cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Apical and non-apical meristem lethality in relation to chromosome number, nuclear volume and relative radiosensitivities in diploid and tetraploid antirrhinum Majus*

Diploid and tetraploid seedlings of snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) were irradiated with increasing exposures of X-rays and then scored several weeks later for apical and non-apical (adventitious) proliferation. Apical and non-apical proliferation were eliminated in both strains with exposures of 8 kR and 14 kR, respectively. All non-apical shoots arose from the juncture of the root and shoot. Interphase chromosome volumes of shoot apices and of the meristematic areas ofnon-apical proliferation were 4·4±0·2 μ3 and 2·6±0·2μ3, respectively, for the diploid and 4·4±0·3 μ3 and 1·9±0·1 μ3, respectively, for the tetraploid; the corresponding energies absorbed per chromosome at LD100 average to 1·9 × 106 eV— considerably below Sparrow's constant of 3·6 × 106 eV for seedling survival. Decapitated 2n and 4n seedlings had a higher LD100 (20 kR) and a correspondingly higher average energy absorbed per chromosome (2·6 × 106 eV) for non-apical proliferation. It is suggested, because a plant has several types of meristems capable of producing a shoot, that survival be compared against its relative ICV; that is, apical survival against apical ICV and non-apical survival against whatever non-apical meristem produces the plant shoot.
Symmetric constitutive laws for polycrystalline ferroelectric ceramics

A class of fully coupled, symmetric, multi-axial, ferroelectric constitutive laws is presented. The foundation of the theory is an assumed form for the Helmholtz free energy of the material. Yield surfaces and associated flow rules are postulated in a modified stress and electric field space such that a positive dissipation rate during switching is guaranteed. The resulting tangent moduli relating increments of stress and electric field to increments of strain and electric displacement are symmetric since changes in the linear elastic, dielectric and piezoelectric properties of the material are included in the switching surface and flow law. Symmetry is further investigated with a simple one-dimensional loading situation comparing the thermodynamically consistent framework to a more ad hoc theory.
Advancing Social Justice in Urban Schools Through the Implementation of Transformative Groups for Youth of Color

The unique challenges faced by some youth of color living in high poverty contexts necessitate the creation of innovative, culturally relevant, group interventions. Framing the work of group counselors from a social justice perspective provides a structure for emphasizing the complex intersection of economic, political, and socio-historical issues facing some urban youth of color. The purpose of this article is to describe the transformative group approach for working with youth of color in under-resourced contexts. The implementation of 2 pilot groups using this critical consciousness-raising approach with 7th and 8th grade urban students of color will also be presented.
Learning separations by Boolean combinations of half-spaces

Given two subsets S/sub 1/ and S/sub 2/ (not necessarily finite) of /spl Rfr//sup d/ separable by a Boolean combination of learning half-spaces, the authors consider the problem of (in the sense of Valiant) the separation function from a finite set of examples, i.e., they produce with a high probability a function close to the actual separating function. The authors' solution consists of a system of N perceptrons and a single consolidator which combines the outputs of the individual perceptrons; it is shown that an off-line version of this problem, where the examples are given in a batch, can be solved in time polynomial in the number of examples. The authors also provide an on-line learning algorithm that incrementally solves the problem by suitably training a system of N perceptrons much in the spirit of the classical perceptron learning algorithm. >
Testing Assumptions in Computational Theories of Aphasia

Abstract We present the performances of 13 aphasic patients on a picture-naming task and attempt to model these data using computer simulations. We systematically manipulate the assumptions underlying several interactive, two-step, spreading-activation models, including the proposals of Dell et al. (1997), Foygel and Dell (2000), and Rapp and Goldrick (in press). Using a numerical regres-sion procedure and multiple views of each model's possible output, we find that peripheral pragmatic assumptionsplay a role equal to that of theoretically more central model components. None of the models we consider can account for all of the patients, leading us to conclude that one or more of the assumptions underlying each model is flawed. We argue that there are strong limitations on the conclusions that can legitimately be drawn from such simulation studies but that close analysis of individual patients can allow sound testing of potentially more accurate models.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity of Feitknechtite

The synthesis of Mg{sup 2+} doped {beta}-MnOOH which is known as feitknechtite is reported. Feitknechtite is a layered material having the CdI{sub 2} structure. The characterization of Mg{sup 2+} doped feitknechtite was done with X-ray powder diffraction, elemental analysis, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, scanning electron microscopy, alternating current (AC) impedance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, average oxidation state titrations of manganese, and acidity measurements. The formation of feitknechtite is related to the MnO{sub 4}{sup {minus}}/Mn{sup 2+} ratio used in the synthesis. Feitknechtite can be converted to synthetic birnessite or octahedral layer birnessite (OL-1) which is a precursor to the 6.9 {angstrom} tunnel structure material todorokite.
VoiKiosk: increasing reachability of kiosks in developing regions

One of the several initiatives to bridge the digital divide in developing countries has been the deployment of information kiosks or knowledge centers in villages in rural parts of the country. These kiosks provide services ranging from email, chat and browsing to distance education programs, agricultural services and eGovernance services. A kiosk typically comprises of a computer with printer, web cam, multimedia system and Internet connectivity and is owned by a local entrepreneur. Moving away from the PC based kiosk model, we present an alternative platform to create and host such information kiosks in the telephony network. We call these as VoiKiosks and they are accessible through voice interaction over an ordinary phone call.
Prolonged survival of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in the modern treatment era.

