cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cades Cove as Community

Cades Cove as a social community hosted complete and integrated expressions of all the major social institutions, including family, education, religion, economics, and politics, all self-contained but not isolated from the larger society. The community organized its own “public-works” program to maintain schools, roads, and other public infrastructure, demanding the cooperation of social interaction and relationships. The early subsistence economy fostered reliance and interdependence among residents, and the bonds of community were enhanced as surpluses promoted a barter economy. Cades Cove, like rural community anywhere, was inevitably influenced and impacted by the money economy of capitalism and by the Industrial Revolution, particularly industrialized agriculture, with its edict to “get big or get out.” Thus, Cades Cove was exhibiting decline even before the threat of a national park. Cemeteries and death culture were influenced and shaped by this context of community.
VCF2CNA: A tool for efficiently detecting copy-number alterations in VCF genotype data and tumor purity.

VCF2CNA is a tool (Linux commandline or web-interface) for copy-number alteration (CNA) analysis and tumor purity estimation of paired tumor-normal VCF variant file formats. It operates on whole genome and whole exome datasets. To benchmark its performance, we applied it to 46 adult glioblastoma and 146 pediatric neuroblastoma samples sequenced by Illumina and Complete Genomics (CGI) platforms respectively. VCF2CNA was highly consistent with a state-of-the-art algorithm using raw sequencing data (mean F1-score = 0.994) in high-quality whole genome glioblastoma samples and was robust to uneven coverage introduced by library artifacts. In the whole genome neuroblastoma set, VCF2CNA identified MYCN high-level amplifications in 31 of 32 clinically validated samples compared to 15 found by CGI’s HMM-based CNA model. Moreover, VCF2CNA achieved highly consistent CNA profiles between WGS and WXS platforms (mean F1 score 0.97 on a set of 15 rhabdomyosarcoma samples). In addition, VCF2CNA provides accurate tumor purity estimates for samples with sufficient CNAs. These results suggest that VCF2CNA is an accurate, efficient and platform-independent tool for CNA and tumor purity analyses without accessing raw sequence data.
The Type of Student You Were in High School Predicts Voter Turnout in Adulthood

Objective Research on political socialization has shown that political and civic experiences during high school can impact later political engagement. However, political scientists are increasingly realizing that nonpolitical experiences, dispositions, and attributes in childhood and adolescence can play a role in shaping political participation. Building on recent studies in developmental psychology, we examine whether and how student characteristics and behaviors in adolescence are related to political engagement in adulthood. Methods Using data from the Project Talent study, a national longitudinal study of a representative sample of high school students in the United States, we find that several behaviors and attributes related to one's high school experience have long‐term effects on voter turnout. Results Responsible students and those with high levels of interest in school are more likely than their counterparts to vote when they reach adulthood. Conclusion The effects of the school‐related measures we examine (1) persist for more than a decade after high school ends, (2) are similar in magnitude to the effects of classic predictors of political engagement such as parental political activism, and (3) hold even in the presence of controls for general personality traits, cognitive ability, resources such as parental socioeconomic status, socialization experiences, and demographic variables. Our results have implications for how to increase political participation.
A geospatial analysis of multi-hazard risk in Dharan, Nepal

Natural hazard risk assessment generally focuses on a single hazard type, such as earthquakes, landslides, or floods. This emphasis tends to consider physical processes in isolation. However, most ...
12 – TOPICS IN ALGEBRA

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews a few topics in algebra. These topics are related in that they all involve the set of natural numbers. The chapter also discusses the concept of mathematical induction, which provides a means of proving certain theorems involving the natural numbers that appear to resist other means of proof. One of the earliest results obtained in a calculus course requires the binomial theorem in its derivation. The last topic discussed in the chapter, probability theory, which is a very useful topic in algebra, enables to state the likelihood of occurrence of a given event and has obvious applications to games of chance. The theory of permutations and combinations, which enables to count the ways in which we can arrange a set of objects or select a subset of the original set, is a necessary background to a study of probability theory.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Secondary to PD-1 and IDO Inhibition in a Patient with Refractory Glioblastoma

Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI)-based approaches have transformed the treatment landscape of numerous solid tumors. Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive and almost universally fatal disease which is in need of novel treatment options, and combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors, including dual agent therapy, are starting to be explored in refractory GBM. Growing adoption of ICI-based approaches in solid tumors has been met with improved understanding of immune-related adverse events (IRAEs), including primary hematologic adverse events. Although management guidelines for multiple hematologic IRAEs have been established, the emergence of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) secondary to ICI therapy has only rarely been described, and its pathogenesis and optimal management are incompletely understood. We present the case of a 74-year-old male with a history of refractory GBM treated with PD-1 and indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibition who experienced acute liver injury, followed by progressive fevers, altered mental status, and cytopenias. Serum studies and examination of spleen and bone marrow pathology were consistent with HLH, which was refractory to steroids and ultimately resulted in his rapid clinical decline. Here, we review prior cases of HLH secondary to ICI therapy across solid tumors, and explore potential mechanisms contributing to the rapid onset and refractory nature of our patient's HLH syndrome. We hope to further highlight HLH as an emerging hematologic IRAE secondary to ICI therapy, and suggest that new practice guidelines begin to recognize HLH as a characteristic hematologic IRAE in patients treated with PD-1 and other immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Modelling changes in modular taper micromechanics due to surgeon assembly technique in total hip arthroplasty.

