cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DIFFERENCES IN PRODUCTION VALUES BETWEEN HIGH- AND LOW-PRODUCTIVITY SWINE BREEDING HERDS

Data were collected from 80 North American users of a computerized health and management software program for the period August 1985 through July 1986. Fifty-four herds were selected for analysis based on selection criteria of 1) stable herd inventory, 2) complete recorded data, 3) weaning-to-first service interval greater than 3 d and less than 20 d, and 4) culling rate greater than 10%. These herds had an average of 18.2 pigs weaned/(female.year) (PWFY), 2.1 litters/(female.year) (LFY), 81% farrowing rate, 10.2 pigs born live/litter and 14.5% preweaning mortality. Compared with the 14 herds with the lowest values for pigs weaned/(female.year), high-productivity herds (i.e., the 14 herds with the highest values for PWFY) had higher LFY, farrowing rate, total and live pigs born/litter and sow-gilt ratio; they also had lower nonproductive female days (NPFD), lower preweaning mortality and fewer gilts as a proportion of female inventory. Herd size and PWFY were not correlated. A negative correlation between herd size and pigs born live remained after controlling for average lactation length (r = -.30). Nonproductive female days was highly correlated with LFY (r = -.87). Increasing herd age, measured by the sow-gilt ratio, was associated mainly with a reduction in NPFD, although there was a slight positive association with pigs born alive (r = .29).
Superconductivity in an infinite-layer nickelate

The discovery of unconventional superconductivity in (La,Ba)2CuO4 (ref. 1) has motivated the study of compounds with similar crystal and electronic structure, with the aim of finding additional superconductors and understanding the origins of copper oxide superconductivity. Isostructural examples include bulk superconducting Sr2RuO4 (ref. 2) and surface-electron-doped Sr2IrO4, which exhibits spectroscopic signatures consistent with a superconducting gap3,4, although a zero-resistance state has not yet been observed. This approach has also led to the theoretical investigation of nickelates5,6, as well as thin-film heterostructures designed to host superconductivity. One such structure is the LaAlO3/LaNiO3 superlattice7–9, which has been recently proposed for the creation of an artificially layered nickelate heterostructure with a singly occupied $${d}_{{x}^{2}-{y}^{2}}$$ band. The absence of superconductivity observed in previous related experiments has been attributed, at least in part, to incomplete polarization of the eg orbitals10. Here we report the observation of superconductivity in an infinite-layer nickelate that is isostructural to infinite-layer copper oxides11–13. Using soft-chemistry topotactic reduction14–20, NdNiO2 and Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 single-crystal thin films are synthesized by reducing the perovskite precursor phase. Whereas NdNiO2 exhibits a resistive upturn at low temperature, measurements of the resistivity, critical current density and magnetic-field response of Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 indicate a superconducting transition temperature of about 9 to 15 kelvin. Because this compound is a member of a series of reduced layered nickelate crystal structures21–23, these results suggest the possibility of a family of nickelate superconductors analogous to copper oxides24 and pnictides25. Superconductivity is demonstrated in an infinite-layer nickelate similar to infinite-layer copper oxides, which is synthesized using soft- chemistry topotactic reduction of the perovskite precursor phase.
Migrant populations and external voting: the politics of suffrage expansion in Central America

Recent decades have seen an enormous expansion in the number of countries allowing their nonresident citizens to vote from abroad, and an emerging literature has sought to identify the factors that...
Electro-Optic Kerr Effects in Optical Fiber Current Sensors

We discuss the influence of the electro-optic Kerr effect on optical fiber current sensors in a simulated Gas Insulated System environment. We also show that current, voltage, and phase can be measured using one transducer.
Abnormal Basic Metabolic Panel Findings: Implications for Nursing

In this article, the second in a new series designed to improve acute care nurses' understanding of laboratory abnormalities, the author continues her discussion of important values in the basic metabolic panel (see Back to Basics, January, for a discussion of sodium and fluid balance). Here she addresses the electrolytes potassium and chloride as well as blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, four values that are best considered together because they both reflect and impact renal function as well as acid-base homeostasis. Important etiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment concerns are also presented. Three case studies are used to integrate select laboratory diagnostic tests with history and physical examination findings, allowing nurses to develop a thorough, focused plan of care for electrolyte abnormalities and kidney disorders commonly encountered in the medical-surgical setting.
A network-based integrated framework for predicting virus-prokaryote interactions.

Metagenomic sequencing has greatly enhanced the discovery of viral genomic sequences; however, it remains challenging to identify the host(s) of these new viruses. We developed VirHostMatcher-Net, a flexible, network-based, Markov random field framework for predicting virus-prokaryote interactions using multiple, integrated features: CRISPR sequences and alignment-free similarity measures ([Formula: see text] and WIsH). Evaluation of this method on a benchmark set of 1462 known virus-prokaryote pairs yielded host prediction accuracy of 59% and 86% at the genus and phylum levels, representing 16-27% and 6-10% improvement, respectively, over previous single-feature prediction approaches. We applied our host prediction tool to crAssphage, a human gut phage, and two metagenomic virus datasets: marine viruses and viral contigs recovered from globally distributed, diverse habitats. Host predictions were frequently consistent with those of previous studies, but more importantly, this new tool made many more confident predictions than previous tools, up to nearly 3-fold more (n > 27 000), greatly expanding the diversity of known virus-host interactions.
Injury Risk Factors Associated With Weight Training.