Abstract Introduction Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LM) is a severe complication of non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) historically associated with poor prognosis. New chemotherapeutic and targeted treatments could potentially affect the natural history of LM. Patients and Methods Patients with a pathologic diagnosis of NSCLC with LM treated at Stanford between 2003 and 2011 were identified via institutional databases and medical records. LM was defined by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that was positive for malignant cells or by LM enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium contrast. Retrospective, landmark analyses were performed to estimate survival. Statistical analyses were performed using SAS Enterprise Guide, version 4.3. Results LM was identified in 30 patients. All cases were adenocarcinoma; 60% of patients had a known or suspected driver mutation. The mean age was 58 years. Of the 30 patients, 67% were women; 70% were nonsmokers; 27% initially presented with LM; 84% received systemic treatment at or after development of LM; and 53% of these patients received modern systemic therapy for their LM, defined as a regimen containing pemetrexed, bevacizumab, or a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Mean overall survival after LM diagnosis was 6 months (95% CI, 3-12). Patients who received modern systemic therapy for LM had decreased hazard of death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.24; P = .007). Conclusion In this retrospective, single-institution analysis, median survival with LM was higher compared with historical experience. Patients who received modern systemic therapy for their LM had particularly good outcomes. These data provide evidence for improving survival outcomes in the modern treatment era for this difficult-to-treat complication.
Discriminative properties of somatic and nonsomatic symptoms for post stroke depression

Abstract While the existence of post stroke depression (PSD) is well established in the literature, the phenomenology of the disorder remains unclear. This study compared the discriminative validity of somatic and nonsomatic symptoms of depression as indicators of PSD. One hundred and eighty-nine persons who had a unilateral cerebrovascular accident (CVA) were administered a mood evaluation comprised of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) at least 4 weeks post stroke. Results indicated that the somatic items from both scales were significantly less specific when diagnosing PSD than were the nonsomatic (intrapsychic) items. Furthermore, the most accurate individual symptom indicators of PSD were nonsomatic, and somatic symptoms showed no incremental validity over intrapsychic symptoms for predicting PSD. Present findings suggest that clinicians, attempting to diagnose PSD, should rely more heavily upon nonsomatic symptoms than the somatic symptoms of depr...
Acute Abdominal Pain

Because there are many causes of acute abdominal pain, a systematic approach by the evaluating physician is necessary to narrow the differential diagnosis. It is vital that the physician have an understanding of the mechanisms of pain generation and be familiar with the presentations of common diseases that cause abdominal pain. Recognizing the red flags in the history and physical examination and the initial imaging and laboratory findings helps to determine which patients may have a serious underlying disease process, and therefore warrant more expedited evaluation and treatment.
Disinfection and Sterilization in Health Care Facilities: What Clinicians Need to Know

All invasive procedures involve contact between a medical device or surgical instrument and a patient's sterile tissue or mucous membranes. A major risk of all such procedures is the introduction of pathogenic microbes that could lead to infection. Failure to properly disinfect or sterilize reusable medical equipment carries a risk associated with breach of the host barriers. The level of disinfection or sterilization is dependent on the intended use of the object: critical items (such as surgical instruments, which contact sterile tissue), semicritical items (such as endoscopes, which contact mucous membranes), and noncritical items (such as stethoscopes, which contact only intact skin) require sterilization, high-level disinfection, and low-level disinfection, respectively. Cleaning must always precede high-level disinfection and sterilization. Users must consider the advantages and disadvantages of specific methods when choosing a disinfection or sterilization process. Adherence to these recommendations should improve disinfection and sterilization practices in health care facilities, thereby reducing infections associated with contaminated patient-care items.
Degradation of a Granular Base under a Flexible Pavement: DEM Simulation

Flexible pavements are composed by an asphalt concrete layer, granular base and subbase layers, and a natural subgrade. The granular materials forming part of the granular layers are subjected to static and dynamic loads during their engineering life. As a result of these loads particle crushing may occur depending on the strength of the particles forming the granular layers. Particle crushing is important since it is associated with several detrimental effects such as settlements and a reduction in hydraulic conductivity. A computer simulation using the discrete element method (DEM) is presented in order to understand and visualize how crushing initiates and develops inside a simulated pavement structure.
Separating combustion from pyrolysis in HIGRAD/FIRETEC

