cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pattern of recurrence of myxofibrosarcoma is not associated with pattern at presentation or rate of delayed diagnosis

Background: The tendency of myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) to have a non-nodular appearance on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may present a challenge in detection of local recurrence. Appropriate index of suspicion of expected imaging appearance can alleviate this challenge. Objectives: Our objectives were to determine if: 1) imaging pattern at recurrence is associated with delayed diagnosis, and 2) appearance at recurrence can be predicted based on appearance at presentation. Patients and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. Two analysis groups were used: patients with recurrence captured on MRI (objective 1) and patients with MRI prior to resection and at recurrence (objective 2). Three radiologists scored images independently and in consensus as infiltrative (tail-like spread), focal (absence of spread), or mixed. Consensus results were used for analysis with Fisher’s exact test. Results: There was substantial agreement among the 3 readers (k = 0.72, 95% confidence interval: 0.59 - 0.85). Half of all infiltrative cases were associated with a delay in diagnosis, compared to 10% of mixed or focal cases; however, there was no statistically significant association between infiltrative pattern at recurrence and delayed diagnosis (P = 0.08). In 70% of cases, recurrence had the same appearance as presentation, suggesting a trend; however, there was no association between appearance at baseline and recurrence (P = 0.1). Conclusion: Imaging appearance at baseline does not reliably predict imaging appearance at recurrence. Therefore, a high index of suspicion for the infiltrative pattern is required in assessment of post-operative MRIs in patients with MFS.
Face recognition based on LBP and genetic algorithm

This paper implements the face recognition system based on genetic algorithm. System is consisted of illumination compensation in video image, feature extraction, feature selection, classification, identification, and displaying. the recognition rate of human face recognition system with a good stability and strong practicality is above 90%. It has laid a good foundation for further study of face recognition system.
Development of Auto Antigen-specific Regulatory T Cells for Diabetes Immunotherapy

CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for normal immune surveillance, and their dysfunction can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases, such as type-1 diabetes (T1D). T1D is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disease characterized by islet β cell destruction, hypoinsulinemia, and severely altered glucose homeostasis. Tregs play a critical role in the development of T1D and participate in peripheral tolerance. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) can be utilized to obtain a renewable source of healthy Tregs to treat T1D as they have the ability to produce almost all cell types in the body, including Tregs. However, the right conditions for the development of antigen (Ag)-specific Tregs from PSCs (i.e., PSC-Tregs) remain undefined, especially molecular mechanisms that direct differentiation of such Tregs. Auto Ag-specific PSC-Tregs can be programmed to be tissue-associated and infiltrate to local inflamed tissue (e.g., islets) to suppress autoimmune responses after adoptive transfer, thereby avoiding potential overall immunosuppression from non-specific Tregs. Developing auto Ag-specific PSC-Tregs can reduce overall immunosuppression after adoptive transfer by accumulating inflamed islets, which drives forward the use of therapeutic PSC-Tregs for cell-based therapies in T1D.
Assessment of Asian Festuca rubra germplasm for potential to improve rangeland sustainability in the western United States

There is a need for drought tolerant grass germplasm for use in wildfire control on degraded landscapes of western US rangelands. In 2006, multi-national plant expeditions collected eight fine-leafed Festuca rubra L. (2n = 6x–8x) accessions from the harsh semi-arid rangelands of Kyrgyzstan (KGZ) and the People’s Republic of China (CHN) that may have potential for use in western U.S. rangelands. Morphological and marker-based genetic analyses compared these collections with nine commercial cultivars, and four previously described high performance KGZ F. valesiaca Schleich. ex Gaudin subsp. valesiaca plant introductions in the high desert of the U.S. Great Basin. Initially, accession morphology was evaluated over 3 years at Blue Creek, UT for relative vigor, height, width, total biomass, persistence, and seed yield. Subsequently, a subset of the F. rubra accessions and checks were evaluated at three locations (Malta, ID, Blue Creek, UT, and North Logan, UT) over 2 years. All entries differed for all traits over years and locations in both trials, and CHN PI 659984 was consistently the best performing F. rubra entry examined. Marker-based genetic comparisons differentiated the F. rubra from the F. valesiaca accessions and the Festuca checks examined, and the F. rubra accessions based on ploidy and geographic origin. Because the F. rubra accessions examined were erect (25.5–76.4 cm), green during summer months, and rhizomatous with substantial seed fecundity under harsh semi-arid growing conditions, they have potential for inclusion in plant improvement programs for increased sustainability and wildfire control of western U.S. rangelands.
VRILLE Controls PDF Neuropeptide Accumulation and Arborization Rhythms in Small Ventrolateral Neurons to Drive Rhythmic Behavior in Drosophila

