cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nematicidal activity of secondary and tertiary alkyl amides and amines

Several C11 to C15 amides and amines that disrupt growth in certain insects showed high nematicidal activity in direct contact tests. Two amides and 9 amines killedPanagrellus at 5–10 ppm. Of these, 1 amide and 3 amines killedMeloidogyne larvae at 20 ppm.
Widespread expression of human cysteine string proteins.

Abstract We present the nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences of a human cysteine string protein (csp) and a unique truncated csp variant that derives from the retention of an exonic sequence that introduces a premature, in-frame stop codon. Low stringency Southern analysis is compatible with the presence of a single human csp gene. Northern analysis reveals that human csp mRNA has both a more heterogeneous size distribution and a more widespread tissue distribution than previously reported for other caps. Exemplifying this is the fact that csp immunoreactivity is detected in Triton X-114 extracts of human blood, an observation which may facilitate blood-based diagnostic assays of csp status in man.
Reduction of Diplopia Following Endoscopic Orbital Decompression: The Orbital Sling Technique

Objective: Although endoscopic orbital decompression has become the surgical treatment of choice for patients with proptosis from Graves disease, postoperative diplopia requiring corrective eye muscle surgery can occur in up to 63% of patients. The purpose of the study was to evaluate a new technique intended to reduce the incidence of diplopia following endoscopic orbital decompression. Study Design: Case-control. Methods: Endoscopic orbital decompression was performed on 58 orbits in 37 patients with proptosis from Graves disease. The orbital sling technique, which makes use of a horizontal strip of periorbital fascia to prevent prolapse of the medial rectus muscle, was used on 20 orbits in 13 patients. Conventional endoscopic decompression was performed in 24 control subjects. The mean duration of follow-up was 3.3 ± 1.3 years (range, 1.7-5.1 y). Results: The incidence of new-onset or worsened diplopia following endoscopic decompression was significantly lower for the orbital sling group compared with control subjects (0% vs. 29.2%, respectively [P = .038]). No patients in the orbital sling group developed new-onset diplopia following surgery. Of the eight patients with pre-existing diplopia from the orbitopathy, double vision improved in four patients (50%) and was unchanged in the remaining four patients (50%). The mean reduction in proptosis was comparable for the orbital sling and control groups (5.1 ± 1.1 mm vs. 5.0 ± 1.9 mm, respectively [P = .98]). Conclusions: The preservation of a fascial sling overlying the medial rectus muscle during endoscopic orbital decompression appears to reduce the incidence of postoperative diplopia, while still allowing for a satisfactory reduction in proptosis. This modification of the standard decompression technique should be considered for the treatment of patients with proptosis.
ICF syndrome cells as a model system for studying X chromosome inactivation

Mutations in the DNMT3B DNA methyltransferase gene cause the ICF immunodeficiency syndrome. The targets of this DNA methyltransferase are CpG-rich heterochromatic regions, including pericentromeric satellites and the inactive X chromosome. The abnormal hypomethylation in ICF cells provides an important model system for determining the relationships between replication time, CpG island methylation, chromatin structure, and gene silencing in X chromosome inactivation.
Correction of Large (>25 cm2) Cranial Defects with “Reinforced” Hydroxyapatite Cement: Technique and Complications

Introduction Hydroxyapatite cement is both biocompatible and osteoconductive, and it lacks significant toxic or immunogenic properties, making it an ideal substrate for the repair of cranial defects. However, with its putty-like composition, the repair of large cranial defects can be difficult because significant settling occurs as the cement hardens. We describe a technique in which we use hydroxyapatite cement, reinforced with tantalum mesh and titanium miniplates, for the repair of large (>25 cm(2)) cranial defects. Methods After the margins of the cranioplasty are delineated, tantalum mesh is placed under the edges of the defect. Titanium miniplate single-hole bars are used to criss-cross the defect and are then secured to the surrounding bone with screws. The mesh is secured to the bars with 28-gauge stainless steel wire. Hydroxyapatite cement is applied in the defect and contoured appropriately. Results We performed nine cranioplasties in eight patients ranging in age from 1.5 to 35 years (mean, 12.2 +/- 10.1 yr). The reasons for cranioplasty included cranial defect from prior trauma (n = 4), fibrous dysplasia (n = 2), infected bone flaps (n = 2), and tumor (n = 1). The cranioplasties ranged in size from 40 to 196 cm(2) (mean, 128.3 +/- 56.9 cm(2)). Follow-up ranged from 2 to 33 months (mean, 11.4 +/- 12.8 mo). Two cranioplasty constructs were removed at 1 and 3 months postoperatively owing to infection. Conclusion The use of hydroxyapatite cement with mesh and miniplates provides internal structural support and increased stability of the construct. Although this technique provides an excellent cosmetic result and no evidence to date of bony resorption, the rate of infection is alarmingly high in these large constructs.
Activated TLR Signaling in Atherosclerosis among Women with Lower Framingham Risk Score: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

