cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The shortest distance between two points isn't always a great circle: getting around landmasses in the calibration of marine geodisparity

In the assessment of Phanerozoic marine global biodiversity, there has been longstanding interest in quantifying compositional similarities among sampling points as a function of their distances from one another (geodisparity). Previous research has demonstrated that faunal similarity between any two locations tends to decrease significantly as the great circle distance (GCD) between the locations increases, but the rate of decrease begins to stabilize at transoceanic distances. The accuracy of these assessments, and comparisons among different temporal intervals, may suffer, however, because of intervening landmasses that are not accounted for when distance is calibrated simply as GCD. Here, we present a new method for determining the shortest overwater distance (WD) between two marine locations, and we use the method to recalibrate for several Phanerozoic intervals previous measures of global geodisparity in the taxonomic compositions of marine biotas. WD was determined by using a cost-distance approach in ArcGIS, modified to work on a spherical, as opposed to a planar, surface. Results demonstrate two notable effects of using WD. First, mean compositional similarity between locations tends to decrease more continuously as a function of distance with WD than with GCD. Second, pairs of locations with WDs that are at least 50% greater than their GCDs tend to have lower compositional similarity to one another than those with more closely matching WDs and GCDs. These differences are expected as WD better represents the “true” distance between locations; they diminish at GCDs of 5000 km or more when clear, transoceanic paths between locations become more common. Despite these effects, using WD does not alter fundamental temporal trends in global geodisparity through the Phanerozoic observed in previous research, but it is likely to have more significant ramifications for more confined paleobiogeographic investigations.
Temporal relational data model

This paper incorporates a temporal dimension to nested relations. It combines research in temporal databases and nested relations for managing the temporal data in nontraditional database applications. A temporal data value is represented as a temporal atom; a temporal atom consists of two parts: a temporal set and a value. The temporal atom asserts that the value is valid over the time duration represented by its temporal set. The data model allows relations with arbitrary levels of nesting and can represent the histories of objects and their relationships. Temporal relational algebra and calculus languages are formulated and their equivalence is proved. Temporal relational algebra includes operations to manipulate temporal data and to restructure nested temporal relations. Additionally, we define operations to generate a power set of a relation, a set membership test, and a set inclusion test, which are all derived from the other operations of temporal relational algebra. To obtain a concise representation of temporal data (temporal reduction), collapsed versions of the set-theoretic operations are defined. Procedures to express collapsed operations by the regular operations of temporal relational algebra are included. The paper also develops procedures to completely flatten a nested temporal relation into an equivalent 1 NF relation and back to its original form, thus providing a basis for the semantics of the collapsed operations by the traditional operations on 1 NF relations.
Electronic structure of the primary electron donor of Blastochloris viridis heterodimer mutants : high field EPR study.

Abstract High-field electron paramagnetic resonance (HF EPR) has been employed to investigate the primary electron donor electronic structure of Blastochloris viridis heterodimer mutant reaction centers (RCs). In these mutants the amino acid substitution His(M200)Leu or His(L173)Leu eliminates a ligand to the primary electron donor, resulting in the loss of a magnesium in one of the constituent bacteriochlorophylls (BChl). Thus, the native BChl/BChl homodimer primary donor is converted into a BChl/bacteriopheophytin (BPhe) heterodimer. The heterodimer primary donor radical in chemically oxidized RCs exhibits a broadened EPR line indicating a highly asymmetric distribution of the unpaired electron over both dimer constituents. Observed triplet state EPR signals confirm localization of the excitation on the BChl half of the heterodimer primary donor. Theoretical simulation of the triplet EPR lineshapes clearly shows that, in the case of mutants, triplet states are formed by an intersystem crossing mechanism in contrast to the radical pair mechanism in wild type RCs. Photooxidation of the mutant RCs results in formation of a BPhe anion radical within the heterodimer pair. The accumulation of an intradimer BPhe anion is caused by the substantial loss of interaction between constituents of the heterodimer primary donor along with an increase in the reduction potential of the heterodimer primary donor D/D+ couple. This allows oxidation of the cytochrome even at cryogenic temperatures and reduction of each constituent of the heterodimer primary donor individually. Despite a low yield of primary donor radicals, the enhancement of the semiquinone–iron pair EPR signals in these mutants indicates the presence of kinetically viable electron donors.
Extracellular Calcium and Platelet-derived Growth Factor Promote Receptor-mediated Chemotaxis in Osteoblasts through Different Signaling Pathways