In Drosophila, the circadian clock is comprised of transcriptional feedback loops that control rhythmic gene expression responsible for daily rhythms in physiology, metabolism, and behavior. The core feedback loop, which employs CLOCK-CYCLE (CLK-CYC) activators and PERIOD-TIMELESS (PER-TIM) repressors to drive rhythmic transcription peaking at dusk, is required for circadian timekeeping and overt behavioral rhythms. CLK-CYC also activates an interlocked feedback loop, which uses the PAR DOMAIN PROTEIN 1e (PDP1e) activator and the VRILLE (VRI) repressor to drive rhythmic transcription peaking at dawn. Although Pdp1e mutants disrupt activity rhythms without eliminating clock function, whether vri is required for clock function and/or output is not known. Using a conditionally inactivatable transgene to rescue vri developmental lethality, we show that clock function persists after vri inactivation but that activity rhythms are abolished. The inactivation of vri disrupts multiple output pathways thought to be important for activity rhythms, including PDF accumulation and arborization rhythms in the small ventrolateral neuron (sLNv) dorsal projection. These results demonstrate that vri acts as a key regulator of clock output and suggest that the primary function of the interlocked feedback loop in Drosophila is to drive rhythmic transcription required for overt rhythms.
First Detection and Distribution of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), in Connecticut Based Mainly on Reports of Citizens Between 2008 and 2015

Abstract. The eastern Asian brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stal), is a nuisance and a crop pest in many parts of the United States. Mainly reports of citizens that were verified by experts were used to show that the distributional range of H. halys in Connecticut steadily increased from 2008 when it was first discovered until June 2015 when it was generally present throughout the state. The number of sightings (grouped by 12-month periods from 1 July to 30 June of the next year) showed a three-tiered pattern, being low in the first two reporting periods, higher in the next three, and highest in the last two. The number of new towns (local governing units in the state) documented to have H. halys increased from 2008–2009 to 2010–2011, and then generally decreased thereafter. On a diversified farm in Hamden, Connecticut, adults entered an ultraviolet light-trap during eight weeks between late July and mid-September in 2012 and 2013. About six years elapsed between the capture of the first sp...
Size-dependent predation and intraspecific inhibition of an estuarine snail feeding on oysters

Abstract Predator outbreaks have increased in the past two decades in many ecosystems and are predicted to become more common with climate change. During these outbreaks, predator densities increase rapidly, and can cause large reductions in prey populations or shifts in prey size structure. However, unexpected interactions may occur at high predator densities, necessitating a mechanistic understanding of how increased predator density affects predator-prey dynamics. In the northern Gulf of Mexico, outbreaks of southern oyster drill, Stramonita haemastoma (Linnaeus, 1767), occur during high salinity events, and can greatly reduce eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica (Gmelin, 1791), populations. A large outbreak of drills occurred from 2013 to 2015 in Apalachicola Bay, FL which corresponded with an oyster fishery collapse in that bay. To improve our mechanistic understanding of predation during such a high-density outbreak, laboratory experiments based on field observations were used to quantify the prey size selection by drills and the drill functional response, as a function of drill abundance. Drills fed on medium-sized oysters (50–75 mm) more often than small and larger-sized oysters, and often formed aggregations during feeding events. However, despite this aggregative response, there was a negative relationship between per capita feeding rates and drill abundance. Indeed, the Crowley-Martin functional response model had the most parsimonious fit to the data, suggesting that predator-predator inhibition reduced attack rates and increased handling times. Due to an increase in regional drought conditions and water usage in the southeastern United States, drill outbreaks will likely increase in frequency and duration. A greater understanding of how predation rates change with predator densities during outbreaks will improve predictions of oyster mortality, and strengthen the scientific framework for oyster fishery decisions.
Novel Divalent Osmium Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Tuning of Emission, and use in Organic Light Emitting Diodes

In this work we present the synthesis and characterization of several novel osmium complexes of the form [Os(N-N)2 L-L]2+ 2Ts- or [Os(L-L)2 N-N]2+ 2Ts- designed for organic light emitting device (OLED) applications. In the complex notation N-N represents a derivative of 2,2’-bipyridine or 1,10-phenanthroline and L-L represents a strong π-acid arsine or phosphine ligand. Several counterions have been used and include tosylate, hexafluorophosphate, triflate, heptafluorobutyrate, chloride, bromide, and iodide. The complexes feature 3MLCT emission that ranges from 611–650 nm, which makes them suitable as an emission source for red OLEDs. Phosphorescent quantum yields as high as 45% and emission lifetimes as short as 400 nanoseconds have been reached. The complexes were incorporated into OLED and give off red, orange, yellow, and green electrophosphorescence. Red devices have been created using polyvinylcarb/2-tert-butylphenyl-5-biphenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole, polyvinylnapthalene/2-tert-butylphenyl-5-biphenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole, and polyfluorene host materials. OLEDs have been created which give brightness up to 3000 cd m-2 and efficiency up to 2.2% at 632 nm emission.
Treatment selection for men with metastatic prostate cancer who progress on upfront chemo-hormonal therapy.

