cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predictors of health-related quality-of-life utilities among persons with posttraumatic stress disorder.

Objectives:This study had two objectives: to elicit preferences for current health in a sample of persons with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD ) in order to establish quality-of-life estimates ...
Braced Insulator Assemblies

Braced high voltage insulator assemblies are described and the general operating characteristics for different types of these assemblies are given.
Stereo Matching with Color-Weighted Correlation, Hierachical Belief Propagation and Occlusion Handling

In this paper, we formulate an algorithm for the stereo matching problem with careful handling of disparity, discontinuity and occlusion. The algorithm works with a global matching stereo model based on an energy- minimization framework. The global energy contains two terms, the data term and the smoothness term. The data term is first approximated by a color-weighted correlation, then refined in occluded and low-texture areas in a repeated application of a hierarchical loopy belief propagation algorithm. The experimental results are evaluated on the Middlebury data set, showing that our algorithm is the top performer.
Property Tensors and Ferrotoroidic Domains

Primary and secondary property tensors of ferrotoroidic domains are derived. It is shown how these properties may be applied in determining possible switching of domains by analyzing the expansion of the difference in free enthalpy between domains and concomitantly determining which of these properties distinguish between domains.
Exploring Objects With Feet Advances Movement in Infants Born Preterm: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Previous work has shown that full-term infants who were healthy contacted a toy with their feet several weeks before they did so with their hands and that movement training advanced feet reaching. Certain populations of preterm infants are delayed in hand reaching; however, feet reaching has not been investigated in any preterm population. Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether preterm infants born at less than 33 weeks of gestational age contacted a toy with their feet at 2 months of corrected age, before doing so with their hands, and whether movement training advanced feet reaching. Design: This study was a randomized controlled trial. Methods: Twenty-six infants born preterm were randomly assigned to receive daily movement training or daily social training. During the 8-week training period, the infants were videotaped in a testing session every other week from 2 to 4 months of age. Results: Both groups contacted the toy with their feet at 2 months of age during the first testing session prior to training, at an age when no infants consistently contacted the toy with their hands. After 8 weeks of training, the movement training group displayed a greater number and longer duration of foot-toy contacts compared with the social training group. Conclusions: These results suggest that movement experiences advance feet reaching as they do for hand reaching. For clinicians, feet-oriented play may provide an early intervention strategy to encourage object interaction for movement impairments within the first months of postnatal life. Future studies can build on these results to test the long-term benefit of encouraging early purposeful leg movements.
Rapid Estimation of Earthquake Source and Ground-Motion Parameters for Earthquake Early Warning Using Data from a Single Three- Component Broadband or Strong-Motion Sensor

We propose a new algorithm to rapidly determine earthquake source and ground-motion parameters for earthquake early warning (EEW). This algorithm uses the acceleration, velocity, and displacement waveforms of a single three-component broadband (BB) or strong-motion (SM) sensor to perform real-time earthquake/noise discrimination and near/far source classification. When an earthquake is detected, the algorithm estimates the moment magnitude M, epicentral distance Δ, and peak ground velocity (PGV) at the site of observation. The algorithm was constructed by using an artificial neural network (ANN) approach. Our training and test datasets consist of 2431 three-component SM and BB records of 161 crustal earthquakes in California, Japan, and Taiwan with 3.1 ≤ M ≤ 7.6 at Δ ≤ 115 km. First estimates become available at t_0 = 0.25 s after the P pick and are regularly updated. We find that displacement and velocity waveforms are most relevant for the estimation of M and PGV, while acceleration is important for earthquake/noise discrimination. Including site corrections reduces the errors up to 10%. The estimates improve by an additional 10% if we use both the vertical and horizontal components of recorded ground motions. The uncertainties of the predicted parameters decrease with increasing time window length t_0; larger magnitude events show a slower decay of these uncertainties than small earthquakes. We compare our approach with the τ_c algorithm and find that our prediction errors are around 60% smaller. However, in general there is a limitation to the prediction accuracy an EEW system can provide if based on single-sensor observations.
Preventive Behaviors as Correlates of Periodontal Health Status

Objectives This investigation examined current practices of brushing, flossing, and periodic dental visits and their association with periodontal health status. Methods Data were collected using face-to-face interviews and 40-minute in-home dental examinations with a probability sample of adults 18 years of age or older, having at least one tooth, and living in housing units in the Detroit tricounty area. Complete examinations were performed on 319 individuals. Results On average, subjects reported brushing their teeth about twice a day. About one-third of the population reported flossing at least once a day. Loss of periodontal attachment was related to frequency of brushing while subjects who exhibited acceptable flossing ability had less plaque and calculus, shallower pocket depths, and less attachment loss. Subjects reporting a periodic dental visit at least once a year had less plaque, gingivitis, and calculus than subjects reporting less frequent visits. In regression analyses, brushing thoroughness, flossing ability and frequency, and dental visit frequency were predictors of lower plaque, gingivitis, and calculus scores. In turn, these scores were predictors of shallower pocket depths and less attachment loss. Conclusions Brushing, flossing, and periodic dental visits were correlated with better periodontal health. The behaviors appeared to be indirectly related to pocket depth and attachment loss through their associations with plaque, gingivitis, and calculus levels.
Assay for 5′ Noncoding Region Analysis of All Human Rhinovirus Prototype Strains

