cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The ecology of Cryptococcus neoformans

Environmental isolations have established that Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii serotype B appears to have a specific ecological association with Eucalyptus camaldulensis. The global distribution of the tree appears to correspond to the epidemiologic distribution of cryptococcosis caused by C. neoformans var. gattii. The epidemiology of cryptococcosis can primarily be explained by exposure to an infective aerosolized inoculum, such as basidiospores released from specific host plants and/or desiccated blastoconidia (yeast cells) disseminated from accumulations of dried pigeon dung. The ecology of C. neoformans still remains largely unresolved, studies on the host-parasite interaction between serotype B and E. camaldulensis are still in progress, and extensive environmental searches are now underway to determine the natural habitats of serotypes A, C and D.
The concurrent effects of scopolamine on spontaneous motor activity and the acquisition of an active avoidance response.

Abstract Two experiments were performed in which scopolamine (2.0 mg kg i.p.) or saline was administered to rats that were tested in either a shuttle box or activity cages. Injection conditions were subsequently reversed for half the subjects in each group and testing continued. In general, drugged subjects showed increased activity in the cages and increased spontaneous crossovers in the shuttle box, as well as impairments in terminal avoidance performance when the effects of increased activity were removed statistically. It is suggested that the latter result is due to an interference by the drug with discrimination processes.
Alternative Strategy to Achieve Increased Overall Survival and Better Quality of Life in Patients With Second-Line Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

TO THEEDITOR: Recent studies, including the article by Zer and Leighl 1 entitled “Second-Line Therapy in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: The DELTA Between Different Genotypes Widens,” have suggested that chemotherapy is the best option for the treatment of patients with second-line advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with wild-type (WT) epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). On the basis of the results of several randomized phase III clinical trials, pemetrexed, docetaxel, and erlotinib are all US Food and Drug Administration–approved therapies for use in this setting. ● The article by Zer and Leighl 1 states that the key goals of systemic therapy in advanced NSCLC are the improvement of symptoms, quality of life, and overall survival (OS) with minimal toxicity in the second-line setting in patients with WT EGFR. As part of this analysis, the authors discuss data that demonstrate the equivalence of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and chemotherapy in OS in nine randomized clinical trials. In contrast, further discussion centered on EGFR TKIs as inferior in patients with WT EGFR, using progression-free survival (PFS) and response from a recent meta-analysis 2 as their main argument. However, Lee et al discussed several flaws in their own comparison; most notably, several different lines of treatment were compared, the overall comparisons were not based on study randomization, and toxicity outcomes were not assessed. It should emphasized that the biology of tumor progression in a patient treated with platinum-doublet chemotherapy is different than biology of a chemotherapy-naive patient, and one cannot make the assumption that chemotherapy will be superior in a chemotherapy-treated EGFR WT patient group. Both the data from the meta-analysis 2 and from the Docetaxel and Erlotinib Lung Cancer Trial (DELTA) 3 concluded that although chemotherapy was associated with longer PFS as compared with EGFR TKI in patients with WT tumors, OS did not differ significantly between the groups. However, does PFS really address our key treatment goals for second-line treatment decisions? In this patient population, quality of life and OS should be primary end points and not PFS. Evidence for this viewpoint have previously been presented in Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO). 4 We also point out that despite gains in PFS for patients receiving chemotherapy, the toxicity may be detrimental to OS. Finally, in a separate article in the same issue of JCO, Sacher et al 5 described the use of PFS as a surrogate for
Spectral Irradiance Calibration in the Infrared. XVI. Improved Accuracy in the Infrared Spectra of the Secondary and Tertiary Standard Calibration Stars

We have increased the spectral resolution and accuracy of the absolute infrared spectral flux for a subset of stellar standards created by Cohen and his collaborators in previous papers in this series. We combined the moderate-resolution (λ/Δλ ~ 400) spectroscopy obtained on infrared standard stars by the Short Wavelength Spectrometer on the Infrared Space Observatory with high-quality photometry that is tied to our recent absolute calibration from the Midcourse Space Experiment. New spectra were created for 33 stars, 9 of which are Cohen et al. secondary standards and another 20 of which are tertiary standards for which Cohen adopted spectral templates. The effective temperatures and angular diameters for the stars are derived from the absolute spectra and compare favorably with independent measures of these quantities in the literature. The present spectra display systematic differences with those of Cohen and colleagues in that they have 4%-7% lower fluxes in the 1-4 μm spectral region. Our spectra remove the A-K star calibration bias recently noted in the calibration of the Spitzer Space Telescope camera.
Technical Specialized Knowledge and Secondary Shares in Initial Public Offerings