The discovery of a calcium receptor has stimulated interest in the signaling events underlying extracellular calcium ([Ca2+]o)-induced cell-specific responses. In osteoblasts, elevated levels of extracellular calcium mediate both mitogenesis and chemotaxis. Here we provide evidence that [Ca2+]o-stimulated chemotaxis of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells involves a G-protein-linked calcium-sensing receptor. [Ca2+]o promotes chemotaxis in a concentration-dependent manner. Pertussis toxin blocked almost all of [Ca2+]o-stimulated chemotaxis but had only a small effect on platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated chemotaxis. Consistent with the signaling model for PDGF-mediated chemotaxis, activation of phospholipase C played a critical role in [Ca2+]o-initiated chemotaxis: U-73122, an inhibitor of the activation of phospholipase C, blocked approximately 50% of PDGF-stimulated chemotaxis but blocked nearly all of the [Ca2+]o-stimulated chemotaxis. Down-regulation of protein kinase C also blocked about 50% of PDGF-stimulated chemotaxis but did not block [Ca2+]o-stimulated chemotaxis. Thus, unlike PDGF-mediated chemotaxis, chemotaxis stimulated by [Ca2+]o does not appear to require protein kinase C activation. This finding suggests events downstream of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production rather than diacylglycerol production are critical to [Ca2+]o-promoted chemotaxis of MC3T3-E1 cells. The signal transduction mechanism underlying PDGF-induced chemotaxis involves the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase, as judged by the in vivo production of phosphatidylinositol 3,4-diphosphate and 3,4,5-trisphosphate and the partial sensitivity of chemotaxis to wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase. In contrast, [Ca2+]o-stimulated chemotaxis was not blocked by wortmannin and elevations in [Ca2+]o did not increase the production of lipid products of phosphoinositide 3-kinase. Overall, [Ca2+]o-promoted chemotaxis of osteoblasts appears to utilize a unique signaling mechanism via a calcium-sensing receptor.
Special session - communities in practice in engineering education: what are we learning?

Engineering education research crosses multiple disciplines and as such there are no discrete or clear guidelines. Rather, it is evolving through practice - and the community is at a point in time where dialogue and community building are important next steps for advancing engineering education scholarship. The goal of this interactive session is to make visible and shared what we as a community are learning - a form of knowledge that has typically been outside the realm of formal presentations and publications. We will do this by creating an interactive knowledge creating community of practice forum on challenges of engaging in engineering education research and strategies for success. To anchor the forum, we will draw on the shared experiences of engineering faculty and graduate students who participated in a year long engineering education research program, the Institute for Scholarship on Engineering Education (ISEE)
Performance of phase noisy optical systems with frequency stabilization

Laser phase noise causes a significant performance degradation of coherent optical communication systems. The effect of noise is analyzed using a model more general than usually considered. Bounds and approximations for the probability of error of binary orthogonal modulation, such as wide deviation frequency-shift keying (FSK), are evaluated, paying particular attention to the effects of frequency feedback stabilization on system robustness. >
Transition from Nanodomains to Microdomains Induced by Exposure of Lipid Monolayers to Air

The morphology of monolayers prepared from ternary lipid mixtures that have coexisting fluid phases has been examined by atomic force microscopy for samples transferred to mica before and after exposure to air. Mixtures of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and cholesterol with either egg sphingomyelin or 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine were studied at several surface pressures. Both lipid mixtures have a combination of small islands and large microdomains at low surface pressure (5-10 mN/m) for monolayers deposited in either air or nitrogen. By contrast, monolayers have small interconnected nanodomains when deposited under nitrogen at 30 mN/m but mixtures of large microdomains and small nanodomains when transferred after exposure to air. These results are consistent with an earlier report that concluded that the formation of large domains at high surface pressures (>30 mN/m) for monolayers exposed to air is caused by lipid oxidation. However, the higher spatial resolution available with atomic force microscopy indicates that exposure of the monolayers to air leads to an increase in the size of preexisting nanodomains, rather than a change in the miscibility pressure. Examination of changes in surface morphology as a function of surface pressure demonstrate a gradual evolution in size and surface coverage for both nano- and microdomains, before formation of a network of interconnected nanodomains. Similar studies for binary mixtures in the absence of cholesterol indicate that lipid oxidation results in analogous changes in domain size for monolayers with coexisting gel and fluid phases. These results illustrate the importance of using techniques capable of probing the nanoscale organization of membranes.
Large-Scale Flume Tests of Riprap-Apron Performance at a Bridge Abutment on a Floodplain

Laboratory tests using a large-scale model of a spill-through bridge abutment led to important findings about the performance of a riprap apron as an abutment scour countermeasure. Riprap stone is widely used for protecting side slopes of embankments against erosion, and several design guidelines are available in the literature. In contrast, only a few guidelines exist for the design of a riprap apron around an abutment. These guidelines focus only on the armoring effect of riprap, neglecting other effects. This study shows that apron performance involves several mechanisms: armoring the bed, dissipating large-scale turbulence shed from the abutment, reducing the peak unit discharge, reducing the average shear stress, and shifting the scour region away from the abutment. Together, these mechanisms substantially reduce the maximum scour depth. The test findings are compared with those from a much smaller model of riprap-apron performance.
Tungsten-bearing skarns of the Sierra Nevada; I, The Pine Creek Mine, California