Grier, T, Brooks, RD, Solomon, Z, and Jones, BH. Injury risk factors associated with weight training. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-The purpose of this evaluation was to identify injury risk factors associated with weight training (WT). Subjects were 4,785 men and 542 women in a U.S. Army Division. Personal characteristics, unit training, personal training, fitness, and 12-month injury history were obtained by an electronic survey. Risk factors for WT injuries were explored using backward stepping multivariable logistic regression. Risk ratios, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for each risk factor. Over a one-year period, 4.5% of men and 0.6% of women experienced a WT injury. Weight-training injury incidence was 0.31 and 0.05 per 1,000 hours of WT for men and women, respectively. Overall, men were 7.4 times more likely to experience a WT injury compared with women. For men who participated in WT, independent risk factors for a WT injury included older age (OR [23-27/≤ 22 years] = 1.99, 95% CI 1.22-3.27; OR [>28/≤ 22 years] = 2.48, 95% CI 1.52-4.03) and higher amounts of personal WT per week (OR [60-165/≥ 166 minutes] = 0.58, 95% CI 0.39-0.88; and OR [15-59/≥ 166 minutes] = 0.40, 95% CI 0.24-0.66). A linear trend was revealed indicating an increasing risk of a WT injury with greater amounts of time spent WT per week (p < 0.01). Performing moderate amounts of WT may reduce the risk of experiencing a WT injury. However, because muscle strength is an important component of fitness for Soldiers, specialized WT programs that improve strength while minimizing injury risks are needed.
Connecting and Analyzing Enantioselective Bifunctional Hydrogen Bond Donor Catalysis Using Data Science Tools.

The generalization of related asymmetric processes in organocatalyzed reactions is an ongoing challenge due to subtle, noncovalent interactions that drive selectivity. The lack of transferability i...
Abstract 2919: Discovery of PRT811, a potent, selective, and orally bioavailable brain penetrant PRMT5 Inhibitor for the treatment of brain tumors

Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) is the major type II PRMT that catalyzes the formation of symmetrical dimethyl arginine (SDMA) on protein substrates and plays important roles in regulating RNA splicing as well as transcription and activity of critical oncogenic signaling pathways. Recent studies have revealed PRMT5 as a potential therapeutic target for various cancers including Central Nervous System (CNS) tumors such as glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. Several PMRT5 inhibitors have entered into the clinic for hematological and solid tumors, but none have been reported to be brain penetrant, a potentially desirable feature of a small molecule designed for treating CNS cancers and brain metastases. PRT811 is a potent, selective, and brain penetrant PRMT5 inhibitor, and exhibits potent in vitro and in vivo activities in preclinical models of brain tumors. PRT811 inhibited the methyltransferase activity of the PRMT5/MEP50 complex with an IC50 of 3.9 nM, but showed minimal inhibition against a panel of 37 human methyltransferases at 10 µM. In a panel of brain cancer cell lines of varied histology, PRT811 reduced SDMA levels and inhibited cell proliferation with IC50 values in the range of 7-40 nM and 29-134 nM, respectively, regardless of expression levels of methylguanine methyltransferase (MGMT), the expression of which is associated with temozolomide (TMZ) resistance. Furthermore, PRT811 demonstrated broad antiproliferative activity in a panel of 87 cell lines consisting of brain, breast, lung, and skin cancers, representing primary and the most common cancer types that metastasize to the brain. Finally, PRT811 effectively inhibited cell growth in a panel of patient derived xenograft models of GBM in ex vivo 3D cultures. PRT811 is a highly permeable molecule with high brain penetrance in rodents, with an efflux ratio PRT811 is currently under evaluation in a Phase I clinical trial in patients with advanced solid tumors, gliomas, and myelofibrosis (NCT04089449). Citation Format: Yang Zhang, Hong Lin, Min Wang, Dimitrios Angelis, Michael Hawkins, Dave Rominger, Tom Emm, Juan Luengo, Bruce Ruggeri, Peggy Scherle, Kris Vaddi. Discovery of PRT811, a potent, selective, and orally bioavailable brain penetrant PRMT5 Inhibitor for the treatment of brain tumors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 2919.
Looking for Empires: Japanese Colonialism and the Comparative Gaze

