cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Testing WiNoC-enabled multicore chips with BIST for wireless interconnects

Complex multicore Systems-on-Chips (SoCs) require large testing time and consume high amounts of power during post manufacturing test. With the advent of Network-on-Chip (NoC) based interconnections, the NoC has been envisioned to be reused as the Test Access Mechanism (TAM) to reduce hardware overheads for testing. Therefore, testing the TAM is critical as it provides the interconnection backbone for such chips and detecting a fault in the TAM can flag a faulty SoC early in the testing process. However, multi-hop data transfer over traditional NoCs can result in slow test times especially, for large multicore SoCs. In recent years, conventional NoC fabrics augmented with wireless transceivers to form Wireless NoCs (WiNoCs) have improved message latency and energy consumption in on-chip data transfer. Therefore, in this paper we propose to augment NoC-based TAMs with wireless interfaces to form a WiNoC based TAM (WiTAM) providing single-hop test delivery paths in the NoC. As the wireless transceivers themselves can be faulty, we propose a novel fault model and Built-In-Self-Test (BIST) based test methodology for the wireless interconnects. We present a model to estimate the test time and evaluate the testing time and power of the WiTAM. We demonstrate that the WiTAM can reduce the test time as well as the energy-delay product of testing of the WiNoC. Moreover, we show that test time for testing cores of a multicore SoC with WiTAM can also be reduced compared to a wired NoC.
Emerging neurotechnology for antinoceptive mechanisms and therapeutics discovery

The tolerance, abuse, and potential exacerbation associated with classical chronic pain medications such as opioids creates a need for alternative therapeutics. Phenotypic screening provides a complementary approach to traditional target-based drug discovery. Profiling cellular phenotypes enables quantification of physiologically relevant traits central to a disease pathology without prior identification of a specific drug target. For complex disorders such as chronic pain, which likely involves many molecular targets, this approach may identify novel treatments. Sensory neurons, termed nociceptors, are derived from dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and can undergo changes in membrane excitability during chronic pain. In this review, we describe phenotypic screening paradigms that make use of nociceptor electrophysiology. The purpose of this paper is to review the bioelectrical behavior of DRG neurons, signaling complexity in sensory neurons, various sensory neuron models, assays for bioelectrical behavior, and emerging efforts to leverage microfabrication and microfluidics for assay development. We discuss limitations and advantages of these various approaches and offer perspectives on opportunities for future development.
Hierarchical clustering of gene-level association statistics reveals shared and differential genetic architecture among traits in the UK Biobank

Abstract Genome-wide association (GWA) studies have generally focused on a single phenotype of interest. Emerging biobanks that pair genotype data from thousands of individuals with phenotype data using medical records or surveys enable testing for genetic associations in each phenotype assayed. However, methods for characterizing shared genetic architecture among multiple traits are lagging behind. Here, we present a new method, Ward clustering to identify Internal Node branch length outliers using Gene Scores (WINGS), for characterizing shared and divergent genetic architecture among multiple phenotypes. The objective of WINGS (freely available at https://github.com/ramachandran-lab/PEGASUS-WINGS) is to identify groups of phenotypes, or “clusters”, that share a core set of genes enriched for mutations in cases. We show in simulations that WINGS can reliably detect phenotype clusters across a range of percent shared architecture and number of phenotypes included. We then use the gene-level association test PEGASUS with WINGS to characterize shared genetic architecture among 87 case-control and seven quantitative phenotypes in 349,468 unrelated European-ancestry individuals from the UK Biobank. We identify 10 significant phenotype clusters that contain two to eight phenotypes. One significant cluster of seven immunological phenotypes is driven by seven genes; these genes have each been associated with two or more of those same phenotypes in past publications. WINGS offers a precise and efficient new application of Ward hierarchical clustering to generate hypotheses regarding shared genetic architecture among phenotypes in the biobank era.
"I just don't want to be fat!": body talk, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorder symptoms in mother-adolescent girl dyads.

