cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing the Adoption and Integration of ICT in Teaching among Foreign Teachers in Thailand

The objectives of this study were to identify the factors that influence the adoption and integration of ICT in teaching; determine significant relationship between the personal level and technological level factors and the adoption and integration of ICT in teaching, and test the significant difference in the influence of the factors on the adoption and integration of ICT in teaching. Respondents of this study are 123 foreign teachers from different primary and secondary Thai and international schools in Thailand through the use of snowball sampling technique. They are non-education graduates, were teaching in various schools in Thailand, were enrolled last Academic Year 2017, and those that are currently taking the Graduate Diploma in Teaching Profession in one of the private international universities in Rangsit and Nakhon Nayok, Thailand. This study utilized the descriptive method. The instrument utilized for gathering the data was a researcher-made survey questionnaire which was tested for its validity and reliability. The data were statistically analyzed and interpreted through basic statistics such as frequency, percentage, and mean; and inferential statistics such as Spearman rho, Pearson product moment correlation coefficient (Pearson r) and t-test for significant difference, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Findings revealed that foreign teachers agreed that factors such as personal characteristics and technological characteristics influenced the adoption and integration of ICT in teaching. It was also found out that in general there was no significant relationship and difference in the personal and technological characteristics to the integration and adoption of ICT in the teaching-learning process.
Evidence of Diagnostic and Treatment Delay in Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis: Missing the Window of Opportunity

Abstract Objectives To compare the time from first joint swelling to fulfillment of the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria between patients with seropositive and seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to assess the impact of seronegative status on the time from first joint swelling to initiation of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy and achievement of remission. Patients and Methods Times from first provider-documented joint swelling to fulfillment of the 1987 and 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria and to the clinical diagnosis of RA were measured in a population-based cohort of adults with incident RA between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2014. Disease characteristics and achievement of remission were compared between seropositive (rheumatoid factor positive and/or anti–citrullinated peptide antibody positive) and seronegative (rheumatoid factor negative/anti–citrullinated peptide antibody negative) patients. Results The median time from first joint swelling to fulfillment of the 1987 (48 [interquartile range (IQR), 0-300] days vs 2 [IQR, 0-45] days; P=.001) and 2010 (14 [IQR, 0-196] days vs 0 [IQR, 0-29] days; P=.004) classification criteria and the median time from first joint swelling to the clinical diagnosis of RA (187 [IQR, 13-503] days vs 11 [IQR, 0-76] days; P Conclusion Patients with seronegative RA experienced a delay in diagnosis, according to both the 1987 and 2010 classification criteria, as well as a delay in the initiation of DMARD therapy. Patients with seronegative RA were also less likely to attain remission, suggesting that the window of opportunity for intervention may be more frequently missed in this group.
The Arthritis Barrier: Long-Term Effects of ACL Trauma on Knee Joint Health

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) trauma increases the risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Athletes have a greater prevalence of PTOA and experience symptoms at a younger age than the general population, making this topic an important consideration in the medical treatment of ACL-injured athletes. Concomitant injury to other structures about the knee such as articular cartilage lesions, traumatic bone marrow lesions, meniscus tears, and other ligament tears significantly increases the risk of PTOA compared to isolated ACL tears. There is not an established improvement in PTOA outcomes between surgical reconstruction versus nonsurgical treatment of ACL tears, although some studies suggest these findings may not apply to elite athletes. The literature has not definitively established the impact of ACL reconstruction timing or the graft type on the development of PTOA. It remains unclear if a different PTOA disease process exists between the patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joints. Some evidence suggests a delayed return to sports for athletes following ACL reconstruction could help limit damage to knee structures. Some studies have found no increase in PTOA rates for athletes who return to sport compared to those who do not. Overall, there is a need for more PTOA research specific to athlete populations.
Observations on the impact of amylopectin and amylose structure on the swelling of starch granules

Abstract Four different types of amylopectin structure have been reported in our earlier work based on the internal unit chain profile obtained from limit dextrins of amylopectin and data strongly suggested that chain length and organization of internal unit chains of amylopectin influence the gelatinization and retrogradation properties of the starch. Another important functional attribute is granule swelling that mainly contributes to the viscosifying property of starches. In this study, unmodified defatted amylose-containing starch granules possessing amylopectin of four types were subjected to swelling in warm water. The swelling pattern of the granules was related to the structural type of the amylopectin component. Granules having amylopectin of Type 1 structure started to swell at lower temperature (about 55 °C) and possessed more restricted swelling than most of the other starches. Type 1 starches lost their integrity at temperatures above 85 °C, whereas starch granules with Type 2 and 3 amylopectin were still intact at 95 °C. Starches with Type 4 amylopectin were heterogeneous with respect to their swelling: Lesser yam starch possessed comparatively restricted swelling between 75 and 95 °C, whereas canna and potato starch swelled extensively and disintegrated already before 95 °C. Some waxy samples were also included in the investigation and these were generally more sensitive to swelling than their non-waxy counterparts, showing that amylose restricts the swelling and stabilizes the granular structure, albeit there was no correlation between the apparent amylose content and the swelling of tested samples. Instead, the result suggested a correlation between the structure of amylopectin and the deposition of amylose in the starch granules.
Evaluation of Maternal, Embryo, and Placental Effects in CD-1 Mice following Gestational Exposure to Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) or Hexafluoropropylene Oxide Dimer Acid (HFPO-DA or GenX).