HIGRAD/FIRETEC is a coupled atmosphere/wildfire behavior model based on conservation of mass, momentum, species, and energy. It combines a three-dimensional transport model that uses a compressible-gas fluid dynamics formulation with a physics-based wildfire model, to represent the coupled behavior of the local atmosphere and wildfire. In its current formulation, combustion and pyrolysis are treated as a single process, which depends on the local densities of wood and oxygen, the levels of turbulent mixing, and a probability distribution function (PDF) for temperature in the solid. The PDF is employed to estimate the volume fraction that is hot enough to burn. This burning model is now being extended to deal with pyrolysis and combustion as separate processes. Some fire behaviors, such as flash events, crowning, and fire ‘whirls’, may depend on the ability of combustion to take place in a separate spatial location from the pyrolysis. We refer to this burning model as ‘non-local’. In the non-local burning model, pyrolysis is dealt with in roughly the same way as formerly, but now as an endothermic process. Instead of producing solely inert gasses, it now produces a mixture of inert and combustible gasses. Combustion is handled as a separate gas–gas reaction, which is highly exothermic. The basic premise of the HIGRAD/FIRETEC burning model is retained, i.e. that the rate of a reaction is limited by the rate at which the reactants can be brought together (mixing limited). In the non-local burning model, the reactants for pyrolysis can be thought of as heat and wood, for combustion: the reactive gas and oxygen. A few simple test cases that used idealised geometries were simulated with both burning models, and the results were compared. The non-local burning model was found to give results comparable to the local burning model in terms of the fire-line shape and the spread rate for these simple test cases.
Employing On-Chip Jitter Test Circuit for Phase Locked Loop Self-Calibration

In this paper, a new adaptive PLL is implemented. This PLL employs a simple yet effective jitter test circuit to monitor the PLL jitter performance. Additionally, it uses a digital control unit to dynamically adjust the switched loop filter to suppress the jitter. By using this structure, the trade-off between the PLL locking speed and jitter performance can be balanced.
Robust model predictive control through adjustable variables: an application to path planning

Robustness in model predictive control (MPC) is the main focus of this work. After a definition of the conceptual framework and of the problem's setting, we analyze how a technique developed for studying robustness in convex optimization can be applied to address the problem of robustness in the MPC case. Therefore, exploiting this relationship between control and optimization, we tackle robustness issues for the first setting through methods developed in the second framework. Proofs for our results are included. As an application of this robust MPC result, we consider a path planning problem and discuss some simulations thereabout.
How to draw a sphere.2. Coordinate systems

For pt. 1 see ibid., 1995. The author continues his discussion about how to render a single arbitrarily transformed sphere. In part 1 he described what the inner loop is going to look like and he listed a whole bunch of vector matrix algebra operations and the geometric constructions they represent. He now starts to derive the inner loop of the rendering algorithm in order to see all the matrix algebra in action. Most of the time, however, will be spent picking the correct coordinate system to make the inner loop fast and accurate. Even if you aren't going to write special purpose sphere rendering programs, this will clearly illustrate the workings of the homogeneous perspective transform and the geometric interpretations of transformation matrices. >
Encroachment and Historically Agricultural Areas

SUMMARY TheUnitedStateshas experienced50yrofreductioninfarmland, mostoftenattributedtourban and rural development patterns that encourage sprawl and encroachment of land in agricultural production. Although academics and citizens ask if there are limits to this growth, the scholarly focus has favored examination of public policy and science-based responses over exploration of social and community impacts and approaches. The focus here is social with the premise that public policy and the actions of institutional representatives, including university extensionists, are ineffective and potentially detrimental without community consensus and support. Strategies for bridgingtheagribusiness,qualityoflife,andsocialpreservationistframesinhistoricallyagricultural communities are proposed based on research experiences in the Midwest.
Basilar and middle cerebral artery reserve: a comparative study using transcranial Doppler and breath-holding techniques.

Background and Purpose— A 1997 report suggests that the posterior circulation of the normal brain has diminished vasoreactivity compared with the anterior circulation. To further study this, we quantified and compared the vasodilatory capacities of the middle cerebral (MCA) and basilar artery (BA) territories in response to changes in Paco2, as indices of respective cerebrovascular reserve (CVR). If posterior circulation CVR is indeed physiologically lower than that of the MCA, it might indicate a greater risk of low-flow ischemia distal to basilar obstructive cerebrovascular lesions and provide a rationale for earlier treatment of such lesions with interventional techniques. We also wished to establish normal baseline CVR values for the posterior circulation. Methods— Twelve patients with signs and/or symptoms suggestive of posterior circulation disease but without flow-limiting obstructive changes and 11 normal controls were entered into the study. With the use of transcranial Doppler techniques, altera...
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery as a Therapeutic Strategy for Intracranial Sarcomatous Metastases

