cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast convolution on a programmable media processor and application in unsharp masking

Convolution is a fundamental operation to many image processing algorithms and applications. One such algorithm is unsharp masking, which is widely used in medical imaging. A major component in unsharp masking is the computation of a lowpass-filtered image, e.g., via generalized convolution with a Gaussian filter or via specialized convolution with a boxcar filter. Generalized convolution is computationally expensive, e.g., convolution with a 3 X 3 kernel on a 512 X 512 image takes 1.45 sec on SUN SparcStation 20/71. In order to achieve faster computation in convolution, hardwired solutions with ASICs and/or fixed-function chips with little programmability have been traditionally used. The disadvantages associated with hardwired implementations are that they are rigid, uni-functional and not upgradable. Our approach has been programmable convolution, which is flexible, multi-functional, easily-upgradable and has a performance comparable to the hardwired implementations. This paper describes efficient software implementations of both generalized and boxcar convolution on a programmable multimedia processor, the Texas Instruments TMS320C80, also known as Multimedia Video Processor (MVP). Using the MVP's advanced digital signal processors (ADSPs), instruction-level parallelism and intelligent input/output interface, we have been able to significantly improve the performance of both generalized and boxcar convolution. For a 512 X 512 8-bit image, generalized convolution takes 19.5 ms for a 3 X 3 kernel. While the boxcar convolution has similar performance for a 3 X 3 kernel, the performance improvement by a factor of up to 13 has been achieved for large-size kernels such as 21 X 21. Our implementation of convolution algorithms on programmable mediaprocessor clearly demonstrates the feasibility of software-based approach.
Reasons Not to Cheat, Academic-Integrity Responsibility, and Frequency of Cheating.

The authors investigated the relations among reasons students gave for why they would not cheat in response to a cheating vignette, self-reported cheating, and the extent to which students take responsibility for promoting academic integrity. The authors surveyed 1,086 graduate and undergraduate students. Students who said they would not cheat because of punitive consequences were more likely to report that they cheated in classes and took less responsibility for promoting academic integrity. Students whose reasons related to the value of learning, personal character, and/or it being simply not right reported less cheating and took more responsibility for academic integrity. Academic-integrity responsibility correlated with less cheating. Results are discussed in terms of the effectiveness of punishment and the significance of internalizing integrity standards.
Comparing Effects of Different Transition Metal Complexes under Osmotic Stress in the B-To-Z DNA Transition

The equilibrium transition from B-DNA to Z-DNA is driven by salt cations and by neutral osmolytes. Transition metal complex cations, such as cobalthexammine and cobalttrisethylenediamine, stabilize the Z-DNA form of poly[d(G-C)] through electrostatic interactions with the DNA backbone and site-specific hydrogen bonds. These complexes can be used to measure the position of the B-Z equilibrium in the presence of osmolytes. Previous studies in our lab and Donald Rau's lab (1) have shown that applying an osmotic stress in osmolyte solutions decreases the concentrations of complex required to form the more sparsely hydrated Z-DNA. We have found that the cobalttrisethylenediamine complex is less effective than the cobalthexammine complex in driving the transition, possibly because the three bidentate ligands in the former result in a lower conformational entropy than the six monodentate ligands in the latter. On the other hand, the binding of cobalttrisethylenediamine to Z-DNA appears to be more strongly subject to competition by hydrating water molecules, as indicated by greater sensitivity to osmotic stress (2). For example, a sucrose concentration of 4.07 osmolal decreased the transition midpoint concentration of the trisethylenediamine complex by 2.5-fold, while the midpoint concentration of the hexammine complex was decreased by only about one-third. Similar trends were also observed with monohydroxylic osmolytes such as methanol and dihydroxylic compounds such as propylene glycol. Future studies will compare the (+) and (-) enantiomers of cobalttrisethylenediamine, in an attempt to explore stereospecific aspects of their binding to DNA. Supported by Towson University Undergraduate Research Grants (to M. Cisse, A. Diedrich and D. Rey-Ardila) and by the Towson University Department of Chemistry.1. Preisler et al (1995) Biochemistry 34, 14400-144072. Ashman et al (2011) Biophysical Society meeting poster presentation
Exact solution of the eigenvalue problem for a spin 32 system in the presence of a magnetic field

Abstract An exact, closed-form, analytic solution is presented for the general eigenvalue problem of a system with nuclear spin I = 3 2 and with an arbitrary value for both the quadrupole coupling constant K and the asymmetry parameter η, and in the presence of a static magnetic field of arbitrary strength and spatial orientation. Given along with the eigenvalues are the general eigenvectors, transition frequencies, and transition probabilities. As an example of the application of the solution, exact equations are developed to replace the perturbation expansion expressions currently available for certain of the methods used to extract the K and η parameters from recorded experimental spectra. Both single-crystal and polycrystalline sample methods are considered in both the high field (NMR) and low field (Zeeman NQR) strength domains. Also briefly considered are chemical shift effects as well as the application of the solution to an electron spin system with spin S = 3 2 .
Kinetics and intermediates in the intracellular synthesis of bacteriophage T4 deoxyribonucleic acid.