Background: Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a poly- and perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in mice and humans, but little is known regarding one of its repl...
Elastophagocytosis and interstitial granulomatous infiltrate are more common in extragenital vs genital lichen sclerosus

Background Genital and extragenital lichen sclerosus (LS) share similar histopathologic features. A recent small series documented elastophagocytosis uniquely in extragenital LS. We evaluated a larger series of LS for elastophagocytosis, elastic fiber loss, and other histopathologic features. We evaluated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression to determine if these proteins play an etiologic role. Methods Genital (n = 42) and extragenital (n = 41) LS biopsies were examined for histopathologic features, elastic fiber alteration (Verhoeff van Gieson staining), and MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression (immunohistochemistry). Results Elastophagocytosis and an interstitial granulomatous pattern were significantly more common in extragenital LS than genital LS (43.9% vs 4.7% and 56.1% vs 9.5%). Extragenital LS had mild/focal elastic fiber loss (43.9%), while genital LS had moderate (61.9%) or marked (19%) loss. MMP-9 was diffusely expressed in histiocytes in both types of LS (genital 97.5%; extragenital 100%). Weak MMP-2 expression was seen in genital (58%) and extragenital (55%) LS. Conclusions Extragenital LS, but not genital LS, frequently exhibits elastophagocytosis and interstitial granulomatous infiltrate, and these patterns could contribute to elastic fiber destruction in extragenital LS. While MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression are common in LS, expression did not significantly differ depending on anatomic site and thus is unlikely to explain observed histopathologic differences.
Fully subscribed: Evaluating yield trade-offs among fishery sectors utilizing the Pacific halibut resource

Abstract The Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) stock in the waters of the exclusive economic zones of Canada and the United States of America has been actively managed by the International Pacific Halibut Commission since its formation in 1923. Fisheries accessing this resource have become increasingly varied over time and among geographical areas, and more than capable of utilizing the entire yield available each year, which has averaged 34,000 mt since 1992. In recent years, 69.5 % of the mortality has come from the directed commercial fishery landings, 15.4 % from non-directed commercial fisheries (legally restricted from retaining any halibut) and 15.1 % from all other sources combined (commercial discards, recreational, subsistence). Understanding the relative effects on the stock and potential yield of allocation among fishery sectors is a high priority for managers and participants in these fisheries. This analysis used the 2019 stock assessment for Pacific halibut and three analytical methods to compare the directed and non-directed commercial fisheries. We found that potential yield to the directed fishery was generally larger than a simple reallocation from non-directed discards (115 % on average), that the rate of exchange is variable over time (range of 86–139 %), and that the effect of the directed commercial fishery on the spawning biomass has also changed over time. We conclude that managers should be aware that no simple ‘conversion rate’ exists for translating mortality among fisheries that differ appreciably when operating on a stock with dynamic biology.
Compliant, Large-Strain, and Self-Sensing Twisted String Actuators.