This paper utilizes an understudied but often utilized aspect of initial public offerings (IPOs), secondary shares, to examine whether the knowledge conditions of firms give rise to agency problems that limit the ability of founders and venture capitalists to sell equity at IPO. In an analysis of 2,190 IPOs spanning from 1992 through 2002, we find that private owners are less likely to be observed selling their equity at IPO in ventures that are highly dependent on technical specialized knowledge as measured by the count of individuals with Ph.D.s in the top management team and board of directors. However, we find that this limit on the financial liquidity of founders and venture capitalists is alleviated when the venture's output has received greater market acceptance. Hence, the findings suggest that the financial liquidity of individuals involved in entrepreneurship is likely to be influenced by the knowledge conditions of their venture.
On conductivity, permittivity, apparent diffusion coefficient, and their usefulness as cancer markers at MRI frequencies

Purpose To investigate permittivity and conductivity of cancerous and normal tissues, their correlation to the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and the specificity that they could add to cancer detection.
Anti-gonococcal activity of gemifloxacin against fluoroquinolone-resistant strains and a comparison of agar dilution and Etest methods

Gemifloxacin is a novel quinolone with excellent activity against Gram-positive and some Gram-negative pathogens. Its activity was tested against 150 Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains, including 50 ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates, using reference agar dilution and Etest methods. Gemifloxacin was found to be highly potent against ciprofloxacin-susceptible strains (MIC(90) 0.008 mg/L), but was 16-fold less potent against ciprofloxacin-resistant gonococci. The order of quinolone potency against these fluoroquinolone-resistant mutants was: gemifloxacin (MIC(90) 0.12 mg/L) > trovafloxacin (0.25 mg/L) > moxifloxacin = grepafloxacin (0.5 mg/L) > ciprofloxacin (1 mg/L). Etest and reference agar dilution MIC results showed excellent correlation (r = 0.96) and >98% of MICs were within +/-1 log(2) dilution step (essential agreement). The excellent potency of gemifloxacin indicates its potential for the treatment of infections with quinolone-resistant N. gonorrhoeae.
The Dynamics of the East Australian Current System: The Tasman Front, the East Auckland Current, and the East Cape Current

Abstract The dynamics of the flow field surrounding New Zealand are investigated using a series of global ocean models. The physical mechanisms governing the direction, magnitude, and location of the East Australian Current (EAC), the Tasman Front, the East Auckland Current (EAUC), and the East Cape Current (ECC) are studied using numerical simulations whose complexity is systematically increased. As new dynamics are added to each successive simulation, their direct and indirect effects on the flow field are examined. The simulations have horizontal resolutions of 1/8°, 1/16°, or 1/32° for each variable, and vertical resolutions ranging from 1.5-layer reduced gravity to 6-layer finite depth with realistic bottom topography. All simulations are forced by the Hellerman and Rosenstein monthly wind stress climatology. Analysis of these simulations shows that several factors play a critical role in governing the behavior of the examined currents. These factors include 1) mass balance of water pathways through ...
Laser gain media based on nanocomposite materials

We develop simple theoretical models for calculating the gain of layered and Maxwell Garnett composite materials with a resonant component. Laser systems that utilize such composite gain media could display significantly improved properties.
Alopecia areata: Current state of knowledge☆

A t the recent National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)sponsored fourth research workshop on alopecia areata (AA), the state of current understanding of the mechanisms of alopecia areata was presented in the context of current understanding of hair biology and differentiation of the skin. Three major areas of research were presented: (1) genetics; (2) immunology; and (3) targets, triggers, and controls. Summaries of current and future treatment approaches were presented. It is clear that the research enterprise related to hair biology, and AA in particular, is now firmly established and expanding into important areas of fundamental biology, including stem cell research and sophisticated studies of epidermal differentiation and morphogenesis. It is evident that the mechanism of hair follicle dysfunction in AA is immunological, controlled by activated T cells. Whether this response is truly autoimmune remains to be firmly established, but there are strong indications that self-antigens, including melanocyte antigens, are the key targets. Susceptibility to AA is likely to be genetically determined. Linkage to genes controlling the immune response is strongest in patients with severe AT and AU, and it is likely that AA is a polygenic complex trait, with distinct genetic linkages determining specific gene subsets. The mechanisms through which the cycling hair follicle is damaged and dysfunctional in AAwere thoroughly reviewed. In spite of impressive progress, we have a long way to go to completely understand the mechanisms of disease and to identify AA-specific targets for treatment. On the other hand, we may be very close to providing better treatment approaches for AA. Treatments proven to be effective in other autoimmune skin diseases can be used in AA in ‘‘proof of concept’’ trials, which will both verify
Evaluation of a New-Generation Line-Probe Assay That Detects 5' Untranslated and Core Regions to Genotype and Subtype Hepatitis C Virus

The VERSANT HCV Genotype 2.0 Assay (LiPA 2.0; Innogenetics, Ghent, Belgium; distributed by Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics, Tarrytown, NY) is a new-generation line-probe assay that simultaneously detects sequences in the 5' untranslated (5'UTR) and core regions to genotype and subtype hepatitis C virus (HCV). We tested 60 specimens of known genotype and subtype and 2 specimens with mixed infections with the LiPA 2.0 assay. After arbitration based on genotype and subtype determined by sequencing, there was concordance in 58 of 60 specimens (specificity, 96.7%). Computer-assisted typing yielded comparable results, but much more rapidly. Of 67 clinical specimens, 64 readily yielded genotype and subtype; 3 indeterminate specimens were typed by sequencing and were uncommon types not in the database. The new-generation line-probe assay that detects the 5'UTR and core regions to genotype and subtype HCV is applicable to more than 95% of specimens. Interpretation is facilitated by computer-assisted analysis.
Deciphering the involvement of innate immune factors in the development of the host response to PRRSV vaccination