Background: Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Traditional risk factors can be used to identify individuals at high risk for developing CVD and are generally associated with the extent of atherosclerosis; however, substantial numbers of individuals at low or intermediate risk still develop atherosclerosis. Results: A case-control study was performed using microarray gene expression profiling of peripheral blood from 119 healthy women in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis cohort aged 50 or above. All participants had low (,10%) to intermediate (10% to 20%) predicted Framingham risk; cases (N=48) had coronary artery calcium (CAC) score .100 and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) .1.0 mm, whereas controls (N=71) had CAC,10 and IMT ,0.65 mm. We identified two major expression profiles significantly associated with significant atherosclerosis (odds ratio 4.85; P,0.001); among those with Framingham risk score ,10%, the odds ratio was 5.30 (P,0.001). Ontology analysis of the gene signature reveals activation of a major innate immune pathway, toll-like receptors and IL-1R signaling, in individuals with significant atherosclerosis. Conclusion: Gene expression profiles of peripheral blood may be a useful tool to identify individuals with significant burden of atherosclerosis, even among those with low predicted risk by clinical factors. Furthermore, our data suggest an intimate connection between atherosclerosis and the innate immune system and inflammation via TLR signaling in lower risk individuals.
Cholesterol crystal embolization: a review of 221 cases in the English literature

Cholesterol crystal embolization (CCE) frequently presents with nonspecific manifestations that mimic other systemic diseases. The authors reviewed 221 cases of histologically proven CCE in the English literature to define the clinical, laboratory, and pathologic characteristics of this disorder. CCE affected predominantly elderly males (mean age sixty-six) with a frequent history of hypertension (61%), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (44%), renal failure (34%), and aortic aneurysms (25%) at presentation. At least one possible predisposing factor was present in 31% and included operative and radiological vascular procedures and the use of anticoagulants. Cutaneous findings (34%) and renal failure (50%) were two of the most common clinical findings throughout the course of CCE. The nonspecific signs and symptoms included: fever (7%), weight loss (7%), myalgias (4%), and headache (3%). Premortem diagnoses were established in 31% of patients most commonly by biopsy of the muscle, skin, and kidney. Mortality was high (81%) and was most commonly due to multifactorial, cardiac, and renal etiologies. The authors conclude that CCE should be strongly considered in elderly patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease who have the onset of renal insufficiency and cutaneous manifestations. CCE may be confirmed by a skin or muscle biopsy.
Low-temperature heat capacity of Sc-Zr and Sc-Mg alloys

The low-temperature heat capacity of nineteen Sc-Zr alloys with compositions ranging from pure Sc to 34-at.% Zr in Sc and five Sc-Mg alloys with magnesium concentrations less than 8 at.% were measured from 1 to 20 K. Zirconium additions up to 0.5 at.% raises the electronic specific-heat constant ($\ensuremath{\gamma}$); then it decreases monotonically with further zirconium additions up to 34-at.% Zr. The effect of magnesium is to decrease the electronic specific-heat constant slowly. The heat-capacity results were used to calculate an experimental density of states (DOS) curve for scandium. The theoretical DOS curves are significantly different from the experimental DOS curve. The various enhancement factors have been calculated using these DOS curves. A change in slope in $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ at \ensuremath{\sim} 2-at.% Mg and the peak in $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ at 0.5-at.% Zr are probably associated with the second energy band crossing the Fermi energy at the points $H$ and $L$ in the Brillouin zone as the electron concentration is lower or raised, respectively. The effect of dilute amounts of zirconium and magnesium on the Debye temperature (${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{D}$) of scandium is unusual, initially rising for zirconium additions and falling for magnesium additions. At high solute concentrations ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{D}$ rises and falls more or less in a "saw-tooth"-like fashion. It is suggested that this variation in ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{D}$ is due to the formation of short-range-order configurations of Sc impurity atoms in the solid solution alloys.
Constant pH Molecular Dynamics with Proton Tautomerism

The current article describes a new two-dimensional λ-dynamics method to include proton tautomerism in continuous constant pH molecular dynamics (CPHMD) simulations. The two-dimensional λ-dynamics framework is used to devise a tautomeric state titration model for the CPHMD simulations involving carboxyl and histidine residues. Combined with the GBSW implicit solvent model, the new method is tested on titration simulations of blocked histidine and aspartic acid as well as two benchmark proteins, turkey ovomucoid third domain (OMTKY3) and ribonuclease A (RNase A). A detailed analysis of the errors inherent to the CPHMD methodology as well as those due to the underlying solvation model is given. The average absolute error for the computed pKa values in OMTKY3 is 1.0 pK unit. In RNase A the average absolute errors for the carboxyl and histidine residues are 1.6 and 0.6 pK units, respectively. In contrast to the previous work, the new model predicts the correct sign for all the pKa shifts, but one, in the benchmark proteins. The predictions of the tautomeric states of His12 and His48 and the conformational states of His48 and His119 are in agreement with experiment. Based on the simulations of OMTKY3 and RNase A, the current work has demonstrated the capability of the CPHMD technique in revealing pH-coupled conformational dynamics of protein side chains.
Chameleon radiation by oceanic dispersal