Aims The aim of this study was to develop a novel computational model for estimating head/stem taper mechanics during different simulated assembly conditions. Methods Finite element models of gener...
A 2019 global update on folic acid-preventable spina bifida and anencephaly.

Background Mandatory folic acid fortification of staples is a proven intervention to prevent spina bifida and anencephaly, two life-threatening and disabling neural tube defects. We estimated the global proportion of folic acid-preventable spina bifida and anencephaly (FAP SBA) prevented through mandatory folic acid fortification of wheat and/or maize flour in 2019. Methods Using data from the Global Fortification Data Exchange, we identified countries with mandatory fortification policies that required at least 1.0 ppm folic acid be added to wheat and/or maize flour and had information on percentage of industrially milled flour that is fortified. We built FAP SBA prevention models assuming mandatory folic acid fortification at 200 μg/day of folic acid fully protects against FAP SBA and would lower the prevalence neural tube defects to 0.5 per 1,000 live births. Results In 2019, 56 countries met our criteria for mandatory folic acid fortification of wheat (n = 56 countries) and/or maize (n = 15 countries) flour and with complete data for our modeling. Overall, our prevention model estimated that 65,380 FAP SBA cases were prevented in 2019 through folic acid fortification of wheat and/or maize flour. We estimated the current global prevention proportion of all preventable FAP SBA cases worldwide to be at 23% of total possible prevention. Conclusion Global prevention efforts for FAP SBA are slow and have stalled. Mandatory fortification should be urgently implemented in all countries to prevent epidemics of FAP SBA, and to achieve health-related Sustainable Development Goals for year 2030 by reducing child mortality due to preventable FAP SBA.
Elucidating Solution Structures of Cyclic Peptides Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Protein-protein interactions are vital to biological processes, but the shape and size of their interfaces make them hard to target using small molecules. Cyclic peptides have shown promise as protein-protein interaction modulators, as they can bind protein surfaces with high affinity and specificity. Dozens of cyclic peptides are already FDA approved, and many more are in various stages of development as immunosuppressants, antibiotics, antivirals, or anticancer drugs. However, most cyclic peptide drugs so far have been natural products or derivatives thereof, with de novo design having proven challenging. A key obstacle is structural characterization: cyclic peptides frequently adopt multiple conformations in solution, which are difficult to resolve using techniques like NMR spectroscopy. The lack of solution structural information prevents a thorough understanding of cyclic peptides' sequence-structure-function relationship. Here we review recent development and application of molecular dynamics simulations with enhanced sampling to studying the solution structures of cyclic peptides. We describe novel computational methods capable of sampling cyclic peptides' conformational space and provide examples of computational studies that relate peptides' sequence and structure to biological activity. We demonstrate that molecular dynamics simulations have grown from an explanatory technique to a full-fledged tool for systematic studies at the forefront of cyclic peptide therapeutic design.
Rest ventilator management in children on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Background:We aimed to use the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry to describe the current practice of rest mechanical ventilation setting in children receiving veno-venous extracorpo...
Oncologists’ views on Expanded Access and Right-to-Try: The need for education and shared decision-making.

e13603Background: Over half of Americans report favoring access to experimental treatments even if they have yet to be proven either safe or effective, yet only 3-5% are enrolled in clinical trials...
ELEMENTARY PARTICLE INTERACTIONS AND NONCOMMUTATIVE GEOMETRY

Brief review of the general framework of noncommutative geometry proposed by Alain Connes and its application to the Standard Model and a discretized version of Kaluza-Klein theory is presented.
Oxidation response of three Nb–Cr–Mo–Si–B alloys in air

Abstract The oxidation behavior in air of three alloys from the Nb–Cr–Mo–Si–B system has been evaluated in the temperature range of 700–1400 °C. The alloy compositions in atomic percent are Nb-25Cr-15Mo-20Si-15B (2015), Nb-25Cr-15Mo-20Si-10B (2010), and Nb-25Cr-15Mo-15Si-15B (1515). Increased oxidation resistance has been obtained for the 2015 alloy at high temperatures. Low temperature pest oxidation is not observed for the 2010 and 2015 alloy and only minimal pest products are obtained in the 1515 alloy. Analysis indicates the oxide scale includes Nb2O5 (monoclinic), CrNbO4, and SiO2. As-cast microstructural phases include Si-rich C14-NbCr2 Laves phase, (Nb, Mo)5Si3 silicide and (Nb, Mo)3Si silicide.
Effects of dichloroacetate on glycogen metabolism in B6C3F1 mice.

Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a by-product of drinking water chlorination. Administration of DCA in drinking water results in accumulation of glycogen in the liver of B6C3F1 mice. To investigate the processes affecting liver glycogen accumulation, male B6C3F1 mice were administered DCA in drinking water at levels varying from 0.1 to 3 g/l for up to 8 weeks. Liver glycogen synthase (GS) and glycogen phosphorylase (GP) activities, liver glycogen content, serum glucose and insulin levels were analyzed. To determine whether effects were primary or attributable to increased glycogen synthesis, some mice were fasted and administered a glucose challenge (20 min before sacrifice). DCA treatments in drinking water caused glycogen accumulation in a dose-dependent manner. The DCA treatment in drinking water suppressed the activity ratio of GS measured in mice sacrificed at 9:00 AM, but not at 3:00 AM. However, net glycogen synthesis after glucose challenge was increased with DCA treatments for 1-2 weeks duration, but the effect was no longer observed at 8 weeks. Degradation of glycogen by fasting decreased progressively as the treatment period was increased, and no longer occurred at 8 weeks. A shift of the liver glycogen-iodine spectrum from DCA-treated mice was observed relative to that of control mice, suggesting a change in the physical form of glycogen. These data suggest that DCA-induced glycogen accumulation at high doses is related to decreases in the degradation rate. When DCA was administered by single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection to naive mice at doses of 2-200 mg/kg at the time of glucose challenge, a biphasic response was observed. Doses of 10-25 mg/kg increased both plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. In contrast, very high i.p. doses of DCA (> 75 mg/kg) produced progressive decreases in serum glucose and glycogen deposition in the liver. Since the blood levels of DCA produced by these higher i.p. doses were significantly higher than observed with drinking water treatment, we conclude that apparent differences with data of previous investigations is related to substantial differences in systemic dose and/or dose-time relations.
Positive Selection and the Evolution of Prodynorphin

Positive natural selection has shaped the cis-regulation of human prodynorphin, the precursor molecule for a suite of opioid neuropeptides with roles in perception. Population genetic data suggest that after the split between the human and chimpanzee lineages, selection drove multiple substitutions in a regulatory element upstream of prodynorphin. The substitutions fall within a cis-regulatory tandem repeat polymorphism segregating in contemporary populations. The repeat polymorphism is also seen by selection, and differing repeat allele frequencies in different parts of the globe reflect the varying pattern of positive selection. Keywords: prodynorphin; cis-regulation; positive selection; evolutionary genetics; opioids
KPNB1 mediates PER/CRY nuclear translocation and circadian clock function

Regulated nuclear translocation of the PER/CRY repressor complex is critical for negative feedback regulation of the circadian clock of mammals. However, the precise molecular mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we report that KPNB1, an importin β component of the ncRNA repressor of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NRON) ribonucleoprotein complex, mediates nuclear translocation and repressor function of the PER/CRY complex. RNAi depletion of KPNB1 traps the PER/CRY complex in the cytoplasm by blocking nuclear entry of PER proteins in human cells. KPNB1 interacts mainly with PER proteins and directs PER/CRY nuclear transport in a circadian fashion. Interestingly, KPNB1 regulates the PER/CRY nuclear entry and repressor function, independently of importin α, its classical partner. Moreover, inducible inhibition of the conserved Drosophila importin β in lateral neurons abolishes behavioral rhythms in flies. Collectively, these data show that KPNB1 is required for timely nuclear import of PER/CRY in the negative feedback regulation of the circadian clock.
Riboflavin Deficiency and Glutathione Metabolism in Rats: Possible Mechanisms Underlying Altered Responses to Hemolytic Stimuli

Riboflavin deficiency suppresses parasitic growth in malaria. Three possible mechanisms have been proposed previously to explain the survival advantage of riboflavin-deficient hosts: a) enhanced fragility of red blood cells (RBC), b) decreased formation of reticulocytes and/or c) decreased concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) and ATP. The validity of these proposed mechanisms was tested by investigating whether riboflavin deficiency alters the hemolytic response to three stimuli: hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a hypotonic medium or ferriprotoporphyrin IX (FP). Reticulocyte counts and concentrations of ATP and GSH were also determined. The percentage of hemolysis induced by H2O2 or FP was significantly less in riboflavin-deficient than in control animals. By contrast, hemolytic response to a hypotonic medium was enhanced during riboflavin deficiency. Despite diminished activity of glutathione reductase and normal glutathione peroxidase activity during riboflavin deficiency, the erythrocyte concentration of GSH was increased over that in control animals. Concentrations of ATP and hemoglobin in erythrocytes as well as the reticulocyte count were unaltered during riboflavin deficiency. Thus, diminished malarial parasitemia in riboflavin-deficient animals occurs despite greater resistance of RBC to either H2O2- or FP-induced hemolysis, and in the presence of a normal reticulocyte count and erythrocytes ATP concentration. Results of this study raise the possibility that Plasmodium parasites have greater requirements for flavin coenzymes, GSH or ATP than those of host erythrocytes, which may explain the apparent protection of the riboflavin-deficient host from malaria.
Inservice pharmacy technician training program

