cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Validation of Plasma Biomarkers in Degenerative Calcific Aortic Stenosis

Background Calcific aortic stenosis (CAS) is the most common acquired valvular disorder in industrialized countries. This study investigates the correlation of different known biomarkers for CAS as a first step towards the development of a panel of biomarkers that can be used in prognostic staging. Methods Venous blood samples were obtained from both patients with CAS scheduled for surgery and healthy individuals. Plasma levels of fetuin-A, NT-proBNP, BNP, homocysteine and osteopontin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CAS was measured by echocardiography and was defined as an aortic valve area of less than 2.0 cm 2 . Non-paired t -tests were used for comparison. Results CAS was present in 33 subjects (mean age 75.9 y) and absent in 11 subjects (mean age 55.36 y). Individuals with CAS exhibited higher plasma levels of NT-proBNP (1.33 versus 0.73 pmol/mL, P versus 0.34 ng/mL P versus 25.42 ng/mL P versus 0.34g/L, P versus 1.1 μmol/L, P > 0.05) while homocysteine levels (20.34 ± 2.14 versus 19.23 ± 4.19 P > 0.05) were higher in the CAS patients. Conclusion This study demonstrates a direct correlation of NT-pro-BNP, BNP, and osteopontin and the presence of CAS, while fetuin A showed an inverse correlation. Plasma ADMA and homocysteine levels were comparable in the CAS patients and healthy individuals. This is the first study in which several biomarkers previously studied independently in patients with CAS have been investigated simultaneously in the same study population.
Safety and Effectiveness of SAF-R, a Novel Patient Positioning Device for Robot-Assisted Pelvic Surgery in Trendelenburg Position.

Abstract Purpose: We found current robotic positioning devices to be inadequate and cumbersome. Furthermore, we realized there were no premarket well-designed studies to prove their safety and efficacy. In this prospective pilot study, we aimed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of a novel patient-positioning device (SAF-R) to secure the patient in Trendelenburg (T-burg) position for robot-assisted pelvic surgery. Patients and Methods: Sixteen patients undergoing robot-assisted pelvic operation in T-burg position were enrolled. Patients were positioned using SAF-R board. Pressure sensor mats were used for real-time monitoring of the contact pressures and contact area on the shoulders and calves throughout the surgery. Data collection included patients' body mass index (BMI), time needed for positioning, total time in the T-burg position, contact pressure and contact area readings from the sensor mats, and the patient shifting distance on the table. Patients were also followed for 1-month postoper...
Using Prediction Market Data to Illustrate Undergraduate Probability

Prediction markets provide a rare setting where results of mathematical probability theory can be related to events of real-world interest and where one can compare theory to data. The paper discusses two simple mathematical results { the halftime price principle and the serious candidates principle { and corresponding data from baseball and the 2012 Republican Presidential Nomination race.
Genetic engineering of endotheiial cells

: Endotheiial cell activation is a major obstacle to successful xenotransplantation. The activated phenotype is largely based on the transcriptional induction of a number of genes and their products. Due to the large number of new gene products in activated endotheiial cells, it is not feasible to target each of them individually for therapeutic intervention. A common factor important for the induction of many, if not all, genes induced upon endotheiial cell activation if NF-KB. It is thus a reasonable target for inhibition if one is to attempt to inhibit endotheiial cell activation genetically. Donor animals for xenotransplantation are amenable to genetic manipulation and we believe that transgenic animals carrying several transgenes will be the standard of future experimental and clinical xenotransplantation.
Widespread Use of TATA Elements in the Core Promoters for RNA Polymerases III, II, and I in Fission Yeast

In addition to directing transcription initiation, core promoters integrate input from distal regulatory elements. Except for rare exceptions, it has been generally found that eukaryotic tRNA and rRNA genes do not contain TATA promoter elements and instead use protein-protein interactions to bring the TATA-binding protein (TBP), to the core promoter. Genomewide analysis revealed TATA elements in the core promoters of tRNA and 5S rRNA (Pol III), U1 to U5 snRNA (Pol II), and 37S rRNA (Pol I) genes in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Using tRNA-dependent suppression and other in vivo assays, as well as in vitro transcription, we demonstrated an obligatory requirement for upstream TATA elements for tRNA and 5S rRNA expression in S. pombe. The Pol III initiation factor Brf is found in complexes with TFIIIC and Pol III in S. pombe, while TBP is not, consistent with independent recruitment of TBP by TATA. Template commitment assays are consistent with this and confirm that the mechanisms of transcription complex assembly and initiation by Pol III in S. pombe differ substantially from those in other model organisms. The results were extended to large-rRNA synthesis, as mutation of the TATA element in the Pol I promoter also abolishes rRNA expression in fission yeast. A survey of other organisms' genomes reveals that a substantial number of eukaryotes may use widespread TATAs for transcription. These results indicate the presence of TATA-unified transcription systems in contemporary eukaryotes and provide insight into the residual need for TBP by all three Pols in other eukaryotes despite a lack of TATA elements in their promoters.
Structural, Electrical, and Optical Properties of Erbium-Doped Epitaxial BaTiO3 Films Grown by RF Sputtering