Purpose To determine the indication and outcomes for Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSRS) in the care of patients with intracranial sarcomatous metastases. Methods and Materials Data from 21 patients who underwent radiosurgery for 60 sarcomatous intracranial metastases (54 parenchymal and 6 dural-based) were studied. Nine patients had radiosurgery for solitary tumors and 12 for multiple tumors. The primary pathology was metastatic leiomyosarcoma (4 patients), osteosarcoma (3 patients), soft-tissue sarcoma (5 patients), chondrosarcoma (2 patients), alveolar soft part sarcoma (2 patients), and rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, liposarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma, and synovial sarcoma (1 patient each). Twenty patients received multimodality management for their primary tumor, and 1 patient had no evidence of systemic disease. The mean tumor volume was 6.2 cm 3 (range, 0.07–40.9 cm 3 ), and a median margin dose of 16 Gy was administered. Three patients had progressive intracranial disease despite fractionated whole-brain radiotherapy before SRS. Results A local tumor control rate of 88% was achieved (including patients receiving boost, up-front, and salvage SRS). New remote brain metastases developed in 7 patients (33%). The median survival after diagnosis of intracranial metastasis was 16 months, and the 1-year survival rate was 61%. Conclusions Gamma Knife radiosurgery was a well-tolerated and initially effective therapy in the management of patients with sarcomatous intracranial metastases. However, many patients, including those who also received fractionated whole-brain radiotherapy, developed progressive new brain disease.
Reversible photo-induced trap formation in mixed-halide hybrid perovskites for photovoltaics

We report on reversible, light-induced transformations in (CH3NH3)Pb(BrxI1−x)3. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra of these perovskites develop a new, red-shifted peak at 1.68 eV that grows in intensity under constant, 1-sun illumination in less than a minute. This is accompanied by an increase in sub-bandgap absorption at ∼1.7 eV, indicating the formation of luminescent trap states. Light soaking causes a splitting of X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks, suggesting segregation into two crystalline phases. Surprisingly, these photo-induced changes are fully reversible; the XRD patterns and the PL and absorption spectra revert to their initial states after the materials are left for a few minutes in the dark. We speculate that photoexcitation may cause halide segregation into iodide-rich minority and bromide-enriched majority domains, the former acting as a recombination center trap. This instability may limit achievable voltages from some mixed-halide perovskite solar cells and could have implications for the photostability of halide perovskites used in optoelectronics.
Infrared Absorption and Electron Spin Resonance Studies of Nanocrystalline Cubic Boron Nitride/Amorphous Hydrogenated Boron Nitride Mixed Phase Thin Films

Both infrared absorption (IR) and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopies have been used to investigate the complicated structure of nanocrystalline cubic boron nitride/amorphous hydro-genated boron nitride thin films. The ESR spectra from this material consist of a component with a four-line hyperfine structure and/or a component with a ten-line hyperfine structure superimposed upon a broad central line. The hyperfine structures are associated with defect centers located in the nanocrystalline phase, whereas the broad line is attributed to dangling bonds in the amorphous phase. The IR spectra consist of three lines around 1400 cm−1: the lines at 1263 and 1505 cm−1 originate in a boron-poor amorphous hydrogenated boron nitride region; the line at 1371 cm−1, in a boron-rich amorphous hydrogenated boron nitride region. These results, together with previously reported electron diffraction spectra, suggest the following picture: small (2.5 nm) nanocrys-tallites of cubic boron nitride (about 5% of the material) are imbedded in a mixed amorphous phase. The amorphous region can be approximated by a mixture of boron-rich and boron-poor amorphous hydrogenated boron nitride.
Is wasting (thinness) a hidden problem in Latin America's children?

Direct measures of body composition using methods appropriate for young children are needed to confirm or disprove that wasting is a hidden significant problem in Brazilian children. Other important evidence for documenting the existence of a public health problem is demonstration that the variability in “wasting” whether measured through weight for height or a more appropriate indicator predicts undesirable functional consequences in significant numbers of the population. Wasting in South Asian and African populations measured as low weight for length or arm circumference is predictive of increased morbidity and mortality risk. Finally we may ask whether indicators of wasting are responsive to nutrition interventions aimed at children who are failing to grow. Data from Guatemala show that food supplementation improved linear growth (total body length and arm length) head circumference but not weight for height arm circumference or any of several skinfolds. (excerpt)
Voluntary universal testing and treatment is unlikely to lead to HIV elimination: a modeling analysis

Recently Granich et al. at the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded, using mathematical modeling, that HIV epidemics could be eliminated within a decade. They assumed all individuals would be tested annually and every infected individual (regardless of stage of infection) would be put on treatment. Based on this modeling study the WHO is considering using universal testing and treatment as an HIV elimination strategy. Here we examine the study by Granich et al. and assess its validity. We present new analyses of their model by varying assumptions and parameter values. We find that under certain very optimistic assumptions HIV elimination would be (theoretically) possible, but it would take at least 70 years. To obtain this result we assumed �65% of symptomatic and �20% of asymptomatic individuals would be treated per year; ARVs would reduce infectivity of treated individuals a hundred fold, and only 5% of symptomatic individuals would give up treatment per year. Even under optimistic assumptions we find elimination to be unlikely. For example, we show if �65% of symptomatic individuals are treated per year and treated individuals are completely noninfectious, HIV will remain endemic with a prevalence of 34% and an incidence of 2% per year. We conclude that the model developed by Granich et al., when used with realistic parameter values, does not show HIV elimination is possible. However our modeling results show treatment could act as an effective prevention tool and significantly reduce transmission, even if only symptomatic individuals receive ARVs. Treatment should first, and foremost, be used for therapeutic purposes. Hence, we recommend when resources are limited - targeting those in need of treatment. Such a strategy would be ethical, feasible and epidemiologically sound. We advise that models used as health policy tools should be carefully evaluated and their results interpreted with caution. I simply wish that, in a matter which so closely concerns the wellbeing of the human race, no decision shall be made without all the knowledge which a little analysis and calculation can provide
Comparison of Lead Release Test Methods