The natural response of pigs to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infections and vaccinations needs to be altered so that better protection is afforded against both homologous and heterologous challenges by this pathogen. To address this problem, real-time gene expression assays were coupled with cytokine Elispot and protein analyses to assess the nature of the anti-PRRSV response of pigs immunized with modified live virus (MLV) vaccine. Although T helper 1 (Th1) immunity was elicited in all vaccinated animals, as evidenced by the genesis of PRRSV-specific interferon-gamma secreting cells (IFNG SC), the overall extent of the memory response was variable and generally weak. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) isolated from these pigs responded to PRRSV exposure with a limited increase in their expression of the Th1 immune markers, IFNG, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-15 (IL15), and a reduction in the quantity of mRNAs encoding the innate and inflammatory proteins, IL1B, IL8 and IFNA. Efforts to enhance Th1 immunity, by utilizing an expression plasmid encoding porcine IFNA (pINA) as an adjuvant, resulted in a temporary increase in the frequency of PRRSV-specific IFNG SC but only minor changes overall in the expression of Th1 associated cytokine or innate immune marker mRNA by virus-stimulated PBMC. Administration of pINA, however, did correlate with decreased IL1B secretion by cultured, unstimulated PBMC but had no effect on their ability to release IFNG. Thus, while exogenous addition of IFNA during PRRSV vaccination has an impact on the development of a Th1 immune response, other alterations will be required for substantial boosting of virus-specific protection.
Compact, Dispersed, Fragmented, Extensive? A Comparison of Urban Growth in Twenty-five Global Cities using Remotely Sensed Data, Pattern Metrics and Census Information:

Despite growing recognition of the important role of cities in economic, political and environmental systems across the world, comparative, global-scale research on cities is severely limited. This paper examines the similarities and differences in urban form and growth that have occurred across 25 mid-sized cities from different geographical settings and levels of economic development. The results reveal four city types: low-growth cities with modest rates of infilling; high-growth cities with rapid, fragmented development; expansive-growth cities with extensive dispersion at low population densities; and frantic-growth cities with extraordinary land conversion rates at high population densities. Although all 25 cities are expanding, the results suggest that cities outside the US do not exhibit the dispersed spatial forms characteristic of American urban sprawl.
Divergence-Free RBFs on Surfaces

This article presents a new tool for fitting a divergence-free vector field tangent to a two-dimensional orientable surface \(P \in {\Bbb R}^3\) to samples of such a field taken at scattered sites on P. This method, which involves a kernel constructed from radial basis functions, has applications to problems in geophysics, and has the advantage of avoiding problems with poles. Numerical examples testing the method on the sphere are included.
Spread ambiguity functions

A generalized spread ambiguity function is defined, and its relationship to P.M. Woodward's (1953) ambiguity function for different models is developed. A derivation and discussion of the properties of the spread ambiguity function are presented. It is shown that smoothing the ambiguity function by the scattering function of the channel does not alter the properties of the ambiguity function. Measures of RMS correlation time and RMS correlation bandwidth of nonstationary processes are defined. An example is given to demonstrate how spread ambiguity functions can be used to help in signal design when dealing with doubly spread targets. >
Density-dependent tree mortality in pinyon-juniper woodlands

Pathogens and bark beetles are integral disturbance agents in many forest and woodland ecosystems. Over the past decade, pinyon Ips (Ips confusus) has interacted with regional drought to cause widespread mortality in singleleaf pinyon (Pinus monophylla) and Colorado pinyon (Pinus edulis) woodlands of western North America. We used mixed-effects and logistic regression modeling approaches to explore biotic and abiotic influences on the spatial heterogeneity of tree mortality. Stand structure, cumulative canopy and stem mortality, and occurrence of specific mortality agents were measured for 217, 0.1-ha plots, established in 2005 across 11 mountain ranges in central Nevada. Cumulative tree mortality from multiple causes was generally associated with high stand densities and xeric site conditions. Multi-scale analysis considering subplots of varying dimension indicated that the relationship between woodland mortality and stand structure is scale dependent, with stronger correlations at coarser spatial scales. This suggests that competition between trees might not be the sole or even the primary mechanism for density-dependent tree mortality in these xeric woodlands. If site productivity is controlled for, greater density implies increased frequency of trees occupying sub-optimal microsites, which leads to increased mortality during drought years apart from direct effects of competition among neighboring trees. Experimental investigations are needed to differentiate the specific mechanisms for how resource competition interacts with abiotic limiting factors that constrain resource availability at the scale of microsites. # 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Vascular form and function: two mechanisms for cardiovascular prevention