Historical biogeography is dominated by vicariance methods that search for a congruent pattern of fragmentation of ancestral distributions produced by shared Earth history1,2,3. A focus of vicariant studies has been austral area relationships and the break-up of the supercontinent Gondwana3,4,5. Chameleons are one of the few extant terrestrial vertebrates thought to have biogeographic patterns that are congruent with the Gondwanan break-up of Madagascar and Africa6,7. Here we show, using molecular and morphological evidence for 52 chameleon taxa, support for a phylogeny and area cladogram that does not fit a simple vicariant history. Oceanic dispersal—not Gondwanan break-up—facilitated species radiation, and the most parsimonious biogeographic hypothesis supports a Madagascan origin for chameleons, with multiple ‘out-of-Madagascar’ dispersal events to Africa, the Seychelles, the Comoros archipelago, and possibly Reunion Island. Although dispersal is evident in other Indian Ocean terrestrial animal groups8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16, our study finds substantial out-of-Madagascar species radiation, and further highlights the importance of oceanic dispersal as a potential precursor for speciation.
A New Test for Outlier Detection from a Multivariate Mixture Distribution

Abstract The problem of testing an outlier from a multivariate mixture distribution of several populations has many important applications in practice. One particular example is in monitoring worldwide nuclear testing, where we wish to detect whether an observed seismic event is possibly a nuclear explosion (an outlier) by comparing it with the training samples from mining blasts and earthquakes. The combined population of seismic events from mining blasts and earthquakes can be viewed as a mixture distribution. The classical likelihood ratio test appears to not be applicable in our problem, and in spite of the importance of this problem, little progress has been made in the literature. This article proposes a simple modified likelihood ratio test that overcomes the difficulties in the current problem. Bootstrap techniques are used to approximate the distribution of the test statistic. The advantages of the new test are demonstrated via simulation studies. Some new computational findings are also reported.
Taking a closer look at Latino parents at one Spanish–English two-way immersion charter school

Scholars who work with Latino/as in the USA have long been calling for a more nuanced understanding of the heterogeneity of the US-based Latino population. Two-way Immersion (TWI) bilingual education programmes are an interesting context in which to examine the Latino parent communities in the USA. Overall, the language enrichment nature of TWI programmes attracts diverse parents from across many different demographic groups, and for a variety of reasons. This study uses an innovative application of cluster analysis to examine the parent population at one TWI Spanish–English elementary school. Survey questions asked were: parents’ income, educational achievement, ethnicity, language spoken at home, religious affiliation, country of origin and residential distance from the school. Our analyses reveal that parents in our sample can be classified into four distinct groups based on the combinations of included characteristics. Our analyses show the emergence of three Latino parent clusters and one Caucasian p...
Production of doubly excited projectile states in collisions of 0.1-MeV/u Ag4+ ions with He, H2, and Ar targets.

In this work, we study the formation of doubly excited projectile states near the double-escape threshold in collisions of 0.1-MeV/u ${\mathrm{Ag}}^{4+}$ ions with He, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, and Ar gas targets under single-collision conditions. We detect projectile states in which one electron occupies a high Rydberg state and a second electron occupies a low-lying continuum state. The cross sections for producing these doubly excited projectile states are on the order of ${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}20}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$. The production probabilities are measured as a function of the continuum-electron laboratory-frame energy with the detected Rydberg electrons arising from a fixed band of energy levels. The width of the continuum-electron energy distribution measured in coincidence with a Rydberg electron is smaller than the width of the energy distribution measured without the coincidence requirement for ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ and Ar targets but not for He targets. The width of the continuum-electron energy distribution measured in coincidence with a Rydberg electron decreases as the fraction of doubly excited states formed by projectile double excitation and ionization decreases and the fraction formed by double-target-electron capture increases.
Total Protection: A New Measure of the Impact of Government Interventions on Investment Profitability

Host country interventions in goods markets (e.g., tariffs and quotas) and factor markets (e.g., tax holidays and training grants for workers) are recognized as having substantial effects on the profitability of foreign direct investments. This study proposes two new comprehensive measures—total protection and an internationalized version of the marginal effective rate of taxation—that incorporate all government interventions in a single, easily understood common denominator readily applicable to empirical research. Empirical estimates of the total protection measure for Europe suggest that for new investments government interventions in factor market increase profitability more than trade interventions.
Increased VEGF expression in the epiphyseal cartilage after ischemic necrosis of the capital femoral epiphysis.