The Pine Creek mine, located 27 km west of Bishop, California, contains scheelite-bearing skarns found at and near the contacts between a septum of Paleozoic metasedimentary rocks and a mid-Cretaceous quartz monzonite pluton. Underground and surface mapping and drill core logging have suggested that skarn formation and accompanying metal deposition should be characterized as a series of events over a range in temperatures overprinting several different rock types.Metamorphism caused the formation of barren, iron-poor calc-silicate marbles and hornfelses, which were subsequently replaced by iron-rich calc-silicate and ore minerals during metasomatism. High-temperature metasomatism was characterized by the formation of garnet-quartz, garnet-pyroxene, and idocrase-wollastonite-pyroxene zones from marble; by pyroxene-plagioclase + or - garnet skarns from biotite and calc-silicate hornfels; and by pyroxene-plagioclase-quartz rock from quartz monzonite. These high-temperature assemblages were locally over-printed by hydrosilicate alteration characterized by biotiteoplagioclase-magnetite replacement of garnet, amphibole-quartz-chalcopyrite + or - calcite (epidote) replacement of garnet-pyroxene (plagioclase) skarn, and calcite-quartz-epidote-chlorite-fiuorite replacement of wollastonite-idocrase. Contemporaneous alteration of quartz monzonite comprised quartz-biotite-chalco-pyrite veins and locally pervasive biotitization. The latest, lowest temperature alteration con-sisted of vertical pipes of quartz-calcite-zeolite, which cut and altered all other rock types.Patterns of ore deposition were intimately tied to original lithologies and alteration types. Initial scheelite deposition accompanied high-temperature metasomatism of marble but not of hornfels or quartz monzonite. In the early-formed skarn, scheelite is concentrated toward the marble replacement front and depleted away from marble. Molybdenite is concentrated in quartz-rich masses near intrusive contacts and in quartz-garnet veins cutting across metaso-matized hornfels. Scheelite was remobilized and deposited in association with hydrosilicate alteration of skarn and hornfels. Copper was deposited with hydrosilicate alteration, particularly in association with amphibole-quartz calcite replacement of garnet-pyroxene skarn. The sequence of events inferred at Pine Creek appears to be similar to those found in other tungsten skarns from around the world.
Capacity of wireless ad-hoc networks under multipacket transmission and reception

In this paper we deduce the capacity of wireless adhoc networks under the assumptions of physical model for cooperative multiple input multiple output (MIMO) communication. We show that the capacity of a random wireless ad-hoc network can be improved significantly by adopting MIMO techniques. In particular, when the nodes are endowed with multi-packet transmission and reception capabilities, the per session capacity increases at least as n1-2/alpha R(n)3-4/alpha, where alpha > 2 is the path loss parameter and R(n) is the range of cooperation. The proof for the above results utilizes an edge coloring of an appropriately chosen random geometric graph. This approach, as a by product, provides alternative deductions for some previously established results under the physical model. Consequently, we provide an alternative deduction of the classical result for a point to point communication by Gupta and Kumar. Furthurmore, we also deduce a bound that matches a recent result by Wang et. al., for capacity of ad-hoc networks under multipacket reception, within a poly-log factor.
The importance of by-products to the US beef industry.

The use of by-products as nutrient sources for beef cattle will continue to be driven by economics. As landfill prices continue to escalate, more by-products will become economically viable as cattle feed. These considerations will be counter-balanced by safety concerns. American consumers are becoming increasingly concerned with the production aspects of their food. The environmental concerns associated with additional landfills will have to be balanced against which by-products consumers will accept in the production of the beef that they consume. These issues will most assuredly heighten over the coming years.
Organizational climate and child welfare workers' degree of intent to leave the job: Evidence from New York

Abstract With increasingly unstable workforce in child welfare agencies, it is critical to understand what organizational factors lead to intent to leave the job based on job search behaviors. Using recent survey data collected among 359 child welfare workers from eight agencies in New York State during 2009–2011 and a Structural Equation Model (SEM) method, this study examines the relationship between employee perceptions of organizational climate and the degree of intent to leave the job (thinking, looking and taking actions related to a new job). Fifty-seven percent (n = 205) reported that they had considered looking for a new job in the past year. Bivariate analyses indicated that there were significant differences between those who looked for a job and those who did not look for a job in the past year. SEM analysis revealed that four organizational climate factors were predictive of decreasing the degree of intent to leave the job: Perceptions on organizational justice was most predictive factor for thinking of a new job followed by organizational support, work overload and job importance. The findings of this study help us understand the employee perceptions of different organizational factors that impact employee turnover especially from the time an employee thinks of leaving the job to actually taking concrete actions related to a new job.
Cryoproteins in Acute Serum Sickness: Correlations Between Anticxn Cryoprecipitation, Immune Complexes and Immune Elimination in Acute Experimental Serum Sickness

To further define the relationship between serum cryoprecipitates and immune complexes, experimental serum sickness was produced in rabbits using radiolabelled bovine serum albumln (BSA) aei antigen.BSA cryoprecipitation was not detected befors immune complexes appeared in the circulation. It reached peak quantities while immune complexes were present and BSA was undergoing immune elinination. The time come of BSA cryoprecipitation suggests that the BSA which appears in the cryopreclpitates may be in the form of immune couplexea.
APLIKASI TEKNIK MOLEKULER UNTUK ANALISIS GENETIK TOMATO LEAF CURL VIRUS

Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) merupakan salah satu virus dalamgenus Begomovirus, famili Geminiviridae, yang menyebabkanpenyakit keriting daun pada tomat. Informasi tentang keragamangenetik ToLCV bermanfaat dalam perakitan tanaman tahan. Kemajuandi bidang biologi molekuler telah menghasilkan beberapa teknikyang dapat digunakan untuk analisis genetik Begomovirus. Teknikmolekuler yang banyak diaplikasikan ialah polymerase chainreaction (PCR). Teknik ini sangat sensitif dan spesifik untukmendeteksi Begomovirus pada tingkat DNA. PCR juga dapatdigunakan untuk mengidentifikasi tingkat keragaman genetik virus.Teknik PCR telah digunakan untuk mendeteksi Begomovirus padatomat (ToLCV) dari sentra produksi di Jawa Timur, Jawa Tengah,Jawa Barat, DI Yogyakarta, dan Sumatera. Kombinasi teknik PCRdengan restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) jugadapat digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi keragaman genetik Begomovirus.Selain itu, teknik sekuensing DNA dapat diaplikasikanuntuk mempelajari identitas dan keragaman genetik isolat-isolatToLCV atau anggota Begomovirus lainnya. Analisis sekuen asamamino menunjukkan adanya keragaman genetik dari isolat-isolatToLCV Indonesia. Isolat-isolat tersebut homolog dengan Ageratumyellow vein virus (AYVV). Dengan teknik modifikasi gen (rekayasagenetik) telah berhasil memanfaatkan gen AV1 (coat protein) dariToLCV untuk menghasilkan tanaman tembakau tahan terhadapToLCV. Teknik modifikasi gen memberikan peluang yang besaruntuk mengembangkan tanaman tomat tahan ToLCV dan berperanpenting dalam pembangunan pertanian modern di masa mendatang.
Rationality in Technology and in Ethics

An initial reflection questions whether rationality is self-justifying. Insofar as it is not self-justifying, humans may conceptualize it as either an instrumental or a substantial good. This implies a need to subordinate technology (and technological rationality) to some vision of the good. Ethical arguments also exist, however, for making ethics itself more technological (or effective). This initial reflection is followed by two case studies: on the search for ethical rationality in professional engineering and on efforts to rationally transform politics into policy.
Students as Junior Partners, Professors as Senior Partners, the B-School as the Firm: A New Model for Collegiate Business Education

The article presents a model that would lead to an investigation of the function of faculty members in the business classroom. This model was first presented at the Academy of Management 2001 Annua...
The Placenta as a Diagnostic Tool for the Neonatologist

The placenta is a vital organ, shared by a mother and fetus, which houses valuable information on the events and processes occurring before birth. Often these processes can have a negative impact on any or all organ systems, leading to neonatal instability and infant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the placenta may serve as an important clinical tool for the neonatologist and pediatrician in the diagnosis and management of several complex neonatal diseases. These diagnoses range from neonatal sepsis to congenital infections, sequelae of intrauterine growth abnormalities, neurologic signs, and a wide range of complications accompanying prematurity. The purpose of this review is to provide baseline information on the processes obtainable from the perinatal pathologist’s placental examination. We describe common anatomic and histologic lesions of the placenta that are associated with the aforementioned clinical problems, and describe how such placental findings can help the clinician in routine diagnosis and management. We discuss the current gaps in diagnostic usefulness of the placenta, and how ongoing research is the key to optimizing the placental examination to improve neonatal outcomes.
Total Quality Management within a Navy Organization: Assessing the Transformation Process:

A quiet revolution is taking place in the way American industries are conducting business. Since 1980, when NBC aired its white paper If Japan Can… Why Can't We?, businesses across the nation have ...
In vivo assessment of tumor-induced nonspecific suppression of contact sensitivity. II. Regulation by cytokines and T cells via adoptive transfer.