Background Androgen deprivation therapy plus docetaxel (D-ADT) increases overall survival (OS) in men with high-volume, metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). Although the vast majority of men initially respond to D-ADT, most will progress and develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Little is known about the optimal treatment sequence for men with progressive disease on D-ADT. Patient and methods Retrospective analysis of consecutive mHSPC patients treated with ≥3 cycles of D-ADT at Cleveland Clinic and University of Wisconsin-Madison was undertaken. The primary end-points included radiographic progression free survival (rPFS) and OS with first-line treatment for metastatic CRPC (mCRPC). Results Final analysis included 136 patients, median age 65 (range 35-86), 77% GS ≥ 8, and 79% with high-volume disease who received ≥3 cycles of docetaxel. Undetectable PSA values at 12 and 24 months were observed in 32% and 25% of patients, respectively. Median time to CRPC (biochemical, clinical, or radiographic) was 19.6 months (16.6-22.6). Sixty patients (44%) received ≥1 treatment for CRPC: 48 patients (80%) received a second-generation hormonal therapy (sHT). Among these, 22 received abiraterone acetate, 20 enzalutamide, and six a novel CYP-17 inhibitor on trial (ASN-001). Five patients (8%) received sipuleucel-T; four (7%) radium-223, five (8%) chemotherapy (two carboplatin-based, two single agent cabazitaxel, one single agent docetaxel) and three other. Patients receiving sHT as the first treatment for mCRPC had a median rPFS of 9.0 months (95%CI, 6.9-11.2) compared with 3.0 months (95%CI, 1.5-4.5) for patients who received a non-sHT (P = 0.024). The choice of first therapy for mCRPC was independent of GS (P = 0.909), visceral disease (P = 0.690) and time to CRPC (P = 0.844). Longer OS correlated with time to CRPC (P = 0.010) and first treatment for CRPC with sHT (P = 0.005). Conclusions For patients with progressive disease on D-ADT, subsequent treatment with a sHT is associated with a longer rPFS and OS.
Role of Motor Cortex Cells in Control of Operantly Conditioned Muscle Activity

In the primate, precentral motor cortex plays an important role in both the learning and execution of voluntary limb movements, particularly those involving discrete patterns of muscle activity. A better understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying voluntary movements seems a prerequisite to the eventual goal of understanding the neural mechanisms of operant conditioning per se, i.e., how the occurrence of a reinforcing stimulus changes the probability of an operant response. The role of motor cortex cells in voluntary control of limb muscles has been elucidated recently by studies of neural activity in behaving animals, operantly conditioned to perform relevant motor responses. The functional relations between cortical cells and limb muscles are particularly well elucidated by experiments that test for constraints in their interactions.
Structure of Discrete Systems with Variable Nonlocal Behavior

We clarify, for discrete time systems, two notions of a system with time variant delay, and explore their structural properties. The ultimate purpose is to shed some light on the potential ill-posedness associated with problems with rapidly increasing delay (delay increment greater than one system update step). The main approach is to consider the time delay system using an extension of the state space. For the case of periodically varying delays, this problem becomes a special case of the lifting for periodic systems. Structural problems, such as stability and reachability, can then be investigated using time-invariant theory. For instance, the property that the quotient space of reachable periodic delay systems modulo state space similarity is a smooth manifold, is inherited. A special reflecto-difference equation is analyzed in more detail as an example of a system with unbounded nonlocal behavior.
Recidivism Is the Leading Cause of Death Among Intravenous Drug Users Who Underwent Cardiac Surgery for Infective Endocarditis

The proportional incidence of intravenous drug use (IVDU)-associated infective endocarditis (IE) cases requiring surgery has increased significantly, mirroring the national opioid crisis. Recidivism is common but its impact on postoperative outcomes is unclear. We aimed to evaluate short- and mid-term postoperative outcomes associated with recidivism in this population. We retrospectively reviewed 180 consecutive patients (54 IVDU and 126 non-IVDU) surgically treated for IE from 2011 to 2016. The institutional database was linked to the Connecticut Department of Public Health Death Index to capture statewide long-term mortality and causes of death. Regression models were fitted to evaluate the association between IVDU status and perioperative adverse events, mid-term survival, and causes of death. IVDU patients were younger and had fewer comorbidities. Diabetes, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, and previous coronary artery bypass graft were less frequently present in IVDU patients compared to non-IVDU patients (P
Maximizing Secrecy Rate and Payoff Through Wireless Virtualization in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

In this paper, we study secrecy rate maximization through wireless virtualization in heterogeneous wireless networks where Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) borrow frequency slices from Wireless Infrastructure Providers (WIPs) and serve the end users. For subleasing their frequency slices to MVNOs, WIPs use their service level agreements (SLA) with MVNOs to divide and reconfigure their RF bands. Then, we use two stage game for maximizing the payoff of MVNOs and secrecy rates (aka payoff) of end users. The performance of the proposed game is evaluated using numerical results where MVNOs offer lowers price to attract more users or more requests from users and the end users adapt their strategies to improve their secrecy rates.
Efficient Synthesis of All-Carbon Quaternary Centers via the Conjugate Addition of Functionalized Monoorganozinc Bromides.