When Louis Sullivan, of the ‘Chicago School’ of architecture stated that form follows function , he liberated the wave of the Modernist Movement. In its wake, other luminaries including Le Corbusier, Gropius, and Mies van der Rohe changed and challenged the urban landscape into the new century. Is it any wonder that our reductionist approach to disease and health is also divided between mechanisms of form and those of function? They challenge and change our view of atherosclerosis. The discovery that the endothelium is an autocrine and paracrine organ regulating many functions to prevent the forms of atherosclerosis that cause disease pervades our current constructs. Yet, the importance of atherosclerosis form (size and composition) and arterial function are debated in ways that ignore their close association. Perhaps equally as beguiling are the mechanisms that determine the change in cardiovascular risk from risk factor reduction. Their further elaboration could help design new therapies with incremental benefits. It is this quest that underlies the study of the effects of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) on vascular biology, which presumably predicates changes in the risk of cardiovascular events. Statins are one of the great medical successes of our age. Initially thought to have their effect by reducing the size of atherosclerotic plaque, increasing evidence shows a far greater effect on endothelial function and plaque composition, including less inflammation and more stable fibrous tissue over weaker lipid-rich compositions. Many of these changes are mediated by improvements in the bioavailability of endothelium-derived nitric oxide in the artery wall. However, these pleiotropic effects can result from lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL), LDL-independent effects of statins, or both.1 There is a lot at stake in this field. If the benefits are largely due to LDL, then therapies that lower LDL to a greater extent … *Corresponding author. Tel: +1 61 525 7052, Fax: +1 617 264 5265, Email: scott.kinlay{at}va.gov; skinlay{at}partners.org
A small animal Raman instrument for rapid, wide-area, spectroscopic imaging

Raman spectroscopy, amplified by surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles, is a molecular imaging modality with ultra-high sensitivity and the unique ability to multiplex readouts from different molecular targets using a single wavelength of excitation. This approach holds exciting prospects for a range of applications in medicine, including identification and characterization of malignancy during endoscopy and intraoperative image guidance of surgical resection. The development of Raman molecular imaging with SERS nanoparticles is presently limited by long acquisition times, poor spatial resolution, small field of view, and difficulty in animal handling with existing Raman spectroscopy instruments. Our goal is to overcome these limitations by designing a bespoke instrument for Raman molecular imaging in small animals. Here, we present a unique and dedicated small-animal Raman imaging instrument that enables rapid, high-spatial resolution, spectroscopic imaging over a wide field of view (> 6 cm2), with simplified animal handling. Imaging of SERS nanoparticles in small animals demonstrated that this small animal Raman imaging system can detect multiplexed SERS signals in both superficial and deep tissue locations at least an order of magnitude faster than existing systems without compromising sensitivity.
Optimizing for Transfers in a Multi-vehicle Collection and Delivery Problem

We address the Collection and Delivery Problem (CDP) with multiple vehicles, such that each collects a set of items at different locations and delivers them to a dropoff point. The goal is to minimize either delivery time or the total distance traveled.We introduce an extension to the CDP: what if a vehicle can transfer items to another vehicle before making the final delivery? By dividing the labor among multiple vehicles, the delivery time and cost may be reduced. However, introducing transfers increases the number of feasible schedules exponentially. In this paper, we investigate this Collection and Delivery Problem with Transfers (CDP-T), discuss its theoretical underpinnings, and introduce a two-approximate polynomial time algorithm to minimize total distance travelled. Furthermore, we show that allowing transfers to take place at any location for the CDP-T results in at most a factor of two improvement. We demonstrate our approximation algorithms on large simulated problem instances. Finally, we deploy our algorithms on robots that transfer and deliver items autonomously in an office building.
The Potential of a Jumping Spider, Phidippus clarus, as a Biocontrol Agent

Spiders, particularly assemblages of species, have been shown to be effective in reducing pest insects and crop damage in field crops and orchards. We investigated the potential for a single jumping spider species to reduce pests in a greenhouse setting. We placed three treatments in large enclosures: 1) control treatment of only sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum L.; 2) sweet basil and a phytophagous pest, fourlined plant bug, Poecilocapsus lineatus (F.) (Heteroptera: Miridae); and 3) sweet basil, fourlined plant bug, and jumping spider Phidippus clarus (Keyserling 1884). After 1 wk, jumping spiders reduced the number of plant bugs. Plants exposed to plant bugs alone were significantly shorter than either control plants or plants exposed to plant bugs and spiders. Chlorophyll concentration did not significantly differ across treatments. We discuss the feasibility of using P. clarus and similar salticids in biocontrol.
Selected Percentage Points of Greenwood's Statistic

SUMMARY In absence of a general analytical formulation for the distribution of Greenwood's statistic, a recursive numerical method has been used to compile a table of percentage points. This extends the range of sample sizes, for which exact results are available, from three to ten. A procedure for computing P.(x), given n and x, was constructed in two parts. First, maximum use was made of explicit formulations cited previously for n = 2 and n = 3, and for x 3, this last case with a standard trigonometric substitution for an incomplete beta integral appearing in the original formulation of Moran (1953). Second, for n> 3 and x> (n - 1)-1, P.(x) was computed recursively using numerical integration. Moran's recursion, for the hypervolume shared by a regular n-simplex and a concentric n-sphere of general radius (Moran, 1947), translates into (Z,(X))nPn(x) = 1 + j(n+ 1)1 (zn(y))n+2 Pn_1(y) dy
Stimulation of acyl-CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase activity by hyperlipemic serum lipoproteins.