Increasing recognition of the association of rhinovirus with severe lower respiratory tract illnesses has clarified the need to understand the relationship between specific serotypes of rhinovirus and their clinical consequences. To accomplish this, a specific and sensitive assay to detect and serotype rhinovirus directly from clinical specimens is needed. Traditional methods of serotyping using culture and serum neutralization are time-consuming, limited to certain reference laboratories, and complicated by the existence of over 100 serotypes of human rhinoviruses (HRVs). Accordingly, we have developed a sequence-based assay that targets a 390-bp fragment accounting for approximately two-thirds of the 5′ noncoding region (NCR). Our goal was to develop an assay permitting amplification of target sequences directly from clinical specimens and distinction among all 101 prototype strains of rhinoviruses. We determined the sequences of all 101 prototype strains of HRV in this region to enable differentiation of virus genotypes in both viral isolates and clinical specimens. We evaluated this assay in a total of 101 clinical viral isolates and 24 clinical specimens and compared our findings to genotyping results using a different region of the HRV genome (the VP4-VP2 region). Five specimens associated with severe respiratory disease in children did not correlate with any known serotype of rhinovirus and were found to belong to a novel genogroup of rhinovirus, genogroup C. Isolates were also found that corresponded to the genogroup A2 variant identified in New York and Australia and two other novel group A clusters (GAC1 and GAC2).
Vulcanization. Part III. Rapid Methods for Characterizing Rubber Networks

Abstract Equilibrium swelling determinations have long beea used as a means of estimating crosslink density, usually through the Flory-Rehner equation. Most of the reported methods for determining equilibrium swelling in rubber vulcanizates have required long periods of swelling before equilibrium was reached, due to the fact that thick specimens were used. The method presented here makes use of thin films as specimens for swelling, and equilibrium can be reached in periods of one to five minutes. In addition, the use of thin films makes possible the semiquantitative determination of the types of chemical bonds responsible for the crosslinks in rubber vulcanizates. In thin films the reaction of polysulfide crosslinks with lithium aluminum hydride (in benzene-tetrahydrofuran) is rapid. The determination of crosslink density after such a reduction is indicative of only those crosslinks which are not reducible by the hydride and the difference between crosslink densities before and after the reduction is a m...
The association of an inability to form and maintain close relationships due to a medical condition with anxiety and depressive disorders.

Abstract Background While low social support is a risk factor for mental illness, anxiety and depression's relationship with social impairment specifically resulting from a medical condition is poorly understood. We hypothesize that when a medical illness makes it difficult for people to form and maintain close relationships with others, they will be at increased risk for anxiety and depression. Methods Two nationally representative surveys, the National Comorbidity Survey-Replication and National Latino and Asian American Study, included 6805 adults with at least one medical illness and information on social impairment attributed to a medical condition. The Composite International Diagnostic Interview evaluated a 12-month history of anxiety and depressive disorders. Results 8.2% of our sample had at least moderate difficulty in forming and maintaining close relationships due to a medical condition. In bivariate analyses, younger age, Latino ethnicity, less education, worse financial status, more chronic illnesses, physical health and discomfort, and problems with mobility, home management, and self-care were associated with this social impairment. In multivariable analyses accounting for possible confounders, there was a dose-dependent relationship between social impairment and the prevalence of anxiety and depression. Limitations Data are cross-sectional and our analyses are therefore unable to determine cause-and-effect relationships. Conclusions Among adults with one or more medical conditions, social impairment attributed to medical illness was associated with a significantly greater odds of anxiety and depression. Further clarification of this relationship could inform more targeted, personalized interventions to prevent and/or alleviate mental illness in those with chronic medical conditions.
FATIGUE IN CANCER AND HIV/AIDS

Fatigue is a common and troubling symptom in patients with cancer or HIV/AIDS, resulting in significant disability and adverse effects on quality of life. Its etiology remains complex and is most likely multifactorial. Despite its impact and prevalence, fatigue is often overlooked and undertreated in these patient populations. The general perceptions of fatigue are that its etiology cannot be determined, it is an inevitable manifestation that must be endured, and few interventions are available. Efforts are ongoing to better understand the etiology, characteristics, and consequences of fatigue in patients with cancer or HIV/AIDS. New practical methods of assessing it in cancer patients are now available. In order to improve the quality of life in these patients, physicians need to reassess their perceptions of fatigue and their approach to its diagnosis and management. There are recognizable causes and correlates for which interventions can be beneficial. These include anemia, pain, infection/fever, hormonal or nutritional deficiencies, depression/anxiety, sleep disturbances, and excessive inactivity or rest. Physicians should fully evaluate patients to identify the factors amenable to management. Fatigue is also seldom discussed by patients and their physicians. Improved communication with and counseling of patients and their caregivers can play an important role in the effective assessment and management of fatigue in patients with cancer or HIV/AIDS. Many patients may benefit from wider implementation of recent advances in the understanding and treatment of fatigue in these oncologic and infectious conditions.
What we know about low-level hCG: definition, classification and management.