Ischemic injury to the immature femoral head produces epiphyseal cartilage damage and cessation of endochondral ossification. This study suggests that VEGF facilitates the repair of the necrotic epiphyseal cartilage, which is essential for restoration of endochondral ossification and re-establishment of the growth of the immature femoral head after ischemic necrosis. Introduction: Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a childhood form of osteonecrosis that produces growth arrest of the secondary center of ossification. The cessation of growth is caused by ischemic damage to the hypertrophic zone of the epiphyseal cartilage where endochondral ossification normally occurs. The role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in restoring endochondral ossification in the epiphyseal cartilage after ischemic necrosis was investigated in a piglet model of LCPD because the resumption of normal growth is important for maintaining the spherical shape of the femoral head. Materials and Methods: Piglet femoral heads were assessed 24 h to 8 weeks after the surgical induction of ischemia. Western blot analysis, ribonuclease protection assay (RPA), immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization were performed. Results: Western blot analysis and RPA showed increased VEGF protein and mRNA expression, respectively, in the epiphyseal cartilage of the infarcted heads compared with the contralateral normal heads. In the normal femoral heads, VEGF-immunoreactivity (VEGF-IR) and transcripts were observed in the hypertrophic zone of the epiphyseal cartilage. In the infarcted heads, VEGF-IR and transcripts were no longer observed in the hypertrophic zone because of diffuse cell death in that zone from ischemia. However, VEGF-IR and transcripts were observed in the proliferative zone above the necrotic hypertrophic zone. At 8 weeks, vascular granulation tissue invasion of the necrotic hypertrophic zone was observed with active resorption of the necrotic cartilage. In some areas where the necrotic cartilage was completely resorbed, restoration of endochondral ossification was observed. In these areas, VEGF transcripts were observed in the newly formed hypertrophic zone. Conclusions: VEGF expression was increased, and its spatial expression was altered in the epiphyseal cartilage after ischemic necrosis of the immature femoral head. VEGF upregulation in the proliferative zone after ischemic damage may play a role in stimulating vascular invasion and granulation tissue formation in the necrotic hypertrophic zone of the epiphyseal cartilage. This may be an important step toward facilitating the resorption of the necrotic cartilage and restoration of endochondral ossification leading to further growth and development of the femoral head.
High Dosage Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Optic Neuritis and Prophylaxis of Multiple Sclerosis

Optic neuritis is regarded as an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder affecting any portion of the optic nerve. It most commonly begins with pain in the ipsilateral orbit followed by rapidly progressive loss of visual function over several days. The vision begins to improve within 2 to 4 weeks, and recovery is fairly rapid over another 2 to 3 weeks followed by slow further improvement up to 1 year. The pain typically resolves ahead of visual dysfunction — usually within the first 2 weeks.
The relationship between iris color, hair color, and skin sun sensitivity and the 10-year incidence of age-related maculopathy: the Beaver Dam Eye Study.

Abstract Purpose To examine the association between iris color, hair color, and skin sun sensitivity and the 10-year incidence of age-related maculopathy (ARM). Design Population-based cohort study. Participants A population of 4926 adults (range, 43–86 years of age at baseline) living in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, was studied at baseline (1988–1990); of these, 3684 and 2764 subjects, respectively, participated in 5-year and 10-year follow-up examinations. Methods Data on hair color at age 15 years and skin responsiveness to sun exposure were obtained from a standardized questionnaire administered at the baseline examination. Iris color was determined with penlight illumination during the baseline examination by using photographic standards. Age-related maculopathy status was determined by grading stereoscopic color fundus photos with the Wisconsin Age-Related Maculopathy Grading System. Main outcome measures Incidence and progression of ARM. Results When controlling for age and gender, people with brown eyes were significantly more likely to develop soft indistinct drusen (risk ratio [RR], 1.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19–1.97; P P P = 0.05). Iris color, hair color, and skin sun sensitivity were not associated with the development of late ARM. Conclusion Iris color and hair color were found to be associated with the 10-year incidence of pigmentary abnormalities. Iris color seems to be inconsistently related to the 10-year incidence of early ARM lesions and the progression of ARM.
Dynamical supersymmetry breaking in chiral theories

We argue that supersymmetry is dynamically broken (with a well-defined vacuum state) in SU(5) gauge theory with chiral fields in the 5 and 10 representations.
An Embedded Vision Services Framework for Heterogeneous Accelerators

This paper describes an architecture framework using heterogeneous hardware accelerators for embedded vision applications. This approach leverages the recent single-chip heterogeneous FPGAs that combine powerful multicore processors with extensive programmable gate array fabric on the same die. We present a framework using an extensive library of pipelined real time vision hardware accelerators and a service-based software architecture. This field-proven system design approach provides embedded vision developers with a powerful software abstraction layer for rapidly and efficiently integrating any of hardware accelerators for applications such as image stabilization, moving target indication, contrast normalization enhancement, and others. The framework allows the service-based software to take advantage of the hardware acceleration blocks available and perform the remainder of the processing in software. As performance requirements increase, more hardware acceleration can be added to the FPGA fabric, thus offloading the main processor.
Recruitment and Training of Ethnic Minorities in Psychology