The development and implementation of a two-month inservice training program for hospital pharmacy supportive personnel is discussed. A task-oriented approach was used to define the instructional objectives of the program. To emphasize the job-related nature of the instruction, conferences and workshops were selected as the primary teaching methods. A specific instructional plan was designed for drug conferences, giving the trainee an active role in the learning of drug names and dosage forms. On-the-job experience, comprising 30% of the training time, gradually was incorporated into the program. Staff pharmacists and supervisors assumed the teaching responsibilities. During weekly evaluation sessions with each trainee, the coodinator discussed the trainee's performance, pin-pointed deficiencies and suggested means of improvement. The benefits of the program, in terms of selection and sequence of instructional programs, student assessment and program evaluation, are discussed.
Diamond tool wear when machining Al6061 and 1215 steel

Abstract Different rates of wear of diamond tools depend on the physical and chemical nature of the workpiece material. Wear mechanisms for diamond tools can be either abrasive or chemical in nature, or a combination thereof. Differentiating the affects of these wear mechanisms can be accomplished by measuring the wear geometry of the cutting edge as a function of cutting distance. Orthogonal cutting experiments using 6061 aluminum and 1215 steel were conducted to illustrate abrasive and abrasive plus chemical wear, respectively. Wear of the diamond tool was measured using the electron beam induced deposition method. This method provides nanometer resolution images of the tool edge (edge radius and wear land) that can be used to calculate volumetric wear loss and wear rates. A method for determining the Archard wear coefficient for diamond turning based on measured wear and cutting forces is also introduced. Comparisons are made between the tool wear resulting from the two materials, and hypotheses related to the wear mechanism are presented.
Fibrin-mediated protection against infection-stimulated immunopathology.

Fibrin, a product of the blood coagulation cascade, accompanies many type 1 immune responses, including delayed-type hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, and graft rejection. In those settings, fibrin is thought to exacerbate inflammation and disease. Here, we evaluate roles for coagulation during infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a pathogen whose control requires robust type 1 immunity. We establish that fibrin prevents infection-stimulated blood loss, thereby performing a protective function that is essential for survival. Remarkably, fibrin does not simply protect against vascular damage caused directly by the infectious agent, but rather, protects against hemorrhage evoked by interferon-γ, a critical mediator of type 1 immunity. This finding, to our knowledge, is the first to document a beneficial role for coagulation during type 1 immunity, and suggests that fibrin deposition protects host tissue from collateral damage caused by the immune system as it combats infection.
Analytic expressions for particle spectra of sequential three-body break-ups

Abstract Analytic expressions are developed, which are capable of describing the shape of the continuous particle spectra observed at a fixed angle in sequential nuclear reactions, for axially symmetric but otherwise arbitrary angular distributions of the first and second break-up, when the intermediate state has a definite energy. Analytic expressions are also developed for the spectra expected in the case of intermediate states, which have the shape of simple resonances. The generalization to intermediate broad states of arbitrary energy dependence is indicated.
Pelvic ring fractures: Implications of vehicle design, crash type, and occupant characteristics

Background Pelvic ring fractures (PRFs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). Understanding the factors leading to PRFs may help improve vehicle design and safety. This study sought to determine the vehicular, crash, and occupant characteristics that contribute to PRFs. Methods From 1997 to 2003, 240 adult patients involved in lateral or frontal crashes were prospectively studied. Comprehensive crash reconstructions, vehicle analysis, and occupant data were compiled and analyzed as part of the national Crash Injury Research Engineering Network project. Results Of 240 study patients, 38 had PRFs. The incidence of PRFs was significantly associated with female gender, lateral impact crashes, vehicle incompatibility, and severity of crash. Seat belts and airbags were not protective against PRFs in either lateral or frontal crashes. Conclusions All vehicles in the current study were less than 6 years old at the time of the MVC and thus reflect newer safety designs. Compared with studies of PRFs in MVCs before the widespread adoption of modern safety standards, our series suggests there has been a modest decrease in the incidence of PRFs in newer vehicles. Current safety standards do not adequately protect against PRFs, especially in lateral MVCs involving incompatibility and female occupants. New technology needs to be developed and implemented. Our data suggest that side impact airbags, alteration of vehicle geometry, and increased reinforcement of side panels and doors may result in fewer PRFs.
On periodic sequences from GF(q)

Abstract If s(t) is a periodic sequence from GF(q) = F, and if N is the number of times a non-zero element from F appears in a period of s, we present a theorem which says N ≡ 0(mod pϵ), where ϵ is an integer which depends upon the support of the Fourier transform of s. An easy corollary deals with G(f), the set of all sequences from F which satisfy the linear recurrence with characteristic polynomial f ϵ F[x]. It says that, for all s ϵ G(f), N ≡ 0(mod pϵ), where now ϵ depends upon the smallest integer ω for which it is possible to write 1 as a product of ω conjugates of roots of f.
Spasmodic dysphonia: let's look at that again.

