cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carbon and water fluxes from ponderosa pine forests disturbed by wildfire and thinning

Disturbances alter ecosystem carbon dynamics, often by reducing carbon uptake and stocks. We compared the impact of two types of disturbances that represent the most likely future conditions of currently dense ponderosa pine forests of the southwestern United States: (1) high-intensity fire and (2) thinning, designed to reduce fire intensity. High-severity fire had a larger impact on ecosystem carbon uptake and storage than thinning. Total ecosystem carbon was 42% lower at the intensely burned site, 10 years after burning, than at the undisturbed site. Eddy covariance measurements over two years showed that the burned site was a net annual source of carbon to the atmosphere whereas the undisturbed site was a sink. Net primary production (NPP), evapotranspiration (ET), and water use efficiency were lower at the burned site than at the undisturbed site. In contrast, thinning decreased total ecosystem carbon by 18%, and changed the site from a carbon sink to a source in the first posttreatment year. Thinning also decreased ET, reduced the limitation of drought on carbon uptake during summer, and did not change water use efficiency. Both disturbances reduced ecosystem carbon uptake by decreasing gross primary production (55% by burning, 30% by thinning) more than total ecosystem respiration (TER; 33-47% by burning, 18% by thinning), and increased the contribution of soil carbon dioxide efflux to TER. The relationship between TER and temperature was not affected by either disturbance. Efforts to accurately estimate regional carbon budgets should consider impacts on carbon dynamics of both large disturbances, such as high-intensity fire, and the partial disturbance of thinning that is often used to prevent intense burning. Our results show that thinned forests of ponderosa pine in the southwestern United States are a desirable alternative to intensively burned forests to maintain carbon stocks and primary production.
Stem cell in alternative treatments for brain tumors: potential for gene delivery

Despite ongoing research efforts and attempts to bring new drugs into trial, the prognosis for brain tumors remains poor. Patients with the most common and lethal intracranial neoplasia, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), have an average survival of one year with combination of surgical resection, radiotherapy and temozolomide. One of the main problems in the treatment of GBM is getting drugs across the blood brain barrier (BBB) efficiently. In an attempt to solve this problem, there are ongoing experimental and clinical trials to deliver drugs within stem cells. The purpose for this method is the ease by which stem cells home to the brain. This review discusses the experimental and clinical applications of stem cells for GBM. We also discuss the different properties of stem cells. This information is important to understand why one stem cell would be advantageous over another in cell therapy. We provide an overview of the different drug delivery methods, gene-based treatments and cancer vaccines for GBM, including the stem cell subset.
Role of Models in Assessing New Agents for Caries Prevention-Non-Fluoride Systems: Reaction Paper

Several important issues have been raised concerning the need for consideration of alternatives to fluoride. The principle reason to do so has been the lack of comprehensive effectiveness of fluoride, which in turn reveals incomplete understanding of the caries process. Included among the topics required for clarification of caries initiation would be quantitative methods for relating plaque pH values to the formation of caries. Thus, methods for assessing the activity of anticaries agents over time would be of considerable assistance in monitoring the effects of these test compounds on bacteria. The use of recombinant oral micro-organisms containing genetic fusions, to provide information on the effects of agents on bacteria growing in model systems, is discussed as a possible means of obtaining relevant data in situ.
Networked home automation projects

This paper outlines several senior capstone projects in the area of computer engineering. The projects utilize knowledge of several areas including but not limited to embedded systems, interfacing sensors, accessing computer peripherals, network programming and graphical user interface development. Depending on the skills of the student team some elements may be elaborated and some skipped. The home appliances as the target category of controlled devices makes this kind of project relatively simple and yet attractive to students. It also provides hands on experience in the field of home automation.
Orthodontic classifications: mystique or reality?

F or years those who have attempted to create systems for orthodontic classifications have been shackled by the bonds of the E. H. Angle paradigm.’ The two-dimensional constraints of the most widely used and accepted orthodontic classification preclude advancement in this field. Therefore, orthodontics may be called a “science art” and/or a “transscience.“’ These terms are interpreted broadly in this article in an attempt to focus on the problem of classification and to create an awareness of the necessity to link the etiology of malocclusion accurately with a rational plan of therapy. The future of orthodontics becomes dimensionless if past biases are eliminated and today’s problems are resolved under an evolved or synthetic philosophy. Orthodontics has borrowed heavily from other disciplines, such as physical anthropology, anatomy, and metallurgical sciences. By doing so, it has utilized considerable data and adapted it, rightly or wrongly, to orthodontics. “We have acquired notions and compiled precious materials which will later have their place and be of importance.“3 However, the compiled data cannot properly explain biologic phenomena if they are acquired erroneously or if the interpretations are directed to other seemingly related or unrelated processes. In this sense, orthodontics must function under the nineteenth century philosophy that a discipline deserves its name only when it establishes quantitative relations between phenomena. However, biologic entities have not been reduced to an exact science. They often appear identical but are the results of different determinants. Further, biologic observations may be asymmetric, comprised of numerous components, each with its unique potential for growth. Pasteur stated: “The universe is a big dissymmetrical whole. I am inclined to believe that lift such as it is manifested to us must be a function of the dissymmetry of the universe and of the consequences which it entails. Life is dominated by dissym-
The Contested Terrain of Reproduction: class and gender in schooling in India