The conjugate addition of organometallic reagents to α,β-unsaturated carbonyls represents an important method to generate C–C bonds in the preparation of all-carbon quaternary centers. Though conjugate additions of organometallic reagents are typically performed utilizing highly reactive organolithium or Grignard reagents, organozinc reagents have garnered attention for their enhanced chemoselectivity and mild reactivity. Despite numerous recent advances with more reactive diorganozinc and mixed diorganozinc reagents, the generation of all-carbon quaternary centers via the conjugate addition of functionalized monoorganozinc reagents remains a challenge. This protocol details a convenient and mild “one-pot” preparation and copper mediated conjugate addition of functionalized monoorganozinc bromides to cyclic α,β-unsaturated carbonyls to afford a broad scope of all-carbon quaternary centers in generally excellent yield and diastereoselectivity. Key to the development of this technology is the utilization of DMA as a reaction solvent with TMSCl as a Lewis acid. Notable advantages to this methodology include the operational simplicity of the organozinc reagent preparation afforded by the utilization of DMA as a solvent, as well as an efficient conjugate addition mediated by various Cu(I) and Cu(II) salts. Moreover, an intermediate silyl enol ether can be isolated utilizing a modified workup procedure. The substrate scope is limited to cyclic unsaturated ketones, and the conjugate addition is impeded by stabilized (e.g., allyl, enolate, homoenolate) and sterically encumbered (e.g., neopentyl, o-aryl) monoorganozinc reagents. Conjugate additions to five- and seven-membered rings were effective, albeit in lower yields compared with six-membered ring substrates.
Parasitic Technologies and Non-Creative Destruction

There appears to be a common misconception, even among economists, that all instances of new technologies driving out old technologies are beneficial. This short essay attempts to point out that some new technologies do not so much replace an old technology as destroy an old technology without a superior technology left in place. The example provided concerns a technology whose sole function is to remove advertising from advertising based programming. Such a technology would unambiguously decrease total surplus.
The relationship between resilience, emotional distress, and community participation outcomes following traumatic brain injury

Purpose/Objective: To determine how resilience is associated with social participation outcomes in persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI), in the context of emotional distress, demographics, and injury-related factors.Setting: Individuals with a history of TBI recruited the following stay at three rehabilitation facilities in the USA.Participants: 201 community-dwelling persons with medically documented TBI ranging in severity from mild to severe.Design: Prospective cohort observational study. Data were collected at two time points, approximately 6 months apart.Main Measures: TBI-QOL; PART-OResults: Resilience at baseline was moderately to strongly correlated with baseline psychological distress variables (rs= -.66) and social participation variables (rs =.33 to.57). In regression analyses, resilience was directly associated with social participation outcomes and formed a significant interaction with emotional distress in some models. Resilience failed to show a relationship with social participation at 6-month follow-up, when controlling for baseline social participation.Conclusions: Though related to emotional distress, self-reported resilience makes a unique contribution to predicting outcomes over time following brain injury, and may impact the relationship between stress and negative participation outcomes. As such, it is possible interventions that promote resilience may mitigate distress and promote community integration.
Risk Factors for Cancer of the Mouth: Tobacco, Betel Quid, and Alcohol

Tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol are established risk factors for oral cavity cancer that have been known for decades. Tobacco exposure includes smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, bidis, chewing tobacco, and using snuff. An association of involuntary smoking with oral cavity cancer is not established, though evidence on such an association exists for lung cancer. Few studies have focused on assessment of the carcinogenicity of involuntary smoking specifically for oral cavity cancer, and it is a difficult exposure to measure. There are no studies on e-cigarettes or smoking of waterpipes and the risk of oral cavity cancer. Studies of oral cavity cancer for these forms of tobacco smoking would be of interest as a future direction of research. Both case-control and cohort studies support the independent effect of alcohol drinking on risk of oral cavity cancer, with strong dose-response relationships measured by frequency or duration of alcohol drinking. Betel quid with or without tobacco is also confirmed to be carcinogenic. Cessation of alcohol drinking reduces risks, with risks returning to those of never drinkers after 10 years. All types of alcoholic beverages confer an excess oral cavity cancer risk.
Symmetry of Disease in Retinopathy of Prematurity in the Postnatal Growth and Retinopathy of Prematurity (G-ROP) Study.