OBJECTIVE: To critically assess the literature on the syndrome of low-level real human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), to add new cases from our practice, to enumerate the investigations that are essential in the management of these patients and to offer a working classification for use by physicians encountering the condition. STUDY DESIGN: We report our experience with 9 patients with low-level hCG treated at the Yale Trophoblast Center and discuss London and Sheffield patients as well as reports from the USA hCG Reference Service. RESULTS: One of the 9 Yale patients had developed placental site trophoblastic tumor metastatic to the lung. Following resection and 18 months of observation, she then had a successful pregnancy, has remained without evidence of disease and has negative hCG. The other patients continue to be observed. The experience from England shows that 2 of 14 patients with detectable hCG in urine and serum developed overt trophoblastic neoplasia and were treated successfully. The others are being followed. None have developed gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, 3 have regular menstrual periods, and 1 has had 2 pregnancies.The USA hCG Reference Laboratory has had 114 consultations. Sixty-three patients had real hCG and were followed for 6 months to 6 years. Forty of the 63 (63%) received single agent or combination chemotherapy, and 10 underwent hysterectomy, also. hCG persisted in spite of therapy. Four of the 63 (6%) eventually developed overt trophoblastic neoplasia and were then treated effectively; their hCG became negative. In these 4 patients whose hCG rose significantly and who did require therapy, the proportion of hyperglycosylated hCG became ≥80% of total hCG. In contrast, the proportion of hyperglycosylated hCG was always very low in the 63 quiescent cases. CONCLUSION: Active therapy with chemotherapy or surgery for persistent, elevated, low-level, real hCG is counterproductive. Therapy should be initiated only if overt trophoblastic neoplasia appears. All patients with low-level, real hCG require sophisticated imaging to exclude the presence of extrauterine sites of trophoblast, such as trophoblastic metastases or pituitary adenoma. They require long-term follow-up with periodic clinical examination, imaging and frequent hCG testing with an assay that measures all aspects of the hCG molecule.
The Large Format Store vs. "Mom and Pop": Is Suburbia a Model for the Inner City?

In small towns and suburbs, the arrival of the large format store has had an almost uniformly negative impact on its smaller scale competitors. The present paper examines whether this is also the likely outcome when a large format store enters an inner city area. An analysis of the experience of one such large store suggests the possibility that small town/suburban model may not be applicable to the inner city. In urban areas, population growth. the shopping behaviors of residents, and the ability of small stores to provide specialized product assortments and services may be factors that contribute to the viability of small retailers, who compete against large format stores. Small stores' use of legal technicalities, such as requiring special use permits or enforcing decades-old zoning restrictions, to block the entry of large competitors into major U.S. cites, however, appears to be less effective.
Book Review: Zenon Bankowski, the Arts and Legal Academy: Beyond Text in Legal Education

This book review takes a look at Zenon Bankowski, et al., eds., The Arts & The Legal Academy: Beyond Text in Legal Education (Ashgate Pub'g Co. 2013). The review describes the types of essays that came out of the Beyond Text in Legal Education workshops and follow-up conference, held at the University of Edinburgh's School of Law in 2008 and 2009, and how these essays encourage us to move (literally) beyond text in legal education.
Notes on some bacterial parasites of the human mucous membranes

The occurrence of black colonies on anaerobic blood-agar cultures from carious teeth, etc., has been noted by several investigators. No one, so far as we are aware, has isolated and described the organism. We have isolated it from the throat, tonsils, infected surgical wound of the abdomen, from urine collected as aseptically as possible from a suspected focal infection of the kidney, and from the feces of a case of chronic dysentery superimposed on an original amebic infection. Isolation and Biologic Characters.?The bacterium grows readily at 37 C. on -f 1 human blood-agar slants made anaerobic by the pyrogallic acid method. In primary cultures, the colonies become visible within one to two weeks. Pure subcultures yield a confluent, black, dry layer of growth (fig. 1), within which lie the somewhat polymorphous rods, embedded in the masses of pigment. As the growth increases the hemoglobin throughout the agar slant disappears, until finally the medium appears like a slant of plain agar. The growth of the bacterium. on infusion agar is greatly facilitated by the presence of hemoglobin, and pigment production is absolutely dependent on it. In sodium phosphate broth (-f 1) the organism produces acid from dextrose, levulose, lactose, saccharose, maltose and mannite. Galactose is not attacked. On potato no growth occurs, nor does growth occur on agar or broth made from Liebig's beef extract, with or without dextrose or maltose. In gelatin containing pleuritic fluid there is a dense flocculent growth at 37 C, but no liquefaction. On Loeffler's blood serum a fairly luxuriant, white, moist layer of growth develops. Litmus milk is slowly acidified, but not coagulated. The bacterium occurs as somewhat polymorphous rods, in size about 0.8/aXI/a ? 3/x (fig. 2). They lose the stain in Gram's
Two Special Sensitometers