Dieser Aufsatz durchmustert Trends der jungeren englischsprachigen Literatur uber japanischen Imperialismus und Kolonialismus. Die Ansatze der anglophon-vergleichenden Beschaftigung mit dem japanischen Kolonialismus haben sich in den letzten Jahren verschoben. Eine erste Generation stellte den inter-imperialen und inter-regionalen Vergleich in den Mittelpunkt. Neuere Untersuchungen entwickeln ihre Vergleichskategorien hingegen aus einer empirisch fundierten Analyse schwellennaher und grenzuberschreitender Phanomene. Insgesamt wird das japanische Imperium nicht mehr als einzigartiges Gebilde oder Summe spezifischer Beziehungen zwischen Metropole und Kolonien dargestellt. Vielmehr wird die Untersuchung des Kolonialismus innerhalb des japanischen Imperiums als Entwirrung der Faden angegangen, welche die vielen japanischen Imperien ausmachten und immer noch ausmachen. Tatsachlich ist die spannendste vergleichende Forschung diejenige, die sich ausdrucklich gar nicht als komparative versteht, das Feld gleichwohl aber dazu zwingt, die Moglichkeiten und Grenzen komparativer Wissensproduktion neu einzuschatzen.
Nanotoxicity and Nanoecotoxicity: Introduction, Principles, and Concepts

Nanotechnology is the creation, processing, characterization, and application of materials at nanoscale, which is in the range of one-billionth of a meter. It can also be associated with systems or processes that offer goods as well as services at this scale. Nanotechnology research and development has been expanding rapidly, and this trend will likely increase worldwide for the next couple of decades. Innovation in nanotechnology may result in business fluctuations, such as rapid obsolescence of existing technologies and capital moves from traditional business to novel technology. Nanotechnology offers many benefits to many industries, including medicine, energy, manufacturing, aircraft, defense, and food, although it has its own risks. Thus, engineers, scientists, and policymakers should work cooperatively to produce safer nanomaterials for community use and minimize the adverse effects of nanotechnology and its products. Here, we review the effect of nanomaterials on the environment, health, economy, and society. We also evaluate the growing market share of nanotechnology products in the United States and other nations. Finally, we summarize the preferable nanomaterials for different applications, their health effects, and safe handling techniques.
Youth Knowledge and Perspectives on Expedited Partner Therapy.

Abstract Purpose Expedited partner therapy (EPT) is an effective sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment and prevention practice that allows clinicians to provide treatment to the sexual partner(s) of individuals diagnosed with chlamydia and/or gonorrhea infections without a clinical evaluation. Due to the high incidence of STIs among youth, we sought to understand youth awareness and beliefs about EPT use. Methods MyVoice, a national text message survey of youth aged 14–24 years, posed 5 questions on EPT knowledge and perceptions to 1,115 youth in August 2018. Responses were reviewed to identify themes and iteratively develop a codebook. Two reviewers independently coded each question, and a third reviewer resolved discrepancies. Summary statistics were calculated for demographic and thematic analysis. Results A total of 835 participants responded to at least 1 question (74.9% response rate). Majority of youth (91.9%, n = 730/794) felt that it would be important to help their partners get treatment if they tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea. Although most participants were unaware of EPT (86.4%, n = 657/760), 81.3% (n = 624/768) supported the policy stating that it is “pretty darn convenient.” Youth also noted they would be interested in asking their provider for EPT. Participants opposing EPT (6.9%, n = 53/768) noted that “they [sexual partner] are responsible for their own health” and preferred to “tell my partner to go to [their] doctor.” Conclusions Most youth in the MyVoice cohort felt that EPT was a good way to get treatment for their partners, even though the majority were not aware that EPT was available as an STI treatment option.
Longitudinal Intra-Individual and Inter-Individual Relations Between Cognitive and Emotional Self-Regulation Across Adolescence

Development in multidimensional self-regulation is important because it can be leveraged to enable healthy long-term adjustment. This four-wave study investigated longitudinal associations between two domains of adolescent self-regulation, specifically its cognitive (e.g., planning and decision-making) and emotional components (e.g., control of negative emotions). Participants included 500 adolescents (52% female; T1 Mage = 13.31 years; 76% White; average yearly family income > 100,000 USD). A random-intercepts cross-lagged panel model revealed that, once trait-level longitudinal stability in each regulatory component was controlled, there were small cross-lagged effects from cognitive self-regulation to later emotional self-regulation. Findings warrant additional future research that describes adolescents’ multidimensional self-regulation development and its antecedents, in part by appropriately distinguishing between intra- and inter-individual effects.
The triangulators and the triangulated: agency and power in Claire Jean Kim’s racial triangulation theory

The editors of this special dialogue on Claire Jean Kim’s “The Racial Triangulation of Asian Americans” showed great foresight in proposing Professor Kim’s essay as the subject of an interdisciplin...
Potential barriers to lung cancer screening in a minority population: Assessing attitudes, beliefs, and values towards screening with low-dose computed tomography amongst a high-risk minority population.