Abstract A kinetic model of bacteriophage T4 DNA replication is described in which the first stages are identified with two DNA-containing particles resolvable by velocity sedimentation. The first stage is a complex of DNA and protein and appears to include cell membrane fragments. DNA from infecting phage rapidly enters this complex. The second intermediate sediments more rapidly than is expected from its molecular weight assuming that the molecule is linear. Since no more than 4% by weight of this intermediate is protein, RNA or denatured regions, these factors cannot account for the high sedimentation coefficient. There are no closed covalent circles in the second intermediate, and in alkali, no single strands of length greater than two single-stranded equivalents of T4 DNA are detectable. If it is asssumed that the second intermediate is a highly branched or looped molecule rather than a linear one, the discrepancy between the observed and expected sedimentation coefficients is much reduced, A formal analysis of pulse-labeling experiments indicates that part of the DNA in the replicating pool differs from the remainder in a way that precludes its loss from the pool. That is, a conserved section of the pool of replicating DNA exists which may constitute a template for further DNA replication. The last stages in the maturation scheme are identified with 60 s DNA resembling the DNA extracted from T4 particles and with mature phage particles. The bulk of the 60 s DNA is not a precursor for phage particles.
A NON-DRIVING-FORCE APPROXIMATION FOR INTRAPARTICLE DIFFUSION IN CYCLIC ADSORPTION AND DESORPTION WITH SHORT CYCLE TIMES

Simple approximations for intraparticle diffusion rate are obtained for cyclic adsorption-desorption subject to step changes at a cyclic steady state. For slow cycles (θ c >0.1), a linear driving-force approximation with a coefficient π 2 gives good prediction whereas for fast cycles (θ c ≤0.1), a non-driving-force approximation with a constant coefficient (independent of cycle time θ c ) gives satisfactory results. The constant coefficient is an advantage of the non-driving-force approximation over the linear driving-force approximation in which the coefficient increases sharply with decreasing cycle time
IONIC PROBES OF MEMBRANE STRUCTURES.

SUMMARY In this paper we have examined the possibility of identifying those membrane structural variables (polar head groups and the nature of hydrocarbon tails) that modulate membrane ionic permeability. Altering the bilayer lipid composition produces variations in physical parameters (surface potential, partition coefficient, and mobility) governing the conductance mediated by neutral carriers of anions and cations. Specifically, the effects of the charged polar head groups are shown to be understandable in terms of the surface potential they produce through the formation of a diffuse double layer, whereas the effects of the viscosity may be demonstrated by “freezing” the membrane. The effects of membrane composition on membrane conductance are illustrated by a third, less well understood, example of how cholesterol alters bilayer conductances. The results indicate the possibility of using positive and negative permeant species as probes of membrane structures.
Electron-stimulated desorption of F+ and F− from SF6 on Ru(): structure and bonding

The adsorption properties and bonding geometry of octahedrally coordinated SF6 molecules are studied on Ru(0 0 0 1) for coverages less than 1 ML. Temperature programmed desorption reveals predominantly molecular ad- sorption of SF6 at 25 K; desorption occurs below 100 K. Electron stimulated desorption ion angular distributions of bothF þ and Fions demonstrate halo-like patterns. Heating the substrate to � 90 K results in transformation of the halo-like patterns into hexagonal angular distributions for both ions. Electron-stimulated desorption of the ions occurs via different mechanisms, but from the same chemical states. SF6 appears to be adsorbed via three F atoms, with the other three pointed away from the surface. At low temperatures, the S-F bonds have a random azimuthal orientation, while upon annealing, lateral ordering occurs in two complementary domains. Low energy electron diffraction reveals no evidence of long range order in the adsorbed layer. 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Vagus nerve stimulation as a potential option for treatment-resistant depression

Abstract Despite the availability of numerous treatment options, many patients continue to suffer with chronic or recurrent major depression due to treatment non-response or intolerance. Several novel interventions for the treatment of mood disorders are under study, including vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). VNS involves intermittent electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve via the NeuroCybernetic Prosthesis system. This intervention has demonstrated acute and long-term safety and efficacy in the treatment of refractory epilepsy, and several lines of evidence suggest a role for VNS in the treatment of depression. Studies investigating the safety and efficacy of VNS in patients with treatment-resistant chronic or recurrent depression are currently underway, and results thus far are promising. This article provides an overview of VNS, including its current clinical uses, the rationale for studying VNS as a treatment for depression, current data regarding VNS in treatment-resistant depression, and suggestions for future directions of VNS in mood disorders.
An overview of the second flatfish symposium: Recruitment in flatfish