Design features of two sensitometers are presented. One of the sensitometers is used to make sensitometric tests on positive film under printing conditions. The other is designed to produce exposures under sound recording conditions. The results of tests with both of these sensitometers emphasize the importance of making sensitometric tests parallel conditions of film use, and show some of the errors that occur in judging speed and contrast from sensitometric data obtained under conditions not corresponding to the actual conditions of use.
Illustrating beauty and utility: Visual rhetoric in two medical texts written in China's Northern Song dynasty, 960-1127

This article examines illustrations in two medical texts written in China’s Northern Song dynasty. Compared with medical books produced in previous dynasties, these two texts incorporated more illu...
The prevalence of mental disorders in Shimian County of Sichuan

[Objective]To understand the prevalence of mental disorders in multi-ethnic county,provide the scientific basis for making policies and implementing measures of mental diseases prevention and psychiatric rehabilitation.[Methods]The prevalence of mental disorders in Shimian County of Sichuan was statistically analyzed by cross-sectional survey,in order to put forward the targeted measures.[Results]Among 118 psychotic patients,105(88.9%) were schizophrenia,6(5.08%) were paranoid disorders,3(2.53%) were schizo-affective psychosis,3(2.53%) were epileptic psychosis,and 1(0.9%) were severe mental retardation.[Conclusion]The mental disorders in Shimian County are mainly schizophrenia,and the constitution is basically consistent with national constitution.The government should build up the multisectoral collaboration system,vigorously popularize the knowledge of mental health,and strengthen the education and training about prevention,nursing care and rehabilitation,to improve the recovery of patients,reduce mental disability and decrease the burden of society.
Wealth Inequality as Explained by Quantitative Easing and Law's Inertia

Wealth inequality is increasing. Recent studies show that middle and lower class wealth and income are stagnating or declining. More alarmingly, the size of the middle class in America is shrinking. This is occurring at the same time that wealth is exploding at the top of the financial pyramid. Popular attention is focused on the “1%.” This is, however, a misleading way to describe growing wealth inequality. The situation may only be fully understood by focusing on the top 1/10th of 1%. This tiny few is experiencing an explosive growth in wealth. The fact is that billionaires are growing richer, while almost every part of the population below them is trying to hold steady or growing poorer, including “average” millionaires. More importantly, it is the middle class that is taking the brunt of growing inequality (including law students with their debt loads). What caused this situation? This article, and other commentators, contend that the quantitative easing (“QE”) policies of America’s central bank and central banks around the world are a primary cause of today’s increasing wealth inequality. This paper examines the scale and scope of wealth inequality, and explains QE’s crucial role in creating it. It discusses the potential societal consequences of unrestrained growth in inequality, and why the law and its legal institutions will likely act slowly to alleviate inequality. It is unlikely that the law will take a leading role in addressing the problem because it is an inherently conservative institution whose historical (and contemporary) role is to perpetuate the power of those who control the law and its institutions. The poles of the economic spectrum are pulling away from each other, and the middle class is losing ground. It is undeniable that the beneficiaries of recent economic policies have been the richest 1/10th of 1%, and that almost everyone else has seen little benefit or even erosion in their financial condition. Would any rational policy-maker (starting from scratch) deliberately design such a system with the current situation as the intended result? The purpose of this article is to draw further attention to the problems and causes of today’s wealth inequality, with the hope that thoughtful responses are generated to address the problem.
Potential health effects of electronic cigarettes: A systematic review of case reports

The health risks associated with electronic cigarettes (ECs) are largely unknown. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate published case reports that deal with health effects attributed to EC use. An Internet search was conducted to identify case reports dealing with the effects of EC use on health. Twenty-six case reports representing 27 individuals (one study contained reports for two individuals) were published between April 2012 and January 2016, and these were grouped into categories of effect according to their health outcomes. Of the 27 individuals, 25 had negative effects subsequent to use or exposure to ECs and their refill fluids, while two reported improvement in chronic immune and gastrointestinal conditions. Three categories of negative health effects were identified: systemic effects, nicotine poisoning, and mechanical injury. Thirteen cases reported EC effects on different systems including: respiratory (6), gastrointestinal or developing intestine of an infant (3), cardiovascular (2), neurological (1), and immune (1). Twelve cases involved nicotine poisoning resulting from accidental (N = 3), misuse/abuse (N = 1), or suicidal/intentional ingestion (N = 8); four of these involved children and three resulted in adult fatalities. Two cases reported mechanical injury caused by an EC battery explosion. Most case reports show that the health of children and adults can be negatively affected by EC products and that if death does not occur, negative effects can be reversed. Data further indicate that EC use can cause negative health effects in previously healthy individuals and exacerbate pre-existing conditions.
Formate Dehydrogenases: Role of Molybdenum, Tungsten and Selenium