Twisted string actuators (TSAs) convert rotational motion from twisting into linear motion. They are known for high energy efficiency, and large linear strain and stress outputs. Although they have been successfully applied as the moving mechanism for different robot applications, their potential in soft robotics is mainly challenged by two aspects: First, the conventional strings of TSAs are stiff and strong but not compliant. Second, precise control of TSAs predominantly relies on external position or force sensors. Because of these, TSA-driven robots are often rigid and bulky. In this study, we propose the design, modeling, and robotic application of TSAs that are compliant, can produce large strain, and are capable of self-sensing during twisting-induced actuation. The design is realized by replacing conventional stiff strings with compliant, thermally activated, and conductive supercoiled polymer strings. Experiments show that the developed TSAs have normalized stiffness of 30%, and position self-sensing capability during twisting. The quasi-static actuation and self-sensing properties are accurately captured by the Preisach hysteresis operators. In particular, both the twisting-induced actuation and thermally induced actuation are considered. Finally, the proposed TSAs are successfully demonstrated in a low-cost three-dimensionally printed compliant robotic gripper.
Cross-sectional study of psychosocial and pain-related variables among patients with chronic pain during a time of social distancing imposed by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact, including on individuals with chronic pain. The social distancing policies necessary to slow the spread of SARS-CoV-2 have involved increased levels of social isolation. This cross-sectional survey study examined pain severity and interference among individuals with chronic pain during an early phase of social distancing mandates, and identified characteristics of individuals who were most impacted. Approximately 4-8 weeks after social distancing mandates commenced in the state of Massachusetts, 150 patients with fibromyalgia, chronic spine and postsurgical pain completed demographic, pain, social distancing, and validated psychosocial questionnaires. Patients self-reported an overall significant increase in pain severity and pain interference, compared to before social distancing, although both pain severity and interference were quite variable among individuals under conditions of social distancing. Several demographic, socioeconomic, and psychosocial factors were associated with greater pain severity and interference during social distancing. Multivariable linear regression demonstrated that female gender, non-white race, lower education, disability, fibromyalgia, and higher pain catastrophizing were independently associated with greater pain severity, while female gender and pain catastrophizing were independently associated greater pain interference. The findings suggest that individual differences among chronic pain patients should be considered in the planning, development, and prioritization of interventions to improve pain care and to prevent worsening of symptoms during the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
Can the Board of Directors Save Corporate America? Paradoxically, the Answer Appears to be No!

We model a board as a team of insiders and outsiders and ask whether it can perform the monitoring function necessary to maximize shareholder wealth. Faced with a collective decision, each board member can expend costly effort to collect information and then cast a vote in favor or against the decision. We show that even with optimal incentive contracts, boards will make inferior decisions relative to CEOs because of free riding on fellow directors' effort, information and votes. Such free-riding occurs whether the firm's corporate governance mandates that board decisions be made through majority or unanimity rules and balloting is open or secret. While active board monitoring does reduce executive compensation, shareholders are on net better off under an optimally compensated CEO with a rubber stamping board. Paradoxically, our theory suggests that reforms aiming to make boards more independent and more accountable are likely to reduce shareholder wealth.
High-risk, recurrent and oligometastatic prostate cancer: recent developments on the role of radiation.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although a standard of care in the treatment of organ-confined prostate cancer, use of radiation for treatment in the high-risk, metastatic and salvage settings is evolving rapidly. RECENT FINDINGS Recent clinical trials have explored the role of increased treatment for high-risk disease with the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy and expanded the role of radiation in settings previously reserved for systemic therapy. Addition of adjuvant chemotherapy for high-risk prostate cancer is controversial and recent evidence is discussed that continues to refine the patient population for further evaluation. Evidence recently published demonstrates that for patients with low burden metastatic disease and those with oligometastatic disease may have a survival benefit with radiation treatment to all sites of known disease. Finally, reirradiation after prior radiotherapy-based treatment offers a potential salvage option for patients with locally recurrent prostate cancer. SUMMARY As treatment paradigms evolve for prostate cancer, recent evidence continues to demonstrate benefit for the use of local therapy, both in patients with organ-confined disease and, more increasingly, in those with limited metastatic or locally recurrent disease. Further work is needed to identify subgroups of patients who may benefit from available treatment escalation approaches.
Doxycycline inhibits corneal angiogenesis after keratoplasty

Objective To explore the inhibitive effects of doxycycline on corneal angiogenesis after keratoplasty.Methods Rat corneal allogenic transplantation models were prepaired.Recipients were randomly divided into 2 groups:Group A(saline group) and group B(doxycycline group).The size of corneal angiogensis and the expression of VEGF proteins in two groups were examined.Results Compared with the mean survival time of group A(9.67±2.73) days,the mean survival time of group B(20.67±3.01) days was significantly prolonged.In addition,both the mean percentages of neovascularized corneal area and the expression of VEGF in group B were less than that in group A(P0.01).Conclusion Doxycycline can significantly inhibit corneal angiogenesis and prevent corneal allograft rejection after keratoplasty.
Evaluating treatment-specific post-discharge quality-of-life and cost-effectiveness of TAVR and SAVR: Current practice & future directions.