SummaryCholesteryl ester synthesis by the microsomal fraction from rat hepatoma cells was stimulated by preincubation of the microsomal fraction with lipoproteins obtained from hyperlipemic rabbit sera. Lipoproteins from normolipemic sera had no stimulatory effect. Growth of cells in hyperlipemic rabbit sera also increased microsomal cholesteryl ester synthesis. Increased cholesteryl ester synthesis is accompanied by an increased microsomal-free cholesterol content.
Tobacco outlet density and attitudes towards smoking among urban adolescent smokers

ABSTRACTBackground: This study investigates whether residential exposure to tobacco outlets (i.e., convenience stores and other stores selling tobacco) is associated with attitudes towards smoking among a sample of urban, primarily African American, adolescent smokers. Methods: Cross-sectional survey data for 197 adolescents were integrated with spatial data on tobacco outlets via subject home addresses. Ordinal regression was employed to test hypotheses that closer proximity to, and higher concentrations of, tobacco outlets are associated with higher measures of intention to continue to smoke in the future, weaker self-efficacy related to stopping smoking, and more accepting social norms related to smoking, while controlling for characteristics of age, gender, family and peer smoking contexts, and level of nicotine dependence. Moderation by age and gender was also investigated. Results: Higher residential tobacco outlet density is significantly associated with a greater intention to smoke in the next 3 m...
Enantioselective small molecule synthesis by carbon dioxide fixation using a dual Brønsted acid/base organocatalyst.

Carbon dioxide exhibits many of the qualities of an ideal reagent: it is nontoxic, plentiful, and inexpensive. Unlike other gaseous reagents, however, it has found limited use in enantioselective synthesis. Moreover, unprecedented is a tool that merges one of the simplest biological approaches to catalysis—Bronsted acid/base activation—with this abundant reagent. We describe a metal-free small molecule catalyst that achieves the three component reaction between a homoallylic alcohol, carbon dioxide, and an electrophilic source of iodine. Cyclic carbonates are formed enantioselectively.
Chronic idiopathic Sweet syndrome: A report of 2 cases.

Sweet syndrome (SS) is classified as a neutrophilic dermatosis based on its chief clinicopathologic findings: sudden onset of painful, tender erythematous skin lesions (papules, plaques, and nodules) and a diffuse infiltrate of mature neutrophils in the dermis.1, 2 The skin eruptions, which most frequently present on the face, neck, trunk, and upper extremities, are generally accompanied by signs of systemic inflammation including pyrexia, malaise, and arthralgia.3
Incidence, indications, outcomes, and survivorship of stems in primary total knee arthroplasty

The indications, incidence, outcomes, and survivorship of stems in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are lacking in the contemporary literature. Our hypothesis is stems in primary TKA would result in worse outcomes and survivorship. All primary TKAs between 2007 and 2011 with 2-year follow-up were identified. Revision TKA or UKA conversion was excluded. Demographic information (age, sex, race, BMI, primary diagnosis, and Charlson–Deyo comorbidity index), outcome measures including KOOS and WOMAC, and any revisions were identified from the registry. A 2:1 matched cohort of non-stemmed/stemmed primary TKA patients was created to compare revision rates and outcomes at baseline and 2 years post-TKA. Subgroup analyses of long versus short stems, 1 versus 2 stems, and cemented versus hybrid stem fixation were completed. Two-sample t tests and Chi-square tests were used to compare conventional and stemmed TKA groups. The registry review included 13,507 conventional TKA and 318 stemmed TKA resulting in an incidence of 2.3 % in primary TKA. The mean follow-up was approximately 49 months in both groups. No difference was found in revision rates between stemmed TKA (2.5 %) and conventional TKA (2.2 %). Patients with post-traumatic arthritis had an odds ratio of 10.5 (95 % CI 1.2–15.3) of receiving stems. Stem length did not affect revision rates. Patients with two stems had worse KOOS and WOMAC scores at baseline which equalized to single-stem patients at 2 years. The use of stems may provide a survival benefit in complex primary TKA over the short term and no adverse effect on patient outcomes or satisfaction. III.
New insights on the impact of coefficient instability on ratio-correlation population estimates