Abstract This article addresses the need to elaborate the concept of resistance by creating an historically specific and more nuanced typology of student behaviours in schools, in the context of the particular configuration of capitalism and patriarchy in India. In particular, responses of upper/upper‐middle class and lower‐middle/working class girls are analysed. It is argued that socio‐economic background, as well as the structure of the school itself, plays a vital role in directing the channels taken by the students’ resistances. Data for this research project were gathered in the summer of 1986, from two schools in Calcutta, India.
Role of nitric oxide, endothelin-1, and inflammatory cytokines in blood pressure regulation in hemodialysis patients.

Abstract Background: Altered regulation of blood pressure (BP) in hemodialysis patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Regulation of BP is dependent in part on such vasoactive agents as nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1). Cytokine-mediated NO synthase activation during dialysis previously has been reported. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between cytokine-mediated activation of the NO and ET-1 systems and BP regulation in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Nine patients with chronic hypotension (predialysis systolic BP 1 month), nine patients with hypertension (predialysis systolic BP ≥ 180 mm Hg), and nine age- and sex-matched normotensive controls were enrolled. Results: Predialysis NO end product levels in the hypotensive group were greater than in controls (17.63 ± 5.9 versus 11.06 ± 2.12 μm/mL; P = 0.01), whereas the hypertensive group showed lower levels (4.76 ± 2.33 μm/mL; P P = 0.01). Predialysis ET-1 levels in the hypotensive and hypertensive groups were greater in comparison to the normotensive group (7.54 ± 4.52 and 8.95 ± 3.52 versus 4.41 ± 0.6 pg/mL; P P Conclusion: High levels of NO end products in hypotensive patients and low levels in hypertensive patients suggest a critical influence of NO in BP control. In addition, elevated ET-1 levels in hypertensive patients may contribute to systemic vasoconstriction and may suggest vascular dysfunction in this patient population. © 2002 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
The calculus of transmission.

Models are used to explain complexity in the real world. Models are useful insofar as they provide some understanding of reality and our collective experience. To illustrate, professionals responsible for the control of nosocomial infections in healthcare institutions employ a variety of barrier techniques to prevent the spread of transmissible pathogens. These techniques are extrapolated from models that describe our understanding of the processes of transmission. The models are based on the empirical observations of experts and often lack explicit, objective evidence to validate the model. Nevertheless, the models provide an understanding of current reality and support a belief system that determines our behavior when confronted with the complex circumstances surrounding transmission of nosocomial pathogens. Models that undergird our beliefs and behaviors may be more or less explicit. One of the early efforts to use explicit mathematical models to describe disease transmission was that described by Sir Ronald Ross in 1911.2 Ross was a parasitologist and epidemilogist who described the malaria life cycle. Based on his careful studies of the life cycle of malaria in humans and mosquitoes, Ross developed a mathematical model of transmission. From that explicit model, he deduced that malaria could be controlled by environmental interventions that eradicate mosquitoes. This idea initially was met with skepticism. Wh n the hypothesis was put to the test, it resulted in the control of a disease that was-and is-a major source of human morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. Subsequent efforts to generate mathematical models to illumine understanding of disease transmission were received with mixed enthusiasm. Parasitologists were responsible for much of the early work with mathematical models of transmission.3 Because of the complex transmission systems inherent in parasite life cycles (eg, schistosomiasis), mathematical theory often was so disconnected from reality that epidemiologists became disenchanted with efforts to describe diseases with theoretical mathematical models. Sebille Chevret, and Valleron4 describe an explicit mathematical model of the transmission of a resistant nosocomial pathogen in this issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology. Based on assumptions derived from the medical literature regarding probabilities of transmission and coloniza-
AERODYNAMICS OF THE 120-MM M831A1 PROJECTILE: ANALYSIS OF FREE-FLIGHT EXPERIMENTAL DATA

The 120-mm M831A1 projectile is a low-cost training projectile used by U.S. armor troops. For the last several years, program managers have received feedback from the user that in some cases, M831A1 impact performance did not appear consistent with the current M831A1 computer correction factor (CCF). Based on this informantion, a low-scale but in-depth experimental analysis of the round was conducted to assess its aeroballistic qualities and hopefully identify any potential issues that could affect accuracy performance. The fiveround experiment was conducted by the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) at the Transonic Experimental Facility (TEF), Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. Yaw magnitudes displayed variability, and several shots had at least moderate levels. The source of the yaw levels measured was the launch dynamics, and a detailed study of inbore dynamics is in progress. Most shots exhibited a "stepping" motion in plots of total yaw vs. range. This phenomenon is the result of a trim believed to be caused by an aerodynamic asymmetry. A source of the trim has not yet been isolated. Accurate freeflight drag and pitching moment coefficients were
Development of phenotype algorithms using electronic medical records and incorporating natural language processing