Mothers serve as a primary socializing figure among adolescent girls at a time when they are at high risk of body image concerns and disordered eating behavior, and this influence may vary by weight status. Body talk may be one mechanisms of influence in this relationship. The current study utilized an observational measure of body talk to investigate the relationship between adolescent girls’ body talk with mothers, eating disorder symptoms, and body dissatisfaction. Participants included 100 mother–daughter dyads who completed self-report measures of body dissatisfaction and eating behavior and engaged in a 10-min discussion about the daughter’s body image. Results indicated that the relationship between both positive and negative body talk and body dissatisfaction varied by weight status. For healthy/underweight adolescents, negative body talk is related to higher body dissatisfaction (b = 0.04, SE 0.01, p < 0.01) and positive talk is related to lower body dissatisfaction (b = − 0.06, SE 0.02, p < 0.001). No relationship was found for individuals of overweight/obese status. Body talk was unrelated to eating disorder symptoms for all adolescents. Given the current findings, mothers should continue to limit their engagement in body talk (particularly negative talk) within the home. V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
Neurologic Emergencies from Recreational Substances

Recreational substances have been used by humans to attain an altered state of consciousness for thousands of years. These drugs can be classified into three main categories: stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens. Although significant overlap exists between categories, delineating the substances in this manner helps classify their physiological effects and treatment strategies for overdose and withdrawal. Stimulants activate the central nervous system and include substances like caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and cathinones. Cardinal features of stimulant use include agitation and sympathomimetic effects. Depressants inhibit the central nervous system and include alcohol, opiates, cannabinoids, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), and inhalants. The effects of depressants include lethargy and psychomotor retardation. Hallucinogens are associated with both stimulant and depressant effects and the primary feature of hallucinations. These drugs include lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), phencyclidine (PCP), mescaline, psilocybin, and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Recreational drug use can present with multiple neurologic complications including altered mental status, stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, seizure, or hyperthermia. Identifying a patient who has abused drugs can be vital to effective treatment.
Phase Diagram and Structure Map of Binary Nanoparticle Superlattices from a Lennard-Jones Model

A first-principles prediction of the binary nanoparticle phase diagram assembled by solvent evaporation has eluded theoretical approaches. In this paper, we show that a binary system interacting th...
Many Faced Hate: A Cross Platform Study of Content Framing and Information Sharing by Online Hate Groups

Hate groups are increasingly using multiple social media platforms to promote extremist ideologies. Yet we know little about their communication practices across platforms. How do hate groups (or "in-groups"), frame their hateful agenda against the targeted group or the "out-group?" How do they share information? Utilizing "framing" theory from social movement research and analyzing domains in the shared links, we juxtapose the Facebook and Twitter communication of 72 Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designated hate groups spanning five hate ideologies. Our findings show that hate groups use Twitter for educating the audience about problems with the out-group, maintaining positive self-image by emphasizing in-group's high social status, and for demanding policy changes to negatively affect the out-group. On Facebook, they use fear appeals, call for active participation in group events (membership requests), all while portraying themselves as being oppressed by the out-group and failed by the system. Our study unravels the ecosystem of cross-platform communication by hate groups, suggesting that they use Facebook for group radicalization and recruitment, while Twitter for reaching a diverse follower base.
A Journey of Transformative Living: A Female Daoist Reflection

By presenting the original works of female Daoist Cao Wenyi 曹文逸 (1039–1115) from the Song dynasty, this essay will examine how reality and human life were understood and what method was used by this female practitioner of Dao. Thus, this study might become a link for the cross-fertilization between the more abstract fields of philosophy and the concrete methodology of the study of women thinkers, leading to a comprehensive scheme for a better understanding of women’s contribution to our knowledge in a global setting. In other words, the case of this female Daoist will invite us to a further methodological reflection: What does it mean to read those forgotten, marginalized women philosophers? How does it change philosophy? What do we learn from their thoughts and experiences?
THE USE OF POSTURAL RESTORATION FOR TREATMENT OF CHRONIC ROTATOR CUFF PATHOLOGY: A CASE REPORT.