G. Paul Moore influenced the study of spasmodic dysphonia (SD) with his 1960 publication that examined the neurological, medical, and vocal fold behavior in a group of patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD). This review of advances in the diagnosis and treatment of SD follows a time line of research that can be traced in part to the early work of Moore et al. This article reviews the research in ADSD over the past 50 plus years. The capstone events that brought SD to its present day level of management by laryngologists and speech-language pathologists are highlighted. A look to the future to understand more of the disorder is offered for this debilitating disorder.
Effect of temperature on interfacial shear strengths of SiC-glass interfaces

The in situ temperature dependencies of both the debonding, τd, and frictional, τf, shear stresses of a C-coated 140 μm SiC monofilament (Textron SCS-6 SiC fibre) were measured using the single fibre pullout-test. Two matrices, a borosilicate (7740 Corning Glass) and a soda-lime (Thomas Scientific) with different thermal expansion coefficients, were tested. At lower temperatures both τd and τf were found to decrease linearly with increasing temperature as a result of the relaxation of the residual stresses developed during processing, which were compressive in both cases. The stress free debonding shear stress for the borosilicate matrix was found to be 3.5 ± 1 M Pa and the friction coefficient between that matrix and the fibres was calculated to be 0.18. Fibre oxidation are believed to be responsible for enhanced bonding between the fibres and the borosilicate matrix at higher temperatures which results in an increase in both τd and τf. The large thermal expansion mismatch between the soda-lime matrix and the SiC fibres resulted in radial cracking of the former during processing. A technique is described where the whole temperature dependence of the interfacial shear stresses can be measured by a single specimen.
Pronephric duct extension in amphibian embryos: migration and other mechanisms.

Initiation of excretory system development in all vertebrates requires (1) delamination of the pronephric and pronephric duct rudiments from intermediate mesoderm at the ventral border of anterior somites, and (2) extension of the pronephric duct to the cloaca. Pronephric duct extension is the central event in nephric system development; the pronephric duct differentiates into the tubule that carries nephric filtrate out of the body and induces terminal differentiation of adult kidneys. Early studies concluded that pronephric ducts formed by means of in situ segregation of pronephric duct tissue from lateral mesoderm ventral to the forming somites; more recent studies highlight caudal migration of the pronephric duct as the major morphogenetic mechanism. The purpose of this review is to provide the historical background on studies of the mechanisms of amphibian pronephric duct extension, to review evidence showing that different amphibians perform pronephric duct morphogenesis in different ways, and to suggest future studies that may help illuminate the molecular basis of the mechanisms that have evolved in amphibians to extend the pronephric duct to the cloaca.
Linear model estimation errors with estimated design parameters

The problem of error estimation of parameters b in a linear model,Y = Xb+ e, is considered when the elements of the design matrix X are functions of an unknown ‘design’ parameter vector c. An estimated value c is substituted in X to obtain a derived design matrix [Xtilde]. Even though the usual linear model conditions are not satisfied with [Xtilde], there are situations in physical applications where the least squares solution to the parameters is used without concern for the magnitude of the resulting error. Such a solution can suffer from serious errors. This paper examines bias and covariance errors of such estimators. Using a first-order Taylor series expansion, we derive approximations to the bias and covariance matrix of the estimated parameters. The bias approximation is a sum of two terms:One is due to the dependence between c and Y; the other is due to the estimation errors of c and is proportional to b, the parameter being estimated. The covariance matrix approximation, on the other hand, is co...
Solving thermal-circuit problems with computers

THE INDUCTION MOTOR DESIGNER has always had to determine the temperature level of critical points within a motor because high temperatures result in shorter motor life and excessive motor failures. The thermal circuit is one means of calculating motor temperatures that has been available to the designer for many years, but has not been used to any great extent because the time required to obtain solutions from the circuit was much too long. The rapid development of computers and computer techniques in the last five years has made the use of thermal circuits much more attractive to the motor designer.
Detection of human bacterial pathogens in ticks collected from Louisiana black bears (Ursus americanus luteolus)