The Second International Flatfish Symposium was focused around recruitment and opened with a challenge and a question. The challenge was to intensify and clarify our thinking about recruitment. The question was: why, after nearly a century of concerted efforts, do we not yet understand (have the ability to predict) variability in year-class strength of fishes? Two answers were suggested: 1. we lack sufficient data and, 2. we do not yet have an adequate framework for interpreting existing data. The structuring of the symposium around 7 specific recruitment hypotheses provided a framework for presentations and discussion. Each hypothesis was reviewed by a keynote speaker followed by oral presentations and a poster session. Lastly, the information presented on each topic was summarized by the key-note speaker (Key) to lead to a discussion. In this paper, the conclusions on the various hypotheses will be discussed, then the suggestions for future research, and, finally, the need for data versus a new framework will be considered. In the course of the discussion, some other, more generic, problems in recruitment investigations that were underscored by the Symposium will be highlighted.
Force Generation and Contraction of Random Actomyosin Rings

Cytokinetic rings and stress fibers generate effective contraction, but how organized respective actomyosin arrays are, and how semi-random actomyosin bundles generate contraction is not clear.We investigate computationally the self-organization and contraction of an actomyosin ring that is completely disorganized initially. To this end, we formulate a detailed agent-based model for a 1D chain of cross-linked actin filaments forming a closed ring interspersed with myosin-II motor proteins.The result of our numerical experiments is that in order to contract, 1) actin filaments in the ring have to turn over, 2) myosin motors have to be processive, and 3) filaments have to be sufficiently crosslinked. We find that contractile force and rate scale with myosin density and have a complex dependence on the actin density. The simulations indicate that the ring consisting of short filaments contracts rapidly but exerts little force, while the long filament ring generates significant force but contracts slowly. Our simulations predict, in agreement with experimental observations, that the rate of contraction is constant and the time of contraction is invariant with respect to the original ring size. Finally, the model demonstrates that with time, a pattern formation takes place in the ring worsening the contractile process. The more random actin dynamics are and the longer actomyosin ring stays disorganized the higher contractile force and rate it generates.
Determination of Glucose, Galactose, and Lactose in their Mixtures

Summary A method for determining the amount of glucose, galactose, and lactose in hydrolyzed lactose sirups has been outlined. The procedure was to determine the sum of the two hexoses by means of a modified Barfoed solution, and the amount of glucose and lactose by following the directions of Shaffer and Somogyi before and after fermentation with washed bakers’ yeast. Four samples of hydrolyzed lactose sirups were analyzed by this procedure and the results and steps in the calculations are described. Sirup No. 1, which attained a maximum temperature of only 143° C. at the expiration of 35 minutes, still contained 8.6 per cent lactose; whereas sirup No. 3, which was heated for 65 minutes, and 15 minutes of this time the temperature was 143-147° C, showed no lactose. There was, however, a loss of 2.37 per cent in sugar content, which was converted into by-products. The reducing values of these by-products were of negligible amounts. The maximum error for the complete analysis should not exceed 7 per cent.
Suffering and the sovereignty of God: one Evangelical's perspective on doctor-assisted suicide.

This paper presents my personal convictions, as an Evangelical, regarding the absolute impropriety of doctor-assisted suicide for Christians. They have been "bought with a price" and are owned by Another. Hence, they must always strive to glorify God in their bodies, both in life and in death. Although they crave the well-being of temporal health, when they are ill seek healing or relief, and may well recoil even from the thought of suffering and dying, they should realize that their values and priorities must be rooted in biblical truths and that their well-being is eternal and not temporal, spiritual and not material. As Christians, their attitudes and responses to suffering and dying must be molded by the reality that their Creator and Sovereign will cause all things to work together for their good and that their Lord has called them into a fellowship of His suffering in which they are sustained by dependence upon Him. Hence, for Christians to take their lives in order to escape from the trials and testings ordained by Him would be a failure of love and a breach of trust. Language: en
Modified aminosilane substrates to evaluate osteoblast attachment, growth, and gene expression in vitro

Bone cell-substrate interactions are important to understand in the design, selection, and surface modification of bone implants. To gain insight into such interactions, substrates designed with surface species approximating the physiological environment of bone matrix were studied. Osteoblasts (Ob) grown on three such surfaces were used to evaluate cell-substrate effects on attachment, growth, and gene expression as compared with controls. Initial surface preparation consisted of coating glass slides with aminopropyltriethoxy silane (APTES), after which the coated slides were modified with collagen-rich extracellular matrix components obtained from normally mineralizing avian tendon: the tripeptide arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (arg-gly-asp), or a precipitate formed from a metastable solution containing inorganic ions normally found in blood (simulated body fluid). Each of the modified substrates, as well as the nonmodified (APTES) control, provided distinctly different physical (evidenced by differences in rms roughness) and chemical surfaces for seeding primary osteoblasts obtained from 14-day-old normal embryonic chickens. Cell responses to each of the substrates were evaluated over a 21-day period in terms of Ob growth and growth rate, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and gene expression of type I collagen (COL I), osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OC), and bone sialoprotein (BSP). From these preliminary experiments, indications are that cell attachment and growth in this study possibly are independent processes, an assumption that compels the need for further studies. Collagen-rich matrix-modified substrates had a distinct advantage over others when cell growth rate, ALP activity, and gene expression were considered; cells on these substrates exhibited increased ALP activity and enhanced expression of BSP, OPN, and OC when compared with those of cells on APTES controls or other modified substrates. These results indicate that matrix-modified substrates such as those used in this study provide favorable templates for tissue generation, suggesting their potential in the design of surfaces for bone implants.
Pharmacology and mechanism of action of pregabalin: The calcium channel α2–δ (alpha2–delta) subunit as a target for antiepileptic drug discovery