Normal BALB/c mice were assessed for 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced contact sensitivity following adoptive transfer of macrophages (Mo). T cells, or their derived products, from normal or tumor-bearing hosts (TBH). Contact sensitivity (CS) was measured by a quantitative radioisotopic ear assay, a total in vivo system based on localization of IP-injected iodinated human serum albumin ([125I]HSA) in the DNFB-challenged ear. Adoptive transfer of low or high doses of TBH T cells or their derived supernatants into normal recipients suppresed their responsiveness, while Mo supernatants enhanced it. Moreover, in all cases adoptive transfer of TBH cells or supernatants resulted in a lower CS response than did their normal counterparts. These results further corroborate our previous in vitro data indicating that T cells, or Mo and T cell soluble products, possess immunoregulatory capabilities in vivo.
Effect of early surgery, material, and method of flap preservation on cranioplasty infections: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Infection is a significant cause of morbidity with cranioplasty procedures. However, few studies have investigated the effect of specific surgical practices on cranioplasty infection. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the literature on the effect of early surgery (within 3 months of craniectomy), implant material, and method of flap preservation on cranioplasty infections, and to perform a subanalysis of the effect of early surgery on overall complications associated with cranioplasty. METHODS: A systematic search of the PubMed, Cochrane, SCOPUS, and CINAHL databases was conducted. Comparative studies that reported on timing of surgery, implant material (autograft vs allograft), or method of flap preservation (subcutaneous vs extracorporeal), and infection or complication rates were selected for detailed analysis. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (Cls) were calculated for each analysis. RESULTS: Eighteen articles (2254 data points) met criteria for inclusion. There was no difference in infection rates (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.53-3.41; P = .53) or overall complication rates (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.29-1.11; P = . 10 ) between early or later surgery. Fourteen studies (n = 1582) compared infection rates between autograft and allograft materials; there was no difference in infection rates between the two (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.40-1.66; P = .57). There was no significant difference in infection rates between subcutaneous or extracorporeal preservation (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.09-1.35; P = .13). CONCLUSION: Analysis of the best current evidence suggests that early surgery, implant material, and method of flap preservation have no effect on the rate of cranioplasty infections.
Actual Exertion of Training Method for the Different Weight Shots

It is important to improve the performance of the shot for the training method of the different weight.Three different technical models of the thrower are the objective requirement for the esertion of the different weight shot in the athletic training;the principle of the "the burden-stess"is a physiological basis of the selection of lightweight shot;the specific velocity and strength of the thowing event are the starting point of setting the proportion of lightweight shot;the adoption of the hollow shot is the alternative form of the training of the different weight shot.
Survey on Antibody Level of Measles,Diphtheria,Pertusis and Tetanus in Minority Nationality Students

Objective:To understand the immunity level of measles,diphtheria,pertusis and tetanus in the minority nationality students,and provide scientific evidence for the timely vaccination and preventive measures of the disease.Methods:Two thousand,five hundred and twenty-nine students of minority nationality were selected with random sampling method.The measles IgG,diphtheria IgG,pertusis IgG and tetanus IgG were detected in these students by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Results:The overall IgG positive rate of measles,diphtheria,pertusis and tetanus were 97.67%,84.82%,92.21% and 80.03% by testing the 2529 serum samples.Conclusion:The antibody levels of measles and pertusis were high in minority nationality students.And the IgG positive rate of diphtheria and tetanus were relatively low.
Pitfalls in the diagnosis of low-back and leg pain.

Disk disease is a causative factor in only 22.3% of patients with low-back and leg pain. Tumors, peripheral nerve lesions, vascular lesions, and infections are other causes that are occasionally missed in diagnosis. The case reports presented here illustrate diagnostic pitfalls to be avoided.
Microtubules and Growth Cones: Motors Drive the Turn

Navigation of the growth cone at the tip of the developing axon is crucial for the proper wiring of the nervous system. Mechanisms of actin-dependent growth cone steering, via signaling cascades, are well documented. Microtubules are also important in growth cone guidance, because their polarized invasion into the peripheral domain on one side of the growth cone is essential for it to turn in that direction. Classically, microtubules have been considered secondary players, invading the peripheral domain only where the actin cytoskeleton permits them to go. Presented here is evidence for an underappreciated mechanism by which signaling cascades can potentially affect growth cone turning, namely through regulatable forces imposed on the microtubules by molecular motor proteins.
Primary Sellar Rhabdomyosarcoma Arising in Association With a Pituitary Adenoma

Intrasellar rhabdomyosarcoma is rare, and when arising in collusion with an unrelated entity, can present a diagnostic pitfall. We describe a case of a 56-year-old woman who presented with right ey...
High-Throughput Detection of Thiamine Using Periplasmic Binding Protein-Based Biorecognition.

Although antibodies and aptamers are commonly used bioaffinity recognition elements, they are not available for many important analytes. As an alternative, we demonstrate use of a periplasmic binding protein (PBP) to provide high affinity recognition for thiamine (vitamin B1), an analyte of great importance to human and environmental health for which, like so many other small molecules, no suitable biorecognition element is available. We demonstrate that with an appropriate competitive strategy, a highly sensitive (limit of detection of 0.5 nM) and specific bioassay for thiamine and its phosphorylated derivatives can be designed. The high-throughput method relies upon the thiamine periplasmic binding protein (TBP) from Escherichia coli for thiamine biorecognition and dye-encapsulating liposomes for signal-enhancement. A thiamine monosuccinate-PEG-biotin derivative was synthesized to serve as an immobilized competitor that overcame constraints imposed by the deep binding cleft and structural recognition re...
Dynamic circuits with lightpath switching over wavelength routed networks

In this paper we examine provisioning holding-time-aware dynamic circuits using a technique called lightpath switching (LPS). Instead of using the same lightpath for the duration of the data transmission, in LPS we allow a request to switch lightpaths over time. Data transmission may begin on one lightpath from the source to destination, then at a later time a different lightpath from the source to the destination may be selected to continue data transmission. The lightpath switches are transparent to the user and are managed by the network. Allowing LPS creates a number of segments that can use independent lightpaths. We compare the performance of traditional routing and wavelength (RWA) assignment to routing and wavelength assignment with LPS. We show that LPS can significantly reduce blocking compared to traditional RWA. 1
Geographic accessibility of food outlets not associated with body mass index change among veterans, 2009-14