17Background: While the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) has shown a relative reduction in mortality from lung cancer with the application of the United States Preventative Services Task Force ...
Canonical Equation K 6 for Symmetric Random Matrices with Identically Distributed Entries

Random matrices with identically distributed entries always draw the attention of experts in the field of probability theory and its applications. It is well known that if the variances of these entries for symmetric random matrices exist, then we have the so-called Wigner semicircle law. But what happens if absolute moments of the entries of random matrices do not exist? For the sum of independent identically distributed random variables the answer is well known: all possible limit distributions belong to the so-called class of stable laws. Unfortunately, we still cannot describe all possible limited normalized spectral functions for matrices with identically distributed entries, but if we assume that the distribution of random entries belongs to the region of attraction of a stable law with parameter 0 < α ≤ 2, then we can find the Stieltjes transform of the limit spectral function satisfying a certain stable stochastic equation.
The Sources of a Lipid Conundrum

Distinct sources of a bioactive lipid are needed for lymphocytes to enter the circulation. Therapeutic strategies need to take into account the existence of more than one lipid reservoir.
EMI-debugging of complex systems using different time, modulation, STFFT and frequency domain signal analysis techniques

One faces a difficult situation in EMI debugging if multiple sources radiate at the same frequency, especially, if little details on the EUT are provided. In this paper, we apply and compare a set of signal analysis techniques for identifying radiated emission sources. First, theoretical background of joint time-frequency analysis (JTFA) is given and an algorithm using short-term fast Fourier transform (STFFT) approach is applied for the data analysis. STFFT analysis provides an exclusive insight into time-dependent emission processes. Also, narrow span and zero span spectrum analysis are discussed. Special emphasis is given on signals sideband characteristics
The academic penalty for gaining weight: a longitudinal, change-in-change analysis of BMI and perceived academic ability in middle school students.

The academic penalty for gaining weight: a longitudinal, change-in-change analysis of BMI and perceived academic ability in middle school students
Evidence-based ethics? On evidence-based practice and the "empirical turn" from normative bioethics

The increase in empirical methods of research in bioethics over the last two decades is typically perceived as a welcomed broadening of the discipline, with increased integration of social and life scientists into the field and ethics consultants into the clinical setting, however it also represents a loss of confidence in the typical normative and analytic methods of bioethics. The recent incipiency of "Evidence-Based Ethics" attests to this phenomenon and should be rejected as a solution to the current ambivalence toward the normative resolution of moral problems in a pluralistic society. While "evidence-based" is typically read in medicine and other life and social sciences as the empirically-adequate standard of reasonable practice and a means for increasing certainty, I propose that the evidence-based movement in fact gains consensus by displacing normative discourse with aggregate or statistically-derived empirical evidence as the "bottom line". Therefore, along with wavering on the fact/value distinction, evidence-based ethics threatens bioethics' normative mandate. The appeal of the evidence-based approach is that it offers a means of negotiating the demands of moral pluralism. Rather than appealing to explicit values that are likely not shared by all, "the evidence" is proposed to adjudicate between competing claims. Quantified measures are notably more "neutral" and democratic than liberal markers like "species normal functioning". Yet the positivist notion that claims stand or fall in light of the evidence is untenable; furthermore, the legacy of positivism entails the quieting of empirically non-verifiable (or at least non-falsifiable) considerations like moral claims and judgments. As a result, evidence-based ethics proposes to operate with the implicit normativity that accompanies the production and presentation of all biomedical and scientific facts unchecked. The "empirical turn" in bioethics signals a need for reconsideration of the methods used for moral evaluation and resolution, however the options should not include obscuring normative content by seemingly neutral technical measure.
Simulations of photon-assisted field emission: their significance in basic science and device applications

Abstract Simulations suggest that a laser may significantly increase the current in field emission through a resonant interaction in which tunneling electrons exchange quanta with the radiation field. Resonance occurs when the difference between the reduced barrier height and the electron energy is approximately 0.9 times the energy of a photon of the radiation field. Simulations suggest that it is possible to generate and detect ultrawide-band signals from DC to 100 THz by photomixing two or more lasers focused on an emitting tip. Mixer current densities of 10 6 –10 8 A/m 2 could be produced by focusing two lasers on a tungsten tip, where each laser has a power flux density of 10 10 W/m 2 , and one laser is swept while the other is fixed at λ =700 nm.
A simplified statistical analysis of feedforward neural classifier

We propose an analytical procedure to determine the parameters of a neural classifier. A cost function based on the input statistics is defined. We also suggest an approximation model to describe the output distribution of each nonlinear unit with Gaussian inputs. We show that the resulting parametric classifier can perform as well as a conventional neural classifier trained with the backpropagation algorithm to minimize the mean square error. >
Liquid swine manure and nitrogen fertilizer effects on soybean yield, soil profile nitrogen, and mineralization rates

An experiment was begun in 1993 to study the effect of animal manure on the yield of soybean in a corn (Zea mays L.)soybean (Glycine max) rotation. Application methods consisted of broadcast and injected liquid swine manure (LSM), and ureaammonium nitrate (UAN) fertilizer (28% N) at four rates of applied N from 0 to 252 kg N ha-'. Method of application did not effect soybean yield or soil phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) concentrations. Soybean yields in 1994 were higher in the manure treated plots than the UAN plots (2540 and 2310 kg ha-', respectively). Soil nitrogen (N) was affected by the method of application and the rate of UAN and LSM applied. The UAN treated plots had higher concentrations of soil N in the surface 30 cm. The highest rate of UAN and LSM had the 'Graduate Research Assistant, Agronomy Department, Iowa State University, Ames IA_ 2Extension Agronomist, Agronomy Department, Iowa State University, Ames IA.
Early Distal-less expression in a developing crustacean limb bud becomes restricted to setal-forming cells.