Abstract Background Aortic stenosis is a prevalent valvular heart disease that is treated primarily by surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), which are common treatments for addressing symptoms secondary to valvular heart disease. This narrative review article focuses on the existing literature comparing recovery and cost-effectiveness for SAVR and TAVR. Methods Major databases were searched for relevant literature discussing HRQOL and cost-effectiveness of TAVR and SAVR. We also searched for studies analyzing the use of wearable devices to monitor post-discharge recovery patterns. Results The literature focusing on quality-of-life following TAVR and SAVR has been limited primarily to single-center observational studies and randomized controlled trials. Studies focused on TAVR report consistent and rapid improvement relative to baseline status. Common HRQOL instruments (SF-36, EQ-5D, KCCQ, MLHFQ) have been used to document that TF-TAVR is advantageous over SAVR at 1-month follow-up, with the benefits leveling off following 1 year. TF-TAVR is economically favorable relative to SAVR, with estimated incremental cost-effectiveness ratio values ranging from $50,000 to $63,000/QALY gained. TA-TAVR has not been reported to be advantageous from an HRQOL or cost-effectiveness perspective. Conclusions While real-world experiences are less described, large-scale trials have advanced our understanding of recovery and cost-effectiveness of aortic valve replacement treatment strategies. Future work should focus on scalable wearable device technology, such as smartwatches and heart-rate monitors, to facilitate real-world evaluation of TAVR and SAVR to support clinical decision-making and outcomes ascertainment.
Great Sand Dunes National Monument Vegetation Patterns

This project is designed to chacterize and map the vegetation of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, Colorado (GSDNM) and to determine if the vegetated areas in the dune field are permanent, temporary, or migratory. It is not known if the vegetation around the dunes is encroaching on the dunes, being replaced by the dunes or is stable. There are also concerns about the possible effect a proposed water export project adjacent to GSDNM would have on the dunes and their vegetation.
The Role of Nucleus Tractus Solitarii (nTS) Neurons in Cardiorespiratory Dysfunction Associated with Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with dysfunction of cardiorespiratory control. The mechanisms behind these alterations are not understood. The nTS is critical in cardiorespiratory homeostasis and reflex function, and may play a crucial role in AD dysautonomia. Here we examined autonomic and respiratory regulation, and neuronal alterations in the nTS of an established rodent AD model (CNS Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced). Results are compared to saline-injected control rats. In vivo plethysmography revealed a strong trend for blunted hypoxia/chemoreflex-induced increases in breathing (p=0.068). Furthermore, baroreflex-mediated sympathoexcitation to hypotension was markedly blunted in AD rats (p蠄0.01), consistent with orthostatic hypotension observed in AD patients. To examine the neuronal alterations in the nTS, patch clamp recordings were made in in vitro slices. When compared to control, AD rats show significantly increased network activity (p蠄0.01), spontaneous spike discharge and enhanced discharge...
Heat Flow Variations Over Hawaiian Swell Controlled by Near‐Surface Processes, Not Plume Properties

The commonly accepted explanation for the Hawaiian-Emperor chain of sea-mounts is that it is caused by drift of the Pacific plate over a relatively stationary plume of hot material upwelling from deep within the Earth. As the classic example of this phenomenon, geophysical data from the Hawaiian chain, particularly heat flow data, have been used to infer the physical properties of mantle plumes, such as their temperature and how they interact with the overlying plate. However, the heat flow data have defied simple explanation and are often at odds with other geophysical observations. Here I show that variations in heat flow are highly correlated with changes in the thermal conductivity of the surface sediments rather than with any expected variability in heat flux reaching the surface from a mantle plume. This correlation of heat flow with thermal conductivity is exactly what is predicted if the upper oceanic crust acts as a permeable aquifer in a flow system that laterally redistributes heat within the uppermost oceanic crust. The spatially- averaged mean of the heat flow values is well determined and indicates that the oceanic plate near Hawaii is hotter than expected for its age, consistent with the plume hypothesis. However, the effect of the fluid circulation is to obscure any heat flow pattern that could be used to infer the structure of the plume or its interaction with the overlying lithosphere.
Wavelets for baseband coding of waveforms

We consider a novel baseband waveform coding technique based on wavelets. Wavelets are recognized for their temporal and spectral localization and for their orthogonality across scale and location. We exploit these fundamental properties of wavelets and propose a wavelet-based modulator-demodulator structure to improve communication efficiency. Numerical results for bandwidth occupancy and bandwidth efficiency are given, and a detailed comparison between different families of wavelets is presented. A codec based on the Battle-Lemarie wavelet is shown to outperform traditional BPSK-, QPSK- and MSK-based codecs as well as codecs based on Daubechies wavelets.
Outcomes of surgical resection and loco‐regional therapy in patients with stage 3A hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective review from the national cancer database