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews those enzymes that apparently contain molybdenum and/or tungsten. Formate dehydrogenases have been demonstrated in anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, yeasts, and plants and have been at least partly purified from several of these sources. A variety of formate dehydrogenases exist that use different natural electron acceptors or donors such as ferredoxin, NAD, NADP, quinones, or F420. They also react differently with artificial electron acceptors such as methyl viologen, benzyl viologen, tetrazolium salts, phenazine methosulfate, ferricyanide, methyiene blue, and dichiorophenol-indophenol. They differ in molecular weight from 74,000 up to 590,000. Some apparently do not contain any metal or cofactor, whereas others may contain one or a combination of the following: molybdenum, tungsten, selenium, iron, inorganic sulfur, and flavin. They respond differently to inhibitors; however, most if not all formate dehydrogenases are inhibited by azide and by cyanide. In some organisms, the physiological role of formate dehydrogenases is to oxidize formate, whereas in anaerobic bacteria, the role of the enzymes often is to reduce CO2 to formate. CO2 fixation occurs by a formate dehydrogenase pathway is not a well-known fact. However, in some anaerobic autotrophic bacteria, this pathway may be of fundamental importance.
Examination of MMPI–2–RF Substantive Scales as Indicators of Acute Suicidal Affective Disturbance Components

A new suicide-specific diagnostic entity, acute suicidal affective disturbance (ASAD), was recently proposed to fill a void in the nomenclature. Although several studies have examined the reliability, validity, and potential clinical utility of ASAD, no studies have examined personality indicators of ASAD. This study sought to examine the association between personality and psychopathology factors, as assessed by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Revised Form (MMPI-2-RF), and constructs that comprise ASAD in a sample of 554 psychiatric outpatients who completed all measures prior to their intake appointments. A smaller subset of patients (N = 58) also completed a measure designed to assess lifetime ASAD symptoms. Results indicated that ASAD symptoms were associated with traits characterized by emotional turmoil and atypical cognitive processes. Further, suicide-related criteria that comprise ASAD were related to low positive emotionality and hopelessness, whereas the overarousal criteria were associated with somatic symptoms and an inability to tolerate frustration and stress. These findings expand on previous research that examines the convergent and discriminant validity of ASAD and could inform clinical treatment by providing insight into personality traits that might be associated with acute suicide risk.
Mars sedimentary rock erosion rates constrained using crater counts, with applications to organic-matter preservation and to the global dust cycle

Abstract Small-crater counts on Mars light-toned sedimentary rock are often inconsistent with any isochron; these data are usually plotted then ignored. We show (using an 18-HiRISE-image, > 104-crater dataset) that these non-isochron crater counts are often well-fit by a model where crater production is balanced by crater obliteration via steady exhumation. For these regions, we fit erosion rates. We infer that Mars light-toned sedimentary rocks typically erode at ∼102 nm/yr, when averaged over 10 km2 scales and 107–108 yr timescales. Crater-based erosion-rate determination is consistent with independent techniques, but can be applied to nearly all light-toned sedimentary rocks on Mars. Erosion is swift enough that radiolysis cannot destroy complex organic matter at some locations (e.g. paleolake deposits at SW Melas), but radiolysis is a severe problem at other locations (e.g. Oxia Planum). The data suggest that the relief of the Valles Marineris mounds is currently being reduced by wind erosion, and that dust production on Mars
Transferring Skills from Classroom to Professional Writing: Student-Faculty Peer Review as an Extension of Cognitive Apprenticeship

In discipline-specific writing courses, students develop professional skills in reading, writing, and peer review. However, students have limited opportunities to peer review professional writing outside a writing classroom or with faculty, especially if they do not perform research. Therefore, it is unclear how students apply classroom-acquired peer review skills to a professional setting. This study examined the transfer of peer review skills learned in a science writing course to an authentic setting in which undergraduate students peer reviewed for the instructor after completing the course. In this case study, eight students volunteered to give feedback to the instructor on a draft of a literature review intended for journal submission. Student feedback was qualitatively evaluated for types and themes. Additionally, students provided their perspectives on this process through pre- and post-questionnaires, where they indicated a struggle with confidence and content while reading and reviewing. This study supports student-faculty peer review as an authentic tool for situated learning. The benefits to students include increased confidence in reading, writing, and peer reviewing literature, an opportunity to practice classroom skills, and a chance to collaborate with professionals during the writing process. I conclude with additional suggestions to increase student-faculty collaboration and cognitive apprenticeship through peer review as a tool in any discipline.
Race and the underdevelopment of the American welfare state

L'A. essaie de retrouver en quoi le probleme racial aux Etats-Unis est relie a l'histoire du (sous-)developpement de l'Etat-Providence et de ses institutions, et en quoi les attitudes raciales (specialement des Blancs) influencent leur receptivite a divers types de politiques et de programmes d'assistance sociale
INTERFERON ACTION: CLONING OF cDNA SEGMENTS COMPLEMENTARY TO MESSENGER RNAs INDUCED BY INTERFERONS