Three methods for measuring trace lead release levels were compared. Atomic absorption spectroscopy proved to be the most accurate and was used as the reference method. The dithizone colorimetric dye method yielded less reliable results. The lead–ion–specific electrode method, which gave results comparable to atomic absorption spectroscopy, was less expensive, faster, and easier to use.
Exploring sense of ethnic identity among a small Midwest sample of social work and counseling practitioners

The U.S. is transforming into a multi-racial and multi-ethnic society in which factors such as ethnicity and race are important variables to consider in social work practice and service provision to racial and ethnic minority populations. This multi-ethnic and multi-racial transformation presents many challenges for professional social work and counseling practitioners. It is important for practitioners to have a clear and concise definition of key concepts such as ethnicity and race in order to develop a sense of self-ethnic identity. This research study examines self-ethnic identity among a small sample of Midwest social work and counseling practitioners.
The Debate Over Money Manipulations: A Short History

The financial crisis starting in 2008 exposed shortcomings in many mainstream economics models that did not foresee it. In this paper, I suggest that part of the problem lies in the mainstream’s diminution of capital theory and the history of economic thought because neither area is amenable to abstract modeling techniques popular within the economics profession. I present a short history illustrating the inherent incentives on behalf of those who create money to inflate it, and point out a centuries-long debate about the moral and economic consequences when such actions engender social conflict between the classes who benefit from inflation and those who must pay for it. While many considered the debate decided with the creation of the Federal Reserve in 1913, popular agitation against monetary inflation and central banking suggests that the debate may have only been in hibernation.
Photoperiodic induction of reproductive diapause in Corythucha cydoniae (Heteroptera : Tingidae)

The multivoltine hawthorn lace bug, Corythucha cydoniae (Fitch), undergoes a reproductive diapause from late summer to spring. In the laboratory, the critical photoperiod for diapause induction fell between 13:11 and 14:10 L:D h. High temperature averted diapause in a proportion (≍25%) of the females that were reared under short daylengths; high temperature also appeared to diminish the intensity of diapause in females reared under daylengths near the critical photoperiod. Diapause in this long-day insect expresses several features that are typical of imaginal diapause. For example, the preimaginal stages perceive and respond to diapause-inducing photoperiods, but the adult is the ultimate sensitive stage. Diapause is induced earlier in females that experience short daylengths as fourth and fifth instars than in females that are transferred to short days as adults. Mature females remain sensitive to diapause-inducing photoperiods for at least 2 wk after emergence. Photoperiod also appears to playa role in diapause maintenance.
Hypnosis and Postmodernism: MulticulturalApplications -

This article described the connection between hypnosis and postmodernism. Sapp (2015a) defined hypnosis as having features of dissociation and absorption. Also, Sapp provided applications of hypnosis to various cultural groups. Postmodernism generally includes solution-focused brief therapy, narrative therapy, feminist psychotherapy, positive psychology, family systems therapy, and multicultural counseling. The major thesis of this article was that hypnosis was the glue for postmodern approaches to psychotherapy.
Logistic Regression Analysis of the Risk Factor of Influenza Outbreak in Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center

Objective To explore the epidemiological features and risk factors of influenza outbreak in Higher Education Mega Center and provide scientific evidence for monitoring and adopting effective control measures. Methods Epidemiological survey was conducted to analyze features of the influenza outbreak in two universities. Virus was isolated from collutory samples using MDCK cells and the virus was further identified by hemagglutination inhibition assay. Case control study and nonconditional multiplicity logistic regression model were used to analyze the risk factor of this event. Results Out of 376 and 525 peoples in two schools were infected with influenza,with incidence rates of 1.80% and 2.14%. Influenza virus H1N1 was detected in 20 of 35 collutory samples. History of patient contact had statistical significance in the regression model (OR=1.86,1.09-3.18). Conclusion This event in Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center was diagnosed to be an outbreak of influenza caused by Influenza virus H1N1. History of patient contact was the risk factor of this event. Identifying and isolating the patient in time were the significant measures to control the outbreak of influenza.
Populations of Salmonella enteritidis in artificially inoculated chicken eggs as influenced by the temperatures under which eggs might be held from the day of lay until the day of processing.