Summary Pregabalin (Lyrica™) is a new antiepileptic drug that is active in animal seizure models. Pregabalin is approved in US and Europe for adjunctive therapy of partial seizures in adults, and also has been approved for the treatment of pain from diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia in adults. Recently, it has been approved for treatment of anxiety disorders in Europe. Pregabalin is structurally related to the antiepileptic drug gabapentin and the site of action of both drugs is similar, the alpha 2 –delta (α 2 –δ) protein, an auxiliary subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. Pregabalin subtly reduces the synaptic release of several neurotransmitters, apparently by binding to α 2 –δ subunits, and possibly accounting for its actions in vivo to reduce neuronal excitability and seizures. Several studies indicate that the pharmacology of pregabalin requires binding to α 2 –δ subunits, including structure-activity analyses of compounds binding to α 2 –δ subunits and pharmacology in mice deficient in binding at the α 2 –δ Type 1 protein. The preclinical findings to date are consistent with a mechanism that may entail reduction of abnormal neuronal excitability through reduced neurotransmitter release. This review addresses the preclinical pharmacology of pregabalin, and also the biology of the high affinity binding site, and presumed site of action.
Photoionization of the neon–rare gas dimers near the neon 3s resonance transitions: A study of associative ionization half - reactions

The relative photoionization cross sections of NeAr, NeKr, and NeXe are reported in the energy region of the first excited states of atomic neon, which includes the dipole‐allowed 3s[3/2]01 and 3s′[1/2]01 states and the dipole‐forbidden 3s[3/2]02 and 3s[1/2]00 states. All three molecular spectra show both a narrow band at approximately the position of the 3s′[1/2]01 atomic transition and a broader band blue shifted from this level. A similar, but much weaker, broad band is observed blue shifted from the 3s[3/2]01 atomic transition in NeAr. No molecular bands are observed near the dipole‐forbidden atomic neon states. The broad molecular band blue shifted from the 3s′[1/2]01 transition in all of the dimer spectra results from excitation to the repulsive wall of NeRg*, followed by rapid autoionization to form NeRg+, similar to the associative ionization reaction Ne*+Rg→NeRg++e. The relative absorption cross sections for transitions to the discrete molecular state were calculated for each dimer using NeRg* ex...
Fractional index convolution complementarity problems

Abstract Convolution complementarity problems have the form: given a kernel function k and a function q , find a function u such that u ( t ) ≥ 0 , ( k ∗ u ) ( t ) + q ( t ) ≥ 0 for (almost) all t , and where ∫ 0 T u ( t ) T [ ( k ∗ u ) ( t ) + q ( t ) ] d t = 0 . A fractional index problem of this kind has k ( t ) ∼ K 0 t α − 1 for t small, with 0 α 1 . Such problems are shown to have unique solutions under mild conditions.
Neuroendocrine vs. Paracrine Control of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

In spite of the pivotal role FSH plays in the regulation of gametogenesis, we are far from understanding the regulatory mechanisms involved in the control of its synthesis, secretion, and functions. Part of the problem relates to its molecular heterogeneity and the unavailability of assay methods capable of distinguishing the various isoforms of FSH. Recent work has confirmed the existence of two modes of FSH secretion, the basal and the episodic modes. The major portion of FSH secretion appears to be in the basal mode. The episodic mode appears to consist of both GnRH-associated and non-GnRH-associated pulses of FSH. The intracellular mechanisms by which differential release of LH and FSH are facilitated by GnRH are just beginning to be unraveled and may involve different second-messenger systems. Local pituitary regulators such as activins, inhibins, and follistatins are receiving considerable attention in recent years as a means by which differential release of LH and FSH can be facilitated by GnRH and other neuroendocrine factors. In parallel, the search for a selective FSH-releasing factor (FSH-RF) continues. Identification of variant forms of GnRH in recent years has opened up the possibility that one GnRH variant may be the long-sought-after FSH-RF. From a functional aspect, an understanding of how FSH heterogeneity is regulated is also important, as the different mixes of FSH isoforms have the ability to fine-tune the follicular recruitment and selection process. This review focuses on the recent advances made in the neuroendocrine and paracrine regulation of FSH synthesis/secretion/heterogeneity and pinpoints areas of gaps in our knowledge.
Linking intestinal homeostasis and liver disease.

