Networks of VTA Neurons Encode Real-Time Information about Uncertain Numbers of Actions Executed to Earn a Reward.

Multiple and unpredictable numbers of actions are often required to achieve a goal. In order to organize behavior and allocate effort so that optimal behavioral policies can be selected, it is necessary to continually monitor ongoing actions. Real-time processing of information related to actions and outcomes is typically assigned to the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, but also depends on midbrain regions, especially the ventral tegmental area (VTA).

Change-point detection of cognitive states across multiple trials in functional neuroimaging.

Many functional neuroimaging-based studies involve repetitions of a task that may require several phases, or states, of mental activity. An appealing idea is to use relevant brain regions to identify the states. We developed a novel change-point methodology that adapts to the repeated trial structure of such experiments by assuming the number of states stays fixed across similar trials while allowing the timing of change-points to change across trials.

Intraoperative micro-computed tomography (micro-CT): a novel method for determination of primary tumour dimensions in breast cancer specimens.

Objectives: Micro-CT is a promising modality to determine breast tumour size in three dimensions in intact lumpectomy specimens. We compared the accuracy of tumour size measurements using specimen micro-CT with measurements using multimodality pre-operative imaging.

Methods: A tabletop micro-CT was used to image breast lumpectomy specimens.

Interobserver variability by pathologists in the distinction between cellular fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumors.

Fibroepithelial lesions with cellular stroma are frequently termed cellular fibroadenomas although criteria for distinguishing them from a phyllodes tumor are vague and subjective. However, the clinical implications and surgical management for these 2 lesions may be different. We randomly selected 21 cases of fibroepithelial lesions sent in consultation to the senior author that were challenging to classify as cellular fibroadenoma or phyllodes tumor.

Surgical excision of radial scars diagnosed by core biopsy may help predict future risk of breast cancer.

Radial scars (RS's) are benign breast lesions known to be associated with carcinomas and other high-risk lesions (HRL's). The upgrade rate to carcinoma after core biopsy revealing RS is 0-40 %. We sought to determine the outcomes of RS with and without HRL diagnosed by core biopsy.