There are 4 major human-biting tick species in the northeastern United States, which include: Amblyomma americanum, Amblyomma maculatum, Dermacentor variabilis, and Ixodes scapularis. The black bear is a large mammal that has been shown to be parasitized by all the aforementioned ticks. We investigated the bacterial infections in ticks collected from Louisiana black bears (Ursus americanus subspecies luteolus). Eighty-six ticks were collected from 17 black bears in Louisiana from June 2010 to March 2011. All 4 common human-biting tick species were represented. Each tick was subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting select bacterial pathogens and symbionts. Bacterial DNA was detected in 62% of ticks (n=53). Rickettsia parkeri, the causative agent of an emerging spotted fever group rickettsiosis, was identified in 66% of A. maculatum, 28% of D. variabilis, and 11% of I. scapularis. The Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, was detected in 2 I. scapularis, while one A. americanum was positive for Borrelia bissettii, a putative human pathogen. The rickettsial endosymbionts Candidatus Rickettsia andeanae, rickettsial endosymbiont of I. scapularis, and Rickettsia amblyommii were detected in their common tick hosts at 21%, 39%, and 60%, respectively. All ticks were PCR-negative for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia spp., and Babesia microti. This is the first reported detection of R. parkeri in vector ticks in Louisiana; we also report the novel association of R. parkeri with I. scapularis. Detection of both R. parkeri and B. burgdorferi in their respective vectors in Louisiana demands further investigation to determine potential for human exposure to these pathogens.
The College Archivist as College Historian: Baruch College Celebrates Its Historical Roots

College and universities were slow to start collecting records relating to the history of their institutions. In the nineteenth and into the twentieth century it was usually a dedicated librarian, administrator, or professor who decided to rescue the history of their school. Educating archivists to assume this role has become a top priority for archival and library professional programs, and today the college or university archivist is anxious to preserve campus history. Using Baruch College of the City University of New York as a model, many tools emerge as viable to help the archivist preserve and promote the history of their institutions.
Investigations into the chemistry of the pentafluorochalcogen halides

Abstract The first examples of compounds containing two pentafluorosulfanyl (SF5) groups attached to the same nitrogen were prepared only a short time ago by Waterfeld and Mews [1]. We have now found a new route to one of these materials, namely (SF5) 2NCl. The details of this reaction as well as others carried out in an attempt to prepare novel perfluorinated tertiary amines will be discussed. The results of our study of the reactions of pentafluorotellurium- and pentafluoroselenium halides with a variety of reactive nitrogen and carbon nucleophiles will also be presented.
Treatment of epidural spinal cord involvement from germ cell tumors with chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND: Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are chemosensitive, and epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) from GCT may be amenable to treatment with chemotherapy (CT) only. This retrospective study compares the clinical outcome of GCT patients with ESCC treated with CT or radiotherapy (RT) + CT. METHODS: All patients with a histologic diagnosis of GCT from 1984 to 2009 were included in this study. Patients with ESCC were identified. Age, clinical features, histology, treatment, and outcome were analyzed. RESULTS: The authors identified 1734 patients with GCT, of whom 29 (1.7%) had ESCC. The median age of these 29 patients was 32 years. The ESCC was treated with CT only in 16, RT + CT in 11, and 2 patients received palliative care only. The ESCC was more extensive in the RT + CT than the CT group. Patients who received RT + CT had a higher proportion of failed prior CT regimens, a higher percentage of nonseminomatous GCT, T-spine involvement, multilevel epidural disease, and bony vertebral metastases. Median overall survival after diagnosis of ESCC was not reached for those treated with CT alone versus 15 months for those receiving RT + CT (P = .02). There was also a significant difference in survival in patients receiving first-line therapy (n = 15), where median overall survival was not reached in the CT group (n = 11), compared with 22 months in the RT group (n = 4) (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: GCTs rarely involve the epidural compartment. Patients with ESCC who are likely to have chemosensitive disease can receive CT alone as definitive treatment. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Electrochemical micromachining: An environmentally friendly, high speed processing technology

Wet chemical etching processes are employed in the manufacturing of a variety of microelectronic components. These processes use etchants that generally contain aggressive and toxic chemicals, generate hazardous waste and have limited resolution. Electrochemical metal removal is an evolving alternate processing technique that involves controlled metal shaping by an external current, thereby requiring less aggressive and nontoxic electrolytes. The application of controlled electrochemical metal removal in the fabrication of microstructures and microcomponents is referred to as electrochemical micromachining (EMM). In this paper a recently developed EMM process and tool for metal mask fabrication is discussed. EMM performance is compared to that obtained by the conventional chemical etching process. Obtained results demonstrate the opportunities offered by EMM particularly as a high-speed, environmentally friendly processing technology.
Critical pair criteria for completion

We formulate the Knuth-Bendix completion method at an abstract level, as an equational inference system, and formalize the notion of critical pair criterion using orderings on equational proofs. We prove the correctness of standard completion and verify all known criteria for completion, including those for which correctness had not been established previously. What distinguishes our approach from others is that our results apply to a large class of completion procedures, not just to a particular version. Proof ordering techniques therefore provide a basis for the design and verification of specific completion procedures (with or without criteria).
Effect of Seven Antibiotics on the Growth and Reproduction of Heliothis subflexa × H. virescens Interspecific Hybrids and Backcross Males