Purpose of reviewInteractions of the gut microbiome with the host are important in health and disease. Microbial translocation releases bacterial products that play a key role in progression of chronic liver disease by promoting hepatic injury and inflammation. Although this has long been recognized
Base-catalysed rearrangement of temazepam.

Abstract Temazepam undergoes a rearrangement reaction in strongly alkaline media to form a cyclic diamide, 7-chloro-1-methyl-5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-2H-benzodiazepin-2,3(1H)-dione. Thermodynamic parameters ( E act , ΔH‡, ΔS‡, ΔG‡ ) involved in the rearrangement reaction, studied using either CH3CN-0.2 N NaOH in H2O (1:1, v/v) or CH3CN-0.2 N NaPD in D2O (l:l, v/v) as the solvent, were similar with an isotope effect ( k H k D ) of 0.77 ± 0.03. Kinetics of the rearrangement reaction were studied as a function of NaOH concentration, temperature and ionic strength. Results indicated that the rate-determining step did not involve proton exchange with solvent. Mass spectral analysis of the cyclic diamides derived by using either D2O or H2 18O in the solvent mixtures suggested that the formation of the cyclic diamide involved a nucleophilic addition of a hydroxide ion at the C2 carbonyl carbon of temazepam.
Significance of prohormone convertase 2, PC2, mediated initial cleavage at the proglucagon interdomain site, Lys70-Arg71, to generate glucagon.

To define the biological significance of the initial cleavage at the proglucagon (PG) interdomain site, K70-R71↓, we created two interdomain mutants, K70Q-R71Q and R71A. Cotransfection studies in GH4C1 cells show significant amounts of glucagon production by PC2 along with some glicentin, glicentin-related polypeptide-glucagon (GRPP-glucagon) and oxyntomodulin from wild-type PG. In contrast, a larger peptide, PG 33–158, and low amounts of GRPP-glucagon are predominantly generated from interdomain mutants. HPLC analysis shows a 5-fold increase in glucagon production by PC2 from wild-type PG and a corresponding 4-fold lower accumulation and secretion of unprocessed precursor relative to interdomain mutants. PC2 generates significant levels of glucagon from a glicentin (PG 1–69) expression plasmid, whereas PC1/3 produces only modest amounts of oxyntomodulin. Employing a major PG fragment (PG 72–158) expression plasmid, we show that PC1/3 predominantly generates glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1, whereas PC2 prod...
Control of high-performance mini- and microscale electrical cylinders

The focus of this paper is the application of mini and microscale electrical cylinders as high-performance translational actuators that guarantee fast and precise positioning. The objectives are to design, analyze, test and compare different control algorithms for closed-loop electrical cylinders with permanent-magnet direct current and synchronous servomotors. These electrical cylinders are widely used in aerospace, automotive, robotics and other electromechanical systems. For example, electrical cylinders displace the control surfaces of flight and undersea vehicles, robotic arms, etc. The major emphases are placed in the analysis and design of affordable, robust, efficient, and high torque density servos. Electrical cylinders with different servomotors are tested in order to examine alternative solutions. The performance comparison is made for electrical cylinders regulated using distinct controllers. These control laws are designed and implemented using advanced DSP, microcontrollers and VLSI controllers-drivers. We synthesize proportional-integral-derivative (PID), nonlinear, relay, and sliding mode controllers to guarantee the optimal (achievable) dynamic performance, stability, robustness, accuracy, etc. For different commands (angular or linear position and acceleration) and loads, accurate positioning and tracking with zero steady-state error are achieved. Our results illustrate that electrical cylinders with synchronous servomotors are the preferable solution in high-performance applications.
Althusser's Marxism without a Knowing Subject