Abstract Objectives In advanced stages, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often associated with major vascular involvement (cava, portal vein). The aim of the present study was to analyse the role of surgical resection (SR) and loco‐regional therapy (LRT) in these advanced stage patients to determine if there was a survival benefit. Methods The study is a retrospective analysis from the Commission on Cancer's National Cancer Data Base (NCDB) from 1998 to 2011. In total, 148 882 patients with liver cancer were identified, of which 126 984 had HCC. Of these, 64 264 patients (1998–2006) had 5‐year survival data available and 8825 patients had Stage 3A disease based on AJCC classification. Of these patients, 884 had SR, 771 had LRT and 7170 patients had neither intervention. Kaplan–Meier curves and log‐rank tests were used for statistical analysis. Results Eight thousand eight hundred and twenty‐five patients met analysis criteria. The mean age (years) in the SR, LRT and no intervention group were 62.5, 64.3 and 64.2, respectively. Most patients were males in all three groups (77.5%, 74.5% and 68.1%). The mean tumour size (cm) in the three groups was 9.8, 6.4 and 8.4, respectively. SR and LRT were primarily performed in major academic and comprehensive cancer programmes compared with community cancer programmes and other centres (SR: 93% versus 7%; LRT: 94.6% versus 5.4%). The median 5‐year survival (months) was 26.6 in SR, 16.5 in LRT and 4.8 in the no intervention group ( P Conclusion A SR and LRT offer a survival benefit in select patients diagnosed with Stage 3A HCC.
Heterogeneity in solution adsorption: Edge carbon and oxide coverages

Adsorption from methanol—benzene system at 25° was investigated on two carbon black heterogeneity sequences. In one sequence the heterogeneity was edge carbons, the carbon atoms on the crystallite sheet edges, and in the other the heterogeneity was surface oxide groups. When edge carbons replaced basal carbon atoms adsorption changed from near total benzene preference to strong methanol preference. Covering the edge sites with oxide groups caused little change in adsorption preference except when significant amounts of surface CO2 complexes were present. The methanol preference increased with CO2 content and total preference is predicted for an all CO2 monolayer. The changes in preference caused by each heterogeneity type indicate qualitatively the relative strength of interaction between a surface group and the various solution monomers and hydrogen bonded species. Simple monolayer-mass balance theory shows multilayer development in several cases although this theory failed when applied to monolayers. The results suggest that surface heterogeneity must be included as a major factor in the more involved solution adsorption theories.
Privatization and non-tradable stock reform in China: The case of Valin Steel Tube & Wire Co., Ltd.

Abstract While China had been vigorously pursuing economic reform since the late 1980s, it wasn't until the 2005–2006 time period that non-tradable stock reform took place. The case of Hunan Valin Steel provides a rich look inside about the dynamics of the non-tradable share reform in China, and demonstrates the impact of good financial design helping the company to turn aside the financial distress, while minimizing costs to benefit the stockholders. Moreover, this case provides an illustration of the challenges posed by agency problems in China, with conflicted interests between tradable shareholders (public investors) on one hand and non-tradable shareholders (governments and state-owned enterprises) on the other. Not only does the split share structure result in conflicted interests and asymmetric information between managers and owners, but it also made it difficult to establish effective corporate governance.
Acute Necrosis of Cartilage in Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

A series of twenty-eight patients (thirty-nine hips) with slipped capital femoral epiphysis has been presented. In eleven hips in eleven patients acute necrosis of cartilage developed. The incidence of acute necrosis of cartilage complicating slipped femoral epiphysis in patients of Hawaiian ancestry appears quite high. Whether this is due to genetic or socioenvironmental factors has not been determined. The incidence of acute necrosis of cartilage is most directly correlated with the severity of the femoral epiphyseal slipping at the time of diagnosis. Slipped capital femoral epiphyses treated by open reduction, cast immobilization, or prolonged traction appeared to be most susceptible to acute necrosis of cartilage. However, any conclusion that there is a necessary relationship may be an illusion, since it was the most severe slippings that had this kind of treatment. Acute necrosis of cartilage is a severe complication of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Although occasionally some cartilage space is reconstituted, the usual course is eventual ankylosis or progressive degenerative arthritis of the involved hip.
Policy-Based Resource Management

This paper proposes a new method to handle policies in Resource Management of Workflow Systems. Three types of policies are studied including qualification, requirement and substitution policies. The first two types of policies map an activity specification into constraints on resources that are qualified to carry out the activity. The third type of policies intends to suggest alternatives in cases where requested resources are not available. An SQL-like language is used to specify policies. Policy enforcement is realized through a query rewriting based on relevant policies. A novel approach is investigated for effective management of large policy bases, which consists of relational representation of policies and efficient retrieval of relevant policies for a given resource query.
Trypanosoma brucei harbours a divergent XPB helicase paralogue that is specialized in nucleotide excision repair and conserved among kinetoplastid organisms.