Electronic medical records are emerging as a major source of data for clinical and translational research studies, although phenotypes of interest need to be accurately defined first. This article provides an overview of how to develop a phenotype algorithm from electronic medical records, incorporating modern informatics and biostatistics methods.
Influenza-Associated Pneumonia Among Hospitalized Patients With 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Virus—United States, 2009

Background. Pneumonia was a common complication among hospitalized patients with 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 [pH1N1] in the United States in 2009. Methods. Through 2 national case series conducted during spring and fall of 2009, medical records were reviewed. A pneumonia case was defined as a hospitalize dp erson with laboratory-conf irmed pH1N1 virus and a chest radiographic report consistent with pneumonia based on agreement among 3 physicians. Results. Of 451 patients with chest radiographs performed, 195 (43%) had pneumonia (spring, 106 of 237 [45%]; fall, 89 of 214 [42%]). Compared with 256 patients without pneumonia, these 195 patients with pneumonia were more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (52% vs 16%), have acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS; 26% vs 2%), have sepsis (18% vs 3%), and die (17% vs 2%; P , .0001). One hundred eighteen (61%) of the patients with pneumonia had $1 underlying condition. Bacterial infections were reported in 13 patients with pneumonia and 2 patients without pneumonia. Patients with pneumonia, when compared with patients without pneumonia, were equally likely to receive influenza antiviral agents (78% vs 79%) but less likely to receive antiviral agents within #2 days of illness onset (28% vs 50%; P , .0001). Conclusions. Hospitalized patients with pH1N1 and pneumonia were at risk for severe outcomes including ARDS, sepsis, and death; antiviral treatment was often delayed. In the absence of accurate pneumonia diagnostics, patients hospitalized with suspected influenza and lung infiltrates on chest radiography should receive early and aggressive treatment with antibiotics and influenza antiviral agents.
RhoA is required for monocyte tail retraction during transendothelial migration

Transendothelial migration of monocytes is the process by which monocytes leave the circulatory system and extravasate through the endothelial lining of the blood vessel wall and enter the underlying tissue. Transmigration requires coordination of alterations in cell shape and adhesive properties that are mediated by cytoskeletal dynamics. We have analyzed the function of RhoA in the cytoskeletal reorganizations that occur during transmigration. By loading monocytes with C3, an inhibitor of RhoA, we found that RhoA was required for transendothelial migration. We then examined individual steps of transmigration to explore the requirement for RhoA in extravasation. Our studies showed that RhoA was not required for monocyte attachment to the endothelium nor subsequent spreading of the monocyte on the endothelial surface. Time-lapse video microscopy analysis revealed that C3-loaded monocytes also had significant forward crawling movement on the endothelial monolayer and were able to invade between neighboring endothelial cells. However, RhoA was required to retract the tail of the migrating monocyte and complete diapedesis. We also demonstrate that p160ROCK, a serine/threonine kinase effector of RhoA, is both necessary and sufficient for RhoA-mediated tail retraction. Finally, we find that p160ROCK signaling negatively regulates integrin adhesions and that inhibition of RhoA results in an accumulation of β2 integrin in the unretracted tails.
Performance analysis of Raman amplifiers based on dispersion-managed fibers

We optimize bidirectionally-pumped Raman amplifiers based on dispersion-managed fibers (DMFs). We show that, in terms of the signal-to-noise ratio, performance of the optimized DMF amplifier is only a few dB away from that of an ideal distributed amplifier.
The Fracture Energy of Earthquakes

Summary The arrest of a semi-infinite longitudinal shear crack is caused by either (1) the finiteness of available strain energy, or (2) an increase in fracture energy along the trajectory of the running crack. In the former case the following relationship may be used to evaluate the fracture energy: yo = RAa2/2ptn where yo is the fracture energy per unit length along the crack edge per unit extension of the cracktip (erg cm-2), R is the characteristic radius of the fault (cm), ACJ is the stress drop (dyne cm-2) and p is the rigidity (dyne cm-2). This leads to the following relationship: log Aa = -3 log R +f log (2ptny0) or from the Keylis-Borok relationship (1959): log Mo = 5/2 log R +* log (2ptny0)+0*64 where M, is the seismic moment in dyne cm-'. These two relationships are statistically acceptable for Southern California faults and the TongaKermadec Arc earthquakes. The fracture energy is found to vary from lo3 to lo9 erg cm-' with fresh fracture being associated with 10'-lQ9 erg cm-2 while frictional rupture with 103-107 erg cm-2. These values are in good agreement with other independent estimates.
Y-cut quartz resonator based calorimetric sensor