Author(s): Tayman, Jeff; Swanson, David A | Abstract: In this study we examine the regression-based ratio-correlation method and suggest some new tools for assessing the magnitude and impact of coefficient instability on population estimation errors. We use a robust sample of 904 counties from 11 states and find that: (1) coefficient instability is not a universal source of error in regression models for population estimation and its impact is less than commonly assumed; (2) coefficient instability is not related to bias, but it does decrease precision and increase the allocation error of population estimates; and (3) unstable coefficients have the greatest impact on counties under 20,000 in population size. Our findings suggest that information about the conditions that affect coefficient instability and its impact on estimation error might lead to more targeted and efficient approaches for improving population estimates developed from regression models.
SU‐F‐T‐43: Prediction of Dose Increments by Brain Metastases Resection Cavity Shrinkage Model with I‐125 and Cs‐131 LDR Seed Implantations

Purpose: This work aims to determine dose variability via a brain metastases resection cavity shrinkage model (RC-SM) with I-125 or Cs-131 LDR seed implantations. Methods: The RC-SM was developed to represent sequential volume changes of 95 consecutive brain metastases patients. All patients underwent serial surveillance MR and change in cavity volume was recorded for each patient. For the initial resection cavity, a prolate-ellipsoid cavity model was suggested and applied volume shrinkage rates to correspond to 1.7, 3.6, 5.9, 11.7, and 20.5 months after craniotomy. Extra-ring structure (6mm) was added on a surface of the resection volume and the same shrinkage rates were applied. Total 31 LDR seeds were evenly distributed on the surface of the resection cavity. The Amersham 6711 I-125 seed model (Oncura, Arlington Heights, IL) and the Model Cs-1 Rev2 Cs-131 seed model (IsoRay, Richland, WA) were used for TG-43U1 dose calculation and in-house-programed 3D-volumetric dose calculation system was used for resection cavity rigid model (RC-RM) and the RC-SM dose calculation. Results: The initial resection cavity volume shrunk to 25±6%, 35±6.8%, 42±7.7%, 47±9.5%, and 60±11.6%, with respect to sequential MR images post craniotomy, and the shrinkage rate (SR) was calculated as SR=56.41Xexp(−0.2024Xt)+33.99 and R-square value was 0.98. The normal brain dose as assessed via the dose to the ring structure with the RC-SM showed 29.34% and 27.95% higher than the RC-RM, I-125 and Cs-131, respectively. The dose differences between I-125 and Cs-131 seeds within the same models, I-125 cases were 9.17% and 10.35% higher than Cs-131 cases, the RC-RM and the RC-SM, respectively. Conclusion: A realistic RC-SM should be considered during LDR brain seed implementation and post-implement planning to prevent potential overdose. The RC-SM calculation shows that Cs-131 is more advantageous in sparing normal brain as the resection cavity volume changes with the LDR seeds implementation.
Production of Sporangia by the Actinomycetous Endophyte in Root Nodules of ComptoniaPeregrina: Development and Consequences for Nodule Function

Frankia sp., the nitrogen-fixing endophyte in actinorhizal nodules, is a filamentous bacterium which may differentiate two morphologically distinct forms from its hyphae: vesicles and sporangia. In culture and in the nodules of some host genera, vesicles have been identified as the nitrogen-fixing stage of the microorganism. Sporangia, which develop under cultural conditions in most strains, occur only in some nodules. Field collected root nodules of Comptoniaperegrina (L.) Coult. (fam.: Myricaceae), infected by the actinomycete Frankia sp., were of two types: those which lacked sporangia entirely, designated sporeminus, and those which showed extensive sporangial development, designated spore-plus. In this study, comparisons were made in the structural ontogeny of the infected host cell and of the endophyte and in the productivity and efficiency of the two symbiotic combinations.
Property and production

This chapter tracks the continuities and illuminates the nature of qualitative change in agrarian structures by focusing upon 'the direct relationship of the owners of the conditions of production to the immediate producers'. Two key conditions of production in colonial India were, land and capital. The success of capitalist development in colonial eastern India rested primarily on the exploitation of peasant family labour. Evolving within the framework of larger economic arenas based on capitalism, the property-production interaction deeply influenced social relations of entitlement to land, work and subsistence in colonial and post-colonial India. The different configuration of agrarian social classes in the indigo-growing parts of Bengal and Bihar stemmed from important differences in the relationship between land and capital. The most dramatic changes occurred in the legal expressions of property, not at the level of the social organization of production and the poverty of peasants and labourers engaged in primary production.
The Recognition and Differentiation of Neurotoxic and Nonneurotoxic Syndromes

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses about recognition and differentiation of neurotoxic and non-neurotoxic syndromes. Vulnerability of the various target neural structures, and the dose and type of neurotoxin involved, determines the clinical manifestations. A neurotoxic effect may be direct or indirect, reversible or irreversible, depending on the specific substance and the nature and duration of exposure. Neurotoxic effects follow a time course from onset after an episode(s) of exposure to amelioration or recovery after cessation of exposure. An idiopathic neurologic disease usually follows a progressive course with continued development of symptoms in the absence of any identified exposure to neurotoxins. The prompt appearance of neurologic effects after acute exposure to neurotoxins is more obvious than the emergence of neurologic symptoms following a latent period. In many cases, observations after a longer period of follow-up are necessary in order to determine persistence and/or progression of symptoms, improvement with resolution, or evidence of residual impairments. This chapter discusses about clinical manifestations and then describes the neurotoxicological syndromes of central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. The chapter also elaborates basic concepts related to formulation of neurotoxicity diagnosis.
Large-scale computation not at the cost of expressiveness