Summary Conserved from yeast to humans, TFIIH is essential for RNA polymerase II transcription and nucleotide excision repair (NER). TFIIH consists of a core that includes the DNA helicase Xeroderma pigmentosum B (XPB) and a kinase subcomplex. Trypanosoma brucei TFIIH harbours all core complex components and is indispensable for RNA polymerase II transcription of spliced leader RNA genes (SLRNAs). Kinetoplastid organisms, however, possess two highly divergent XPB paralogues with only the larger being identified as a TFIIH subunit in T. brucei. Here we show that a knockout of the gene for the smaller paralogue, termed XPB-R (R for repair) resulted in viable cultured trypanosomes that grew slower than normal. XPB-R depletion did not affect transcription in vivo or in vitro and XPB-R was not found to occupy the SLRNA promoter which assembles a RNA polymerase II transcription pre-initiation complex including TFIIH. However, XPB-R−/− cells were much less tolerant than wild-type cells to UV light- and cisplatin-induced DNA damage, which require NER. Since XPB-R−/− cells were not impaired in DNA base excision repair, XPB-R appears to function specifically in NER. Interestingly, several other protists possess highly divergent XPB paralogues suggesting that XPBs specialized in transcription or NER exist beyond the Kinetoplastida.
Research at Stanford University

Support and Personnel: Research in Computational Linguistics at Stanford is being carried out in the context of the Knowledge Base Management Systems (KBMS) project (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency contracts MDA903-77-C-0322 and N000-39-80G-0132 Gio Wiederhold, Principal Investigator). The KBMS project is concerned with the application of Artificial Intelligence techniques to the design, performance, and use of database systems. Additional funding is provided by NSF Grant ISTRO-23889. Primary contributors are Jerry Kaplan (Research Associate), and students Jim Davidson, Francisco Corella, and Lena Yesil. Participants on a sub-contract to SRI International are Barbara Grosz, Norman Haas, and Daniel Sagalowicz.
Adherence and oral agents with older patients.

Objective Oral antineoplastic agents offer multiple advantages in cancer therapies. Thus, understanding issues of adherence to these agents for older adults becomes critical to successful comprehensive care of the older cancer patient. Data Sources This analysis of adherence to oral agents among older cancer patients draws on interdisciplinary geriatric and oncologic research reports and clinical reviews. Conclusion Older adults are at increased risk for poor adherence to oral agents. Barriers to adherence are diverse. Problems emerge from age-related physical changes, comorbid conditions, polypharmacy, and drug interactions. Psychosocial barriers include limited insurance coverage and transportation problems to social isolation and inadequate social support. Implication for Nursing Practice Nurses should lead interdisciplinary, individualized plans of care to mitigate barriers and support adherence to cancer therapy.
Accounting conservatism: A review of the literature

We review and analyze the accounting literature that examines the effects of accounting conservatism on financial statements and financial statement users. We begin by analyzing how conservatism affects the reported numbers on the financial statements. These studies primarily evaluate how conservatism affects earnings quality, including earnings persistence and the presence of earnings management. Next, we assess the effect of accounting conservatism on the users of the financial statements. We identify three primary users of the financial statements: (1) equity market users (2) debt market users and (3) corporate governance users. Within each of these categories, we analyze the findings of prior research and explore unanswered research questions. By analyzing the effects of accounting conservatism from a diverse range of research topics, we inform the discussion on the costs and benefits of accounting conservatism.
Escitalopram-induced uveal effusions and bilateral angle closure glaucoma.

Purpose To report the onset of bilateral angle closure glaucoma resulting from ciliochoroidal effusions noted after taking escitalopram. Design Case report. Methods A 41-year-old woman with a medical history of depression was placed on escitalopram and presented with acute bilateral angle closure glaucoma. A medical history and ophthalmic examination (including slit-lamp photography and high-frequency ultrasonography) were performed at the time of diagnosis and at resolution of her symptoms. Results High-frequency ultrasonography revealed bilateral choroidal effusions with ciliary body detachments and angle closure. Attempts to reduce intraocular pressure with topical ocular antihypertensive drugs and subsequent laser peripheral iridotomy were unsuccessful. Over the course of four days, the use of topical cycloplegics, corticosteroids, and discontinuation of escitalopram resulted in normalization of intraocular pressures, deepening of anterior chamber depths, and resolution of her uveal effusions. Conclusions The use of escitalopram resulted in uveal effusions, angle rotation, and acute bilateral angle closure glaucoma. Discontinuation of escitalopram and corticosteroid therapy resulted in normalization of the patient's eyes.
When is a family a family? Evidence from survey data and implications for family policy

This article examines the correspondence between common assumptions about the American family and actual patterns. The assessment is based on national data on individuals, households, and families. Findings indicate that the coresident nuclear model should be considereda model rather thanthe model of family. Past as well as current marital ties need to be considered in defining “family,” and divorce rather than death should be the expected cause of losing the main breadwinner in the family, except among elderly women. Parent-child ties to either young or adult children often span separate households. Coresidents can include individuals other than nuclear family members, and change rather than stability is the modal pattern in living arrangements. Rather than shaping concepts of the family from a single mold, policy makers and researchers are better advised to recognize the diversity and fluidity in family and household structures.
Sacroiliac motion for extreme hip positions: A fresh cadaver study