The authors have investigated the epitaxial growth of Er-doped BaTiO{sub 3} films using rf magnetron sputtering. The Er-doped films (0.5--1 {micro}m thick) were deposited on MgO (001) single-crystal substrates at various temperatures (500--800 C). The films deposited at 700 C or above are highly (001)-oriented with an in-plane epitaxial relationship of BaTiO{sub 3}[100] {parallel} MgO[100], as confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The Er doped films were found to be compressively stressed, as-deposited. The amount of stress monotonically decreases as a function of the deposition temperature. The Er-doped epitaxial films show a strong room-temperature photoluminescence at 1.54 {micro}m, which corresponds to intra-transitions of Er{sup 3+} ions. Electrical characterizations were carried out on Er-doped BaTiO{sub 3} films that were grown on MgO with a conduction In{sub 2}O{sub 3} buffer electrode. The measurement shows that the Er-doped BaTiO{sub 3} films are ferroelectric with a remanent polarization of 1.5 {micro}C/cm{sup 2} and a coercive field of 40 kV/cm.
Factors associated with crown damage following recurring mixed-severity wildfires and post-fire management in southwestern Oregon

Wildfires and post-fire logging and planting have a lasting influence on the quantity and arrangement of live and dead vegetation, which can, in turn, affect the behavior of future fires. In 2002, the Biscuit Fire re-burned 38,000 ha of mixed-conifer/evergreen hardwood forest in southwestern Oregon that had burned heterogeneously during the 1987 Silver Fire and then was subject, in part, to post-fire logging and planting. We measured vegetation cover and crown damage from at temporal sequence (1987, 2000, and 2002) of digital aerial photo-plots (plot size = 6.25 ha) within managed and unmanaged portions of the twice-burned landscape. We estimated the strength and nature of relationships between crown damage in the two fires while also accounting for the influence of several vegetation, topographic, weather, and management variables. On average, unmanaged plots within the reburn area had 58% of their live crown cover scorched or consumed by the Biscuit Fire (median = 64%). The level of re-burn crown damage was strongly related to the level of crown damage during the Silver Fire. Typically, the areas that burned severely in the Silver Fire succeeded to a mix of shrubs and tree regeneration (i.e. shrub-stratum vegetation), which then experienced high levels of Biscuit Fire damage. In contrast, the level of tree-stratum damage in the Biscuit Fire was largely independent of Silver Fire damage. Within plots that were salvage-logged then planted after the Silver Fire, on average 98% of the vegetation cover was damaged by the Biscuit Fire (median = 100%). Within the plots that experienced complete crown damage in the Silver Fire but were left unmanaged, on average 91% of the vegetation cover was damaged by the Biscuit Fire (median = 95%). Our findings suggest that in productive fire-prone landscapes, a post-fire mosaic of young regenerating vegetation can influence the pattern of crown damage in future wildfires.
Microtubule-Nucleus Interactions in Dictyostelium discoideum Mediated by Central Motor Kinesins

Received 12 January 2009/Accepted 10 March 2009 Kinesins are a diverse superfamily of motor proteins that drive organelles and other microtubule-based movements in eukaryotic cells. These motors play important roles in multiple events during both interphase and cell division. Dictyostelium discoideum contains 13 kinesin motors, 12 of which are grouped into nine families, plus one orphan. Functions for 11 of the 13 motors have been previously investigated; we address here the activities of the two remaining kinesins, both isoforms with central motor domains. Kif6 (of the kinesin-13 family) appears to be essential for cell viability. The partial knockdown of Kif6 with RNA interference generates mitotic defects (lagging chromosomes and aberrant spindle assemblies) that are consistent with kinesin-13 disruptions in other organisms. However, the orphan motor Kif9 participates in a completely novel kinesin activity, one that maintains a connection between the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) and nucleus during interphase. kif9 null cell growth is impaired, and the MTOC appears to disconnect from its normally tight nuclear linkage. Mitotic spindles elongate in a normal fashion in kif9 cells, but we hypothesize that this kinesin is important for positioning the MTOC into the nuclear envelope during prophase. This function would be significant for the early steps of cell division and also may play a role in regulating centrosome replication.
The addition of continuous infusion 5-FU to preoperative radiation therapy increases tumor response, leading to increased sphincter preservation in locally advanced rectal cancer.