Background and purpose Postural Restoration Institute® (PRI) theories and rehabilitation techniques focus on restoring balance to anatomical systems. Common postural asymmetries can present in athletes as dysfunctions and limitations. The purpose of this case report was to examine the use of PRI exercises and theories to address pelvic alignment, along with core stabilization, during treatment of shoulder dysfunction in a collegiate volleyball player. Case description A 22-year-old female volleyball athlete reported unresolved right rotator cuff tendinopathy. She presented with bilateral rib cage flare, anterior pelvic tilt, and bilateral ROM differences in hip and shoulder internal and external rotation. PRI® special test findings included a positive left and right Adduction Drop Test (ADT), positive left Extension Drop, and Hruska Adduction Lift test (left=2, right=3) indicating posterior exterior chain (PEC) pattern of dysfunction. The traditional shoulder rehabilitation program from the previous season was eliminated and a PRI based intervention was performed. Intervention exercises included the 90/90 dead bug diaphragmatic breathing, 90/90 hamstring hip lift, and right sidelying respiratory left adductor pull back. Exercises were performed as three sets of ten diaphragmatic breathing repetitions, a minimum of three times weekly prior to activity. Outcomes Likert scale ratings of pain decreased from a six pre-intervention to two. The left hip gained 10° of internal rotation and the right hip gained 14° of external rotation. Right shoulder internal rotation increased 15°. Hruska Adduction Lift improved to a four bilaterally (right by day 24, and left by day 31). Left extension drop test was negative following day 17. Discussion PRI® exercises focusing on core and pelvic stability translated to improved hip and shoulder ROM, and decreased shoulder pain associated with rotator cuff tendinopathy. By treating pelvic alignment with the PRI® exercises, the ROM imbalance and pain at the shoulder joint were addressed. Conclusion Incorporating PRI exercises and theories into the rehabilitation program of a volleyball player was useful in addressing underlying imbalances throughout the kinetic chain. Level of evidence 3b.
COVID-19 prevalence in 161 countries and over time

Abstract Effectively evaluating, controlling and predicting the course of the COVID-19 pandemic requires knowledge of the true number of infections in the population. This number, however, generally differs substantially from the number of confirmed cases due to a large fraction of asymptomatic infections as well as geographically and temporally variable testing effort and strategies. Here I use age-stratified death count statistics, published age-dependent infection fatality risks and stochastic modeling to estimate the true prevalence and growth of COVID-19 infections among adults (age ≥ 20 years) in 161 countries, from early 2020 until November 1, 2020. My predictions are largely consistent with data from multiple previous nationwide seroprevalence surveys. As of November 1, 2020, the nationwide cumulative COVID-19 prevalence (past and current infections relative to the population size) is estimated at 31% (95%-CI 22-50) for Peru, 27% (17–41) for Mexico, 22% (14–34) for Brazil, 12% (7.2-20) for the US, 11% (6.4–18) for the United Kingdom, 8.2% (5.2–15) for France, 7.4% (4.9–13) for Sweden, 4.2% (2.5–6.8) for Canada, 1.8% (1.2–3) for Germany and 0.12% (0.074–0.26) for Japan. These time-resolved estimates expand the possibilities to evaluate the factors influencing the pandemic’s progression and to assess vaccination needs around the world. Periodically updated estimates are available at: www.loucalab.com/archive/COVID19prevalence
Features of panel flutter response to shock boundary layer interactions

Abstract The compounding effects of panel flutter and oblique shock impingement are of great concern to the development of light-weight, high-speed vehicles. Shock-induced panel flutter response is investigated at M = 2 and R e = 120 , 000 using the Navier–Stokes equations closely coupled to the von-Karman equations. A naturally occurring laminar inflow boundary layer and incident oblique shockwave are specified through the boundary conditions. The shockwave impinges at the midpoint of a flexible panel. Several incident shock strengths and non-dimensional dynamic pressures are examined. The resulting fluid–structure interaction is significant and is described in detail. In general, the incident shockwaves lead to higher frequency, higher mode flutter when compared to the configuration without an impinging shockwave or with an impinging shockwave in inviscid flow. Additionally, the presence of a compliant surface is shown to promote turbulent transition downstream of the shock boundary layer interaction.
Solving Backward Doubly Stochastic Differential Equations through Splitting Schemes.