Monitoring of chemical and biochemical reactions such as neutralization reactions, antibody-antigen binding events, and enzyme catalyzed reactions, etc. can be achieved using calorimetric (bio)chemical sensors. A calorimeter array consisting of a thin film thermopile as temperature sensor integrated with microfluidic channels has already been demonstrated recently. In order to improve the sensitivity of the device, a temperature sensing element based on Y-cut quartz is proposed. The temperature-frequency calibration of a 125 mum thick Y-cut quartz resonator has been experimentally measured in the 22-60degC temperature range. Preliminary measurements of the neutralization reaction have been performed using the resonator to demonstrate the potential of the device for calorimetric sensing applications. It can be concluded that upon optimization of the device for thermal performance and appropriate compensation of mass loading and viscoelastic effects using a differential arrangement, ultrasensitive calorimetric measurements can be performed using such a device
The Functional Organization of Cutaneous Low-Threshold Mechanosensory Neurons

Innocuous touch of the skin is detected by distinct populations of neurons, the low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs), which are classified as Aβ-, Aδ-, and C-LTMRs. Here, we report genetic labeling of LTMR subtypes and visualization of their relative patterns of axonal endings in hairy skin and the spinal cord. We found that each of the three major hair follicle types of trunk hairy skin (guard, awl/auchene, and zigzag hairs) is innervated by a unique and invariant combination of LTMRs; thus, each hair follicle type is a functionally distinct mechanosensory end organ. Moreover, the central projections of Aβ-, Aδ-, and C-LTMRs that innervate the same or adjacent hair follicles form narrow LTMR columns in the dorsal horn. These findings support a model of mechanosensation in which the activities of Aβ-, Aδ-, and C-LTMRs are integrated within dorsal horn LTMR columns and processed into outputs that underlie the perception of myriad touch sensations.
Colliding Identities, Emotional Roller Coasters, and Contradictions of Urban Science Education

There is widespread acceptance in contemporary scholarship that identity is dynamic, constantly changing as individuals enact their lives (Stetsenko, 2008). There are many ways to think about identity theoretically (Roth & Tobin, 2006) and in this chapter we foreground autobiography involving an immigrant teacher who came to the US from the Philippines to pursue a higher degree in environmental chemistry, and subsequently to teach in New York City. Like him, most of his students were immigrants, but mainly dark skinned individuals from the African Diaspora and native speakers of Spanish. This teacher, Reynaldo, is coauthor of this chapter in which we regard cultural enactment of activities as historically constituted, and identity as closely related to lived history.
Preventing breast cancer now by acting on what we already know

The age-specific rate of breast cancer rises rapidly through premenopausal years and significantly more slowly after menopause. Reproductive factors affect cell proliferation and the accumulation of genetic changes. Lifetime risk of breast cancer is linearly related to the length of the interval from menarche to first birth. Lifestyle changes that accompany industrialization, together with shifting reproductive patterns, drive up incidence rates. Prevention must begin early in the life as almost one-quarter of cases are diagnosed before age 50 in high-income countries. This requires greater emphasis on prevention across the life course to address the global burden of breast cancer.
A Review of The Anthropology of Eastern Religions: Ideas, Organizations, and Constituencies

Leaf, Murray J. (2014). The Anthropology of Eastern Religions: Ideas, Organizations, and Constituencies. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 77 pp., $80.00.This relatively brief volume strives to mee...
Optimization models in RM systems: Optimality versus revenue gains

Optimization models in airline revenue management (RM) systems have evolved from single flight leg to network revenue maximization to marginal revenue optimization for less restricted fare structures. This article reviews the most common optimization approaches that have been widely implemented in airline RM systems, with a focus on how the mismatch between model assumptions and reality can affect achievable revenue performance. Simulation findings from the Passenger Origin-Destination Simulator are used to illustrate how robustness and revenue gains, as opposed to theoretical optimality, have driven the widespread adoption of practical optimization models in RM systems.
Developmental Changes in the Link Between Gender Typicality and Peer Victimization and Exclusion

The present study takes a broad and nuanced view of gender typicality in normative populations and suggests that this aspect of children’s gender identity might be a fundamental aspect of vulnerability to peer maltreatment. Using a cross-sectional sample from the Southwestern United States, developmental differences were examined in the relations between kindergarten (n = 210, M age = 5.81, 52 % female), second (n = 205, M age = 7.62, 50 % female), and fourth (n = 205, M age = 9.56, 44 % female) grade students’ self-reported similarity to own- and other-gender peers and teacher-reported peer victimization and exclusion. Parents’ reports of children’s own- and other-gender friendships were also examined to test whether friendships would attenuate this relation. We hypothesized (a) lower gender typicality would be associated with higher victimization/exclusion for 2nd and 4th grade children and (b) friendships with own- and other-gender peers, but especially own-gender peers, would moderate the typicality and victimization/exclusion relation, acting as a buffer against victimization/exclusion. Supporting our hypotheses, results indicated developmental differences in the link between gender typicality and victimization/exclusion with a more consistent relation in 2nd and 4th grades. For girls, having other-gender friends moderated the negative relation of other-gender similarity and victimization/exclusion. Own-gender friendships were protective overall for both genders, and other-gender friendships were protective for 4th graders. Our study suggests that gender-related intolerance is a central issue to peer maltreatment and affects more than just those who exhibit the most extreme cases of gender nonconformity and that friendships can provide a buffer against victimization/exclusion.
Old questions for the new anthropology of morality: A commentary