Abstract Purpose To compare the outcome from preoperative chemoradiation (CXRT) and from radiation therapy (RT) in the treatment of rectal cancer in two large, single-institutional experiences. Patients and methods Between 1978 and 1995, 403 patients with localized, nonmetastatic, clinically staged T3 or T4 rectal cancer patients were treated with preoperative RT alone at two institutions. Patients at institution 1 ( n = 207) were treated with pelvic CXRT exclusively, and patients at institution 2 were treated (except for 8 given CXRT) with pelvic RT alone ( n = 196). In addition, a third group ( n = 61) was treated with CXRT at institution 2 between 1998 and 2000 after a policy change. Both institutions delivered 45 Gy in five fractions as a standard dose, but institution 2 used 20 Gy in five fractions in selected cases ( n = 26). At both institutions, concurrent chemotherapy consisted of a continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) at a dosage of 1500 mg/m 2 /week. The end points were response, sphincter preservation (SP), relapse-free survival (RFS), pelvic disease control (PC), and overall survival (OS). Results Median follow-up was 63 months for all living patients at institution 1 and in the primary group of institution 2. Multivariate analysis of the patients in these groups showed that the use of concurrent chemotherapy improved tumor response (T-stage downstaging, 62% vs. 42%, p = 0.001, and pathologic complete response, 23% vs. 5% p n = 132; institution 2 primary: n = 79; institution 2 secondary: n = 33), there was a significant improvement in SP with the use of concurrent chemotherapy (39% at institution 1 compared with 13% in the primary group at institution 2, p p = 0.002). This finding was supported by a 36% SP rate in the secondary group at institution 2. Thus SP increased after the addition of chemotherapy at institution 2. Conclusions The use of concurrent 5-FU with preoperative radiation therapy for T3 and T4 rectal cancer independently increases tumor response and may contribute to increased SP in patients with low rectal cancer.
Workflow redesign through consolidation in information-intensive business processes

Recent advances in information technology allow for greater flexibility in designing document flows and in the allocation of tasks along the business process. Many companies try to leverage on these technological advancements through the use of expanded jobs and tasks consolidation. While task consolidation reduces hand-off delays, it requires changes in the supporting information technology and leads to a loss of specialization. Since a typical business process contains dozens of tasks, it is not clear which tasks should be consolidated as a number of factors must be taken into account: the precedence of information flows, loss of specialization, alignment of decision rights, reduction in hand-offs and technology support costs. This paper presents a new methodology that helps system designers determine the optimal set of tasks to be consolidated. The proposed methodology is fully automated and is designed to maintain all the information flows and precedence constraints. The business process workflow is modeled as a directed graph and analytical formulations of the task consolidation problem using mixed integer programming are presented. Optimal design insights are obtained for both sequential and generic process structures. Initial results reveal when the loss of specialization and lack of task control can undermine the benefits of cycle-time reduction through consolidation. It was also observed that the effects of information technologies on the pattern of consolidation can vary dramatically from case to case. Finally, the paper explains why these information technologies that support task processing will facilitate consolidation, while technologies that mostly reduce delays and help communications will facilitate specialization as well as independent task monitoring.
BiP Availability Distinguishes States of Homeostasis and Stress in the Endoplasmic Reticulum of Living Cells

Accumulation of misfolded secretory proteins causes cellular stress and induces the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway, the unfolded protein response (UPR). Although the UPR has been extensively studied, little is known about the molecular changes that distinguish the homeostatic and stressed ER. The increase in levels of misfolded proteins and formation of complexes with chaperones during ER stress are predicted to further crowd the already crowded ER lumen. Surprisingly, using live cell fluorescence microscopy and an inert ER reporter, we find the crowdedness of stressed ER, treated acutely with tunicamycin or DTT, either is comparable to homeostasis or significantly decreases in multiple cell types. In contrast, photobleaching experiments revealed a GFP-tagged variant of the ER chaperone BiP rapidly undergoes a reversible quantitative decrease in diffusion as misfolded proteins accumulate. BiP mobility is sensitive to exceptionally low levels of misfolded protein stressors and can detect intermediate states of BiP availability. Decreased BiP availability temporally correlates with UPR markers, but restoration of BiP availability correlates less well. Thus, BiP availability represents a novel and powerful tool for reporting global secretory protein misfolding levels and investigating the molecular events of ER stress in single cells, independent of traditional UPR markers.
Cardiorespiratory fitness and mortality in diabetic men with and without cardiovascular disease

We assessed joint associations of cardiorespiratory fitness and diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), or both with all-cause mortality. High-fitness eliminated mortality risk in diabetes (P < 0.001) and halved risk of death in diabetes/CVD (P < 0.001). Fitness was a potent effect modifier in the association of diabetes and CVD to mortality.
A Randomized Trial of One versus Two Doses of Influenza Vaccine after Allogeneic Transplantation

Abstract Influenza infection after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) can result in severe complications. The effectiveness of the annual vaccine depends on age, immune competence, and the antigenic potential of the 3 strains included. We hypothesized that a second vaccine dose, the standard of care for vaccine-naive children, might improve post hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) immune responses. Patients >60 days post-HCT were randomized to receive either 1 (n = 33) or 2 (n = 32) influenza vaccine doses separated by 1 month. The primary endpoint was whether 2 vaccinations induced superior immunity; however, we found no difference. Secondary endpoints were to identify variables associated with responses. Both hemagglutination inhibition (HI; P
Public, private and philanthropic expenditures for dental care in New York City.