A splitting scheme for backward doubly stochastic differential equations is proposed. The main idea is to decompose a backward doubly stochastic differential equation into a backward stochastic differential equation and a stochastic differential equation. The backward stochastic differential equation and the stochastic differential equation are then approximated by first order finite difference schemes, which results in a first order scheme for the backward doubly stochastic differential equation. Numerical experiments are conducted to illustrate the convergence rate of the proposed scheme.
Quantitative anatomy mimicking slice phantoms

Purpose To present a reproducible methodology for building an anatomy mimicking phantom with targeted T1 and T2 contrast for use in quantitative magnetic resonance imaging. Methods We propose a reproducible method for creating high-resolution, quantitative slice phantoms. The phantoms are created using gels with different concentrations of NiCl2 and MnCl2 to achieve targeted T1 and T2 values. We describe a calibration method for accurately targeting anatomically realistic relaxation pairs. In addition, we developed a method of fabricating slice phantoms by extruding 3D printed walls on acrylic sheets. These procedures are combined to create a physical analog of the Brainweb digital phantom. Results With our method, we are able to target specific T1 /T2 values with less than 10% error. Additionally, our slice phantoms look realistic since their geometries are derived from anatomical data. Conclusion Standardized and accurate tools for validating new techniques across sequences, platforms, and different imaging sites are important. Anatomy mimicking, multi-contrast phantoms designed with our procedures could be used for evaluating, testing, and verifying model-based methods.
Perceptions and realities of hydroclimatic change affecting Guyanese rice farming

Abstract This study explores small farmers' perceptions of changes in climate across Guyana’s rice-producing regions. Qualitative, primary data were collected from a random sample of 189 small farmers, supplemented with 28 key informants, from across Guyana’s five main rice-producing regions. The most prevalent perception related to precipitation among farmers is an increase in rainfall year-round (56%), while for informants, it is an increase in rainfall intensity (81%). When considering the atmospheric conditions of temperature and humidity, farmers (88%) and informants (96%) overwhelmingly perceive warmer conditions. Considering weather and climate volatility, farmers (72%) and informants (82%) most prevalently perceive an increase in excess rainfall/flooding, but secondly, farmers (58%) and informants (71%) communicated a perceived increase in drought. Secondary quantitative hydroclimate data support the perception of a wetter climate, and to some degree, increased hydroclimatic volatility. Precipitation is critical to rice cultivation, and the data sets, combined, signal a wetter Guyanese climate, which has major economic implications for small farmers, the broader rice industry, and the economy of Guyana. However, granularity in farmers’ perceptions suggests a need for more detailed hydroclimate monitoring across Guyana. Thus, strengthening the Guyanese Hydrometeorological Service to support improved spatial and temporal monitoring and collection of primary weather data would be a wise investment in short- and long-term climate mitigation efforts.
Experiencing Empathy Through A Polypharmacy Simulation Experience in Baccalaureate Nursing Education

Abstract Background The increase in the older population highlights the need for nursing students to be prepared to provide quality care to older adults and address the impact of polypharmacy.The purpose of this study was to measure changes in empathy after participation in a polypharmacy simulation for geriatric clients among prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students. Sample A convenience sample consisted of junior and senior prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students (n = 34) at a large public institution. Methods This study is a quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design. Student participants were given a prescription that included seven medications to be taken at various times in multiple configurations. Students completed the 15 item Kiersma-Chen Empathy Scale (KCES) as a pretest and posttest after completion of the mock prescription. Results Using a paired t test, a significant difference was found in the group’s mean score after the intervention. Conclusions Simulation activities can increase empathy in prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students.
Universal condensation heat transfer and pressure drop model and the role of machine learning techniques to improve predictive capabilities

Abstract A novel, universal model is proposed to predict the condensation frictional pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient for horizontal microchannel and macrochannel flows. Over 4000 data points across the entire vapor quality range are collected with mass fluxes ranging from 50 – 800 kg m−2 s−1, reduced pressures from 0.03 – 0.96, and hydraulic diameters from 0.1 – 14.45 mm. The working fluids include synthetic refrigerants (R1234ze(E), R134a, R245fa, R404A, R410A), hydrocarbons (pentane and propane), and natural refrigerants (ammonia and carbon dioxide). Several models, including flow-regime based correlations and machine learning regression models (support vector regression, random forest, and artificial neural networks) are developed and compared with each other. Overall, machine learning algorithms, especially the random forest model, predict the data best for the pressure drop and heat transfer, with an absolute average deviation of about 4% for both models.
Dexterous Skill Transfer between Surgical Procedures for Teleoperated Robotic Surgery