This study was undertaken to determine the levels of Salmonella Enteritidis in artificially inoculated eggs as affected by the temperatures under which eggs might be held from the day of lay until the day of processing. Unprocessed chicken eggs of different sizes (n = 1,920, with 480 being laid in each season) were inoculated in the albumen with a five-strain mixture of Salmonella at 102 CFU per egg. The eggs were stored at 4, 10, and 22°C for 3 weeks and sampled twice a week to determine the populations of Salmonella and total aerobic bacteria. The season in which eggs were laid did not significantly impact the growth of the pathogen (P > 0.05). The mean populations of the inoculated Salmonella were not significantly different in eggs stored at 4 versus 10°C(P > 0.05). Eggs stored at 22°C had a mean Salmonella population that was 3.71 or 3.37 log higher than the Salmonella population of eggs stored at 4 or 10°C(P > 0.05). The mean Salmonella population at 22°C increased from the initial 2.12 log CFU/ml t...
Damage identification for composite structures using a cross-correlation reverse-time migration technique:

This article presents a reverse-time migration technique to image damage by cross-correlating forward and backward propagating wavefields in composite structures using flexural wave signals. First,...
Have your cake in parallel and eat it sequentially too! Semantically sequential, parallel execution of multiprocessor programs

Presents a conference poster that addresses the use of semantically sequential, parallel execution of multiprocessor programs.
Observations of cocooned Hydrobaenus (Diptera: Chironomidae) larvae in Lake Michigan

Abstract Larvae of the family Chironomidae have developed a variety of ways to tolerate environmental stress, including the formation of cocoons, which allows larvae to avoid unfavorable temperature conditions, drought, or competition with other chironomids. Summer cocoon formation by younger instars of the genus Hydrobaenus Fries allows persistence through increased temperatures and/or intermittent dry periods in arid regions or temporary habitats, but this behavior was not observed in the Great Lakes until the current study. Cocoon-aestivating Hydrobaenus sp. larvae were found in benthic grab samples collected in 2010–2013 near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in northern Lake Michigan with densities up to 7329/m2. The aestivating species was identified as Hydrobaenus johannseni (Sublette, 1967), and the associated chironomid community was typical for an oligotrophic nearshore system. Hydrobaenus cocoon formation in the Great Lakes was likely previously unnoticed due to the discrepancies between the genus' life history and typical benthos sampling procedures which has consequences for describing chironomid communities where Hydrobaenus is present.
The Prevalence of Abnormal Coagulation Parameters in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Primary Systemic Amyloidosis and Its Impact on Outcome

Abstract Background: Primary systemic amyloidosis (AL) is an incurable plasma cell disorder associated with varying degree of organ infiltration with light chain derived amyloid protein and consequent organ dysfunction. Various acquired coagulopathies, predominantly Factor X (FX) deficiency have been previously described in AL. The factor deficiencies are thought to be due to the direct binding of blood coagulation proteins to amyloid fibrils. Little is known regarding the prognostic significance of abnormal coagulation parameters in AL patients (pts). Methods: After Institutional Review Board approval, we performed a retrospective review of the medical records of 625 consecutive pts who had presented within 3 months of a diagnosis of AL to be evaluated at Mayo Clinic from June 2001 to June 2006. 540 pts had coagulation studies performed within 2 months of presentation. 51 of those pts were on oral anticoagulation and were excluded from the analysis. Results: Of the 489 pts included in the analysis, the median age was 62 years and 61% were male. The median overall survival (OS) of the entire cohort was 26.8 months. Table 1 lists the prevalence of abnormal coagulation tests in the remaining 489 patients. Prothrombin time (PT) was available in the majority of pts. 61 pts (12.6%) had elevated PT, and 63 pts (20.4%) had a decreased FX. 37 of the 61 pts with elevated PT had available FX levels, of which 31 (84%) of those had a decreased FX, suggesting that the cause of elevated PT was mostly due to a low FX. Indicators of hepatic involvement such as alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels were higher among the patients with prolonged PT and low FX. An elevated PT (more than 12.4 seconds) was strongly predictive of an adverse outcome, with a median OS of 8.7 months compared to a median OS of 29 months (p Conclusion: Abnormalities of PT and FX are seen in a sizable proportion of pts with newly diagnosed AL. An elevated PT and or FX deficiency appear to adversely affect the outcome of these patients. It is likely that the elevated PT in these patients relate to FX deficiency in the majority which in turn may reflect the amyloid ‘burden’. The effect of other organ involvement like the hepatic involvement may also have an impact on FX and PT. Table 1. Prevalence of abnormal coagulation testing in patients with newly diagnosed primary systemic amyloidosis. Coagulation study N (Test results available) N of abnormal results (%) Elevated prothrombin time 486 61 12.6 Elevated activated partial thromboplastin time 312 48 15.4 Elevated thrombin time 315 84 26.7 Elevated fibrinogen 140 118 84.3 Decreased Factor II activity 62 26 41.9 Decreased Factor V activity 63 9 14.3 Decreased Factor VII activity 63 17 27 Decreased Factor X activity 309 63 20.4 Elevated D-dimer 130 72 55.4 Download : Download high-res image (72KB) Download : Download full-size image Download : Download high-res image (67KB) Download : Download full-size image
Interactive Assistive Framework for Maximum Profit Routing in Public Transportation in Smart Cities