To determine the symmetry of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) between fellow eyes in a broad-risk cohort.A retrospective cohort study, the Postnatal Growth and ROP (G-ROP) Study, of 7483 infants un...
A brief report on the effects of vasoactive agents on peripheral venous waveforms in a porcine model.

ObjectivesNon-invasive venous waveform analysis (NIVA) is a recently described, novel technique to assess intravascular volume status. Waveforms are captured with a piezoelectric sensor; analysis i...
Are Arthroplasty Procedures Really Better in the Treatment of Complex Proximal Humerus Fractures? A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Objective A meta-analysis and systematic review was performed to compare outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), hemiarthroplasty (HA), and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) for complex proximal humerus fractures. Data sources: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were screened. Search terms included reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, open reduction internal fixation, hemiarthroplasty, and proximal humerus fracture. Study selection English-language studies published within the past 15 years evaluating outcomes of ORIF, rTSA, or HA for complex proximal humerus fractures with minimum of 1-year follow-up were included, resulting in 51 studies with 3064 total patients. Review articles, basic science studies, biomechanical studies, and cadaveric studies were excluded. Data extraction The methodological quality of evidence was assessed using the Jadad scale and methodological index for nonrandomized studies. Data synthesis Demographic data were compared using the χ2 test. Mean data were weighted by study size and used to calculate composite mean values and confidence intervals. Continuous data were compared using the Metan module with fixed effects. Count data were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Alpha was set at 0.05 for all tests. Conclusions Patients undergoing rTSA had lower risks of complication (relative risk 0.41) and reoperation (relative risk 0.28) than HA patients. rTSA resulted in higher Constant scores (standard mean difference 0.63) and improved active forward flexion when compared with HA (standard mean difference 0.76). Pooled mean data demonstrated better outcome scores and active forward flexion of ORIF versus HA and rTSA, although the patients were younger and had more simple fracture patterns. Level of evidence Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Splenic preservation after isolated splenic blunt trauma: The angioembolization paradox

Abstract Background The spleen is the most commonly injured organ in blunt abdominal trauma. The management for splenic trauma includes nonoperative management, splenectomy, and splenic artery angioembolization. The aim of this study is to investigate recent trends in the usage of splenic artery angioembolization in patients with isolated blunt splenic trauma. Methods Adult patients (age >15) with isolated blunt splenic trauma were identified from the National Trauma Databank (2007–2015) using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes. The defined groups included nonoperative management, splenectomy, and splenic artery angioembolization. Patient variables collected included year of traumatic injury, age, sex, race, insurance status, and geographic region. Clinical variables collected included vital signs (systolic blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate) recorded upon arrival to the emergency room, injury severity score, abbreviated injury severity scores, diagnoses, procedures, and mechanism. Outcome measures included mortality, hospital duration of stay, and complications. We performed 2 independent Poisson logistic regression models to assess relative risk for both splenectomy and angioembolization. Results A total of 10,812 patients were included in the analysis (nonoperative management: 7,920; splenectomy: 2,083; angioembolization: 809). Angioembolization proportion increased from 2007 (4.6%) to 2015 (10%), while splenectomy proportion remained unchanged (19.2% to 18.3%). Poisson logistic regression suggests the adjusted probability of receiving angioembolization for a splenic injury increased year-to-year, while the adjusted probability of receiving a splenectomy remained unchanged. Conclusion The use of angioembolization for isolated blunt splenic injuries has increased over the past decade without a reciprocal change in splenectomy. Based on this study, angioembolization may be an overused resource without a significant benefit.
Turning the Tables: The View from Offshore During 60 Days in JST

A report and examination of a Remote Work experience during the Covid-19 pandemic encompassing a 14-hour time difference from the primary work location. Advantages and disadvantages of a globally distributed work experience as compared to an aligned time zone are explored. Logistical aspects of the arrangement are provided as well as the management support, peer reaction, and relative productivity. Recommendations are also provided on how to improve future geographically diverse team arrangements. [Keywords: Global Software Development, Offshore Development, Software Engineering, IT Management, Remote Work, Remote Office Design, Distributed Communications, Collaboration Technology, Team Management, Research, Development, Productivity]
The quest for autonomy. Are we there yet? Are CPS a way to build autonomous systems?