ABSTRACT It was shown earlier that the treatment of cells with interferons results in the increased accumulation of certain mRNAs and of the corresponding proteins. We report here the isolation of a cDNA clone which is complementary to a mRNA whose level is increased in cultured cells after treatment with an interferon. Assays involving hybridization with this cDNA clone reveal that by 3 hours after beginning the exposure of mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells to 1000 units/ml of a pure mouse β-interferon the level of an about 6 × 10 5 dalton mRNA is increased. Between 6 and 12 hours the increase is maximal (about 12 fold) and by 15 hours the level decreases, even if the cells are continuously exposed to interferon. The level of this mRNA is not enhanced by interferon in cells treated with actinomycin D.
Recognizing and Reducing the Threats to Human Health and Environmental Ecosystems from Stratospheric Ozone Depletion

This chapter describes (1) the factors influencing ozone levels in the atmosphere, (2) the beneficial as well as the detrimental effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in man, and (3) the global warming potentials and ozone-depleting effects of the most commonly manufactured chlorofluorocarbon substitutes in use today. In addition, the impact of UV radiation on marine and terrestrial food chains and ecosystem balance will be addressed and supported by actual case studies in ozone layer thinning and excessive UV exposures in high-risk populations of humans and sentinel animals.
Organic Model Reactions Under Pressure

It is probably fair to say that the lectures given here to date have been concerned primarily with physics, and with the physical properties of compounds and sometimes mixtures; in contrast, my remarks and those of my colleagues to follow are almost exclusively directed at chemistry and chemical properties. It goes without saying, however, that the chemist who uses high pressure methodology depends very much indeed on the knowledge that has been gathered by the physicists and physical chemists.
Contemporary Approaches to Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia

Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia are two of the most common neurodegenerative dementias. Here, we review the clinical presentation, genetic causes, typical neuropathology, and current treatments for these disorders. We then review molecules involved in their pathogenesis and protocols for working with these species and conclude with a discussion of experimental systems and outcome measures for studying these disorders.
Neuroprosthetic Surgical Strategies for Neuromuscular Stimulation

Abstract The provision of well-engineered, well-implanted neuroprostheses represents a major advance in the acceptability, safety, and durability of electronic controllers for paralyzed persons. Well-thought-out strategies and progressive understanding of the risks, benefits, and service and maintenance requirements of these devices have led to some experience-based criteria and advice.
Acute Recanalization of a Partially Thrombosed Large Intracranial Aneurysm.

Background Thrombosed large intracranial aneurysms (TLIAs) are not continuously contemplated as stable lesions. Spontaneous recanalization of completely occluded large intracranial aneurysms has been described previously. Case Description We report a middle-aged patient presenting with agitation, acute headache, visual field defects, and left hemiparesis. A large thrombosed posterior communicating (PCom) artery aneurysm was identified with an infarct at the same arterial territory on neuroimaging studies. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) performed 1 week later demonstrated complete recanalization of the TLIA. It was treated endovascularly with coils. The patient returned several days later with augmenting headaches due to quadrigeminal system subarachnoid hemorrhage. Repeat DSA showed filling of the coiled aneurysm from the internal carotid artery injection. The PCom artery was catheterized and deconstructed. The patient was discharged to home with no additional neurologic deficits. Conclusions TLIAs are insidious vascular lesions. They can cause nerve or vessel damage by a mass effect or through ischemic stroke by emitting emboli into distal vasculature. We advise close periodic radiologic follow-up for TLIAs.
Pharmacogenetic Manipulation of the Nucleus Accumbens Alters Binge-Like Alcohol Drinking in Mice.

Background Chronic alcohol intake leads to long-lasting changes in reward- and stress-related neuronal circuitry. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is an integral component of this circuitry. Here, we investigate the effects of DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs) on neuronal activity in the NAc and binge-like drinking. Methods C57BL/6J mice were stereotaxically injected with AAV2 hSyn-HA hM3Dq, -hM4Di, or -eGFP bilaterally into NAc [core + shell, core or shell]. We measured clozapine-n-oxide (CNO)-induced changes in NAc activity and assessed binge-like ethanol (EtOH) or tastant/fluid intake in a limited access Drinking in the Dark (DID) schedule. Results We found that CNO increased NAc firing in hM3Dq positive cells and decreased firing in hM4Di cells, confirming the efficacy of these channels to alter neuronal activity both spatially and temporally. Increasing NAc core + shell activity decreased binge-like drinking without altering intake of other tastants. Increasing activity specifically in the NAc core reduced binge-like drinking, and decreasing activity in the NAc core increased drinking. Manipulation of NAc shell activity did not alter DID. Thus, we find that increasing activity in the entire NAc, or just the NAc core is sufficient to decrease binge drinking. Conclusions We conclude that the reduction in EtOH drinking is not due to general malaise, altered perception of taste, or reduced calorie-seeking. Furthermore, we provide the first evidence for bidirectional control of NAc core and binge-like drinking. These findings could have promising implications for treatment.
Comparison of the progressive resolution optimizer and photon optimizer in VMAT optimization for stereotactic treatments.