The experience of New York City could be of use in planning new dental programs in other large segments of population.
Quantitative near infrared spectroscopic analysis of Q-Switched Nd:YAG treatment of generalized argyria†

Background and Objective: Generalized argyria is a blue-gray hyperpigmentation of the skin resulting from ingestion or application of silver compounds, such as silver colloid. Case reports have noted improvement after Q-Switched Neodymium–Yttrium Aluminum Garnet laser (1,064 nm QS Nd:YAG) laser treatment to small surface areas. No reports have objectively monitored laser treatment of generalized argyria over large areas of skin, nor have long-term outcomes been evaluated. Study Design/Materials and Methods: An incremental treatment plan was developed for a subject suffering from argyria. A quantitative near infrared spectroscopic measurement technique was employed to non-invasively analyze tissue-pigment characteristics pre- and post-laser treatment. Post-treatment measurements were collected at weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4, and again at 1 year. Results: Immediate apparent removal of pigment was observed with 1 Q-switched 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser treatment (3–6 mm spot; 0.8–2 J/cm 2 ) per area. Entire face, neck, upper chest, and arms were treated over multiple sessions. Treatments were very painful and general anesthesia was utilized in order to treat large areas. Near-infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize and quantify the concentration of silver particles in the dermis based on the absorption features of the silver particles as well as the optical scattering effects they impart. We were able to estimate that there was, on average, 0.042 mg/ml concentration of silver prior to treatment and that these levels went below the minimum detectable limit of the instrument post-treatment. There was no recurrence of discoloration over the 1-year study period. Conclusion: QS 1,064 nm laser treatment of argyria is a viable method to restore normal skin pigmentation with no evidence of recurrence over study period. Quantitative spectroscopic measurements: (1) confirmed dyspigmentation was due to silver, (2) validated our clinical assessment of no recurrence up to 1-year post-treatment, and (3) indicated no collateral tissue damage with treatments. Lasers Surg. Med. 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multi-label Multiple Kernel Learning by Stochastic Approximation: Application to Visual Object Recognition

Recent studies have shown that multiple kernel learning is very effective for object recognition, leading to the popularity of kernel learning in computer vision problems. In this work, we develop an efficient algorithm for multi-label multiple kernel learning (ML-MKL). We assume that all the classes under consideration share the same combination of kernel functions, and the objective is to find the optimal kernel combination that benefits all the classes. Although several algorithms have been developed for ML-MKL, their computational cost is linear in the number of classes, making them unscalable when the number of classes is large, a challenge frequently encountered in visual object recognition. We address this computational challenge by developing a framework for ML-MKL that combines the worst-case analysis with stochastic approximation. Our analysis shows that the complexity of our algorithm is O(m1/3√lnm), where m is the number of classes. Empirical studies with object recognition show that while achieving similar classification accuracy, the proposed method is significantly more efficient than the state-of-the-art algorithms for ML-MKL.
Dual Myxovirus Screen Identifies a Small-Molecule Agonist of the Host Antiviral Response

ABSTRACT As we are confronted with an increasing number of emerging and reemerging viral pathogens, the identification of novel pathogen-specific and broad-spectrum antivirals has become a major developmental objective. Targeting of host factors required for virus replication presents a tangible approach toward obtaining novel hits with a broadened indication range. However, the identification of developable host-directed antiviral candidates remains challenging. We describe a novel screening protocol that interrogates the myxovirus host-pathogen interactome for broad-spectrum drug candidates and simultaneously probes for conventional, pathogen-directed hits. With resource efficiency and pan-myxovirus activity as the central developmental parameters, we explored coscreening against two distinct, independently traceable myxoviruses in a single-well setting. Having identified a pair of unrelated pathogenic myxoviruses (influenza A virus and measles virus) with comparable replication kinetics, we observed unimpaired coreplication of both viruses, generated suitable firefly and Renilla luciferase reporter constructs, respectively, and validated the protocol for up to a 384-well plate format. Combined with an independent counterscreen using a recombinant respiratory syncytial virus luciferase reporter, implementation of the protocol identified candidates with a broadened antimyxovirus profile, in addition to pathogen-specific hits. Mechanistic characterization revealed a newly discovered broad-spectrum lead that does not block viral entry but stimulates effector pathways of the innate cellular antiviral response. In summary, we provide proof of concept for the efficient discovery of broad-spectrum myxovirus inhibitors in parallel to para- and orthomyxovirus-specific hit candidates in a single screening campaign. The newly identified compound provides a basis for the development of a novel broad-spectrum small-molecule antiviral class.
Topical application of L-arginine blocks advanced glycation by ascorbic acid in the lens of hSVCT2 transgenic mice