SUMMARY Distal-less (Dll) plays a well-known role in patterning the distal limb in arthropods. However, in some taxa, its expression even during early limb development is not always limited to the distal limb. Here, I trace the expression of Distal-less in a crustacean (Thamnocephalus platyurus) from the early limb bud to later stages of limb development, a period that includes differentiation of juvenile and adult morphology. During early development, I find two distinct types of DLL expression: one correlated with proximal distal leg patterning and the other restricted to setal-forming cells. Later in development, all the DLL expression is restricted to setal-forming cells. Based on the particular cells expressing DLL, I hypothesize an ancestral role for Dll function in the formation accessory cells of sensilla.
Internet Pharmaceutical Sales: Attributes, Concerns, and Future Forecast

Internet pharmaceutical sales continue to skyrocket as healthcare providers and consumers are increasingly relying on the efficiencies and convenience that is available via such transactions. Managed care companies, increasing demands to reduce healthcare inefficiencies while maximizing the quality of patient care is a significant contributing factor to the expanding utilization and success of online pharmaceutical sales. However, with the expansion of Internet pharmaceutical sales, healthcare providers, pharmacy benefit management and insurance companies, and consumers realize new opportunities and risks. This paper will review the attributes and concerns associated with online pharmaceutical sales, discussing current and pending legislation intended to more effectively manage these parameters.
Countries’ Biomedical Publications and Attraction Scores. A PubMed-based assessment

Studying publication volumes at the country level is key to understanding and improving a country's research system. PubMed is a public search engine of publications in all life sciences areas. Here, we show how this search engine can be used to assess the outputs of life science-related research by country. We have measured the numbers of publications during different time periods based on the country of affiliation of the first authors. Moreover, we have designed scores, which we have named Attraction Scores, to appraise the relative focus either toward particular types of studies, such as clinical trials or reviews, or toward specific research areas, such as public health and pharmacogenomics, or toward specific topics, for instance embryonic stem cells; we have also investigated a possible use of these Attraction Scores in connection with regulatory policies. We have weighed the statistics against general indicators such as country populations and gross domestic products (GDP). During the 5-year period 2008-2012, the United States was the country with the highest number of publications and Denmark the one with the highest number of publications per capita. Among the 40 countries with the highest GDPs, Israel had the highest publications-to-GDP ratio. Among the 20 countries with the most publications, Japan had the highest Attraction Score for induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and Italy the highest proportion of review publications. More than 50% of publications in English were from countries in which English is not the primary language. We show an assorted and extensive collection of rankings and charts that will inform scholars and policymakers in studying and improving the research systems both at the national and international level.
Rabbit Muscle Acetone Powder as Riocatalyst for Adencsine 5′-Monophosphate Fiosensors

Abstract Rabbit muscle acetone powder is examined as a suitable biocatalytic layer for adenosine S'monophosphate (AMP) biosensors. This acetone powder biosensor is shown to possess excellent steady-state and dynamic response characteristics with effective usable lifetime and selectivity. Finally, the proposed biosensor is shown to compare favorably with other ANP biosensors with the principle advantage of being readily available at reasonable cost.
A multiresolutional approach to 3D object recognition

A multiresolutional approach is presented for effectively recognizing three-dimensional (3D) objects. The approach is both pose and scale invariant. A multiresolutional model base is constructed, and multiscale edges of the object are detected using the wavelet transform. The minimum alignment between model base and object is realized by the linear mapping scheme.
ONSET OF INCUBATION AND PATTERNS OF HATCHING IN THE AMERICAN COOT

Abstract. Examining incubation behavior during laying and that behavior's consequences on patterns of hatching can help discriminate among hypotheses competing to explain the evolution of asynchronous hatching. Consequently, I documented nest attentiveness and patterns of hatching of American Coots (Fulica americana) nesting in southwestern Manitoba from 1986 to 1991. Coots gradually increased their nest attentiveness from laying of the first to the sixth egg, and attentiveness to late-season clutches peaked earlier during laying, but it was unaffected by clutch size, first vs. replacement nest, or supplemental food. Nest attentiveness during laying was effective at initiating embryo development, as evidenced by a strong positive correlation between the order of laying of eggs and order of hatching of chicks. These results are most consistent with hypotheses that nest attentiveness during laying evolved to protect eggs or maintain viability of embryos. Clutch-initiation date had the most pronounced effect...
The prevalence and prognostic impact of lymph node metastasis in malignant germ cell tumors of the ovary