We present Celias, a new concurrent programming model for data-intensive scalable computing. Celias supports many virtues commonly found in existing distributed programming frameworks, such as elastic scaling and fault tolerance, without sacrificing expressiveness. The key design idea of Celias is the concept of a microtask, as a scalable, fault-tolerant, and completely data-driven unit of computation. By combining Tuplespace and microtasks, Celias provides an intuitive yet powerful programming abstraction for large and complex problems.
Asteroseismology of Delta Scuti Stars – A Parameter Study

We assess the potential of asteroseismology for determining the fundamental properties of individual δ Scuti stars. We computed a grid of evolution and adiabatic pulsation models to study systematic changes in l = 0,1,2, and 3 modes as functions of fundamental stellar properties. Mass has the strongest effect on evolution and on pulsation, followed by the metal abundance. Changes to the helium content have very little effect on the frequencies until near the end of the main sequence. Changes to each of the four parameters change the p-mode frequencies more than they do the g- and mixed-mode frequencies, suggesting that these parameters have a greater effect on the outer layers of the star. We also present pulsation models of FG Virginis, outlining a possible method of locating favorable models in the stellar parameter space based upon a definitive identification of only two modes. We plot evolution models on the (period-period ratio) and (temperature-period ratio) planes to select candidate models, and modify the core overshooting parameter to fit the observed star.
Future Perfect?: Teachers’ Expectations and Explanations of their Latino Immigrant Students’ Postsecondary Futures

Teacher expectancy research has demonstrated the greatest effects for members of racialized groups. Most research has focused on students’ near-term abilities; missing are understandings of how tea...
Genetic variation in the developmental regulation of cortical avpr1a among prairie voles

Early experiences can have enduring impacts on brain and behavior, but the strength of these effects can be influenced by genetic variation. In principle, polymorphic CpGs (polyCpGs) may contribute to gene-by-environment interactions (G × E) by altering DNA methylation. In this study, we investigate the influence of polyCpGs on the development of vasopressin receptor 1a abundance in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC-V1aR) of prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Two alternative alleles ('HI'/'LO') predict RSC avpr1a expression, V1aR abundance and sexual fidelity in adulthood; these alleles differ in the frequency of CpG sites and in methylation at a putative intron enhancer. We hypothesized that the elevated CpG abundance in the LO allele would make homozygous LO/LO voles more sensitive to developmental perturbations. We found that genotype differences in RSC-V1aR abundance emerged early in ontogeny and were accompanied by differences in methylation of the putative enhancer. As predicted, postnatal treatment with an oxytocin receptor antagonist (OTA) reduced RSC-V1aR abundance in LO/LO adults but not their HI/HI siblings. Similarly, methylation inhibition by zebularine increased RSC-V1aR in LO/LO adults, but not in HI/HI siblings. These data show a gene-by-environment interaction in RSC-V1aR. Surprisingly, however, neither OTA nor zebularine altered adult methylation of the intronic enhancer, suggesting that differences in sensitivity could not be explained by CpG density at the enhancer alone. Methylated DNA immunoprecipiation-sequencing showed additional differentially methylated regions between HI/HI and LO/LO voles. Future research should examine the role of these regions and other regulatory elements in the ontogeny of RSC-V1aR and its developmentally induced changes.
Revisiting monosaccharide analysis – quantitation of a comprehensive set of monosaccharides using dynamic multiple reaction monitoring

A rapid method for the quantitation of sixteen neutral and acidic monosaccharides, from both animal and plant sources was developed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QqQ-MS) in dynamic multiple reaction monitoring (dMRM) mode. Monosaccharides including three pentoses (ribose, xylose, arabinose), two deoxyhexoses (rhamnose, fucose), five hexoses (fructose, mannose, allose, glucose, galactose), two hexuronic acids (glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid), and two N-acetyl-hexosamines (GlcNAc, GalNAc), were derivatized with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP), while underivatized sialic acids, Neu5Ac and Neu5Gc, were simultaneously analyzed with a 10-minute run. With the optimized UHPLC conditions, baseline separations of the isomers were achieved. The sensitivity and calibration ranges of this method were determined. The limits of detection were between femtomoles and attomoles with linear ranges spanning four to six orders of magnitude and coefficients of variation (CVs) ≤7.2%. Spiking experiments performed on a pooled fecal sample demonstrated the high accuracy of this method even when applied to samples with complicated matrices. The validated method was applied to fecal samples from an infant transitioning from breast milk to weaning foods. Major milk monosaccharides including galactose, fucose, glucose, GlcNAc, and Neu5Ac were found to be the most abundant components in the feces of milk-fed infants. PMP-derivatives of nine other monosaccharides including apiose, lyxose, altrose, talose, gulose, glucosamine, galactosamine, mannosamine, and N-acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) were also tested and could be added to the quantitation method depending on the need. The speed and sensitivity of the method makes it readily adaptable to rapid throughput analysis of monosaccharides in biological samples.
Knowledge and practice of needlestick injury preventive measures among nurses of Sana'a city hospitals in Yemen