The photon optimization (PO) algorithm was recently released by Varian Medical Systems to improve volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) optimization within Eclipse (Version 13.5). The purpose of this study is to compare the PO algorithm with its predecessor, progressive resolution optimizer (PRO) for lung SBRT and brain SRS treatments. A total of 30 patients were selected retrospectively. Previously, all the plans were generated with the PRO algorithm within Eclipse Version 13.6. In the new version of PO algorithm (Version 15), dynamic conformal arcs (DCA) were first conformed to the target, then VMAT inverse planning was performed to achieve the desired dose distributions. PTV coverages were forced to be identical for the same patient for a fair comparison. SBRT plan quality was assessed based on selected dose–volume parameters, including the conformity index, V 20 for lung, V 30 Gy for chest wall, and D 0.035 cc for other critical organs. SRS plan quality was evaluated based on the conformity index and normal tissue volumes encompassed by the 12 and 6 Gy isodose lines (V 12 and V 6). The modulation complexity score (MCS) was used to compare plan complexity of two algorithms. No statistically significant differences between the PRO and PO algorithms were found for any of the dosimetric parameters studied, which indicates both algorithms produce comparable plan quality. Significant improvements in the gamma passing rate (increased from 97.0% to 99.2% for SBRT and 96.1% to 98.4% for SRS), MCS (average increase of 0.15 for SBRT and 0.10 for SRS), and delivery efficiency (MU reduction of 29.8% for SBRT and 28.3% for SRS) were found for the PO algorithm. MCS showed a strong correlation with the gamma passing rate, and an inverse correlation with total MUs used. The PO algorithm offers comparable plan quality to the PRO, while minimizing MLC complexity, thereby improving the delivery efficiency and accuracy.
TRACE FOSSILS AND GLAUCONITIC PELLETS PROVIDE INSIGHT INTO CAMBRIAN SILICICLASTIC MARINE ENVIRONMENTS

This study documents the association of glauconitic pellets and trace fossils at two Cambrian sites: the Reno Member, Lone Rock Formation, in southern Wisconsin and the Lion Mountain Member, Upper Riley Formation, in central Texas. Each site reflects a marine paleoenvironment on the Cambrian Laurentian margin rich in marine life that was affected by shifts in shoreline and wavebase. Both units contain abundant glauconitic fecal pellets, which were mixed with terrigenous quartz, and ichnofauna that characterize siliciclastic sublittoral marine environments of variable energy. This combination of ichnologic features is suggestive of multiphase depositional histories. Initial stages are represented by intense invertebrate feeding and pelletizing large quantities of seafloor sediment. Glauconitization of the pellets in relatively quiet-water environments represents intermediate stages. Burrowing of the units rich in relict glauconitic pellets in high-energy settings represents the final episode at each site. Findings demonstrate a major shift in benthic paleoecology in response to a changing paleoenvironment. The glauconitic pellets were sufficiently resistant to survive processes associated with a shallowing marine environment, as they were incorporated into primary sedimentary structures (ripplemarks and crossbeds) and biogenic structures (burrows). The combined ichnologic, mineralogic and sedimentologic observations offer insight for depositional interpretation.
Intravenous immunoglobulin for acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis refractory to plasmapheresis.

Acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE) is a rare but an aggressive form of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM).1, 2 It is often associated with cerebral edema, petechial hemorrhage, and necrotizing vasculitis in the brain.3, 4 These changes frequently affect cerebral white matter, predominantly in the perivascular area.1, 2, 3 Diffuse cerebral edema can rapidly progress to brain herniation, which has a mortality rate of 70%.1 The etiology is unclear, but it is thought to be triggered by cross‐reactivity between a viral or bacterial antigen and the patient's myelin protein, leading to autoimmune demyelination.1, 3 The onset is sudden and the patient usually presents within a few days following a viral or bacterial illness with signs of meningoencephalitis.3 Diagnosis can be made with a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain.2, 3 A brain biopsy shows demyelination, hemorrhage, and infiltrates of macrophages, neutrophils and mononuclear cells in perivascular areas.1, 2, 3, 4 Prompt diagnosis, vigorous intracranial pressure (ICP) control, and treatment with immunosuppressive therapy and plasmapheresis are associated with better outcomes and increased survival rates.1, 4
Advanced Building Control via Deep Reinforcement Learning

Abstract Building control is a challenging task, not least because of complex building dynamics ad multiple control objectives that are often conflicting. To tackle this challenge, we explore an end-to-end deep reinforcement learning paradigm, which learns an optimal control strategy to reduce energy consumption and to enhance occupant comfort from the data of building-controller interactions. Because real-world control policies need to be interpretable and efficient in learning, this work makes the following key contributions: (1) we investigated a systematic approach to encode expert knowledge in reinforcement learning through “experience replay” and/or “expert policy guidance”; (2) we proposed to regulate the smoothness property of the neural network to penalize the erratic behavior, which is found to dramatically stabilize the learning process and lead to interpretable control laws; (3) we established a virtual testbed for building control by combining the state-of-the-art building energy simulator EnergyPlus with a python environment to provide a systematic evaluation and comparison platform, which will not only further our understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of existing building control algorithms, but also suggest directions for future research. We experimentally verified our proposed deep reinforcement learning paradigm on the virtual testbed in case studies, which demonstrated promising results.
Compress Objects, Not Cache Lines: An Object-Based Compressed Memory Hierarchy