Abstract Background The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and prognostic importance of lymph node metastasis in malignant germ cell tumors of the ovary (OGCT). Methods Demographic and clinicopathologic information were abstracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) from 1988 to 2004. Patients with a histologic diagnosis of OGCT after surgical resection were included. The study population was divided into Cohort A (lymph node metastasis absent) and Cohort B (lymph node metastasis present). Statistical analysis using Fisher's Exact Test, Kaplan–Meier survival methods, and Cox regression proportional hazards were performed. Results In 613 patients with lymphadenectomy, the prevalence of lymphnode metastasis was 18.1% (111/613). In dysgerminoma, malignant teratoma and mixed germ cell tumors including pure non-dysgerminoma histology, the lymphnode metastasis was present in 28%, 8% and 16% patients respectively ( p p p Conclusions Prevalence of lymph node metastasis varies according to histology in OGCT and is an independent predictor of poor survival in these patients. These findings highlight the value of lymphadenectomy and may be helpful in creating risk stratification models for individualization of adjuvant therapies.
Effects of temperature on viral glycoprotein mobility and a possible role of internal "viroskeleton" proteins in Sendai virus fusion.

The effect of temperature on fusion of Sendai virus with target membranes and mobility of the viral glycoproteins was studied with fluorescence methods. When intact virus was used, the fusion threshold temperature (20–22°C) was not altered regardless of the different types of target membranes. Viral glycoprotein mobility in the intact virus increased with temperature, particularly sharply at the fusion threshold temperature. This effect was suppressed by the presence of erythrocyte ghosts and/or dextran sulfate in the virus suspension. In these cases also, no change in the fusion threshold temperature was observed. On the other hand, reconstituted viral envelopes (virosomes) bearing viral glycoproteins but lacking matrix proteins were capable of fusing with erythrocyte ghosts even at temperatures lower than the fusion threshold temperature and no fusion threshold temperature was observed over the range of 10–40°C. The mobility of viral glycoproteins on virosomes was much greater and virtually temperature-independent. The intact virus treated with an actin-affector, jasplakinolide, reduced the extent of fusion with erythrocyte ghosts and the mobility of viral glycoproteins, while the treatment of virosomes with the same drug did not affect the extent of fusion of virosomes with erythrocyte ghosts and the mobility of the glycoproteins. These results suggest that viral matrix proteins including actins affect viral glycoprotein mobility and may be responsible for the temperature threshold phenomenon observed in Sendai virus fusion.
Random Sampling from the Klein-Nishina Distribution: Efficiency, Parsimony, and Speed

Many Monte Carlo photon transport codes draw samples of the scattering cosine, and corresponding energy loss, for Compton scatter from the Klein-Nishina differential scattering cross section. We pr...
Rethinking the presence of American scholars in China.

THE MASSACRE of Chinese students and citizens in Beijing last June shocked the world. Response was intensified by the almost instantaneous news coverage, which persisted until the Chinese government took control of the media. For Americans involved with research in China, the student uprising and the events in Tiananmen Square created tremendous pressure to articulate a position on China. As moral outrage turned to consideration of the long-term consequences of the events, a complex exchange among scholars, funding agencies, and government officials ensued. 1 Many US organizations and individuals suspended research plans as the implications of continued involvement in China—moral, political, and interpersonal—were debated. To some, June 4, 1989, marked a turning point in assessment of the Chinese regime. Cooperation and exchange that previously were acceptable now symbolized collaboration with a corrupt government. For me, the events that occurred in Tiananmen Square forced a reevaluation—not of current positions, but of
Probabilistic Unsaturated Flow along the Textural Interface in Three Capillary Barrier Models

The probabilistic flow within capillary barrier models is evaluated by coupling a first-order reliability (probabilistic) model to a variably saturated flow model. The objective is to determine the most significant uncertain variable to probabilistic flow and the effect of different textural combinations. The model inputs include the mean and standard deviation of each uncertain variable. The van Genuchten curve-fitting model for unsaturated flow is used. The uncertain flow variables are saturated water content, residual water content, saturated hydraulic conductivity, and model parameters alpha (α) and n . A clay loam soil sample overlying a loamy sand sample, a clay loam sample overlying a sand sample, and a loamy sand sample overlying a sand sample are used to represent finer soils overlying coarser soil. Evaluations near the textural interface show that model parameters alpha (α) and n =most significant uncertain variables. These are related to the water entry pressure and the width of pore size distr...
WorkstationJ: workstation emulation software for medical image perception and technology evaluation research