Purpose: Previous experiments from our laboratory showed that the oral intake of selected guanidino compounds could block the formation of crystallin-bound advanced ascorbylation products. Here we tested whether these were also active when applied as eye drops. Methods: Two month old hSVCT2 transgenic mice (n=10) were treated twice daily with one drop of 0.1% L-arginine, γ-guanidinobutyric acid (GBA), penicillamine (PA) or N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in one eye and vehicle only in the other eye. After seven months, lens crystallins were isolated, dialyzed, and proteolytically digested to determine the proteinbound fluorescence at 335/385 and 370/440 nm excitation/emission and the advanced glycation/ascorbylation endproducts carboxymethyl-lysine (CML), carboxyethyl-lysine (CEL), glucosepane, glyoxal, and methylglyoxal hydroimidazolones G-H1 and MG-H1. The topical uptake of L-arginine and NAC was also evaluated in vitro and in vivo in rabbit lens. Results: In hSVCT2 mice, L-arginine decreased 335/385 and 370/440 nm fluorescence by 40% (p<0.001), CML, CEL, and glucosepane crystallin crosslinks by 35% (p<0.05), 30% (p<0.05), and 37% (p<0.05), respectively, without affecting MG-H1 and G-H1. NAC decreased 335/385 nm fluorescence by 50% (p<0.001) but, like PA and GBA, had no effect on other modifications. L-Arginine uptake into rabbit eyes treated topically reached identical lenticular plateau levels (~400 nmol/g wet weight) at 0.5% and 2.0% but levels remained three times higher at 5 h at 2% versus 0.5% concentration, respectively. In vitro studies showed a 100 fold higher L-arginine level than NAC levels, implicating high affinity uptake of the former. Conclusions: L-Arginine when applied both orally and topically is a potent and broad suppressor of advanced ascorbylation in the lens. Its uptake in rabbit lens upon topical application suggests transcorneal uptake into the human lens should be feasible for testing its potential anticataract properties in clinical trials.
Oil Pipeline Corridor Through an Intact Forest Alters Ground Beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) Assemblages in Southeastern Ohio

Litter-dwelling ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) assemblages were monitored 1 yr after the construction of a corridor for installation of an oil pipeline along a xeric ridge-top forest in southeastern Ohio. After the creation of the corridor, three distinct habitats were evident in these sites: open corridor, ecotone areas around the corridor, and undisturbed forest interior. Carabidae were collected using directional pitfall traps that were placed parallel and perpendicular to the corridor in each of the three habitats. Results indicate that more carabids were present in the ecotone than in the other two habitats. Carabid diversity as estimated by rarefaction was highest in the corridor followed by ecotone and forest interior. Generalist and forest specialists such as Synuchus impunctatus (Say), Carabus goryi Dejean, and Pterostichus trinarius (Casey) were present in greater numbers in the forest interior and ecotone assemblages. In contrast, open-habitat specialists such as Harpalus pensylvanicus (DeGeer) and Selenophorus opalinus (LeConte) were present in greater numbers in the corridor assemblages. Carabid assemblages of the corridor were distinct from those of the ecotone and forest interior, whereas the latter two habitats had very similar assemblages. The successional pathway of the corridor carabid assemblage will therefore be likely different from that of the forest interior and ecotone. Overall, results indicate that construction of the oil pipeline corridor had significant short-term effects on the carabid numbers, diversity, and species composition because of ensuing habitat changes and fragmentation of the forest.
A revision of the Oocyclus Sharp of Thailand with description of six new species (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)

The species of Oocyclus Sharp occurring in Thailand are revised. Seven species are recorded, including six described as new: O. foxae Short & Swanson, sp. n., O. melinoventris Short & Swanson, sp. n., O. namtok Short & Swanson, sp. n., O. sitesi Short & Swanson, sp. n., O. sumatrensis d’Orchymont, O. thailensis Short & Swanson, sp. n., and O. viridescens Short & Swanson, sp. n. Previous records of an eighth species, O. bhutanicus Sato, need to be confirmed. Consistent with the known biology of other Oocyclu s, all species are associated with hygropetric habitats, including waterfalls and rock seeps. A key to the species of Thai Oocyclus is given. Male genitalia are illustrated and digital photographs of the holotypes of O. melinoventris and O. sitesi are provided (online version in color).
Analyzing chronic dream ego responses in co-creative dream analysis

With the advent of the co-creative dream paradigm, which is based on the principle that dreams are indeterminate from the outset, and co-created through the reciprocal exchanges between the ego and emergent dream content, the analysis of the dreamer’s responses becomes an important new dimension in dream analysis. In this paper, the author develops the hypothesis that chronic dream ego responses can be traced to two sources in the individual’s prior experience: 1) trauma and loss, and 2) introjected parental and cultural ideals. The individual’s efforts to prevent trauma and loss from recurring accounts for “reactive adaptive responses,” and attempts to emulate introjected ideals results in “compliant adaptive responses.” Both of these types of chronic responses can be identified with the dreamer’s help in dream analysis, and facilitative alternatives can be formulated in dialogue with the dreamer. The author presents a sequence of steps that can be used as a standalone method, or incorporated into existing dream work
Stories of a Storm: A Content Analysis of Mainstream, Small-Press, and Self-Published Picture Books about Hurricane Katrina

The researchers examined mainstream, small-press, and self-published picture books about Hurricane Katrina, analyzing rhetorical purpose, representations of race, and responses to the storm, including decisions regarding evacuation, accepting institutional assistance, and relocating or returning. A comparison revealed that, taken together, the small-press and self-published titles more accurately depict the wide array of survivor experiences than do the mainstream titles, which tend to reinforce a few major patterns and storylines, perhaps for the benefit of an audience outside of the affected areas. Implications for library collection development are discussed.
Hepatitis B Vaccination Coverage and Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Among Children in French Polynesia, 2014