In austere environments, teleoperated surgical robots could save the lives of critically injured patients if they can perform complex surgical maneuvers under limited communication bandwidth. The bandwidth requirement is reduced by transferring atomic surgical actions (referred to as “surgemes”) instead of the low-level kinematic information. While such a policy reduces the bandwidth requirement, it requires accurate recognition of the surgemes. In this paper, we demonstrate that transfer learning across surgical tasks can boost the performance of surgeme recognition. This is demonstrated by using a network pre-trained with peg-transfer data from Yumi robot to learn classification on debridement on data from Taurus robot. Using a pre-trained network improves the classification accuracy achieves a classification accuracy of 76% with only 8 sequences in target domain, which is 22.5% better than no-transfer scenario. Additionally, ablations on transfer learning indicate that transfer learning requires 40% less data compared to no-transfer to achieve same classification accuracy. Further, the convergence rate of the transfer learning setup is significantly higher than the no-transfer setup trained only on the target domain.
Integration of the Salmonella Typhimurium methylome and transcriptome following environmental or metabolic perturbation reveals DNA methylation and transcriptional regulation are largely decoupled

Despite being in a golden age of prokaryotic epigenomics, little work has systematically examined the plasticity and functional impacts of the bacterial DNA methylome. Here, we leveraged SMRT sequencing to examine the m6A DNA methylome of two Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium strains: 14028s and a ∆metJ mutant with derepressed methionine metabolism, grown in Luria Broth or a media that simulates the intracellular environment. We find that the methylome is remarkably static-over 95% of adenosine bases retain their methylation status across conditions. Integration of methylation with transcriptomic data revealed no correlation between methylation and gene expression. Further, examining the transcriptome in ∆yhdJ bacteria, lacking the m6A methylase with the most dynamic methylation pattern in our dataset, revealed little evidence of YhdJ-mediated gene regulation. Curiously, despite G(m6A)TC motifs being particularly resistant to change across conditions, we found that the Dam methylase is required for the ∆metJ motility defect. This ∆;metJ motility defect may be partially driven by hypermethylation of the chemotaxis gene tsr. Together, these data redefine the S. Typhimurium epigenome as a highly stable system that has rare, but important, roles in transcriptional regulation. Incorporating these lessons into future studies will be critical as we progress through the epigenomic era.
What beyond CMMI is needed to help assure program and project success

The U.S. Department of Defense and other parts of the U.S. government use the Capability Maturity Model Integrated (CMMI) for process improvement to reduce the risk of poor performance by its major contractors. Acquisition officials have reported that many of its major programs suffer from cost, schedule, and technical performance problems even though those programs are being implemented by companies which rate high with respect to the CMMI. This paper explores possible reasons why companies with high CMMI ratings can still have significant performance problems and suggests possible remedies.
Cultural and Environmental Factors Affecting the Longevity of Escherichia coli in Histosols

The survival of Escherichia coli in organic soils (Histosols) was examined. The death rate of this organism in Pahokee muck was less than that observed in Pompano fine sand. The number of viable E. coli cells found in the muck was approximately threefold greater than that found in the sand following 8 days of incubation. The initial population of the coliform affected the death rate. The rate of loss of viability varied 100-fold when the population size decreased from 2.5 x 10(7) to 3.4 x 10(4). Other factors affecting the viability of E. coli in muck were aerobic versus anaerobic growth of the organism and moist versus flooded conditions in the soil. The greatest survival of the coliform was noted with anaerobically grown cells amended to flooded soil. That the observed decrease in E. coli viability in soil was the result of biotic factors was demonstrated with amendment of sterile soil with E. coli. When 1.1 x 10(5) bacteria per g of soil were added to sterile muck, a population of 3.0 x 10(7) organisms per g of soil developed over a 10-day period. The role of the protozoa in eradication of the coliform from the muck was indicated by a sixfold increase in the protozoan population in natural soil amended with E. coli. Higher organic matter content in a Histosol compared with a mineral soil resulted in an increased survival of the fecal coliforms. Biotic factors are instrumental in the decline in coliform populations, but the potential for growth of the coliform in the organic soil could extend the survival of the organism.
Ambient intelligence environments for accessing building information: A healthcare facility management scenario