We developed image presentation software that mimics the functionality available in the clinic, but also records time-stamped, observer-display interactions and is readily deployable on diverse workstations making it possible to collect comparable observer data at multiple sites. Commercial image presentation software for clinical use has limited application for research on image perception, ergonomics, computer-aids and informatics because it does not collect observer responses, or other information on observer-display interactions, in real time. It is also very difficult to collect observer data from multiple institutions unless the same commercial software is available at different sites. Our software not only records observer reports of abnormalities and their locations, but also inspection time until report, inspection time for each computed radiograph and for each slice of tomographic studies, window/level, and magnification settings used by the observer. The software is a modified version of the open source ImageJ software available from the National Institutes of Health. Our software involves changes to the base code and extensive new plugin code. Our free software is currently capable of displaying computed tomography and computed radiography images. The software is packaged as Java class files and can be used on Windows, Linux, or Mac systems. By deploying our software together with experiment-specific script files that administer experimental procedures and image file handling, multi-institutional studies can be conducted that increase reader and/or case sample sizes or add experimental conditions.
Probing sodium channel cytoplasmic domain structure. Evidence for the interaction of the rSkM1 amino and carboxyl termini.

Abstract Epitopes for monoclonal antibodies directed against the purified adult rat skeletal muscle sodium channel (rSkM1) were localized using channel proteolysis and fusion proteins. The interactions between these and other monoclonal antibodies with site-specific polyclonal antibodies were used to investigate the spatial relationships among rSkM1 cytoplasmic segments. Competition between antibodies for binding was performed using a solution-phase assay in which solubilized channel protein retains many of the biophysical characteristics of the rSkM1 protein in vivo. Our results support a model in which: 1) the amino terminus assumes a rigid structure having a fixed orientation with respect to other intracellular segments; 2) the interdomain 2-3 region is centrally located on the cytoplasmic surface of the channel, extends farther into the cytoplasm, and has an intermediate degree of flexibility; 3) the beginning of the amino terminus and end of the carboxyl terminus specifically interact with each other; and 4) domains 1 and 4 are adjacent. The sequences responsible for the interaction of the amino and carboxyl termini were identified by demonstrating the specific binding of a synthetic peptide encompassing the first 30 residues of the rSkM1 amino terminus to a fusion protein containing the rSkM1 carboxyl terminus.
Configuration Mixing in the N=4 Electron Isoelectronic Sequence

The theoretical central-field-approximation predictions for the 3P and 1P terms of the 1s2 2s3p configuration in the N=4 electron isoelectronic sequence are in violent disagreement with observation. Correlation effects in the form of configuration interaction have been included by considering the mixing among nine odd configurations. Even though the terms are displaced considerably, they remain quite pure, and after configuration mixing the agreement between theory and observation is good. In order to show the use of such theoretical calculation, weighted oscillator strengths for the 2s2 1S1–2s3p1P1, 3P1 transitions are also computed.
Polarization effects in (p, π+) reactions

Abstract The pionic stripping model of ( p , π + ) is used to derive predictions of polarization effects, including (polarized proton) + (unpolarized everything else) right-left asymmetries, stripping to partially filled shells, and selected (polarized beam) + (polarized target) experiments.
Examining the effects of former cannabis use on cerebellum-dependent eyeblink conditioning in humans

Rationale Previous work in humans has shown that chronic cannabis users exhibit disruptions in classical eyeblink conditioning (EBC), a form of associative learning that is known to be dependent on the cerebellum. Based upon previous work in animals, it was hypothesized that these learning deficits were related to cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) downregulation. However, it remains unclear whether there is a recovery of cerebellum-dependent learning after the cessation of cannabis use.
Human chorionic gonadotropin prevents Sjögren's syndrome–like exocrinopathy in mice

Objective Results of recent studies suggest that human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a placental glycoprotein hormone required for the maintenance of pregnancy, may have immunomodulatory properties. Primary Sjogren's syndrome (SS), a chronic autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology, affects multiple exocrine glands including the salivary and lacrimal glands. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether HCG could prevent the development of salivary gland exocrinopathy in NOD mice, an experimental model of Sjogren's-like syndrome. Methods Female NOD mice were treated with HCG from 6 weeks of age to 12 weeks of age. At 14 weeks, tissue samples were evaluated for inflammatory lesions and cytokine messenger RNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction. At 18 weeks, the salivary flow rate was measured. Results Treatment with HCG resulted in a significant decrease in lymphocyte infiltration and parenchymal cell damage in the submandibular salivary glands. Messenger RNA levels of interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-10, as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase and matrix metalloproteinase 9, were significantly decreased. Function studies revealed a marked increase in the salivary flow rate in HCG-treated mice compared with that in phosphate buffered saline–treated mice. Conclusion In NOD mice, HCG acts as an immune modulator and prevents the development of salivary gland exocrinopathy. These findings suggest that HCG, a naturally occurring reproductive hormone, may be useful in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome and other human autoimmune diseases.
STABLE TRANSFECTION WITH cDNAs FOR γ-GLUTAMYLCYSTEINE SYNTHETASE (GGCS) HEAVY CHAIN PROTECTS CHINESE HAMSTER OVARY (CHO) CELLS AGAINST t-BUTYL HYDROPEROXIDE (t-BuOOH) or DIQUAT (DQ) TOXICITY. ♦ 874