The return of anthropological interest to the descriptive study of the moral foundations of social life is a very welcome development. Nevertheless, if there is going to be a new anthropology of mo...
Abstract 1316: N-acetyl-L-cysteine sensitizes pancreatic cancer therapy by targeting NFκB pathway: Translation into animal model

Pancreatic cancer has the worst prognosis of all major cancers with 97% treatment failure. First-line systemic therapy for pancreatic cancer is the antimetabolite gemcitabine. Although, tumors may initially respond to the gemcitabine treatment, soon tumor resistance and excessive toxicity develops leading to treatment failure. Efforts to optimize and improve the efficacy of gemcitabine therapy through combination with other agents have little success. Previously, we demonstrated that N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a glutathione (GSH) precursor prevents NFκB activation and promotes pancreatic cancer cell death. The mechanism of inactivation of NFκB by NAC supplementation is a post-translational sulfhydryl modification called S-glutathionylation on p65-NFκB that inhibits its DNA-binding capacity and thus prevents activation of the survival genes. Mass spectrometric analysis indicated that four of the 9 cysteines of p65 are potentially S-glutathionylated. Our hypothesis is that chemoresistance against gemcitabine arises from a combination of hypoxia- and gemcitabine-induced NFκB activation. The objective of this study is to test the hypothesis and investigate if thiol donors like NAC can suppress NFκB signaling and augment a therapeutic response to gemcitabine in vivo. Here we determined the anti-tumor effect of gemcitabine and NAC on pancreatic tumors in mice. MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells were injected into nude mice to grow subcutaneous tumors. Treatment groups were untreated, NAC, gemcitabine and gemcitabine+NAC. Results indicated that neither gemcitabine nor NAC by itself was effective in decreasing tumor growth. However, NAC and gemcitabine in combination inhibited tumor growth by 33%. Gemcitabine activates NFκB, although the mechanism for this phenomenon is unclear. NFκB activity was indeed increased in gemcitabine-treated tumors (3-fold) and combination with NAC treatment blunted this effect (p Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1316. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1316
Differential Effects of Temperature on the Biological Activity of Four Biotypes of the Pea Aphid

Four populations of Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) from 4 geographical areas in the western United States—Bakersfield, Calif, Mesa, Ariz.: Corvallis, Oreg.; and Reno, Nev.,—were segregated on the basis of biological response to 4 different temperatures. Effect of temperature on all biological activities of each aphid biotype and differences in the mean development of the 1st-nymphal stadium and combined nymphal stadia were highly significant among biotypes. Fecundity among all biotypes was different at the 0.01 level of probability. A highly significant biotype by temperature interaction was found for development of the 1st instar stage and the preparturition period. Populations from Bakersfield and Mesa had similar but a significantly reduced development of the 1st instar stage than populations from Reno and Corvallis. However, populations from Reno and Mesa bad a similar but a significantly higher fecundity than populations from Bakersfield and Corvallis.
SOME COMMENTS ON TYPOLOGIES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND AN OUTLINE OF A METHODOLOGY

Classification is discussed as a procedure for maximizing information about a cultural system from archaeological data. This concept is made rigorous by defining typologies in terms of assumptions about patterning among variables that result from different artifacts being manufactured for use in different activities. Interval-scaled and nominal-scaled variables are considered independently, as the problem to be solved is different in the 2 cases. For continuous variables, the question is what divisions can be made, and for nominal variables, it is what divisions should be made. Two definitions for typologies are given, 1 for continuous variables and 1 for nominal variables. Cluster analysis and analysis of interaction and residuals in contingency tables are outlined as procedures for discovering types with continuous and nominal variables, respectively. Examples of each technique using archaeological data are given.
EasySketch2: a novel sketch-based interface for improving children's fine motor skills and school readiness