Two sets of values are presumed to be operating at cross purposes in the implementation of affirmative action programs. On the one hand, universities are committed to excellence by rewarding ability and quality productivity. On the other hand, universities have also committed themselves to the promotion of social justice by helping disadvantaged groups achieve parity. The conflict between these two persuasions have led some to label affirmative action perjoratively, "affirmative discrimination." The DeFunis case epitomizes the sentiment against affirmative action. Considerations for recruitment are discussed, including curriculum modification for a successful or more effective outcome.
Evolution of Planetary Systems with Time Dependent Stellar Mass Loss

Observations indicate that intermediate mass stars, binary stars, and stellar remnants often host planets; a complete explanation of these systems requires an understanding of how planetary orbits evolve as their central stars lose mass. Motivated by these dynamical systems, this paper generalizes in two directions previous studies of orbital evolution in planetary systems with stellar mass loss: [1] Many previous treatments focus on constant mass loss rates and much of this work is carried out numerically. Here we study a class of single planet systems where the stellar mass loss rate is time dependent. The mass loss rate can be increasing or decreasing, but the stellar mass always decreases monotonically. For this class of models, we develop analytic approximations to specify the final orbital elements for planets that remain bound after the epoch of mass loss, and find the conditions required for the planets to become unbound. We also show that for some mass loss functions, planets become unbound only in the asymptotic limit where the stellar mass vanishes. [2] We consider the chaotic evolution for two planet systems with stellar mass loss. Here we focus on a model consisting of analogs of Jupiter, Saturn, and the Sun. By monitoring the divergence of initially similar trajectories through time, we calculate the Lyapunov exponents of the system. This analog solar system is chaotic in the absence of mass loss with Lyapunov time in the range 5 - 10 Myr; we find that the Lyapunov time decreases with increasing stellar mass loss rate, with a nearly linear relationship between the two time scales. Taken together, the results of this paper help provide an explanation for a wide range of dynamical evolution that occurs in solar systems with stellar mass loss.
Estimating the gender wage gap in Rawalpindi city

Studies estimating wage discrimination against women have rarely been conducted for Third World countries, and no research has been directed to this issue in Pakistan at all. This article uses data from Rawalpindi City to calculate the magnitude of the male‐female earnings gap, and identifies the proportion of this gap which results from discrimination as well as that which stems from differences between males and females in productivity characteristics. In addition to the Oaxaca model, the recently developed Cotton/Neumark model is also used to derive estimates. In a new twist to such models, adjustments are made for the presence of selectivity‐bias in the data. The results indicate existence of high levels of discrimination against women, as reflected in estimates of the earnings differentials.
Passive Cigarette Smoking and Reduced HDL Cholesterol Levels in Children With High-Risk Lipid Profiles

Background HDL cholesterol levels are known to be lower in smokers than in nonsmokers. Previous studies have demonstrated an association of decreased HDL cholesterol with passive smoking in children but have not adjusted for potential confounding factors. Methods and Results In a cross-sectional, pilot-scale study, we examined the relationship of HDL cholesterol levels to passive smoking in children and adolescents referred to a tertiary hyperlipidemia clinic. Eligibility criteria included (1) first visit to a lipid clinic, (2) LDL cholesterol >95th percentile for age or HDL cholesterol <5th percentile, (3) age between 2 and 18 years, and (4) absence of secondary causes of hyperlipidemia. Sociodemographic information, diet record, medical history, and fasting lipid profiles were obtained. Of 109 eligible patients, 103 (94%) were studied. Twenty-seven percent came from households with cigarette smokers. HDL cholesterol levels were 38.7±1.2 mg/dL (mean±SEM) in passive smokers versus 43.6±1.2 mg/dL in children without smoke exposure ( P =.005). Smoking exposure was not significantly associated with other lipid values. The effect of smoking on HDL cholesterol was minimally affected by potential confounders. In multivariate regression adjusting for body mass index, age, sex, exercise, and dietary fat intake, passive smoking remained a significant risk factor for decreased HDL cholesterol ( P =.012). Conclusions Mean HDL cholesterol levels are lower in dyslipidemic children from households with smokers than in those without household smoke exposure. Passive smoking may worsen the risk profile for later atherosclerosis among high-risk young persons.
Animal cryptochromes mediate magnetoreception by an unconventional photochemical mechanism

