodide and N-(e-7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl-aminocaproyl)-D-erythro-sphingosine confirmed that gL was found primarily in the ER and cis/medial-Golgi when expressed alone. When all of these data were considered, they suggested a posttranslational gH:gL regulation model whereby the gL chaperone modulated gH expression via retrograde flow from the Golgi to the ER. In this schema, mature gL returns to the ER, where it escorts immature gH from the ER to the Golgi; thereafter, mature gH is transported from the trans-Golgi to the outer cell membrane, where it acts as a major fusogen.
Competition and Mergers in Consumer Goods Industries: The Case of Pet Foods

Recent announcements on restructuring plans and merger proposals amongst fastmoving-consumer-goods (FMCG) producers have attracted widespread media attention and business analysis commentary. The scale of the changes, the number of jobs at stake, and the sums of money involved all provoke interest. In the case of mergers and acquisitions, interest is not limited to business commentators and the media; competition authorities are likely to be concerned about activity that serves to consolidate markets. Until now competition authorities have generally allowed mergers amongst FMCG producers to proceed with at worst limited divestitures of various types. However, with an apparent new phase in strategic acquisitions taking place in the sector there is business concern about how competition authorities will respond and whether a tougher stance against mergers will be taken in light of merger prohibitions in other sectors. This paper considers the appropriate policy response to mergers in the FMCG sector. The perspective that the paper offers is for the need to consider the competitive effects of mergers in light of changes taking place in the product supply chain. In the case of FMCG markets, the substantial shift in the balance of power in favour of retailers has greatly affected the nature of producer competition. The on-going consolidation taking place in retail markets has served to increase the enormous buying power that the major retailers can now exercise, ensuring that even the largest suppliers are placed under intense competitive constraints. In this setting, mergers amongst producers may facilitate efficiency improvements but are unlikely to allow for the exercise of abusive market power by producers when retailers retain the whip hand and are able to drive prices down by playing off suppliers against each other. As an illustration of these aspects, the pet food market provides an interesting case as it has witnessed numerous mergers over recent years yet remains intensely competitive. However, the recently announced merger proposal between Nestle and Ralston Purina to form the world’s largest pet food producer has raised concern that competition could be stifled if the merger is allowed to be completed. In considering this issue, the analysis here examines the nature of competition in view of the changing structure and dynamics of power relations in the pet food market.
Parallel time O(log N) acceptance of deterministic CFLs

We give a parallel RAM algorithm for simulating a deterministic auxiliary pushdown machine. If the pushdown machine uses space s(n) ≥ log n and time 2O(s(n)) then our parallel simulation algorithm takes time O(s(n)) and requires 2O(s(n)) processors. Thus any deterministic context free language is accepted in time O(log n) by our parallel RAM algorithm using a polynomial number of processors. (Our algorithm can easily be extended to also accept the LR(k) languages in time O(log n) and 2O(k) Processors. Our simulation algorithm is near optimal for parallel RAMs, since we show that the language accepted in time T(n) by a parallel RAM is accepted by a deterministic auxiliary pushdown machine with space T(n) and time 2O(T(n)2).
Night observations of free-ranging rhesus monkeys

The nocturnal distribution and behavior of individually marked Macaca mulatta were studied at the La Parguera, Puerto Rico, colony of the Caribbean Primate Research Center. The new image intensifier was used successfully to identify 399 monkeys in 185 sleeping clusters. Monkeys moved into mangrove trees close to favorite feeding areas usually 35 minutes after sunset. The group condensed to less than one-half the daytime spread, vocalizations increased and grooming ceased. Movements and vocalizations ceased several hours after sunset, although bursts of activity occurred throughout the night. Activity resumed 40 minutes before sunrise. Activity was higher during full moon, when I observed feeding, play and sexual behavior. Fights at night were twice as frequent during the breeding season. Monkeys slept in clusters of one to four, 58% of which were of two. Sixty-three percent were composed of maternal relatives, 33% were mother-infant pairs. Mature males clustered with non-related males, slept alone or with females (in the breeding season). Yearlings slept with their mothers or with older siblings. Distribution of monkeys in a group at night reflects daytime associations.
On the nature of research in condensed-state physics

According to a commonly held view, the properties of condensed-matter systems are simply consequences of the properties of their atomic-level components, and all of theoretical research in condensed-matter physics consists essentially in deducing the former from the latter. I argue that this apparently plausible picture is totally misleading, and that condensed-matter physics is a discipline which is not only autonomous, but guaranteed in the long run to be fundamental.
Developing a complex endovascular fenestrated and branched aortic program