Existing cache and main memory compression techniques compress data in small fixed-size blocks, typically cache lines. Moreover, they use simple compression algorithms that focus on exploiting redundancy within a block. These techniques work well for scientific programs that are dominated by arrays. However, they are ineffective on object-based programs because objects do not fall neatly into fixed-size blocks and have a more irregular layout. We present the first compressed memory hierarchy designed for object-based applications. We observe that (i) objects, not cache lines, are the natural unit of compression for these programs, as they traverse and operate on object pointers; and (ii) though redundancy within each object is limited, redundancy across objects of the same type is plentiful. We exploit these insights through Zippads, an object-based compressed memory hierarchy, and COCO, a cross-object-compression algorithm. Building on a recent object-based memory hierarchy, Zippads transparently compresses variable-sized objects and stores them compactly. As a result, Zippads consistently outperforms a state-of-the-art compressed memory hierarchy: on a mix of array- and object-dominated workloads, Zippads achieves 1.63x higher compression ratio and improves performance by 17%.
EXPLOITING FRENCH SONGS AS A GENRE

Aux Etats-Unis, une nouvelle methode d'enseignement de la langue francaise a ete elaboree : l'enseignement par la chanson. A partir de 36 chansons francaises de 1945 a 1990, les etudiants sont sensibilises a la culture francaise. L'exercice permet de les exercer a la comprehension orale de differentes voix et differents accents. Une discussion sur les textes des chansons est engagee dans ces cours de Chansons Francaises. L'A. presente le deroulement de ce programme
RARE-30. PEDIATRIC GLIOBLASTOMA IN THE POST-TEMOZOLOMIDE ERA: OUTCOMES AND CHARACTERISTICS

Author(s): Chandra, Ankush; Oh, Taemin; Wadhwa, Harsh; Shah, Sumedh; Gupta, Nalin; McDermott, Mike; Berger, Mitchel; Aghi, Manish | Abstract: Abstract INTRODUCTION Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common brain tumor, however, is a rare occurrence in children and is poorly characterized. We evaluated the characteristics and outcomes of pediatric GBM (pGBM). METHODS Retrospective analysis of pediatric (agel 18) patients diagnosed with GBM undergoing first glioblastoma resection at our brain tumor center (2005- 2016). RESULTS From 1457 GBM patients, we identified twenty-four (1.65%) pGBMs (Median Age=9 years, Females=45.8%). Median overall survival (OS) was 32.1 months, while the median progression-free survival was 11.5 months. The commonest symptoms at presentation were headaches (54.2%,n=13) and motor symptoms (50%,n=12). Mean tumor diameter was 4.5 cm and 25% of the cohort underwent gross total resection (GTR) of their tumor. Univariate analysis revealed median OS significantly associated with tumor extent of resection (GTR=56.4 months; STR/Biopsy=13.7 months, p=0.001), age at surgery (g10 years=43.9 months, l 10 years= 17.2 months, p=0.01), tumor size (g 4cm= 9.1 months, l 4cm=56.9 months, p=0.01),motor symptoms at presentation (present=14.9 months, absent=41.04 months, p=0.02) and infratentorial tumors (infratentorial=17.4 vs supratentorial=53.4 months, p=0.02). Multivariate analysis revealed GTR (HR 0.2[95% CI 0.07–0.72]; p=0.03), Age g10 years (HR 0.6[95% CI 0.02–0.64]; p=0.002), tumor g4 cm (HR 2.89[95% CI 1.88–4.11]; p=0.001) and EGFR amplification (HR 3.48[95% CI 0.82–17.4]; p=0.005) to be independent predictors of OS. Comparing patients under and over 10 years, we found that older patients had smaller tumors at presentation (4.9 vs 3.6 cms, p=0.03), greater rates of preoperative temozolomide (n=1,7.7% vs n=6, 54.5%) and bevacizumab (n=1,7.7% vs n=4, 36.4%) treatment, and lower rates of EGFR amplification (66.7% vs 11.1%) that could explain survival disparities between groups. CONCLUSION Motor symptoms, larger tumors at presentation and tumor EGFR amplification may be indictive of poorer outcomes in pGBM. However, maximal tumor resection, aggressive chemoradiation and tumor presentation at age g10 years may confer better prognosis in these patients.
Large vessel stroke and COVID-19: Case report and literature review

The clinical signs of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) can be heterogenous because of the diversity of potential organ involvement. We describe a 58-year-old woman who developed new-onset dysarthria and hemiplegia and was found to be COVID-19-positive. This is among the first cases of COVID-19 presenting solely with focal neurologic deficits.