French Polynesia is considered to be moderately endemic for chronic hepatitis B virus infection, with an estimated 3% of the population having hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). From 1990 to 1992, a 3-dose hepatitis B vaccination series was introduced into the routine infant immunization schedule in French Polynesia, including a birth dose (BD). In 2014, a nationally representative 2-stage cluster survey was undertaken to evaluate the impact of the vaccination program on HBsAg prevalence among school children (∼6 years of age) in Cours Preparatoire (CP). Documented vaccination data were reviewed for all eligible children; children with consent were tested for HBsAg with a rapid point-of-care test. In total, 1,660 students were identified; 1,567 (94%) had vaccination data for review and 1,196 (72%) participated in the serosurvey. Three-dose vaccination coverage was 98%, while timely BD coverage, defined as a dose administered within 24 hours of life, was 89%. Receipt of the second and third doses was often delayed, with 75% and 55% receiving a second and third dose within 1 month of the recommended age, respectively. No children tested positive for HBsAg. French Polynesia's vaccination program has achieved high coverage and an HBsAg seroprevalence of 0% (0-0.5%) among CP school children, but timeliness of vaccination could be improved.
Implementation of a 3-Dimensional Dubins-Based UAV Path Generation Algorithm

This paper presents the implementation of a complete 3-D Dubins-based path planner, including non-coplanar and coplanar poses. Mathematical representation of a Dubins path in 3-dimensions has been extended into a complete planning methodology that provides a suitable solution to the implementation issues typically encountered for such a process. These include the numerical solution of the nonlinear implicit vector equations, as well as handling of non-coplanar and coplanar pose combinations. Since the suggested methodology breaks down for the case of coplanar poses, a complete planner is provided by diagnosing coplanar sets of poses, determining the solution within the plane containing them, and converting the 2-D solution to the 3-D environment.
Educating Family Business Owners: The Fundamental Intervention

This essay lays out an approach to educating family business owners that builds on the authors’ experience as consultants to complex family enterprises for over 30 years. Education is seen as an es...
Parental Cooperation with Social Services and Termination of Parental Rights in Israeli Court Cases of Child Maltreatment

Parental cooperation with social services in child maltreatment cases is fundamental to all forms of family intervention. If rehabilitation efforts fail and the child cannot be safely reunified with his parents, the state is authorized to initiate termination of parental rights (TPR) proceedings. Given the scant literature on parental cooperation and TPR, the present study examined associations between parental cooperation and TPR in Israeli court cases of child maltreatment. Comparisons between uncooperative (n = 106) and cooperative parents (n = 155) revealed that uncooperative parents were more than three times more likely to have their parental rights terminated than cooperative parents, controlling for child and parent characteristics. Parents who did not cooperate with social services had high levels of mental health problems, substance abuse, criminal records, and poverty and their children had more mental health concerns and suffered more from neglect. We discuss the important implications resulting from these findings, which include: the need to view the engagement of parents in the child welfare process as a specific goal in itself and develop research-based models specifically targeting multiple-problem families at high risk of TPR; the need for professionals to build a good working alliance with parents in order to strengthen their participation; the need to take into account different background conditions and stressors related to the parents in order to facilitate greater cooperation; and the need to assess the potential mental health needs of children involved in cases of maltreatment with low parental cooperation.
Hand,foot,and mouth disease epidemic and its correlation with meteorological conditions in Qingcheng District,Qingyuan

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of hand,foot,and mouth disease( HFMD) and its correlation with meteorological factors in Qingcheng District,Qingyuan,so as to provide scientific evidences for control and prevention measures. Methods Epidemic surveillance data from 2009 to 2013 in Qingcheng District were obtained from China Information System for Disease Prevention and Control,and corresponding meteorological data,from Qingyuan Climate Monitoring System. Descriptive epidemiological method was conducted to analyze epidemiological characteristics of HFMD and multiple regressions were adopted to test the correlation between the number of HFMD cases and meteorological factors. Results A total of 17 768 HFMD cases were reported from 2009 to 2013,with an average annual incidence of 517. 55 /100 thousand. The incidence was increased year by year from 2009 to 2011,while decreased dramatically from 2012 to 2013. Cases were reported in every street( town) around the district. The annual incidence was the highest in Dongcheng street,the combination zone between urban and rural area( 724. 840 /100 thousand). Most cases were mainly distributed from April to July( 56. 60%,10 056 /17 768),95. 04%( 16 886 /17 768) of them was children aged 5 years or younger,and 83. 29%( 14 800/17 768) was scattered children. There were 11 531 male cases and 6 237 female cases,and their average annual incidence rates were 651. 25 /100 thousand and 375. 50 /100 thousand,respectively. The ratio of male to female incidences was 1. 73∶ 1. EV 71 was the predominant strain of HFMD in this district( 62.50%,75/120). The increase in HFMD cases showed a positive correlation with the daily average temperature,precipitation,and daily average wind speed,respectively( β = 0. 264,0. 079,and 0. 064,P 0. 05 or P 0. 01),but a negative one with the daily average air pressure( β =- 0. 166,P 0. 01).Conclusion The occurrence of HFMD varied in area,season,age,gender,and occupation,and indicated a close correlation with the meteorological factors. Main actions should be taken to the focus groups and key locations to prevent and control HFMD before the epidemic season.
Influence of a Bacterial Amendment on Water Quality in Small Research Ponds for Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Production