We design an interactive framework for public transportation route planning in order to maximize the total profit (i.e. revenue minus costs). The framework allows specification of fixed points of interest (urban or tourism), each with a time avalability constraint (in hours), as well as a fleet count of public transportation vehicles. The main contributions of the framework are two approximation algorithms. The first algorithm, based on bin packing, has an approximation ratio of b 26 log T, where T is a constant denoting the latest deadline (in hours). The second algorithm is based on well-separated pair decompositions and has an approximation ratio of b 15 log T. While our algorithms may seem to have rather high approximation ratios, in practice they work well and, in the majority of cases, the profit obtained is at least 80% of the optimum. Our framework can be used to simulate the route planning in a Google Maps API environment. The algorithms were tested on a real-world dataset, and we also present the experimental results in this dataset.
Interplay between short-range correlated disorder and Coulomb interaction in nodal-line semimetals

In nodal-line semimetals, Coulomb interactions and short-range correlated disorder are both marginal perturbations to the clean noninteracting Hamiltonian. We analyze their interplay using a weak-coupling renormalization group approach. In the clean case, the Coulomb interaction has been found to be marginally irrelevant, leading to Fermi liquid behavior. We extend the analysis to incorporate the effects of disorder. The nodal line structure gives rise to kinematical constraints similar to that for a two-dimensional Fermi surface, which plays a crucial role in the one-loop renormalization of the disorder couplings. For a twofold degenerate nodal loop (Weyl loop), we show that disorder flows to strong coupling along a unique fixed trajectory in the space of symmetry inequivalent disorder couplings. Along this fixed trajectory, all symmetry inequivalent disorder strengths become equal. For a fourfold degenerate nodal loop (Dirac loop), disorder also flows to strong coupling, however, the strengths of symmetry inequivalent disorder couplings remain different. We show that feedback from disorder reverses the sign of the beta function for the Coulomb interaction, causing the Coulomb interaction to flow to strong coupling as well. However, the Coulomb interaction flows to strong coupling asymptotically more slowly than disorder. Extrapolating our results to strong coupling, we conjecture that at low energies nodal line semimetals should be described by a noninteracting nonlinear sigma model. We discuss the relation of our results with possible many-body localization at zero temperatures in such materials.
Stabilizing the α-Phase of CsPbI3 Perovskite by Sulfobetaine Zwitterions in One-Step Spin-Coating Films

Summary Inorganic cesium lead halide perovskites (CsPbI 3 ) are promising materials for efficient wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells, but they suffer from a phase transition from black α phase to yellow δ phase at room temperature. Here, we report a facile method to stabilize the α-phase CsPbI 3 films via a single-step film deposition process. A small amount (∼1.5 wt %) of sulfobetaine zwitterion mixed in CsPbI 3 precursor solution could facilitate the formation of black-phase CsPbI 3 films that show significantly improved phase stability in air. The black-phase stabilization can be explained by the formation of small CsPbI 3 grains with average size of ∼30 nm, which increased the grain surface area to stabilizes the α phase. The zwitterions were found to impede the crystallization of CsPbI 3 perovskite films via electrostatic interaction with the ions and colloids in the CsPbI 3 precursor solution. Solar cells using these zwitterion-stabilized perovskite films showed stabilized power conversion efficiency of 11.4% under 1-sun illumination.
Infectious complications in patients on treatment with Ruxolitinib: case report and review of the literature.

Background: Primary myelofibrosis is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm that may cause debilitating symptoms, which can be improved with the use of Ruxolitinib, a Janus kinase 2 inhibitor. Howev...
Diplopia in Adult Strabismus

A retrospective study of 892 patients investigates the occurrence of preoperative and postoperative diplopia in adult strabismus. The original etiology of strabismus was esotropia in 264 patients, ...
Evaluation of the Impact of Varied Carvacrol Concentrations on Salmonella Recovery in Oregano and How Corn Oil Can Minimize the Effect of Carvacrol during Preenrichment

Phenolic compounds, like carvacrol, in oregano interfere with the detection of foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella enterica. Carvacrol concentration varies based on plant cultivars and growth region. Six oregano cultivars were used to compare the impact of carvacrol concentration on Salmonella and to evaluate the effectiveness of corn oil to help increase Salmonella survival for detection. The results of Agilent 1200 series high-performance liquid chromatography analysis showed that carvacrol concentration in the six oregano cultivars ranged from 64 to 11,200 ppm. Oregano samples were artificially contaminated with S. enterica and were preenriched in Trypticase soy broth with or without 2% (v/v) corn oil. After 18 to 24 h at 37°C, aliquots were transferred to selective enrichment broths. Salmonella was recovered onto xylose lysine Tergitol 4 agar. Six Salmonella serovars were compared, and recovery varied based on carvacrol concentration and serovar. Samples with higher concentrations of carvacrol showed Salmonella recovery only when they were preenriched with corn oil. Based on metagenomic analysis, the microflora associated with the oregano also varied per cultivar. The results show that, as carvacrol levels increased, Salmonella survival decreased. However, the addition of corn oil to the preenrichment broth can minimize the antimicrobial effects of the phenolic compounds, thus allowing for increased detection of Salmonella from oregano cultivars.
Product Cue Usage in Two Asian Markets: A Cross-Cultural Comparison