In 2008, the top priority in our division's 5-year strategic plan was "to become an internationally recognized center of excellence for the endovascular treatment of complex aortic pathology extending from the aortic valve to the external iliac artery." Five components were identified as "most critical" to achieve this strategic priority: (1) training at centers of excellence in complex endovascular repair; (2) industry partnership to improve access to developing technologies; (3) a fully integrated team approach with one leader involved in all steps of all cases; (4) prospective data collection; and (5) development and implementation of a physician-sponsored investigational device exemption for juxtarenal, pararenal, and thoracoabdominal aneurysms. We have now performed 49 repairs (16 commercially manufactured devices, 33 physician-modified devices) for 3 common iliac, 20 juxtarenal, 9 pararenal, and 17 thoracoabdominal aneurysms, using 142 fenestrations, branches, and scallops. All patients had complete 30-day follow-up for calculation of 30-day events. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to calculate 1-year events. In 5 years, we developed a successful complex endovascular aortic program that uses fenestrated/branched repair techniques. A focused team strategic planning approach to program development is an effective way for vascular surgery divisions to gain experience and expertise with new complex technologies while ensuring acceptable patient outcomes.
Fenomenologia, coscienza del tempo e analisi musicale

This paper explores the relationships between American phenomenology of music and conventional studies of musical analysis. The temporality of experience is a central topic in the phenomenology of music: recent research in USA has focused on musical time-consciousness (Schutz and Smith) or on analytical applications (Clifton, Lochhead, Ferrara). Many methods of musical analysis, like phenomenological methods, are concerned to study subjective temporal structures: Schenkerian and post-Schenkerian scholars (Salzer, Meyer, Narmour, Lewin) have elaborated specific systems for the explanation of musical form on a experiential basis. Apart from any comparison with the different approaches, phenomenological analysis appears to be fundamental for the analytical interpretation of music.
A comparison between InP films grown by the hydride and chloride techniques

Abstract The differences and similarities in the properties of InP films grown by the hydride and chloride techniques are attributed to thermodynamics or kinetic effects. The primary difference in the source zone is that an InP crust is formed in the chloride system. It is suggested that the crust does not completely cover the liquid indium, and that the change in the background carrier concentration when the PCI 3 flow rate is altered is due to transient behavior between two steady state conditions. The larger background carrier concentration in the bydride grown films is partially attributed to a lower HCl concentration; the growth of p-type films in the chloride system by introducing PCl 3 downstream cannot be explained thermodynamically and the larger growth rates in the hydride system must be due to kinetic factors such as the slow decomposition of PH 3 . The similarities are that according to thermodynamics the deposition zone HCl concentration can be more effectively increased by increasing the source input HCl or PCl 3 concentrations because introducing downstream HCl or PCl 3 reverses the deposition reaction; the growth rate is reduced by introducing HCl or PCl 3 downstream because it reduces the supersaturation; and the initial increase in the growth rate with increasing input HCl, PH 3 or PCl 3 concentrations is due to an increased supersaturation, and the growth rate at higher concentrations is limited by kinetics. Further, the initial growth rate increases faster with the input HCl concentration than with the input PH 3 concentration due to the fact that the degree of supersaturation increases more rapidly with the HCl concentration.
A Critical Theory of Organization Science

Critical theory is presented as a general method for analyzing an organization science based on either a natural science or interpretive paradigm. This is accomplished by introducing epistemic inquiry into organization science methodology. Specifically, critical theory provides a means of examining the socio-political interplay among the researcher, the research enterprise, the practitioner, and the organization members. Such an analysis requires the examination of ideology, technology, and praxis.
Penumbra encodes a novel tetraspanin that is highly expressed in erythroid progenitors and promotes effective erythropoiesis.

In a search for new genes involved in the regulation of erythropoiesis, we identified murine Penumbra cDNA from a multipotent hematopoietic cell line based on its predominant expression in erythroblasts. Subsequently, we identified the human PENUMBRA from a bone marrow cDNA library. Penumbra is a new member of the tetraspanin superfamily of membrane proteins, many of which are thought to function as organizers of supramolecular signaling complexes. Human and murine Penumbras contain 283 amino acids and are 97% identical. The human PENUMBRA gene is mapped to chromosome 7q32, a hot spot for deletions in myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myelogenous leukemias. Penumbra is targeted to the cell surface and forms disulfide-bonded homodimers. To study the effects of Penumbra deletions, we created a knockout mouse model by gene targeting. Penumbra −/− mice develop massive splenomegaly, basophilic macrocytic red blood cells, and anemia as they age. A multipotent hematopoietic cell line, EMX, was established from the bone marrow of a Penumbra −/− mouse. EMX exhibits ineffective erythropoiesis in the presence of erythropoietin, a defect that is reversed by reexpression of Penumbra. These findings indicate that Penumbra has a positive function in erythropoiesis and its deletion or mutation may result in anemia.