Children's fine motor skills are associated with enhanced drawing skills, as well as improved creativity, self-regulation skills, and school readiness. Assessing these skills enables parents and teachers to target areas of improvement for their children, so that they are better prepared for learning and achieving once they enter school. Conventional approaches rely on psychology-based tracing and drawing tasks using pencil-and-paper and performance metrics such as timing and accuracies. However, such approaches involve human experts to manually score children's drawings and evaluate their fine motor skills, which is both time consuming and prone to human error or bias. This paper introduces our novel sketch-based educational interface, which can classify children's fine motor skills more accurately than conventional methods by automatically classifying fine motor skills through sketch recognition techniques. The interface (1) employs a fine motor skill classifier, which decides children's fine motor skills based on their drawing skills and (2) includes a pedagogical system that assists children to draw basic shapes such as alphabet letters or numbers based on developmental level and learning progress, and provides teachers and parents with information on the maturity of the children's fine motor skills that correspond to their school readiness. We evaluated both our interface and "star drawing test" with 70 children (3-8 years), and found that our interface determined children's fine motor skills more accurately than the conventional approach. In addition to the fine motor skill assessment, our interface served as an educational tool that benefited children in teaching them how to draw, practice, and improve their drawing skills.
Analysis of vector density surveillance in Pan’an county,Zhejiang province from 2005 to 2010

Objective To determine the density of primary vector species and their seasonal fluctuation in Pan’an county for improvement of prevention and control strategies. Methods Light traps,cage traps,roach pastes and night traps were used to capture mosquitoes,flies,cockroaches and rodents,respectively,for density calculations. Results From 2005 to 2010,the average density of mosquitoes in Pan’an county was 2.04 per lamp-hour,with the prominent species being Culex pipiens pallens/Cx. pipiens quinquefasciatus accounting for 71.81%. The average density of flies was 1.83 per cage with Chrysomya megacephala and Musca domestica as the predominant species,which accounted for 52.62% and 37.81%,respectively. The density of cockroaches was 0.91 per paste,with Blattella germanica as the predominant species(92.10%) . The rodent density was 0.89% with Niviventer fulvescens as the predominant species(37.60%) . Most mosquitoes and flies appeared in May;the former became most active in July and the latter in June through August. Cockroaches and rats were observed throughout the year with relatively high roach density from March to October and generally peak rodent density in September. Conclusion The population composition and seasonal fluctuation of primary vectors in Pan’an county are clarified.
Analysis of test results on occupational hazards in factories and mines in Wanzhou district

Objective:To understand the status and levels of occupational hazards in factories and mines in Wanzhou area,and provide effective measures and basis for relevant department to manage occupational hazards,improve working conditions,prevent the occurrence of occupational diseases and protect health of workers.Methods:Site occupational health survey was conducted in 51 entrusted enterprises in 2009.To monitor the occupational hazards in accordance with current national standards and regulations,and analyze the monitoring data.Results:The hazard level of occupational disease was serious,involving pharmaceutical industry,building materials,light industry,electronic and chemical enterprises.The monitoring pass rate of dust,productive chemical poisons and productive noise were 65.63%,82.86% and 61.76% respectively.Conclusion:The occupational hazards of factories and mines in Wanzhou were still at high level,especially the dust,benzene,ethylene oxide,paraffin wax smoke and noise,so it is important to further strengthen the prevention and control to protect the health of workers.
Russia’s Revolutionary Heritage

In Russia, there is a legacy of repression and revolution. Throughout the nineteenth and into the twentieth century, an increasingly anachronistic regime, immobilized by fear and inertia, confronted rapidly changing social forces. Those who criticized the regime or spoke out for reforms were imprisoned or exiled. A self-perpetuating cycle developed: calls for reform resulted in police harassment, which further radicalized the dissidents and hardened their demands. With every repetition of the cycle, the political demands grew more strident, the protests more violent, and the responses of the authorities more repressive and brutal.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Urinary Tract Infections

Acute urinary tract infections are a major health problem in adult women. This discussion presents a practical approach to their diagnosis and treatment that incorporates recent research developments and that is designed to minimize the cost and adverse effects of therapy while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.
Gamma rays from the 351-keV C14(p, γ) resonance

Measurements have been made on the energies and the angular distributions of gamma rays from the 351-keV resonance in C14(p, γ). The observed transitions in N15 are the cascades 10.543 → 7.309 → 0 MeV, 10.543 → 5.276 → 0 MeV and 10.543 → 7.164 → 5.276 → 0 MeV. These transitions are consistent with the decays of the 7.309-MeV and 7.164-MeV levels observed in the N14(d, p) and N14(n, γ) reactions. The angular distribution measurements are consistent with a 52 spin assignment for the 10.543-MeV level, a 32 spin assignment for the 7.309-MeV level, a 52 assignment for the 5.276-MeV level, and a 52 assignment (with less certainty) for the 7.164-MeV level.
Enabling real time release testing by NIR prediction of dissolution of tablets made by continuous direct compression (CDC).