Achieving autonomy has been a dream for many years. The term autonomous system has had different meanings depending on who and when it was used. Attempts to build autonomous vehicles by major corporations and grand challenges by government funding agencies have captured the public's imagination. How much closer are today to this dream than we were 25 years ago?
Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life in Rural Population Health Research: Using Classical and Modern Psychometric Approaches

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an outcome measure of growing interest in public health research and is concerning a person’s perceived health. Population health research often has the goal of administering large questionnaires to large numbers of participants, emphasizing the need for small scales. Furthermore, many existing national surveys administer standard health-related questions which, if validated properly, could be used to assess HRQOL. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a short HRQOL scale for rural adults using both classical and modern psychometric methods. This study analyzed data from 2,430 rural adults participating in the 2012 Montana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Three self-reported items (physical health, mental health, & general health) and one constructed index for a total of four items were used to assess HRQOL. Results from factor analysis indicated a single factor model accounting for 53.5% of the total variance. Factor loadings ranged from .48 to .82 with the mental health item contributing the least to the factor. The internal consistency analysis showed that the four-item scale was moderately reliable (KR20 = .70), however could improve (KR20 = .75) if the mental health item was dropped. The Rasch assessment confirmed dropping the mental health item due to an Outfit MnSq statistic greater than 1.50. A final three-item Rasch assessment indicated good model fit, item separation, and item reliability. This study provides psychometric evidence for the use of a three-item (physical health, general health, & healthy days) HRQOL scale (HRQOL3) with rural adults. The simplicity of the scale and the widespread use of its items make the HRQOL3 a viable choice for rural population health research.
Some Applications of Asymptotic Methods in Semiconductor Device Modeling

This short survey of results concerning the applications of perturbation analysis in semiconductor device modeling is devoted mostly to problems that were solved using the method of composite asymptotic expansions or the, so-called, boundary function method. Thorough description of this approach can be found in Vasil’eva and Butuzov [17], [18], [19] and in O’Malley [13], [14]. The main ideas of the method are illustrated below on the example of the singularly perturbed problem for the Gunn diode. Here the construction of the leading order terms of the asymptotic solution is discussed. This gives the opportunity to obtain the main characteristics of the device to the zeroth order. More detailed analysis of the asymptotic approximation for the solution of the Gunn diode problem, including the construction of higher order terms, will be published later. To make the presentation more compact some cumbersome details of the solution algorithm have been omitted.
WIPL-D model and simulation results for a 46cm diameter impulse radiating antenna (IRA)

WIPL-D was used to model and simulate an impulse radiating antenna (IRA) with a 46cm diameter paraboloidal reflector and 45 degree feed arms. Model views are shown and the results of frequency domain simulation up to 20GHz are shown to agree with results from published measurements. Beam patterns at three frequencies show the highly directional behavior of this antenna. The simulated frequency domain data is inverse Fourier transformed to obtain the time domain response to a Gaussian pulse input. This response is integrated to obtain the response to a step input, which compares well with the theorized step input response of the IRA.
Developmental changes in calcium conductances contribute to the physiological maturation of cerebellar Purkinje neurons in culture

The relationship between calcium conductances and developmental changes in the active and passive membrane properties of cerebellar Purkinje neurons from rats was studied in a culture model system by using current-clamp and voltage-clamp techniques. These cultures, at 6-21 d of age, represented the main period of morphological and physiological development of the Purkinje neuron. In the current-clamp studies, input resistance decreased and the current-voltage curve became more S-shaped as the neurons matured in culture. Spike-generating properties also changed. Immature Purkinje neurons without dendritic structure produced repetitive, fast TTX-sensitive simple spikes when stimulated electrically. The simple spike frequency increased with maturation. In older neurons (greater than or equal to 12 d in vitro) with well-developed dendritic structure, a burst event, the complex spike, preceded the repetitive simple spike firing. Magnesium (10 mM) and cadmium (50-100 microM), calcium channel blockers, antagonized the repetitive simple spike firing in both young and old neurons. The complex spike of the older neurons was also antagonized by magnesium (10 mM) but was resistant to cadmium (50-100 microM), suggesting that a pharmacologically distinct calcium conductance mediated this spike event. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings showed that the older Purkinje neurons expressed two calcium currents, a low-threshold rapidly inactivating calcium current resistant to cadmium (50-100 microM) and a high-threshold slowly inactivating calcium current antagonized by cadmium (50-100 microM). In young Purkinje neurons without dendritic structure (6-9 d in vitro), only the high-threshold calcium current was evident. The amplitude of this current increased approximately 50% during development. These results indicate that the developmental expression of calcium conductances plays a prominent role in the physiological maturation of the cultured Purkinje neurons, which closely simulate the physiologic cells they model. The high-threshold calcium conductance is expressed early in development and contributes to repetitive simple spike firing of both the young and old neurons. The low-threshold calcium conductance appears later in development, coincident with dendritic expression, and plays a major role in the generation of the complex spike.
On design of efficient square generator