Just how animals are able to use the Earth's magnetic field for navigation is the subject of much current interest. It is known that the UV-A/blue light photoreceptor cryptochrome (Cry) mediates the light-dependent magnetic sense in Drosophila. Steven Reppert and colleagues now use genetic manipulation to show that two cryptochromes from the monarch butterfly, Drosophila-like Cry1 and vertebrate-like Cry2, can restore magnetic sensation in cry-deficient Drosophila. This suggests that both types of Cry have the capacity to sense magnetic fields in the migratory monarch butterfly via a mechanism that remains unclear — and that light sensitivity is involved in some way. Animals use the Earth's magnetic field for orientation but the biophysical basis of this is unclear. The light-dependent magnetic sense of Drosophila melanogaster was recently shown to be mediated by the cryptochrome (Cry) photoreceptor; here, using a transgenic approach, the type 1 and 2 Cry of the monarch butterfly are shown to both function in the magnetoreception system of Drosophila, and probably use an unconventional photochemical mechanism. Understanding the biophysical basis of animal magnetoreception has been one of the greatest challenges in sensory biology. Recently it was discovered that the light-dependent magnetic sense of Drosophila melanogaster is mediated by the ultraviolet (UV)-A/blue light photoreceptor cryptochrome (Cry)1. Here we show, using a transgenic approach, that the photoreceptive, Drosophila-like type 1 Cry and the transcriptionally repressive, vertebrate-like type 2 Cry of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) can both function in the magnetoreception system of Drosophila and require UV-A/blue light (wavelength below 420 nm) to do so. The lack of magnetic responses for both Cry types at wavelengths above 420 nm does not fit the widely held view that tryptophan triad-generated radical pairs mediate the ability of Cry to sense a magnetic field. We bolster this assessment by using a mutant form of Drosophila and monarch type 1 Cry and confirm that the tryptophan triad pathway is not crucial in magnetic transduction. Together, these results suggest that animal Crys mediate light-dependent magnetoreception through an unconventional photochemical mechanism. This work emphasizes the utility of Drosophila transgenesis for elucidating the precise mechanisms of Cry-mediated magnetosensitivity in insects and also in vertebrates such as migrating birds.
The use of altruism and forgiveness in therapy

This study investigates the relative likelihood of psychotherapists promoting altruism and forgiveness as therapeutic agents as compared with other techniques. One hundred and five therapists were asked to rate the relative likelihood of fostering altruism, forgiveness, direct expression of feelings, vicarious ventilation of feelings, and self-reinforcement in response to treating four presenting problems where a fictitious client had been hurt by another. Results indicated that, for the most part, altruism and forgiveness were likely to be promoted significantly less often than the other three therapeutic alternatives by the therapists sampled. The association of altruism and forgiveness with religious values and their disassociation from selftheory are posited as possible explanations for the findings.
Approximate solutions for M/G/1 fork/join synchronization

Approximation techniques are developed to evaluate the performance of symmetric fork-join synchronization delays for K M/G/1 queues. For a server utilization /spl rho/, the mean response time for fork-join requests is expressed as the sum of the mean response time at one of the queues and the mean synchronization delay as follows: R/sub K//sup F/1/(/spl rho/)=R/sub 1/(/spl rho/)+F/sub K//spl alpha//sub K/(/spl rho/)/spl sigma//sub 1/(/spl rho/), where F/sub K/ is obtained from the previous equation at /spl rho/=0, R/sub 1/(/spl rho/) and /spl sigma//sub 1/(/spl rho/) are the mean and the standard deviation of response time at any one of the queues, respectively, and /spl alpha//sub K/(/spl rho/) is a low-degree service-time distribution dependent polynomial in /spl rho/, whose coefficients are determined from simulation results. We also use simulation results to show that when fork-join requests share the servers with local requests, a good approximation (and an upper bound) to the fork-join response time is obtained by treating the components of fork-join response time as independent, i.e., the mean fork-join response time can be approximated by the expected value of the maximum of the response times at the K queues.
Real-time PCR duplex assay for Rickettsia prowazekii and Borrelia recurrentis

Rickettsia prowazekii, the etiologic agent for epidemic typhus, and Borrelia recurrentis, the etiologic agent of relapsing fever, both utilize the same vector, the human body louse (Pediculus humanus), to transmit human disease. We have developed an assay to detect both bacterial pathogens in a single tube utilizing real-time PCR. Assays for both agents are specific. The R. prowazekii and B. recurrentis assays do not detect nucleic acid from R. typhi, R. canada, or any of eight spotted fever rickettsiae. In addition they did not react with Neorickettsia risticii, N. sennetsu, Franciscella persica, Bartonella quintana, Legionella pneumophila, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, the B. recurrentis assay did not detect B. duttonii, B. coriaceae, B. afzelii, B. garinii, B. hermsii, or B. burgdorferi nucleic acid. Both assays detected repeatedly only R. prowazekii or B. recurrentis either when tested alone or together in one test tube.
Carotid body tumor surgery: management and outcomes in the nation.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of carotid reconstruction (REC) and pre-operative embolization (EMB) for Carotid Body Tumor (CBT) surgery. Methods: Retrospective study utilizing the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2002-2006). Results: 2117 patients (mean age 56.5 ± 17.2 years) underwent CBT surgery: 1686 excision alone (EX); 129 excision with embolization (EX+EMB); and 302 excision with carotid artery reconstruction (EX+REC). EX+REC compared to EX had greater rates of mortality (1.61%vs.0.59%; P =.0495), stroke (17.7% vs. 3.5%; P < .0002), and postoperative hemorrhage (43.1% vs. 2.4%; P < 0.002). EX+EMB did not demonstrate increased mortality or stroke compared to EX and the rate of postoperative hematoma was similar between groups (P = .3144). Conclusions: CBT resection is a relatively rare procedure and when combined with EMB was more expensive, but was associated with significantly fewer complications and decreased blood product utilization. These data suggest that CBT surgery requiring carotid reconstr...
Using a Wavelength Shifter to Enhance the Sensitivity of Liquid Xenon Dark Matter Detectors