Abstract A method for predicting dissolution profiles of directly compressed tablets for a fixed sustained release formulation manufactured in a continuous direct compaction (CDC) system is presented. The methodology enables real-time release testing (RTRt). Tablets were made at a target drug concentration of 9% Acetaminophen, containing 90% lactose and 1% Magnesium Stearate, and at a target compression force of 24 kN. A model for predicting dissolution profiles was developed using a 3 4−1 fractional factorial experimental design built around this targeted condition. Four variables were included: API concentration (low, medium, high), blender speed (150 rpm, 200 rpm, 250 rpm), feed frame speed (20 rpm, 25 rpm, 30 rpm), compaction force (8KN, 16KN, 24KN). The tablets thus obtained were scanned at-line in transmission mode using Near IR spectroscopy. The dissolution profiles were described using two approaches, a model-independent “shape and level” method, and a model-dependent approach based on Weibull’s model. Multivariate regression was built between the NIR scores as the predictor variables and the dissolution profile parameters as the response. The model successfully predicted the dissolution profiles of the individual tablets (similarity factor, f 2 ∼72) manufactured at the targeted set point. This is a first ever published manuscript addressing RTRt for dissolution prediction in continuous manufacturing, a novel and state of art technique for tablet manufacturing.
Neonatal Epilepsies and Seizure Evolution

The evolution of epileptic syndromes in 75 children with EEG-confirmed epilepsies of neonatal onset was studied at Nagoya University, Japan.
Associations Between Sexual Orientation Discrimination and Depression Among Same-Sex Couples: Moderating Effects of Dyadic Coping

ABSTRACTDrawing from minority stress theory and the systemic–transactional model, we examined whether perceptions of partner's dyadic coping behavior moderated the association between sexual orientation discrimination stress and symptoms of depression among individuals in a same-sex relationship. Data from 95 same-sex couples revealed that, overall, sexual orientation discrimination stress was positively associated with depressive symptoms; however, perceived partner emotion-focused supportive dyadic coping weakened this association. Specifically, higher sexual orientation discrimination stress was associated with greater depressive symptoms only for individuals perceiving low partner emotion-focused supportive dyadic coping. Implications for researchers and clinicians are presented.
Anise oil dosage and its effect on growth performance and jejunal lesions during a Clostridium perfringens challenge in battery trials, and growth performance in a floor pen trial

Abstract Anise oil (AO) is a phytochemical with antibiotic properties and it reduces the growth of Clostridium perfringens in vitro, which is the main causal agent of necrotic enteritis. A series of battery experiments was conducted to determine an AO dosage to feed to broilers and its effect during 2 C. perfringens challenges, and a floor pen experiment to determine its effect in performance. Anise oil linearly reduced (P 0.05) during Experiment 3. In both challenges, the jejunum of broilers fed AO had fewer and milder (P 0.10) growth performance for the entire trial. Broilers fed PC or AO had greater ADG (P 0.10) among broilers fed any of the dietary treatments. Residues of AO were not present at detectable levels in breast meat.
Abdominal wall blocks and neurolysis

Pain arising from the abdominal wall is a significant cause of morbidity. Diagnostic and therapeutic blocks for abdominal wall pain can be achieved by a number of techniques. The safety and efficacy of these blocks requires an understanding of anatomy, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Throughout this chapter, we discuss the critical anatomical landmarks for successfully utilizing fluoroscopy, nerve stimulation, and ultrasound guidance to safely accomplish nerve blocks targeting pain arising from the abdominal wall.
From data to control

The basic control problem for a given process can be stated as follows: Given some prior information about the process and a set of finite data, design a feedback controller that meets given performance specifications. Traditionally, this problem has been tackled by the introduction of an intermediate step, namely finding a model which describes the process in some precise sense, and then designing a robust controller using the model as the nominal plant.
An Empirical Research on the Relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility and Performance Based on Data Analysis in Northeastern Provinces of China—A Case Study of Listed Companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges

According to Stakeholder Theory, the author of the article conducted a research on the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR for short) on its performance by using the Structural Equation Modeling. On the basis of the research results of available literatures, setting up an assumptive Conceptual Model indicating the relationship between the factors of corporate social responsibility and the factors of its performance, selecting the annual report data of 76 listed companies in Northeastern provinces of China in the 5 consecutive years from 2005 to 2009 as research sample, the author conducted hypothesis testing through the Structural Equation Modeling. The result is that in the 5 consecutive years from 2005 to 2009, CSR for shareholders has a positive effect on a company’s performance; CSR for creditors has a positive effect on a company’s performance; CSR for government has a positive effect on business performance, and the impact on financial performance was not significant. Generally speaking, CSR causes great effects on a company’s performance; namely, the more responsibility for stakeholders, the better a company’s performance.
Feasibility of quantifying behavior in early progressive MPS II