The product of two numbers A and B can be calculated from A/sup 2/ and B/sup 2/. The simplest way for evaluating the squares is the use of ROM look up tables. However the conventional ROM table approaches are limited only for small bit size applications due to the unmanageable increase of the ROM table size. A novel design of square generator using a folding approach is presented to reduce the ROM table size. Results show that the a ROM of (2/sup 12//spl times/24) can store the squares of 12 bit numbers in 9.96 ns and takes 35 mm/sup 2/, where 0.8 /spl mu/mn CMOS process is assumed. With the folding approach, a square generator of 40 bit numbers can be designed using the same ROM table with additional circuitry. The 40 bit square generator takes 12.27ns in delay and 36.45% in hardware overhead. With a two level nested structure, the same ROM table can be used to design a 103 bit square generator which takes 14.58 ns in delay and 3.11 times the area of (2/sup 12//spl times/24) ROM, i.e., 10.9 mm/sup 2/. The bit size can be increased with more levels of the nested structure. The results are promising and thus the proposed approach is well suitable for large bit size applications.
Minimal faithful modules over Artinian rings

Let R be a left Artinian ring, and M a faithful left R-module such that no proper submodule or homomorphic image of M is faithful. If R is local, and socle(R) is central in R, we show that length(M=J(R)M) + length(socle(M)) ≤ length(socle(R)) + 1. If R is a finite-dimensional algebra over an algebraically closed field, but not necessarily local or having central socle, we get an inequality similar to the above, with the length of socle(R) interpreted as its length as a bimodule, and the summand +1 replaced by the Euler characteristic of a graph determined by the bimodule structure of socle(R). The statement proved is slightly more general than this summary; we examine the question of whether much stronger generalizations are possible. If a faithful module M over an Artinian ring is only assumed to have one of the above minimality properties { no faithful proper submodules, or no faithful proper homomorphic images { we find that the length of M=J(R)M in the former case, and of socle(M) in the latter, is ≤ length(socle(R)). The proofs involve general lemmas on decompositions of modules.
Helping a 10-Year-Old Haitian Girl With Vaginitis

Purpose The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate how nurses who work with Haitian children and families can use NANDA-I (diagnosis), the Nursing Outcomes Classification, and the Nursing Interventions Classification to assist a 10-year-old child with symptoms of vaginitis. Data Sources The case study derives from the author's experience and literature sources. Data Synthesis This case study demonstrates a nurse's clinical decision making while providing care to a 10-year-old girl with symptoms of vaginitis. Conclusions Increased knowledge and awareness about appropriate health behaviors can increase patients’ power and enable them to freely act and adopt health behaviors to improve health outcomes. Implications for Nursing Placing patients at the center of the nursing process and partnering with patients to plan and develop interventions enable them to take actions and improve health outcomes.
On the global output convergence of a class of recurrent neural networks with time-varying inputs

This paper studies the global output convergence of a class of recurrent neural networks with globally Lipschitz continuous and monotone nondecreasing activation functions and locally Lipschitz continuous time-varying inputs. We establish two sufficient conditions for global output convergence of this class of neural networks. Symmetry in the connection weight matrix is not required in the present results which extend the existing ones.
Comparison of mainline and alternate approaches to fusion energy

The tokamak and tandem mirror concepts are compared with alternate confinement concepts using the criteria established in DOE/ET-0047, “An Evaluation of Alternate Magnetic Fusion Concepts 1977.” The concepts are evaluated and rated in each of three broad categories: confidence in physics and technology, and reactor desirability. The STARFIRE and MARS reactors are used as a basis for comparing the mainline tokamak and tandem mirror concepts with the alternate concepts evaluated in DOE/ET-0047. Two recent alternate concepts, theohmically heated toroidal experiment (OHTE) and thecompact reversed field pinch reactor (CRFPR), are also evaluated. Results indicate that the physics of the mainline tokamaks and tandem mirrors is better understood than that of most alternate concepts. Both mainline concepts rank near the middle for technology requirements, and both rank near or at the bottom when compared with the reactor desirability of alternate concepts.
Antiapoptotic Effect and Inhibition of Ischemia/ Reperfusion-Induced Myocardial Injury in Metallothionein-Overexpressing Transgenic Mice