STUDY DESIGN This study placed fresh cadavers in different hip positions and obtained sacroiliac kinematics. The magnitudes and directions of angular and linear sacroiliac motion are reported. OBJECTIVES To determine the three-dimensional motion at the left and right sacroiliac joints and to explore the mechanical structure of the sacroiliac joint. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Previous in vivo and in vitro studies have reported various amounts of motion at the sacroiliac joints, ranging from no motion to 18 degrees. The results of previous studies have typically not been reported as data in classic engineering terms, and three-dimensional analyses are sparse. Importantly, previous studies have not used external hip positions to elucidate the full range of sacroiliac motion. METHODS Radiopaque markers were placed in the sacrum and each innominate bone before standardized performance of computed tomography scans at 3-mm intervals, with the fresh cadaver stabilized in the side-lying position on a specially constructed pallet. Computed tomography images were stored on magnetic tape, from which coordinates for centroids of the markers were obtained and subsequent mechanical analyses performed. The intersubchondral lines on the images were traced and reconstructed using computer technology to obtain the thickness of the intersubchondral joint space and the general configuration of the sacroiliac joints. RESULTS The methods used in this study were validated. The largest amount of sacroiliac motion occurred in the sagittal plane (7 degrees on left and 8 degrees on the right, with a range of 3 degrees to 17 degrees). Definite trends in the direction of angular sacroiliac motion occurred with respect to both bilateral and reciprocal hip joint positions. The translation or linear motion of the posterior superior iliac spines with respect to the sacrum ranged from 4 to 8 mm. This motion tended to occur in all directions, with no detectable trends. The average intersubchondral thickness of the sacroiliac joint was 1.2 mm and the shape of the joint resembled that of an airplane propeller. CONCLUSIONS Even though the subjects in this study were elderly, considerable angular and linear motion was in evidence. As such, it appears that extreme hip positions are necessary to elucidate full range of motion at the sacroiliac joint. The magnitude and direction of demonstrated sacroiliac motion appears to be sufficient to complement hip joint motion and influence motion at the lumbosacral junction and, thus, low back pain in both the direct and indirect sense.
Anomalous gradient winds in the subtropical jet stream and interpretations of forecast failures

Dramatic examples of forecast failures in global models of moderate resolution (i.e., T106) have been shown to occur during periods of the negative phase of the Pacific/North American (PNA) pattern in the Northern Hemisphere winter. Specifically, in these periods forecast skills at 500 hPa as measured by the standard anomaly correlation index dropped to rather low values by days 4 and 5 of the forecasts. This paper examines systematically some of the factors that may have contributed to the failure of these model forecasts.
Knowledge networks across Europe: which distance matters?

In this paper, we address the manifold nature of knowledge through the analysis of four distinct but complementary phenomena (Internet hyperlinks, EPO co-patent applications, Erasmus students mobility and European research networks) which characterise knowledge as an intrinsic relational structure (directly) connecting people, institutions and (indirectly) regions across five European countries. We study the structure (in terms of density, centralisation, clustering, assortativity, centre-periphery and resilience) of these international knowledge flows through network analysis techniques and we test the influence of geographical distance as opposed to sectoral (based on the industrial distribution of innovative activity) and functional (based on the value of the European technological index) distances in shaping the strength of knowledge relations through a gravitational model. Network Analysis techniques applied to the configuration of international knowledge flows between European regions highlight the existence of a polarised hierarchical structure. By estimating a “gravity equation” model we demonstrate that, far from the claim of the “death of distance”, geographic distance is still relevant for determining the structure of inter-regional knowledge flows. Functional and, above all, sectoral distances play also a relevant role suggesting that knowledge flows easier between similar regions (according to their technological level and the industrial distribution of their innovation system).
What happens when new competitors enter an industry

Abstract This article examines the impact that evolving competitive environments have on traditional business relationships in the baking industry. The entry of supermarket in-store bakeries and franchised donut shops not only has significantly altered the competitive reality but also has sown the seeds of mistrust among long-established business partners—retail bakers and bakery ingredients distrobutors. The article also shows how disequilibrium within the retail baking industry offers an opportunity for new competitors to consolidate and enlarge their market penetration, and the need for the traditional players to redirect their marketing strategy.
The effect of Bayesian feedback on learning in an odds estimation task