Hunter syndrome is a rare X-linked lysosomal disorder associated with progressive multisystem involvement. Ages of onset vary, as do disease course and phenotypic severity. The early progressive phenotype involves delayed developmental milestones with worsening intellectual impairment and regression. Disease progression creates dramatic neurobehavioral symptoms, including hyperactivity, inattention, behavior difficulties, sleep disturbance, and others. These behaviors are highly disruptive, distressing to families, and significantly impact quality of life. But these symptoms have been difficult to measure. Existing pediatric behavioral assessment tools do not capture the unique constellation of symptoms, nor variability of expression. To address this problem, we are developing a Hunter-specific caregiver rating scale of neurobehavioral symptoms. The goal is to create a valid, reliable tool that detects change in neurobehavioral profile, informing natural history and therapeutic response. A first step involves drafting a tool using methods of scale development for another MPS type with neurobehavioral impairment, the Sanfilippo Behavior Rating Scale. Item sets are informed by coded video recordings of: 1) semi-structured play in small groups of affected boys and 2) focus groups with caregivers literature review and review of existing tools. Inclusion criteria include: 1) confirmed diagnosis of early progressive Hunter syndrome 2) age 4 to 9 years 3) able to ambulate. Findings aligned with the literature’s descriptions of diverse symptoms, with considerable differences in presentation within-child, dependent upon internal and external factors (e.g., fatigue, hunger, novelty of a setting). Caregiver reports indicated a need for a behaviorally anchored scale that assesses frequency of symptoms and context rather than severity. Next steps will involve piloting the draft scale and soliciting caregiver feedback. Future directions include validating the measure in a larger multi-center study. Support: Shire pharmaceuticals, NIH U54NS065768, National MPS Society, UMN Center for Neurobehavioral Development
Lipoid proteinosis: case report.

: A 20-month-old Kuwaiti girl had manifestations of lipoid pro-teinosis, a rare autosomal recessive disorder seen more commonly in Caucasians. This condition Is diagnosed based on clinical, histopatho-loglc, and uttrastructural criteria. Its biochemical and genetic aspects are still poorly understood.
Viability of Pseudocapillaria tomentosa Eggs Exposed to Heat, Ultraviolet Light, Chlorine, Iodine, and Desiccation.

Abstract Pseudocapillaria tomentosa is an important pathogen in zebrafish facilities. We investigated heat, ultraviolet (UV) light, chlorine, iodine, and dessciation for killing the parasite's eggs...
Abstract 2893: ALK amplification and rearrangements are recurrent targetable events in glioblastoma

Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) expression, rearrangements, and single nucleotide variants have been reported in several brain tumor types, but the significance and function of each aberration in adults and children have not been clearly established. To determine the degree to which ALK represents a relevant therapeutic target in gliomas, we first examined ALK expression using immunohistochemistry (IHC) in a panel of 148 adult GBM and 49 pediatric GBM/high grade gliomas. We identified high ALK expression was most frequent in pediatric gliomas (32%, 16/49, IHC score 2+ or 3+). Copy arrays/sequencing and FISH for the ALK locus revealed high levelALK amplification in 31% of ALK-expressing cases (5/16) but was a rare event in gliomas overall. Whole-genome sequencing and RNA sequencing identified novel and recurrent PPP1CB-ALKfusions in 43% of ALK-expressing pediatric GBM (7/16), suggesting IHC may be an efficient means of screening for ALK aberrations as in the identification of EML4-ALK lung cancer. All ALK- amplified cases harbored PPP1CB-ALK fusion but 2 PPP1CB-ALK cases were copy neutral. The phosphatase PPP1CB was fused in-frame to ALK at exon 20 with preservation of the ALK kinase domain and predicted to activate via the same mechanism as other ALK rearranged cancers. ALKfusion proteins promoted cell proliferation and constitutive kinase activity and upregulated STAT and AKT signaling pathways. However, expression of novel ALK missense mutations in NSCs did not promote proliferation. Administration of ALK inhibitor Crizotinib reduced tumor growth in a PDX GBM from a patient with a novel ALK fusion. This work validates amplification and rearrangement of ALK as a highly recurrent driver event and therapeutic target in GBM, particularly in young children where it may be the sole driver event. Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Anne-Florence Blandin. ALK amplification and rearrangements are recurrent targetable events in glioblastoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2893.
Spondweni virus causes fetal harm in a mouse model of vertical transmission and is transmitted byAedes aegyptimosquitoes

Abstract Spondweni virus (SPONV) is the most closely related known flavivirus to Zika virus (ZIKV). Its pathogenic potential and vector specificity have not been well defined. SPONV has been found predominantly in Africa, but was recently detected in a pool of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes in Haiti. Here we show that SPONV can cause significant fetal harm, including demise, comparable to ZIKV, in a mouse model of vertical transmission. Following maternal inoculation, we detected infectious SPONV in placentas and fetuses, along with significant fetal and placental histopathology, together indicating vertical transmission. To test vector competence, we exposed Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes to SPONV-infected bloodmeals. Aedes aegypti could efficiently transmit SPONV, whereas Culex quinquefasciatus could not. Our results suggest that SPONV has the same features that made ZIKV a public health risk.
Poisson’s ratio and residual strain of freestanding ultra-thin films

Abstract The Poisson’s ratio and residual strain of ultra-thin films ( ( 6.8 ± 0.8 ) × 10 − 3 are measured. The measured residual strain is in good agreement with the residual strain of ( 7.1 ± 0.2 ) × 10 − 3 measured using alternate residual stress-driven test structures of the same films.