There has been considerable interest worldwide in applying bacterial inocula to channel catfish ponds for improving water quality, especially for acceleration of ammonia nitrogen oxidation through bacterial nitrification. The effects of a selected bacterial amendment on water quality in small research ponds for channel catfish production were evaluated at the E. W. Shell Fisheries Center, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. Three ponds were treated with the bacterial amendment Waste & Sludge Reducer™ (Keeton Industries, Wellington, CO, USA) at three times the dose recommended by the manufacturer every 2 wk, and three ponds served as controls. There were nonconsistent minor differences in water quality between ponds treated with a commercial bacterial amendment and control ponds on several sampling dates. However, the average concentrations of water quality variables did not differ (P > 0.05) between the treatments and control. Channel catfish yield was not improved by applying the bacterial amendment. This study demonstrates that the bacterial amendment was of no benefit in improving water quality in well-managed catfish ponds where stocking rates, feeding rates, and amount of aeration are balanced.
Inhibition of adrenocorticotropin effects on adrenal cell membranes by synthetic adrenocorticotropin analogues: correlation of binding and adenylate cyclase activation.

Human ACTH and a number of ACTH peptide fragments were prepared by solid-phase synthesis. Of the analogues tested, only ACTH1-39 and ACTH1-24 stimulated rat adrenal membrane adenylate cyclase in vitro . Several shorter fragments, including ACTH6-39, ACTH9-24, ACTH9-19 amide, ACTH9-20, ACTH9-18, and ACTH12-39, inhibited stimulation of the enzyme by native bovine ACTH. The inhibition produced by this group of peptides appears to be specific for ACTH-stimulated adrenal adenylate cyclase. Basal and fluoride-stimulated enzyme activity in adrenal and fluoride- or epinephrine-stimulated activity in liver were not inhibited by ACTH9-24. To elucidate further the action of the inhibitory peptides, we tested their ability to inhibit the binding of [125I]ACTH1-24 to adrenal particles. Peptides having either agonist or antagonist activity in the adenylate cyclase assay were effective competitors for binding. The order of potency according to both adenylate cyclase inhibition and competitive binding affinity was ACTH6-39 > ACTH9-19 amide ≅ ACTH9-24 > ACTH9-20 ≅ ACTH9-18 > ACTH12-39. The analogues ACTH1-8, ACTH9-16, and ACTH19-39 were inactive in both the adenylate cyclase and binding systems. Comparison of this series of closely related peptides in two independent assay systems should more clearly define the structural requirements for the binding of ACTH to its membrane receptor.
Using Quizzes to Improve Exam Scores

This session will begin with an overview of the testing effect, i.e., the phenomena of retrieval having a positive effect on long-term memory, the testing effect has been demonstrated in a variety of different classroom settings across a range of disciplines. Multiple studies have found that quizzing generally improves long-term retention, and this effect can be enhanced by different quiz formats. Specifically, fill-in-the-blank quizzes result in higher multiple-choice exam scores than multiple-choice quizzes on the same material (examples include McDaniel, Anderson, Derbish, and Morrissette, 2007; Birenbaum, 2007; and Roediger & Marsh, 2005). We will then report on research weA¢â¬â¢ve conducted at George Mason University on the effect of an intermediate quiz type A¢â¬â fill-in with word bank. The session will continue with a discussion of possible new directions for the current study. The session will conclude with a discussion of the ways instructors from multiple disciplines can incorporate quizzes into their own classes to help their students retain and recall information more effectively.AÂ Birenbaum, M. (2007). Assessment and instruction preferences and their relationship with test anxiety and learning strategies. Higher Education, 53(6), 749-768.AÂ McDaniel, M.A., Anderson, J.L., Derbish, M.H., & Morrisette, N. (2007). Testing the testing effect in the classroom. European Journal of Cognitive Psychology, 19(405), 494-513.AÂ Roediger III, H.L., & Marsh, E.J. (2005). The Positive and Negative Consequences of Multiple-Choice Testing. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 31(5), 1155-1159.AÂ
“Happy Puppet” Syndrome

The diagnostic features of 36 cases of Angelman's “happy puppet” syndrome are reported from the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, London.
Measuring Force-Induced Dissociation Kinetics of Protein Complexes Using Single-Molecule Atomic Force Microscopy.