The quest for unassailable “foundations” for knowledge has preoccupied Western thinkers at least since Descartes. Without some such foundation or Archimedian standpoint, it was argued, our knowledge of the external world as well as our basis for moral and political judgment would fall prey to relativism, historicism, and ultimately nihilism. Recently, though, this Cartesian quest for foundations has come under attack from some of the most powerful minds of our age.In this article I examine the contribution of Louis Althusser to this current of thought and assess whether his critique of foundationalist epistemologies and ethics can avoid the pitfalls of relativism. Althusser is compared to other thinkers who share his anti-Cartesian persuasion (Wittgenstein, Heidegger, and Foucault) and is criticized for his use of a kind of structuralism to abolish the “knowing subject” as the locus of thought and action. I conclude that Althusser's “antihumanism” has produced a convenient ideology for a new class of Marxist intellectuals to exert their claims to power over ordinary human agents who have been reduced to “bearers” or “supports” of certain systemic, structural relations.
Neck dissection after chemoradiotherapy: timing and complications.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of postchemoradiotherapy (post-CRT) neck dissection (ND) complications; to ascertain whether timing (< 12 vs ≥ 12 weeks) from CRT to ND or other factors are associated with increased complications; and to determine whether ND timing influences disease control or survival. DESIGN: Ten-year retrospective analysis. SETTING: Tertiary care center. PATIENTS: One hundred five patients with head and neck cancer undergoing ND after CRT. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Complications and survival variables compared between groups undergoing ND less than 12 weeks (less-than-12-weeks ND group) and 12 weeks or more (12-weeks-or-more ND group) after CRT. RESULTS: Sixty-seven NDs were performed less than 12 weeks and 38 were performed 12 weeks or more after CRT. Patient characteristics, treatment, and ND pathology results were comparable between the 2 ND groups. The incidence of complications between the less-than-12-weeks and the 12-weeks-or-more ND groups included major wound complications in 8 of 67 (11.9%) vs 1 of 38 (2.6%; P = .15), minor wound complications in 11 of 67 (16.4%) vs 4 of 38 (10.5%; P = .56), airway complications in 7 of 67 (10.4%) vs 2 of 38 (5.3%; P = .48), and systemic complications in 9 of 67 (13.4%) vs 2 of 38 (5.3%; P = .32). The number of patients with at least 1 complication was significantly smaller in the 12-weeks-or-more ND group (P = .04). Multivariate analysis showed that radical ND was significantly associated with an increased number of complications, and higher radiation doses approached significance (P = .05). Induction chemotherapy was associated with fewer wound complications (P = .01). There were no significant differences in overall survival (P = .82), progression-free survival (P = .77), or regional relapse (P = .54) between groups. Positive ND findings were associated with diminished progression-free and overall survival. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that ND can be safely performed 12 weeks or more after CRT without adversely affecting surgical complications or survival variables.
Moral Support: How Moral Values Shape Foreign Policy Attitudes

Although classical international relations theorists largely agreed that public opinion about foreign policy is shaped by moral sentiments, public opinion scholars have yet to explore the content of these moral values, and American IR theorists have tended to exclusively associate morality with liberal idealism. Integrating the study of American foreign policy attitudes with Moral Foundations Theory from social psychology, we present original survey data showing that the five established moral values in psychology—harm/care, fairness/reciprocity, authority/respect, ingroup/loyalty, and purity/sanctity—are strongly and systematically associated with foreign policy attitudes. The “individualizing” foundations of harm/care and fairness/reciprocity are particularly important drivers of cooperative internationalism and the “binding” foundations of authority/respect, ingroup/loyalty, and purity/sanctity of militant internationalism. Hawks and hardliners have morals too, just a different set of moral values than...
Mamillothalamic tract transection blocks anterior thalamic training- induced neuronal plasticity and impairs discriminative offidance behavior in rabbits

Rabbits with bilateral transecting lesions of the mamillothalamic tract, control (tract-sparing and sham) lesions, or no lesions, and chronic, fixed-position anterior ventral (AV) and medial dorsal (MD) thalamic and posterodorsal subicular complex unit recording electrodes were trained to step in an activity wheel in response to a 0.5 sec tone (CS+) in order to avoid a brief foot shock. The rabbits also learned to ignore a different tone (CS-) not predictive of shock. Behavioral acquisition was significantly retarded in rabbits with mamillothalamic tract transection compared to controls. When trained, transected rabbits failed to avoid the shock more often than controls. Mamillothalamic tract transection abolished and control lesions attenuated AV thalamic discriminative training-induced activity (i.e., development with training of greater discharges in response to the CS+ than to the CS-). Transection and control lesions attenuated AV thalamic excitatory training-induced activity (greater elicited activity during training than during unpaired tone-shock presentations before training) as well as AV thalamic “spontaneous” baseline unit activity. CS-elicited discharge magnitude was reduced by control lesions and it was further reduced by tract transecting lesions. Significant lesion-related changes were not found in the subicular or MD thalamic neuronal receptor. Mamillothalamic tract afferent information flow is thus essential for AV thalamic discriminative training-induced activity, excitatory training-induced activity, tone- elicited discharges and maintenance of conditioned avoidance responses. The effects of the control lesions suggested that afferents which course in parallel with and near the mamillothalamic tract may contribute to AV thalamic spontaneous activity and excitatory training- induced activity.
Selective disassembly for virtual prototyping as applied to de-manufacturing

Abstract Selective disassembly involves separating a selected set of components from an assembly. Applications for selective disassembly include de-manufacturing (maintenance and recycling), and assembling. This paper presents a new methodology for performing design for selective disassembly analysis on the CAD model of an assembly. The methodology involves the following three steps: (i) identifying the components to be selectively disassembled for de-manufacturing by a software program or designer, (ii) determining an optimal (e.g. minimal cost) disassembly sequence for the selected components that involves a computationally efficient two-level reduction procedure: (a) the determination of a set of sequences with an objective of minimal component removals via a wave propagation approach that topologically order components in an assembly for selective disassembly, and (b) the evaluation of resulting sequences based on an objective function (e.g. minimal cost) to identify an optimal sequence, and (iii) Performing disassembly design decisions based on the evaluated optimal sequence. Preliminary implementation results of the selective disassembly methodology in sequencing and disassembly cost evaluation, and application of the selective disassembly technique for de-manufacturing assessment are presented.
Layering Behavior and Axial Phase Equilibria of Pure Water and Water + Carbon Dioxide Inside Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes

We have studied the phase equilibrium and layering behavior of the liquid phase in water and water + CO2 systems inside single wall carbon nanotubes. The system containing pure water was examined at temperatures between 274 and 500 K. At low temperatures and close to the wall of the nanotube, the formation of layers enclosing the liquid phase was observed. Upon addition of CO2, gas-liquid equilibrium was observed, resulting in an enhanced layering effect in the liquid phase.
Quality measurement and improvement in advanced procedures

Quality measurement and improvement appear feasible for advanced endoscopy, but much work remains. Although many areas need refinement, the widespread use, reporting, and publicizing of already known metrics must be achieved as quickly as possible. The use of such metrics will undoubtedly begin with individuals who are already confident their recorded metrics will look favorable, and others will then follow. Quality networks, such as the one developed for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), prove to be invaluable for assessing the feasibility of measurement, community (including international) variation, factors associated with improved performance, and perhaps even outcome measurement using surrogates. Delayed events and outcomes remain difficult to measure in such networks. Hopefully, the increased focus on quality will allow such metrics to be developed, collected, benchmarked, and endorsed much more quickly for newer, more advanced endoscopy techniques than they were for ERCP and EUS; these endoscopic tools have been around for about 40 and 30 years, respectively, yet are still young in terms of metric development. Although the volume is lower for advanced endoscopy, the stakes are higher, and as such, quality metric development and implementation are just as important as in routine endoscopy; however, because of the procedure complexity, the wide spectrum of indications and maneuvers, and advanced endoscopist attitudes, reaching consensus and enforcement may be more difficult. The public and the practice need such metrics, however, and we must move forward.
Energetics of antiphase boundaries in γ′ Co3(Al,W)-based superalloys

Abstract Although Co-based superalloys are considered as a promising next-generation high-temperature turbine blade material, there are issues with regard to mechanical properties that must be addressed. L1 2 planar defects such as antiphase boundaries (APBs) play a critical role in the high-temperature strength of γ / γ ′ superalloys, particularly with the magnitude and temperature-range of the yield strength anomaly. APBs in L1 2 Co 3 (Al,W) γ ′ are particularly complex due to the presence of the metal mixing on the Al/W sublattice, which introduces additional degrees of freedom to APB behavior, such as Al/W composition and configuration local to the APB. We explore the behavior of APBs in L1 2 Co 3 (Al,W) with density functional theory. We find a strong dependence of the APB energy on the composition, particularly from the presence of Al–Al bonds across the 010 APB and W–W bonds across the 111 APB. For both APBs, our calculations also suggest an energetically favorable segregation of Al to the APB. Therefore, future Co alloy design criteria can include alloying elements with preferential segregation to the APB over that of Al to tune the APB energy (and the behavior of the yield strength anomaly). Furthermore, the unique behavior of Al–Al and W–W bonds in the 010 and 111 APB's, respectively, indicate the possibility of preferentially modifying one APB over another with alloying.
Concerns in Interpreting Subtest Scatter on the Tests of Cognitive Ability from the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery

An analysis of scatter among the Tests of Cognitive Ability for the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery was conducted on the performance of subjects in grades 1 through 12 from the standardization sample. Large mean high subtest-low subtest differences were noted for each grade level and compared to WISC-R scaled score ranges. Frequency distributions for high-low differences are presented as well as the mean differences between all pair-wise combinations for the 12 subtests. The practice of examining scatter on the Tests of Cognitive Ability, and especially efforts to identify specific “types” of learning disabled students using this test, are discouraged.
Specifying formative constructs in information systems research

While researchers go to great lengths to justify and prove theoretical links between constructs, the relationship between measurement items and constructs is often ignored. By default, the relationship between construct and item is assumed to be reflective, meaning that the measurement items are a reflection of the construct. Many times, though, the nature of the construct is not reflective, but rather formative. Formative constructs occur when the items describe and define the construct rather than vice versa. In this research, we examine whether formative constructs are indeed being mistaken for reflective constructs by information systems researchers. By examining complete volumes of MIS Quarterly and Information Systems Research over the last 3 years, we discovered that a significant number of articles have indeed misspecified formative constructs. For scientific results to be valid, we argue that researchers must properly specify formative constructs. This paper discusses the implications of different patterns of common misspecifications of formative constructs on both Type I and Type II errors. To avoid these errors, the paper provides a roadmap to researchers to properly specify formative constructs. We also discuss how to address formative constructs within a research model after they are specified.
Controlling Robots Using EEG Signals, Since 1988