STABLE TRANSFECTION WITH cDNAs FOR γ-GLUTAMYLCYSTEINE SYNTHETASE (GGCS) HEAVY CHAIN PROTECTS CHINESE HAMSTER OVARY (CHO) CELLS AGAINST t-BUTYL HYDROPEROXIDE (t-BuOOH) or DIQUAT (DQ) TOXICITY. ♦ 874
Optimal Sparse Segment Identification With Application in Copy Number Variation Analysis

Motivated by DNA copy number variation (CNV) analysis based on high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data, we consider the problem of detecting and identifying sparse short segments in a long one-dimensional sequence of data with additive Gaussian white noise, where the number, length, and location of the segments are unknown. We present a statistical characterization of the identifiable region of a segment where it is possible to reliably separate the segment from noise. An efficient likelihood ratio selection (LRS) procedure for identifying the segments is developed, and the asymptotic optimality of this method is presented in the sense that the LRS can separate the signal segments from the noise as long as the signal segments are in the identifiable regions. The proposed method is demonstrated with simulations and analysis of a real dataset on identification of copy number variants based on high-density SNP data. The results show that the LRS procedure can yield greater gain in power for de...
Compressive cake filtration

Abstract Previous works using the multiphase continuum theory to analyze cake filtration have identified the need of constitutive relations for the drag force between the phases and the stress on the solid matrix. In this work the Blake—Kozeny expression, normally used with packed beds, is used to represent the drag force relationship and the stress on the solid matrix is empirically related to the strain. To apply the Blake—Kozeny expression a power-law function is used to account for changes in the specific surface area as the solid matrix deforms. Experimental data from a cake filtration of fibrous cellulose particles in water is evaluated using the above expressions. The tentative results indicate that the specific surface area increases with decreasing cake porosity and that the stress—strain relation is nonlinear.
Task scheduling on heterogeneous devices in parallel pervasive systems (P2S)

Parallel Pervasive Systems (P2S) comprise an ad hoc networkof pervasive devices such as cell phones, handheld computers, laptops,sensors and other devices that essentially form a parallel system.Most of the current work in pervasive computing and mobile adhoc networksexploit resources on remote devices to execute compute intensivetasks. In this paper, we present a distributed task scheduling algorithmcalled cluster based scheduling algorithm (CBS) for parallel processingof task graphs in pervasive environments. We reduce the communicationoverhead by considering the devices to be grouped into logical clusters.CBS does not require the task scheduler device to have knowledge of allcharacteristics of each device in the environment. The proposed schemeallows usage of multiple task scheduling algorithms. Simulation resultsdemonstrate time and energy efficient scheduling of tasks in heterogeneousenvironments.
Ozone and temperature change in the winter stratosphere

In an experiment to study the correlation between temperature and ozone in the disturbed winter atmosphere, two rocket-borne ozonesondes were flown during a time in which the temperature structure, in the stratosphere and lower mesosphere changed at certain altitudes from the previous day. The resulting ozone and temperature distribution, as compared to distribution on the control day at the end of the winter season, showed variations during the time the atmosphere was disturbed. These variations may be explained by considering the temperature-dependence of reaction rates for an oxygen atmosphere.
Trend in correlated proportions

A random effects probit model is developed for the case in which the same units are sampled repeatedly at each level of an independent variable. Because the observed proportions may be correlated under these conditions, estimating their trend with respect to the independent variable is no longer a standard problem for probit, logit or loglinear analysis. Using a qualitative analogue of a random regressions model, we employ instead marginal maximum likelihood to estimate the average latent trend line. Likelihood ratio tests of the hypothesis of no trend in the average line, and the hypothesis of no differences in average trend lines between experimental treatments, are proposed. We illustrate the model both with simulated data and with observed data from a clinical experiment in which psychiatric patients on two drug therapies are rated on five occasions for the presence or absence of symptoms.
Effect of Arginine and Glycine on the Growth of Chicks Receiving Complete, Purified Diets

Abstract AFTER the discovery of the high requirement of the chick for arginine (Arnold et al., 1936) and glycine (Almquist et al., 1940; Hegsted et al, 1941a) certain diets containing 18% casein were found to be primarily deficient in these two amino acids (Hegsted et al., 1941b) Subsequently Briggs and his associates (1942) showed that 10% of gelatin would satisfy the requirement of the chick for arginine and glycine and that no growth difference could be demonstrated at 4 weeks of age between groups of chicks receiving free arginine and glycine and those receiving gelatin. These workers used dextrin as the carbohydrate in all of their diets. During the course of a study on the effect of the type of dietary carbohydrate on the growth of chicks, it was noted that the substitution of arginine and glycine for gelatin in the 18% casein-sucrose diets usually promoted more rapid growth during the …