In this paper, we report cross-cultural differences in the use of intrinsic and extrinsic product cues (physical quality, design, brand name and price) on consumers' evaluations and purchase intentions for an apparel product in Shanghai, China and Seoul, South Korea. There were some differences in Chinese and Korean consumers' use of these cues in assessing the quality, value and purchase intentions; however, differences were not extensive. Consumers in both countries relied heavily on price acceptability to determine the value of the product; however, it was used to a greater extent among Chinese consumers to determine value. Our findings revealed that design was another intrinsic product attribute that impacts product evaluations and purchase decisions for both Chinese and Korean consumers. However, design was a stronger predictor of purchase intentions among Korean consumers. Brand name was not a strong cue in product evaluations for consumers in either country, although it was a significant predictor of value perceptions among Chinese consumers.
Early allograft inflammation and scarring associate with graft dysfunction and poor outcomes in renal transplant recipients with delayed graft function: a prospective single center cohort study

Early histological progression that associates with delayed graft function (DGF) and its relationship to graft outcomes is less well-understood. We systematically evaluated early acute and chronic histological changes associated with DGF through serial biopsies (protocol: 3 and 12 months; for-cause) and related them to graft outcomes. 56/294 (19.04%) of our patients had DGF. DGF was associated with a progressive increase in both Banff 't' and 'i' scores from 2 weeks to 3 and 12 months with a resultant increase in T cell mediated rejection (TCMR) that was significantly greater than those with primary graft function (PGF). This increase in TCMR was predominantly sub-clinical TCMR diagnosed on protocol biopsy. Furthermore, TCMR in patients with DGF was recurrent/persistent at 12 months. Importantly, the combination of DGF and TCMR was associated with significantly worse interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) and interstitial fibrosis with inflammation (IF + 'i') as early as 3 months and worse renal function. Finally, DGF with TCMR was associated with significantly worse graft loss. In this regard, DGF without TCMR had comparable chronic histology and outcomes to PGF. Thus, DGF with TCMR (predominantly sub-clinical), represents a high-risk patient group who may benefit from early novel immunosuppression augmentation strategies to improve graft outcomes.
Aviation Living Learning Community: Impacts on Student Success

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact on student academic success and retention while participating in an aviation-themed living learning community on a college campus. The data for this study was drawn from 625 new students (freshman and transfer) who enrolled at the University with an aviation major declared at the start of the 2012 and 2013 fall semesters. The study compared the difference in academic performance and retention between students (N=82) living in the Aviation Living Learning Community (ALLC) against those not living in the ALLC. The study found significant differences between the two groups of students in Fall GPA and academic grade in the Private Pilot ground school, students participating in the ALLC did significantly better than their peers not living in the ALLC. There was no significance found between the two groups in regards to retention at the University, or staying in the aviation program.
Ruminant cluster CD62L.

Abstract Within the Third Workshop, four monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were considered to belong to this cluster: IAH-CC32 (3W-360), BAQ92 (3W-485), Buf44 (3W-452) and IVA94 (3W-563). IAH-CC32 was the workshop control and has previously been identified as a CD62L-specific mAb (Howard, C.J., Sopp, P. and Parsons, K.R., 1992. L-selectin expression differentiates T cells isolated from different lymphoid tissues in cattle but does not correlate with memory. Immunol., 77:228–234) by showing that human L-selectin mAb LAM1.4 (Spertini, O., Kansas, G.S., Reimann, K.A., Mackay, C.R. and Tedder, T.F., 1991. Functional and evolutional characteristics of distinct epitopes on the leukocyte adhesion molecule-1 (TQ-1, Leu-8) that regulate leukocyte migration. J. Immunol., 147:942) cross-reacts with bovine cells and blocks binding of IAH-CC32. The mAb DREG-56 to human CD62L (Bosworth, 1993. Bovine L-selectin: a peripheral lymphocyte homing receptor. Vet., Immunol., Immunopathol, 37:201–215) also stains cattle cells. Buf44 blocked binding of IVA94 and IAH-CC32, indicating that all three bind to the same or closely related epitope on the L-selectin molecule (Naessens, 1996. Biochemical analysis of preliminary clusters in the non-lineage panel. Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol., 52: 347–356).
Causes of in-hospital mortality after hip fractures in the elderly.

Objectives:Although there are numerous studies reporting early mortality after hip fracture, the incidence and aetiology of in-hospital mortality following hip fractures is largely unknown. This st...