BACKGROUND: A needlestick injury is an accidental skin-penetrating stab wound from a hollow-bore needle containing another person's blood or body fluid, leading to infection of diseases transmitted by blood such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus. The purpose of this study is to assess the level of knowledge and practice of needlesticks injury prevention measures and to estimate the incidence of exposure to needlestick injury among nurses working in the governmental hospitals in Sana'a city, Yemen. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study among a random sample of nurses (n = 259) were conducted. A pretested structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0. (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). RESULTS: One hundred and fourteen (44%) respondents had poor knowledge of needlestick injury preventive measures, 75 (29%) had a fair knowledge, and 70 (27%) had good knowledge. The knowledge was significantly associated with hospital's name (P CONCLUSION: The practices and knowledge of needlestick injury preventive measures were low and occupational exposure to needlestick injury was a common occurrence in the study sample. This needs intensive programs to educate nurses on various aspects of needlestick injury preventive measures.
Comparison of Li-ion battery equivalent circuit modelling using impedance analyzer and Bayesian networks

An energy storage system simulation requires a battery model capable of precisely predicting the dynamic behaviour and I–V characteristics. An equivalent circuit model (ECM) of a battery generates an electric circuit able to replicate complicated battery characteristics. Combination of time domain and frequency domain tests can be utilised to parameterise ECM components properly. The goal of this study is to discuss two systematic approaches to decide the ECM parameters, which can be replicated on any battery technology. Time and frequency domain testing are carried out on a commercial electric bicycle Li-ion battery composed of Samsung ICR18650-22P. Then, impedance analyzer approach and Bayesian network method are applied to estimate the ECM circuit elements with different circuit topologies. The models were developed in MATLAB/Simulink environment. A highly dynamic drive cycle based on the E-bike was utilised to validate the ECMs through hardware-in-loop testing.
Anatomic Considerations in Thyroid Eye Disease

Purpose To review and summarize the clinical findings in thyroid eye disease (TED) related to the unique anatomical structures of the eyelids and orbit. Methods A PubMed search was performed searching for anatomical relationships between eyelid and orbital anatomy and the clinical findings of TED. Results The major clinical findings associated with TED are varied. They typically involve both the eyelid and the orbit. In the eyelid, usual findings include upper eyelid retraction, contour abnormalities, eyelid edema, prolapsed orbital fat, conjunctival injection and chemosis, caruncular edema, and meibomian gland dysfunction. The exact causes of these changes remain a matter of controversy, but numerous hypotheses have been proposed, most with limited experimental support. In the orbit, inflammation and congestion characterize the acute active phase, with tissue expansion and fibrosis persisting into the chronic inactive phase. All of these findings result, at least in part, from the unique anatomy of the eyelids and orbit and their interaction with the immunologic processes underlying TED. Here we review these major characteristics of TED, with special reference to their anatomic relationships. Conclusions The major findings characterizing TED are related to unique anatomic features in the eyelid, including Muller muscle, the levator palpebrae superioris muscle, and suspensory ligaments of the conjunctiva. In the orbit, Graves-related remolding results from the special physiologic features of the extraocular muscles, the structure of the orbital walls and their relations to adjacent paranasal sinuses, and the reaction of orbital fat to immunologic challenges.
Michigan Medicaid recipients' perceptions of medication counseling as required by OBRA '90.

Abstract Objective To assess pharmacist counseling under OBRA '90 from the Medicaid recipient's perspective. Specifically, the study was designed to (1) assess pharmacists' compliance with counseling requirements, (2) assess recipients' level of satisfaction with the information provided during counseling and whether the information provided increased their comfort level in taking medication correctly, and (3) determine relationships between variables associated with pharmacist counseling and recipient satisfaction and comfort level. Design Cross-sectional telephone survey of Medicaid recipients. Medicaid recipient or caregiver was the unit of measure. Setting Michigan. Patients 408 recipients who received new prescriptions during a one-week period in November 1995. Interventions: Telephone survey. Main Outcome Measure Recipients' perception of whether an offer to counsel was made. Results Only 104 (25.5%) recipients indicated that someone offered counseling for their new prescription, and only 62 (15.2%) recipients indicated they knew olthe requirement; 163 (40.0%) indicated someone counseled them. Counseled recipients were satisfied with the amount, quality, and way the information was presented, and were more likely to assign a higher level of importance to pharmacist counseling. The majority of respondents indicated high levels of comfort in using their medications safely, with those who were counseled expressing a higher level of comfort. Conclusion From the perspective of the Medicaid recipient, pharmacies are failing to offer counseling for most new prescriptions. The results indicate that counseling improves measures of recipient comfort in using medications safely and enhances the level of importance patients assign to pharmacist counseling.