Liquid xenon dark matter detectors have been successfully employed to search for WIMPs, a proposed dark matter candidate. Increasing the scintillation wavelength from 175 nm to 300-400 nm can increase light collection and consequently improve sensitivity to dark matter. Such a shift increases the reflectivity of common reflector materials, decreases the amount of Rayleigh scattering and boosts the quantum efficiency of photomultiplier tubes. In this paper, we show that depositing p-terphenyl (p-TP) solid wavelength shifter on PTFE reflectors and the entrance window of a photomultiplier tube enhanced light-collection efficiency by 21%. We also observed an anti-correlation between the liquid xenon temperature and electron drift length, indicating that the p-TP dissolves into liquid xenon with a temperature dependent solubility. Possible ways to solve the drift length problem are discussed in the paper.
Building a General Purpose Cross-Domain Sentiment Mining Model

Building a model using machine learning that can classify the sentiment of natural language text often requires an extensive set of labeled training data from the same domain as the target text. Gathering and labeling new datasets whenever a model is needed for a new domain is time-consuming and difficult, especially if a dataset with numeric ratings is not available. In this paper we consider the problem of building models that have a high sentiment classification accuracy without the aid of a labeled dataset from the target domain. We show that ensembles of existing domain models can be used to achieve a classification accuracy that approaches that of models trained on data from the target domain.
Four-Part Fractures of the Proximal Humerus: Open Reduction and Internal Fixation versus Hemiarthroplasty

One of the more challenging issues in upper extremity surgery is the four-part proximal humeral fracture. Humeral fractures of this variety carry a higher risk of avascular necrosis and associated worse prognosis than many others. Despite this risk, this fracture in younger patients is best treated with internal fixation and restoration of anatomic alignment. The valgus impacted fracture often lends itself toward better outcomes with open reduction and internal fixation. In contrast, the displaced four-part proximal humeral fracture and/or dislocation, more frequently seen in the elderly, is best treated with humeral head replacement, which more predictably results in a pain-free shoulder and acceptable range of motion.
Reducing the information overload: a method on helping students research engineering topics using the Internet

Students are using the Internet as a primary source of information when researching topics for reports, presentations, or research. Because of the vast amount of data currently available, students need assistance developing an approach to gather this information. Without a proper plan on how to obtain information, they will waste countless hours, and become very frustrated at the process. This paper describes several methods for searching for technical information on the Internet, as related to both electrical engineering and electrical and computer engineering technology (ECET). These methods were presented to students in several ECET classes at New Jersey Institute of Technology. The students were then required to develop presentations on technical topics within their discipline, using several of the sites described in this paper. This paper also suggests a hierarchy in using these various methods, depending on the type of search required. While the initial concept in developing these techniques was to present a method for student information gathering on the Internet, the author has used many of these techniques for class lectures, as well as research topics. Therefore, the techniques presented in this paper are also pertinent to faculty research and teaching.
Antimicrobial Resistance Prevalence Rates in Hospital Antibiograms Reflect Prevalence Rates among Pathogens Associated with Hospital-Acquired Infections

To determine whether routine antibiograms (summaries reporting resistance of all tested isolates) reflect resistance rates among pathogens associated with hospital-acquired infections, we compared data collected from 2 different surveillance components in the same 166 intensive care units (ICUs). ICUs reported data during the same months to both the infection-based surveillance and the laboratory-based surveillance. Paired comparisons of the percentage of isolates resistant were made between systems within each ICU. No significant differences existed (P>.05) between the percentage of isolates resistant from the infection-based system and laboratory-based system for all antimicrobial-resistant organisms studied, except methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus species. The mean difference in percentage resistance was higher from the infection-based system than the laboratory-based system for S. aureus (mean difference, +8%, P<.001) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (mean difference, +9%, P<.001). Overall, hospital antibiograms reflected susceptibility patterns among isolates associated with hospital-acquired infections. Hospital antibiograms may underestimate the relative frequency of methicillin resistance among Staphylococcus species when associated with hospital-acquired infections.
A Time-Motion Study of Inpatient Rounds Using a Family-Centered Rounds Model