To test the hypothesis that a maternally transmitted cytoplasmic microorganism is involved in male hybrid sterility found in H. subflexa (Guenee) × H. virescens (F.) hybrid and backcross progeny, we reared H. subflexa, hybrids and backcross progeny on larval diets containing high concentrations of tetracycline, penicillin G, chloramphenicol, ampicillin, gentamicin, rifampin, and 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine. The insects tolerated relatively high concentrations (from 120 mg/liter to 6 g/liter) of antibiotics in the larval diet and showed virtually no changes in larval or pupal developmental time, adult lifespan, or fertility. Hybrid and backcross males reared on such adulterated diets were as sterile as those reared on conventional diets.
Analysis of periodic perturbations of limit cycles

An algorithm due to Loud is used to find asymptotically convergent series solutions for limit cycles subjected to weak periodic perturbations. If an exact or approximate solution to the unperturbed limit cycle is available near or far from marginal stability, then accurate predictions can be made for entrainment bands and the phase relationships between the various oscillatory chemical species and the perturbation. The utility of this method is shown for several model systems. In an appendix, the appearance and character of critical slowing down at the edges of entrainment bands is demonstrated.
Spatial and temporal properties of a continuous-wave phase-conjugate resonator based on the photorefractive crystal BaTiO 3

We report measurements on spatial and temporal properties of a cw phase-conjugate resonator (PCR) based on the photorefractive crystal BaTiO3 and pumped with millwatt power levels from a He–Ne or a Kr+-ion laser. In the absence of an intracavity aperture, the output beam is observed to be elongated in the direction of the crystal c axis by means of preferential self-defocusing of the beam by the highly anisotropic photorefractive effect in BaTiO3. When the coherence length of the pump laser is much smaller than the round-trip distance in the PCR, the time constants for buildup and decay of the PCR power are found to be much larger than those of the photorefractive response.
Interferon for postresection recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract In a randomized, controlled trial, 30 hepatitis C virus-infected men who underwent hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were subsequently randomized to receive either interferon (INF)-alpha (n = 15) or no interferon (n = 15). Eighty percent of patients had hepatitis C virus genotype 1b, and 20% of patients had genotype 2a. Patients in the treatment group were given IFN-alpha, 6 M IU i.m. daily for 2 wk, then three times weekly for 14 wk, and finally twice weekly for 88 wk. The investigators were blinded to the treatment assignment. The median duration of follow-up was approximately 3 and 2.5 yr for the IFN and control groups, respectively. Three patients (15%) did not complete IFN therapy as a result of side effects. In addition, four patients (20%) with recurrence of HCC had their IFN stopped before the end of the study to allow treatment of the tumor. In the IFN group, two patients had sustained viral response, and six had biochemical response. In a survival analysis that included all randomized patients, i.e., “intention to treat,” recurrent HCC was detected in five patients (30%) in the IFN-alpha group and in 12 control patients (80%) (p = 0.037). The difference in the rate of HCC between the groups became apparent only after the first 2 yr of follow-up. The authors concluded that IFN-alpha therapy appears to decrease the recurrence of HCC after resection in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection.
Evaluation of the whole genome DNA-DNA hybridization technique to identify bacteria in histological sections of periradicular lesions

Whole genome DNA-DNA hybridization has been used to identify bacteria in periradicular lesions partly because there is no amplification of the bacteria, therefore, minor contaminants are not detected. There are, however, potential pitfalls with this technique, including inability to distinguish dead bacteria, cross-reactions of species within a genus, and inability to detect species present in low numbers because of loss of DNA during extraction and purification. Alternatively, inadequate extraction and purification of DNA could result in false positives. Therefore, controls are required to monitor DNA loss, DNA cross-reactions, and DNA of pure cultures mixed with bacteria-free tissue to monitor for false positives. We determined that the quality of DNA extracted from histological sections of periradicular lesions is excellent for DNA-DNA hybridization. Although lesions contain large numbers of bacteria, histological sections through lesions barely contain sufficient quantity of bacteria for such analysis. This was confirmed by histological observation of sparsely distributed bacteria within lesions. Furthermore, we found that the bacteria are not distributed evenly throughout periradicular lesions, in numbers or species.
Enchondromatosis (Ollier's disease) and ovarian juvenile granulosa cell tumor. A case report and review of the literature

An ovarian juvenile granulosa cell tumor in a 15-year-old white girl is reported. The patient had enchondromatosis (Ollier's disease), and a reivew of the literature revealed two previous reports linking enchondromatosis with ovarian sex-cord stromal tumors. This heretofore unrecognized association between these two unusual lesions indirectly supports a generalized mesodermal dysplasia in patients with enchondromatosis. It also draws attention to the possible emergence of ovarian neoplasms in addition to the more frequently encountered chondrosarcomas.
Generalized pruritus and its management.