Abstract Proteins respond to mechanical force by undergoing conformational changes and altering the kinetics of their interactions. However, the biophysical relationship between mechanical force and the lifetime of protein complexes is not completely understood. In this chapter, we provide a step-by-step tutorial on characterizing the force-dependent regulation of protein interactions using in vitro and in vivo single-molecule force clamp measurements with an atomic force microscope (AFM). While we focus on the force-induced dissociation of E-cadherins, a critical cell–cell adhesion protein, the approaches described here can be readily adapted to study other protein complexes. We begin this chapter by providing a brief overview of theoretical models that describe force-dependent kinetics of biomolecular interactions. Next, we present step-by-step methods for measuring the response of single receptor–ligand bonds to tensile force in vitro. Finally, we describe methods for quantifying the mechanical response of single protein complexes on the surface of living cells. We describe general protocols for conducting such measurements, including sample preparation, AFM force clamp measurements, and data analysis. We also highlight critical limitations in current technologies and discuss solutions to these challenges.
Flipped Classroom Module on Shock for Medical Students.

Introduction This module teaches medical students about shock through a flipped classroom approach. By the conclusion of the module, students are able to differentiate the main types of shock, reco...
Total correction of tetralogy of Fallot

Abstract An analysis of the postoperative course in twenty-eight patients who had complete correction of tetralogy of Fallot is presented. Pertinent preoperative findings are summarized and the operative procedure is briefly described. During or following surgery, seven patients had a syndrome of low cardiac output, which was lethal in four. Factors which may have contributed to the development of this state are discussed. The operative mortality rate was 14 per cent. One patient died during re-operation for persistence of the ventricular septal defect; the over-all mortality rate was 18 per cent. Congestive heart failure developed in 42 per cent of surviving patients. This was transient in some and had a more protracted course in others. All patients recovered and late improvement was impressive. Possible mechanisms for this incidence of heart failure are presented. The ultimate result from surgery was considered excellent in the majority of cases. It is concluded that total correction is feasible in most patients with tetralogy of Fallot, with an acceptable surgical mortality.
Beyond Space (As We Knew It): Toward Temporally Integrated Geographies of Segregation, Health, and Accessibility: Space–Time Integration in Geography and GIScience

Many fundamental notions in geographic and social science research still tend to be conceptualized largely in static spatial terms, ignoring how our understanding of the issues we study can be greatly enriched through the lenses of time and human mobility. This article revisits three such notions: racial segregation, environmental exposure, and accessibility. It argues for the need to expand our analytical focus from static residential spaces to other relevant places and times in people's everyday lives. Mobility is an essential element of people's spatiotemporal experiences, and these complex experiences cannot be fully understood by just looking at where people live. As many social scientists are interested in studying segregation, environmental exposure, and accessibility, geographers can contribute to advancing temporally integrated analysis of these issues through careful examination of people's everyday experiences as their lives unfold in space and time. Interdisciplinary research along this line c...
Optical characterization of the Sandia fog facility

Degraded visual environments are a serious concern for modern sensing and surveillance systems. Fog is of interest due to the frequency of its formation along our coastlines disrupting border security and surveillance. Fog presents hurdles in intelligence and reconnaissance by preventing data collection with optical systems for extended periods. We will present recent results from our work in operating optical systems in our controlled fog experimental chamber. This facility is a 180-foot-long, 10-foot-wide, and 10-foot-tall structure that has over 60 spray nozzles to achieve uniform aerosol coverage with various particle size, distributions, and densities. We will discuss the physical formation of fog in nature and how our generated fog compares. In addition, we will discuss fog distributions and characterization techniques. We will investigate the biases of different methods and discuss the different techniques that are appropriate for realistic environments. Finally, we will compare the data obtained from our characterization studies against accepted models (e.g., MODTRAN) and validate the usage of this unique capability as a controlled experimental realization of natural fog formations. By proving the capability, we will enable the testing and validation of future fog penetrating optical systems and providing a platform for performing optical propagation experimentation in a known, stable, and controlled environment.
Phase Separation in Ti-6Al-4V Alloys with Boron Additions for Biomedical Applications: Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy Investigation of Microgalvanic Couples and Corrosion Initiation

To investigate the effect of boron additions on the corrosion behavior of Ti-6Al-4V for potential use in biomedical implants and devices, cast samples of Ti-6Al-4V were alloyed with 0.01% to 1.09% boron by weight and subjected to hot isostatic pressing. Subsequent analysis via scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive spectroscopy revealed the presence of both alpha (α) and beta (β) phase titanium, enriched in aluminum and vanadium, respectively. At all concentrations, boron additions affected the grain structure and were dispersed throughout both phases, but above the solubility limit, needle-like TiB structures also formed. The TiB needles and β phase exhibited similar surface potentials, whereas that of the α phase was found to be significantly lower. Nevertheless, when subjected to high applied electrochemical potentials in saline solutions, corrosion initiation was observed exclusively within the more noble β phase.
Neuroimaging in neurodevelopmental disorders: focus on resting-state fMRI analysis of intrinsic functional brain connectivity.

Purpose of reviewResting-state fMRI assessment of instrinsic functional brain connectivity (rs-fcMRI) in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) allows assessment of participants with a wide range of functioning levels, and collection of multisite databases that facilitate large-scale analysis. These hetero