OBJECTIVE: Family-centered rounds (FCR) have become increasingly prevalent in pediatric hospital settings. The objective of our study was to describe time use and discrete events during pediatric inpatient rounds by using a FCR model. METHODS: We conducted a prospective observational study at Children's National Medical Center between September 2010 and February 2011. Investigators directly observed rounds on hospitalist and neurology services. Events were timed, and key features were recorded by using a Microsoft Access-based program. Associations with increased time spent during rounds were determined by using regression analyses. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-nine rounding encounters were observed. Rounds lasted 7.9 minutes on average per patient. An average of 1.3 minutes was spent between patients during rounds. Eighty-six (54%) encounters occurred outside the patient's room, 3% of the time because of the family's request. Infectious isolation was associated with rounds occurring outside the room (P<.0001). Participation of the parent, location of rounds inside or outside the patient's room, most teaching behaviors, and interruptions were not significantly associated with increased time spent during rounds. Teaching physical examination techniques by allowing multiple trainees to examine the patient was associated with increased rounding time (P= .02). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of rounds occurred outside the patient's room, yet rarely at the parent's request. Patients on infectious isolation were more likely to have rounds occur outside the patient's room. Neither parental participation nor most teaching behaviors were associated with increased time spent on rounds. These findings will enrich the evidence base needed to establish FCR best practices.
A stakeholder's approach to systemic governance in extended enterprises

Over an extended period of time, stakeholder theory has been successful in contributing significantly towards management of organizational development but failed to achieve the required theoretical status. The primary purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of governing extended enterprises by taking a systemic approach from the stakeholder's perspective highlighting stakeholder commitment and interests. Through this paper, we make a conscious effort to bring up the inter-dependencies among several factors that aid governance of extended enterprises thereby accounting for organizational wealth and enhancing value creating capacity for the stakeholders. As a result, it leads to the generation of significant inter-relationships among all possible stakeholders over a broader system of networks.
The Development and Validation of R/EAL, an Instrument to Assess Functional Literacy.

A content-referenced test was developed intended for measurement of functional literacy. Pertinent information regarding item construction and validation procedures are presented. The final version of the test, containing 45 items, is based on task analyses associated with reading performance in 9 domains of every-day reading activities.
Technetium-99m sestamibi imaging: are the results dependent on the reviewer?

Abstract Background Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) is dependent upon accurate preoperative parathyroid localization. We hypothesized that surgeon recognition of subtle differences in radiotracer accumulation would increase the sensitivity of technetium-99m sestamibi imaging and result in more frequent use of MIP. Methods Technetium-99m sestamibi scans completed at our institution for patients who underwent resection of a solitary parathyroid adenoma were reviewed by a surgeon and a radiologist who were blinded to patient identifying information, prior scan interpretation, and results of the operation. For each scan, the reviewer determined whether there was abnormal radiotracer accumulation and documented its location. Results were correlated with outcome of operation and final pathology. Blinded interpretations of the surgeon and radiologist were compared to each other and to the original radiologic interpretation. Results From 1994 to 2009, 274 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) had sestamibi imaging prior to parathyroidectomy; 149 patients with a single adenoma underwent curative parathyroidectomy and had scans available for review. Seventeen radiologists who reviewed an average of 11 ± 14 scans (range = 1–61) completed the original interpretations of the sestamibi imaging. Sensitivity of sestamibi imaging was 86% for the blinded surgeon compared to 75% for the blinded radiologist and 69% for the original radiologists (P 0.05). Conclusion Radiologists were less likely to call a scan positive. Surgeon recognition of subtle anatomic asymmetry increases the sensitivity of sestamibi imaging and successful completion of MIP.
Low nucleotide diversity in man.

The nucleotide diversity (pi) in humans is studied by using published cDNA and genomic sequences that have been carefully checked for sequencing accuracy. This measure of genetic variability is defined as the number of nucleotide differences per site between two randomly chosen sequences from a population. A total of more than 75,000 base pairs from 49 loci are compared. The DNA regions studied are the 5' and 3' untranslated regions and the amino acid coding regions. The coding regions are divided into nondegenerate sites (i.e., sites at which all possible changes are nonsynonymous), twofold degenerate sites (i.e., sites at each of which one of the three possible changes is synonymous) and fourfold degenerate sites (i.e., sites at which all three possible changes are synonymous). The pi values estimated are, respectively, 0.03 and 0.04% for the 5' and 3' UT regions, and 0.03, 0.06 and 0.11% for nondegenerate, twofold degenerate and fourfold degenerate sites. Since the highest pi value is only 0.11%, which is about one order of magnitude lower than those in Drosophila populations, the nucleotide diversity in humans is very low. The low diversity is probably due to a relatively small long-term effective population size rather than any severe bottleneck during human evolution.
The Interface and Convergence of the Strategic Management and Organizational Environment Domains

Extending Bluedorn's (1993) review of environmental contingency theory, we examine the strategic management research conducted from 1980-1993 that explicitly deals with the environmental domain. Framing our approach as a constrained strategic choice perspective, our focus on this intersection of the strategic management and organizational environment literature leads us to examine six specific subsets of this literature: (1) strategic leadership and upper echelons; (2) scanning; (3) interorganizational relationships; (4) institutional theory; (5) organizational alignment; and (6) strategic control and evaluation. In our discussions of these topics, we identify research trends and generalizations as well as identify promising research possibilities and questions for future research. In this vein, we conclude the article with our identification of several possibilities for theoretical syntheses and theory development.