Previous studies using a cardiac-specific metallothionein (MT)-overexpressing transgenic mouse model have demonstrated that MT inhibits ischemia/reperfusion-induced myocardial injury. The present study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that the MT inhibition is associated with suppression of apoptosis mediated by mitochondrial cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation. An open-chest coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion procedure to produce ischemia/reperfusion-induced left ventricle infarction was used in MT-overexpressing transgenic mice and non-transgenic controls. After 30 minutes of ischemia, the left ventricle was reperfused to allow blood flow through the previously occluded coronary artery bed. Myocardial infarction produced after reperfusion for 4 hours was significantly reduced in the MT transgenic mice. This inhibition correlated with the antiapoptotic effect of MT, as determined by a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine 5-triphosphate nick-end labeling assay, mitochondrial cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation. Ischemia/reperfusion-induced lipid peroxidation was also significantly inhibited in the MT-transgenic heart. Dimethylsulfoxide, a chemical scavenger for reactive oxygen species, was used to confirm the antioxidant effect of MT and found to suppress myocardial infarction and lipid peroxidation just as MT did. This study thus demonstrates that MT suppresses ischemia/reperfusion-induced myocardial apoptosis through, at least in part, the inhibition of cytochrome c-mediated caspase-3 activation pathway. The antiapoptotic effect of MT likely results from the suppression of oxidative stress and correlates with the inhibition of myocardial infarction.
Computers, productive agency, and the effort after shared meaning

COMPUTERS PROVIDE FRESH OPPORTUNITIES for enhancing and understanding collaborative learning. They permit new research methodologies such as simulations of cooperating agents, and they present new design challenges including computerized peers and supporting collaborations across cultural boundaries. This article has two goals. One goal is to offer recent examples and findings that may help design computer-supported collaboration. The other is to begin a theoretical discussion that focuses on the individuals who collaborate. This differs from much of the collaborative and cooperative learning literature that emphasizes the rules and structures for enforcing collaboration (e.g., group roles and joint accountability). We start with individuals, because we believe that much of the learning that occurs during collaboration develops out of individuals’ efforts to share meaning and understand one another. We consider prerequisites to people’s effort to share meaning, and we particularly focus on the important role of the productive agency that leads people to contribute rather than just borrow knowledge. We consider the type of knowledge likely to develop during collaboration, and we suggest ways to prepare and help people learn from the language that permeates collaborations as well as formal classroom lectures and texts.
Retrospective evaluation of equine prepurchase examinations performed 1991-2000.

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Prepurchase examinations of horses are used increasingly as a means of evaluating future soundness. Data is lacking in the literature of the radiographic findings and results of the lameness examination of comprehensive prepurchase examinations. OBJECTIVE: To summarise the clinical and radiographic findings of prepurchase examinations and determine if radiographic findings correlated with the lameness examination and sale outcome. METHODS: Records of 510 cases were reviewed, radiographs evaluated and grades assigned the navicular bone, distal phalanx, and tarsus. Follow-up information on the horse status was obtained by telephone interviews for 173 horses. RESULTS: Thoroughbred geldings represented the most common breed and sex, mean age 8 years, mean asking price 12,439.40 dollars, and 52.8% were lame. Radiography was the most common diagnostic procedure performed (61.6%), with views of the front feet requested most often (86.6%) followed by the tarsi (68.1%). Grade 1 was most common for the navicular bone while Grade 2 predominated for the distal phalanx. The number of sound horses decreased as grades became more severe. For the tarsi, Grades 0 and 1 were most common for the proximal intertarsal and distal intertarsal/metatarsal joints, respectively. Horses with significant tarsal changes were still able to compete at their expected level. With respect to the radiographic examination, the mean +/- s.d. grade of the horses which were not lame at follow-up was 1.2 +/- 0.9 for the navicular bone and 15 +/- 0.8 for the third phalanx. The mean +/- s.d. grade of sound horses for the distal intertarsal joint was 0.7 +/- 0.6 and 1.14 +/- 0.8 for the tarsometatarsal joint. Horses for which owner follow-up was available and which had a Grade 3 score were also evaluated. For the navicular bone, 17/31 with a Grade 3 remained in active use at follow-up and for the distal phalanx 21/27 were in active use. For the distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints, 20/21 with a Grade 3 were still in active use. CONCLUSIONS: Prepurchase examinations can have a significant effect on the outcome of the sale. For the navicular bone and distal phalanx, higher grades were associated with lameness. In contrast, higher grades in the tarsus were less likely to be associated with lameness. Warmbloods tended to have more extensive changes in the navicular bone and distal phalanx relative to Thoroughbreds but were not as lame. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Radiographic changes detected in the navicular bone, distal phalanx and tarsus should be interpreted with consideration to the clinical examination.
A Qualitative Assessment of Arab Culture and Information Technology Transfer

Information technology transfer is not an easy task, and seems to be particularly daunting for developing countries. As most technology is designed and produced in developed countries, it is culturally-biased in favor of those developed countriesâ€™ social and cultural systems. This bias creates cultural and social obstacles for developing countries to transfer technology into practice. Based on focus groups, interviews of Arab-American business people, and a field study conducted in five Arab countries, this paper presents the findings of a qualitative progressive study to systematically examine the linkage between information technology transfer and sociocultural factors that support or impede a successful transfer.