Generalized pruritus is defined here as the syndrome of widespread itching occurring in the absence of primary skin lesions. The subject has been reviewed by Cunliffe (1979) and this contribution is restricted to a discussion of some aetiological factors and advances in therapy.
Photonic pseudogaps for periodic dielectric structures

We consider the problems of existence and structure of gaps (pseudogaps) in the spectra associated with Maxwell equations and equations that govern the propagation of acoustic waves in periodic two-component media. The dielectric constant e is assumed to be real and positive, and the value of e = eb on the background is supposed to be essentially larger than the value of e = ea on the embedded component. We prove the existence of pseudogaps in the spectra of the relevant operators. In particular, we give an accurate treatment of the term “pseudogap.” We also show that if the contrast eb/ea approaches infinity, then the bands of the spectrum shrink to a discrete set which can be identified with the set of eigenvalues of a Neumann-type boundary value problem and thus can be effectively calculated.
Dependence of csf on plasma bicarbonate during hypocapnia and hypoxemic hypocapnia

We have previoulsy shown pH compensation to be similar in CSF and arterial blood during chronic hypoxemic hypocapnia in man and pony, and postulated that the compensatory reduction in CSF [HCO3] was dependent upon corresponding changes in [HCO3]a. We tested this hypothesis in anesthetized, paralyzed dogs by determining the effects of 7 or 14 hours of hypocapnia (PaCO2 20 and 30 mm Hg), hypoxemia (PaO2 30, 38 and 48 mm Hg) and hypocapnic hypoxemia on CSF acid-base status. [hco3]a was either permitted to fall normally or was held near control levels by NaHCO3 infusion. In hypocapnia and hypoxemic hypocapnia, the decrease in [HCO3] and % pH compensation in CSF were less than or equal to that in arterial blood. Most (51-89%) of the compensatory decrease in CSF [HCO3] was prevented by preventing the corresponding reduction in [HCO3]a. This dependence of changes in CSF on plasma [HCO3] required a concurrent decrease in CSF PCO2, but was largely independent of variations in plasma pH. A minor but significant portion of the decrease in CSF [HCO3] was achieved independently of corresponding changes in [HCO3]a. The contribution of this local mechanism to CSF [HCO3] regulation increased with increasing severity of hypocapnia or hypoxemia and was usually associated with a selective increase in CSF lactate. It was concluded that [HCO3] regulation in the CSF during hypoxemic hypocapnia was primarily dependent upon, and therefore limited by, the concomitant decrease in plasma [HCO3].
Energy Distribution Function of Electrons in Pure Helium

A solution for the Boltzmann transport equation is presented, which allows us to predict high-frequency gas discharge breakdown fields in gases with constant collision frequency of the electron. Theoretical values are in good agreement with the experimental data. This is used to justify the use of our distribution function for determining the average electron energy and the various power losses of an electron in a discharge as a function of $\frac{E}{p}$.
Effects of neonatal methylmercury exposure n development of nucleic acids and proteins in rat brain: Regional specificity

Exposure of neonatal rats to methylmercury (1 or 2.5 mg/kg SC daily) during the preweaning period caused regionally-specific alterations in DNA, RNA and protein content in brain. In midbrain + brainstem, where neuronal replication and differentiation conclude early, reduced DNA content was prominent at either dose and was apparent well before evidence of general body growth impairment; small deficits in protein content and brain region weight were seen. In contrast, cerebral cortex showed an elevation of DNA in the high dose group and a tendency toward supranormal RNA values at either dose. In cerebellum, where maturation occurs last, both DNA and RNA were markedly stimulated in pups receiving either 1 or 2.5 mg/kg and little effect was seen on proteins or region weight. These results indicate that the response of the developing central nervous system to cell loss caused by methylmercury is dependent upon the stage of development at which exposure occurs: whereas clear-cut reductions in cell number (DNA content) occur in fairly mature, post-replicative regions, those areas undergoing rapid replication and differentiation are likely to exhibit compensatory stimulation or replacement of cells.
Transfer of Development Rights: A Market Analysis

Increasing concern about the quality of life in urbanizing areas and the impact of urbanization both on environmentally sensitive areas and on the land resource base for agriculture has led some state and local governments to consider policies designed to alter market forces affecting private land use decisions in ways that foster retention of open space. Among these policies is a series of related proposals known as the transfer of development rights (TDR), the generic feature of which is the provision for an increase in the density of urban development in some areas in exchange for the permanent retention of open space in other areas. The type of TDR program analyzed here provides for a designated open space or "preservation" zone in which urban development is prohibited. As compensation for the resultant reduction in the current market value of their land, owners of land in this zone are issued certificates of development rights (DRCs) which can be sold to any willing buyer. A receiving zone in which these DRCs can be utilized is also delineated. Residential development without the utilization of DRCs is permitted in this receiving zone, but only up to the density limit authorized by the basic zoning ordinance; development to a higher "bonus" density limit requires the utilization of DRCs. Critical to the implementation of such a TDR program is the compensation issue: there must be a reasonable possibility that owners of land in the open space zone can sell their DRCs at a price which represents some acceptable level of compensation. The determination of that level is a normative issue which will not be dealt with here. Rather, this note examines the nature of the demand for
Some results concerning the rates of convergence of random walks on finite group

Abstract On finite groups, convergence to the uniform distribution under the variation distance implies that the Two-step separation converges to zero. In this paper, we will improve some results of Diaconis (1988).