The paper considers the emergence of the field of controlling robots using EEG signals. It looks back to the first result in the field, achieved in 1988. From a viewpoint of EEG driven control, it was the first result in controlling a physical object using EEG signals. The paper gives details of the development of the research infrastructure which enabled such a result, including description of the lab setup and algorithms. The paper also gives a description of the scientific context in which the result was achieved by giving a short overview of the first ten papers in the field of EEG driven control.
Review of Mechanics of Coastal Sediment Transport by Jorgen Fredsoe and Rolf Deigaard

Sedimentation processes in coastal areas are fascinating. The analysis of sediment transport under steady flow seems complex enough that one can only welcome this analytical treatment of sediment transport under wind and tidal waves in coastal areas. The book is the third volume of a set of four titles published by World Scientific in the broad area of Advanced Series on Ocean Engineering. The first volume is entitled The Applied Dynamics of Ocean Surface Waves by C.C. Mei. The second volume is Water Wave Mechanics for Engineers and Scientists by R.G. Dean and R.A. Dalrymple. The fourth volume is entitled Coastal Bottom Boundary Layers by P. Nielsen. This third volume is divided into 12 chapters: (1) “Basic concepts and potential wave theory”; (2) “Wave boundary layers”; (3) “Bed friction and turbulence in wave-current motion”; (4) “Waves in the surf zone”; (5) “Wave-driven currents”; (6) “Current velocity distribution in the surf zone”; (7) “Basic concepts of sediment transport”; (8) “Vertical distribution of suspended sediment waves and current over a plane bed”; (9) “Current-generated bed waves”; (10) “Wave-generated bed forms”; (11) “Cross-shore sediment transport and coastal profile development”; and (12) “Long-shore sediment transport and coastline development”. The title of this text is very appropriate. The book is intended for graduate students and describes the processes of sediment transport and how to represent them in mathematical models. The book is divided into two main parts. The first relates to hydrodynamic theory and the second to sediment transport and morphological development. The hydrodynamic part first reviews the elementary theory of water waves, followed with chapters on the turbulent wave boundary layer and turbulent interaction between waves and currents, and finally covers surf zone hydrodynamics and wave-driven currents. The part on sediment transport introduces the basic concepts (critical bed shear stress, bed load, suspended load and sheet layer, near-bed concentration and sloping bed); it treats suspended sediment in waves and current and in the
Simple formulas for transmission through periodic metal grids or plates

A simple closed-form approximate solution is given for the transmission coefficient of a normally incident electromagnetic plane wave through a screen made of periodic metal grids (inductive screen), or made of metal plates (the complementary capacitive screen). Explicit formulas are also presented for cascading screens and dielectric slabs. When compared with the exact solution, our approximate simple formulas show good numerical accuracy.
Integrating biology and economics in seagrass restoration: How much is enough and why?

Abstract Although success criteria for seagrass restoration have been in place for some time, there has been little consistency regarding how much habitat should be restored for every unit area lost (the replacement ratio). Extant success criteria focus on persistence, area, and habitat quality (shoot density). These metrics, while conservative, remain largely accepted for the seagrass ecosystem. Computation of the replacement ratio using economic tools has recently been integrated with seagrass restoration and is based on the intrinsic recovery rate of the injured seagrass beds themselves as compared with the efficacy of the restoration itself. In this application, field surveys of injured seagrass beds in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) were conducted over several years and provide the basis for computing the intrinsic recovery rate and thus, the replacement ratio. This computation is performed using the Habitat Equivalency Analysis (HEA) and determines the lost on-site services pertaining to the ecological function of an area as the result of an injury and sets this against the difference between intrinsic recovery and recovery afforded by restoration. Joining empirical field data with economic theory has produced a reasonable and typically conservative means of determining the level of restoration and this has been fully supported in Federal Court rulings. Having clearly defined project goals allows application of the success criteria in a predictable, consistent, reasonable, and fair manner.
On the Design of Arbitrarily Low-Rate Turbo-Codes

This paper presents a design criteria for arbitrarily low-rate parallel concatenated convolutional codes (PCCCs). The purpose of this work is to find a family of turbo codes that work as close to the ultimate low-rate Shannon limit Eb/No sime -1.59 dB as possible, given a certain constraint in the number of states of the constituent trellis codes and in the interleaver-length. We propose an optimization criteria and reduce the turbo-design problem to the design of block codes for the assignment of output sequences to the trellis branches of the constituent encoders. We show that BCH codes concatenated with repetition codes are optimal for labeling. Moreover, we show that for a fixed number of trellis states these codes achieve arbitrarily low rates, and hence arbitrarily low SNRs, with practically the same performance in terms of Eb/No. Simulation results are shown for 8-state and 16-state turbo codes with rates as low as 1/505, which with an interleaver-length of 8192 provide a BER sime 10-5 at an SNR sime -27.6 dB (Eb/No sime -0.55 dB), around 1 dB away from the ultimate low-rate Shannon limit.