In recent years, various levels of government in the United States have adopted or discussed subsidies, tax breaks, zoning laws, and other public policies that promote geographic access to healthy food. However, there is little evidence from large-scale longitudinal or quasi-experimental research to suggest that the local mix of food outlets actually affects body mass index (BMI). We used a longitudinal design to examine whether the proximity of food outlets, by type, was associated with BMI changes between 2009 and 2014 among 1.7 million veterans in 382 metropolitan areas. We found no evidence that either absolute or relative geographic accessibility of supermarkets, fast-food restaurants, or mass merchandisers was associated with changes in an individual’s BMI over time. While policies that alter only geographic access to food outlets may promote equitable access to healthy food and improve nutrition, our findings suggest they will do little to combat obesity in adults.
Critique [of Women, Religion, and Peace in an American Indian Ritual by Kristin Herzog]

After a lengthy description of the various facets of Haudosaunee ritual, Kristin Herzog makes some interesting statements on the parallels between our modem day social arguments and those which plagued them centuries ago. The unique feature of Haudosaunec social organization is its systematic balance of power between the sexes. Although it is doubtful that American women who are currently engaged in a struggle for political and social power will achieve quite the same degree of equity, just studying a society in which such a balance was achieved is helpful for those in the process of defining women9s goals and objectives.
COMSOL simulations of DCSRR with band-pass and band-stop characteristics

In this paper, a demonstration of a standard pair of complementary split ring resonators (CSRR) can be enhanced by the addition of another pair of rings. These additional pairs allow for greater enhancement of the standard CSRRs ability to mitigate unwanted frequencies, and enhance desired frequencies. Various ring orientations and geometries are crafted and simulated in COMSOL. At 2.4 GHz, the band-pass CSRR achieved a return loss of 44.015 dB while the band-stop achieved a S21 measurement of −56.8 dB. In addition, the band-pass CSRR shows the attenuation of frequencies that surround the 2.4 GHz frequency. The presented results show possible enhancement or blocking of frequencies used for S-band RFID applications.
Human papillomavirus oncogenesis.

Papillomaviruses are ubiquitous in nature and cause a variety of benign and malignant disease of the skin, respiratory tract, and the genital mucosa. The human papillomavirus (HPV) uniquely has evolved to take advantage of the host cell mechanism of proliferation and differentiation for the purpose of self-replication and the production of infectious virus. The life cycle can be disrupted as a consequence of viral and host cell chromosomes, accompanied by the uncoupling of the normal viral regulation of gene expression. In this setting, 3 viral genes emerge as possessing the ability to cause neoplastic transformation. Most important among these are E6 and E7, which function to disrupt the normal cell cycle checkpoint controls making the host cell susceptible to additional genetic insults.
Distal Mononeuropathy Before and After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Investigation.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to characterize the occurrence of distal mononeuropathy (DMN) in patients before and after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) as well as resolution of the symptoms. Methods One hundred one patients over the age of 18 undergoing arthroscopic RCR +/− concurrent procedures completed a questionnaire regarding the presence of a symptomatic DMN. Patients with history of diabetic neuropathy, cervical radiculopathy, brachial plexopathy, or Spurling sign were excluded. All patients underwent physical examination to determine the characteristics and location of symptoms. Postoperatively, patients underwent repeat examination at 2, 6, and 12 weeks. Results Preoperatively, 19% (19/101) of RCR patients described DMN symptoms (9 median nerve symptoms, 5 ulnar nerve symptoms, 4 nonspecific symptoms, one with both ulnar and median nerve symptoms). Ninety percent (17/19) patients with preoperative DMN symptoms described resolution within the final 12 weeks of follow-up. A portion of previously asymptomatic RCR patients (12/82) developed new DMN symptoms (6 nonspecific symptoms, 3 ulnar nerve symptoms, 2 median nerve symptoms, one radial sensory nerve symptoms) postoperatively, with 92% (11/12) having resolution by the final 12-week follow-up. At the final 12 weeks, 3 RCR patients had DMN symptoms with 2 of those 3 patients having their symptoms existing preoperatively. Conclusions This study supports the hypothesis that DMN can be a preexisting finding in patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR. Similarly, it is common for patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR to develop new DMN symptoms following their procedure. Regardless, there is good evidence to show that a large majority of both groups of patients will go on to have resolution of their symptoms. Level of Evidence Level IV, prospective case series.
Medical imaging data in the digital innovation age.

As we reflect on decades of exponential advancements in electronic innovation, we can see the field of medical imaging eclipsed by a new digital landscape - one that is inexpensive, fast, and powerful. This new paradigm presents new opportunities to innovate in both research and clinical settings. In this article, we review the current role of data: the common perceptions around its valuation and the infrastructure currently in place for data-driven innovation. Looking forward, we consider what has already been achieved using modern data capacities, the opportunities we have for further expansion in this area, and the obstacles we will need to transcend.
Relationship between intermuscular adipose tissue infiltration and myostatin before and after aerobic exercise training.

Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) is associated with impaired skeletal muscle contractile and metabolic function. Myostatin and downstream signaling proteins such as cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CD...
Generalized anxiety and sleep architecture: A polysomnographic investigation.

The sleep of 15 adult subjects who reported heightened generalized anxiety in the absence of other psychiatric syndromes and a 15-adult contrast group were studied by means of nocturnal polysomnography. Analysis of polysomnography variables revealed a significant discriminant function that accounted for 79% of the variance between groups, indicating that high-anxiety/worry subjects took longer to fall asleep, had a smaller percentage of deep (slow-wave) sleep, and more frequent transitions into light sleep [stage 1 nonrapid eye movement (NREM)]. Additional analyses indicated that high-anxiety/worry subjects had a greater percentage of light sleep, more early microarousals, a lower rapid eye movement (REM) density relative to low-anxiety subjects. These subjects also showed more electrodermal storming when slow-wave sleep and REM sleep variables were covaried. Results indicated disrupted sleep depth and continuity similar to that documented in clinical anxiety disorder patients and distinct from that of depressed patients. These results indicate that generalized anxiety and worry in otherwise healthy individuals may act to produce a clinically significant sleep disturbance in the absence of other psychiatric symptoms.
An unusual case of tuberculous parotitis

Abstract Background Tuberculosis (TB) of the parotid gland is exceedingly rare, even in areas of high disease burden. We report a case of isolated tuberculosis (TB) of the parotid gland. Methods 25-year-old Puerto Rican female, who was born and raised in the United States, presented with a 3-month of history of recurrent left parotid gland swelling and pain. She had three attempts of fine needle aspirations (FNA), which were non-diagnostic. She was treated for a 3-month duration of antibiotics without much success. She did not have any constitutional symptoms, personal history of immunosuppression or prior exposure to TB. On CT and MRI, there appeared to be a fairly well-circumscribed mass in the deep lobe of left parotid. Because various FNA were unsuccessful in identifying the etiology of the mass, the decision was made to perform a deep lobe parotidectomy. Results Histopathology revealed a large necrotizing granuloma with fibrous wall and numerous histiocytes. Based on these findings, she had a PPD and quantiferon gold test, both of which were positive. A chest X-ray was negative, thus demonstrating that she had latent TB. Conclusion We believe this is one of the first reported cases of tuberculous parotitis in the United States. Clinicians should be aware of this rare entity and may consider ordering a PPD test in those patients who have failed treatment or yielding a diagnosis.
Breast Cancers With Magee Equation Score of Less Than 18, or 18-25 and Mitosis Score of 1, Do Not Require Oncotype DX Testing: A Value Study.

Objectives To investigate use of Magee equations (MEs) to determine which breast cancer cases can be excluded from Oncotype DX testing. Methods A prospective value study was carried out using data from pathology reports. Results If all three MEs scores were less than 18 or 31 or higher, the cases were labeled do not send for testing. If any or all scores were 18 to 25, cases were labeled do not send if mitosis score was 1. Of the total 205 cases, 146 (71%) were labeled do not send; of these, the correct call was made in 143 (98%) cases. Two of the three discordant cases had associated nontumor factors, likely resulting in higher scores. Conclusions Cases with ME scores less than 18, or 18 to 25 and mitosis score 1, do not require Oncotype DX testing, an estimated saving of US$280,000 per 100 clinical requests.
The lived experience of AYA mothers with advanced breast cancer.

176Background: Little is known about daily life experiences of young mothers with advanced breast cancer. Limited research suggests they face unique challenges differing from those of women at othe...
Block co-polyMOFs: morphology control of polymer–MOF hybrid materials

The hybridization of block copolymers and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to create novel materials (block co-polyMOFs, BCPMOFs) with controlled morphologies is reported. In this study, block copolymers containing poly(1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, H2bdc) and morphology directing poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) or poly(cyclooctadiene) (poly(COD)) blocks were synthesized for the preparation of BCPMOFs. Block copolymer architecture and weight fractions were found to have a significant impact on the resulting morphology, mediated through the assembly of polymer precursors prior to MOF formation, as determined through dynamic light scattering. Simple modification of block copolymer weight fraction allowed for tuning of particle size and morphology with either faceted and spherical features. Modification of polymer block architecture represents a simple and powerful method to direct morphology in highly crystalline polyMOF materials. Furthermore, the BCPMOFs could be prepared from both Zr4+ and Zn2+ MOFs, yielding hybrid materials with appreciable surface areas and tuneable porosities. The resulting Zn2+ BCPMOF yielded materials with very narrow size distributions and uniform cubic morphologies. The use of topology in BCPMOFs to direct morphology in block copolymer assemblies may open new methodologies to access complex materials far from thermodynamic equilibrium.
A Case of Antimicrobial Non-compliance in an Immunocompromised Patient Resulting in Invasive Pneumococcal Disease