Abstract Numerous studies have compared human and optimal uncertainty revision, but few have considered learning and transfer effects. The present study provided subjects with 60 feedback trials in an odds revision task using normal distribution data generators. Learning and transfer were tested by comparing pretraining and posttraining odds estimates for data generators differing in diagnosticity (higher and lower) and kind (binomial) from those used in training. Subjects showed rapid learning and a moderate amount of transfer. What subjects seem to do after training is to increase their initially too small odds by some factor related to the perceived diagnosticity of the data generators. The fact that transfer of training is so closely tied to the actual stimuli used during feedback poses problems for training operators of real world diagnostic systems.
Sea-floor spreading and the early opening of the North Atlantic

Abstract We have examined available magnetic and gravity data bearing on the initiation of sea-floor spreading in the North Atlantic between Ireland and Newfoundland. The change in character of the magnetic field on the continental margin on either side of the Atlantic from a landward magnetic quiet zone to a seaward “noisy”, magnetic signature is postulated to be related to a change from continental to oceanic crust. Sea-floor spreading between Ireland and Newfoundland was initiated during the long normal geomagnetic polarity interval in the Late Cretaceous. Rockall Trough may have opened at this time. At the end of the normal polarity interval (Late Santonian) the ridge axis jumped westward to bypass Rockall Trough and the related offset initiated the Charlie Gibbs fracture zone. A reconstruction is presented for the relative position between North America and Europe prior to the initiation of sea-floor spreading in the Late Cretaceous.
Abdominal wall abscess presenting 35 years after insertion of an intrauterine contraceptive device.

BACKGROUND: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an effective means of contraception for many women worldwide. However complications of insertion such as uterine perforation can lead to significant intraabdominal problems. We present a case of an abdominal wall abscess caused by an IUD 35 years after insertion. CASE: A 52-year-old woman who had had an IUD placed approximately 35 years previously presented to our institution with fever and a left-lower-quadrant mass. A computed tomography scan demonstrated a foreign body consistent with an extrauterine IUD located within a multiloculated anterior abdominal wall fluid collection. An exploratory laparotomy confirmed that the abscess cavity involved the rectus musculature and contained the migrated IUD. CONCLUSION: This case demonstrates an unusual location for a migrated IUD. It also argues for removal of a migrated or "lost" IUD to prevent future complications.
Sensitivity Analysis for Base-Stock Levels in Multiechelon Production-Inventory Systems

Effective management of inventories in large-scale production and distribution systems requires methods for bringing model solutions closer to the complexities of real systems. Motivated by this need, we develop simulation-based methods for estimating sensitivities of inventory costs with respect to policy parameters. These sensitivity estimates are useful in adjusting optimal parameters predicted by a simplified model to complexities that can be incorporated in a simulation. We consider capacitated, multiechelon systems operating under base-stock policies and develop estimators of derivatives with respect to base-stock levels. We show that these estimates converge to the correct value for finite-horizon and infinite-horizon discounted and average cost criteria. Our methods are easy to implement and experiments suggest that they converge quickly. We illustrate their use by optimizing base-stock levels for a subsystem of the PC assembly and distribution system of a major computer manufacturer.
Recognition of DNP-amino acid determinants by primed guinea pig T cells☆

Abstract Guinea pigs were immunized with DNP-mycobacteria prepared by reaction of the bacteria with dinitrofluorobenzene. T cells from these animals responded as well against DNPazo-proteins and proteins haptenated by reaction with DNP-sulfonic acid as against proteins haptenated by the same method as the immunogen. These cells responded also to free DNP- O -tyrosine, to the DNPazo derivatives of N -acetyltyrosine and of aminocaproic acid, and to α- N -DNP- l -asparagine. The experiments suggest that at least part of the DNP-responsive lymphocyte population found in animals primed with DNP-mycobacteria recognized a determinant no larger than the hapten with a single amino acid side chain, and that there was no requirement for the side chain to be aromatic (such as tyrosine or histidine) in order for recognition to occur. Determinants of this size were capable, in free form, of stimulating primed cells to mount an in vitro proliferative response. DNP-amino acids were not effective, however, as primary immunogens.
Three cultural models of teacher interaction valued by Mexican students at a US high school

Using students’ interviews as data source, this study explores the interactional experiences of several Mexican students at a US high school in the Midwest with their teachers and discusses how three cultural models of teacher interaction valued by the students impact their affiliation, motivation, and engagement with school. Emphasis is given to the students’ voices to explore how teachers are perceived by them. The study found that several teachers displayed negative stereotypes influenced by cultural and social biases toward Mexicans and the anti-immigrant climate in society. Insights are provided regarding the manner in which Mexican students’ teacher interaction influences their high drop out rate, their low academic achievement, and their low graduation statistics. The findings suggest that there is an urgent need to improve teachers’ cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity toward Mexican students.