A 46-year-old male patient initially presented to the ED with purulent otitis media and was discharged with empirically prescribed oral and otic ciprofloxacin. Cultures of the otic discharge grew drug-resistant S. pneumoniae that was sensitive only to vancomycin, rifampin, and levofloxacin. Upon reviewing the culture and sensitivities, the physician attempted to contact the patient multiple times to change therapy to levofloxacin. The patient9s phone line had been disconnected. Twelve days later, the patient presented with cardinal signs of meningitis and admittance to the Intensive Care Unit was required. The patient had not been compliant with the prescribed antimicrobial regimen. Imaging studies and microbiologic cultures revealed that the untreated otitis media had resulted in otomastoiditis, meningitis and bacteremia. Past medical history included recurrent ear infections, intrahepatic shunt placement, hepatic portal hypertension, and alcoholism. The patient had multiple chronic disease processes that suppressed immune function, predisposing him to invasive disease including end-stage liver disease (chronic Hepatitis C and alcoholic cirrhosis), and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The patient required extensive antimicrobial therapy to treat the infection and recovered without neurological sequelae. ABBREVIATIONS:Streptococcus pneumoniae - S. pneumoniae, Emergency Department - ED, Diabetes Mellitus - DM, Complete Blood Count - CBC, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel - CMP, Hepatitis C Virus - HCV, Cerebrospinal fluid - CSF, Blood Urea Nitrogen - BUN, White Blood Cell - WBC, Red Blood Cell - RBC
Intraoperative Optical Coherence Tomography to Guide Corneal Biopsy: A Case Report

Purpose:To report on a new application of intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a real-time imaging tool to help guide corneal biopsy.Methods:Single case report. After the negative result of a corneal biopsy, we used intraoperative OCT during repeat biopsy to assist in depth and acqui
Envisioning Two-Way Immersion Language Learning in China: An Initial Kindergarten Curriculum Plan:

This article describes the practical application of an innovative bilingual preschool program that involves two-way immersion of both English and Chinese in classrooms. This has not been written ab...
Glucocorticoid inhibition of vascular abnormalities in a tibia fracture rat model of complex regional pain syndrome type I

Tibia fracture in rats evokes chronic hindpaw warmth, spontaneous extravasation, edema, allodynia, and periarticular bone loss, a syndrome resembling complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I). Glucocorticoids such as methylprednisolone (MP) are probably effective analgesic and anti-edematous agents in patients suffering from CRPS and this study examined the effects of chronic MP treatment in the rat CRPS I model. Bilateral hindpaw thickness, temperature, and nociceptive thresholds were determined, and the hindlimb bone density was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Spontaneous cutaneous extravasation and substance P infusion evoked extravasation were determined using an Evans blue vascular permeability assay. After baseline testing, the distal tibia was fractured and the hindlimb casted for 4 weeks. At 2 weeks post-fracture MP infusion was started (1 mg/kg/day for 28 days). The rats were retested at 4, 6, and 8 weeks post-fracture. Hindpaw edema and warmth after fracture were reversed by MP infusion and these effects persisted after discontinuing treatment. Furthermore, there was an increase in spontaneous protein extravasation and an enhanced substance P evoked extravasation and edema response in the hindpaw at 4 weeks that was inhibited by MP infusion. Glucocorticoid treatment had no effect on the allodynia, hindpaw unweighting, or the periarticular bone loss observed after tibia fracture. We postulate that post-junctional facilitation of substance P signaling contributes to the hindpaw warmth, edema, and the enhanced spontaneous protein extravasation observed in this CRPS I model, and that the anti-edematous effects of glucocorticoid treatment are due to inhibition of post-junctional neuropeptide signaling.
Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Purpose The role of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), including efficacy and safety evidence, is reviewed. Summary Currently approved treatment options for glycemic control in T1DM include insulin, which combats insulin deficiency but does not effectively target disease progression or alpha cell dysfunction; and pramlintide, whose use requires multiple daily doses and involves a high likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. GLP-1 RAs have a unique mechanism of action in T1DM, addressing alpha cell dysfunction and thereby suppressing inappropriate glucagon secretion. GLP-1 RA dosing varies from once weekly to twice daily, and the class is well tolerated in patients with type 2 diabetes. Among the GLP-1 RAs, exenatide and liraglutide have been studied in patients with T1DM, with published evidence consistently demonstrating weight loss, decreases in total daily insulin requirements, and modest improvements in glycemic control. GLP-1 RA therapy appears to be well tolerated in patients with T1DM and is associated with nonsignificant increases in hypoglycemia risk. Conclusion GLP-1 RA therapy represents an important add-on therapy option for achieving decreased insulin doses, weight loss, and modest improvements in HbA1c levels without significantly increasing hypoglycemia risk in patients with T1DM. Patients who have detectable C-peptide and/or are overweight or cannot achieve glycemic goals without hypoglycemia have been found to benefit the most from GLP-1 RA therapy. Further studies are warranted to evaluate these agents' potential impact on clinical outcomes such as microvascular and macrovascular complications.