Purpose – Healthcare facility managers work in complex and dynamic environments where critical decisions are constantly made. Providing them with enhanced decision support systems would result in a positive impact on the productivity and success of the projects they undertake, as well as the sustainability of critical healthcare infrastructure. The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual ambient intelligent environment for enhancing the decision-making process of the facility managers. This low-cost data-rich environment would use building information modeling (BIM) and mobile augmented reality (MAR) as technological bases for the natural human-computer interfaces and aerial drones as technological tools. Design/methodology/approach – This paper presents a scenario for the integration of augmented reality (AR) and building information modeling (BIM) to build an ambient intelligent (AmI) environment for facility managers where mobile, natural, user interfaces would provide the users with required ...
Restructuring Urban Schools: A Chicago Perspective

Restructuring Urban Schools: A Chicago Perspective. G. Alfred Hess Jr. New York: Teachers College Press, 1995. 247 pp.
Uniform formation of uranium oxide nanocrystals inside ordered mesoporous hosts and their potential applications as oxidative catalysts

Highly dispersed uranium oxide nanocrystals supported on ordered mesoporous silica matrixes with large surface areas and porosities have been synthesized via a co-assembly methodology; the preliminary catalysis tests showed that these materials have a high catalytic activity for the thermal oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Prepregnancy Obesity Predicts Poor Vitamin D Status in Mothers and Their Neonates

Obesity is a risk factor for vitamin D deficiency but this relation has not been studied among pregnant women who must sustain their own vitamin D stores as well as those of their fetuses. Our objective was to assess the effect of prepregnancy BMI on maternal and newborn 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations. Serum 25(OH)D was measured at 4-21 wk gestation and predelivery in 200 white and 200 black pregnant women and in their neonates cord blood. We used multivariable logistic regression models to assess the independent association between BMI and the odds of vitamin D deficiency [25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L] after adjustment for race/ethnicity season gestational age multivitamin use physical activity and maternal age. Compared with lean women (BMI < 25) pregravid obese women (BMI $30) had lower adjusted mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations at 4-22 wk (56.5 vs. 62.7 nmol/L; P < 0.05) and a higher prevalence vitamin D deficiency (61 vs. 36%; P < 0.01). Vitamin D status of neonates born to obese mothers was poorer than neonates of lean mothers (adjusted mean 50.1 vs. 56.3 nmol/L; P < 0.05). There was a dose-response trend between prepregnancy BMI and vitamin D deficiency. An increase in BMI from 22 to 34 was associated with 2-fold (95% CI: 1.2 3.6) and 2.1-fold (1.2 3.8) increases in the odds of mid-pregnancy and neonatal vitamin D deficiency respectively. The rise in maternal obesity highlights that maternal and newborn vitamin D deficiency will continue to be a serious public health problem until steps are taken to identify and treat low 25(OH)D. (authors)
Construction of the Mental: From the `Cognitive Revolution' to the Study of Development

Developmental theorizing in psychology is shown to be based on axiomatic grounds that are antithetical to those of `the cognitive revolution'. Therefore it is not surprising that cognitivism has had a very limited impact upon our knowledge of developmental processes. Instead, it has had curious `side-effects'-it has kept the investigators' attention away from the processes of development, and has fortified the historically strong emphasis on the study of those psychological functions that have already developed. The question of how cognitive processes emerge, develop and reach their fully functional states has been replaced by the question of whether persons (at different age levels) can be shown to 'possess' specific mental functions that are adaptive in specific task settings.
The association of antinuclear antibodies, antilymphocyte antibodies, and c4 activation among the relatives of children with systemic lupus erythematosus. preferential activation of complement in sisters

We studied 31 children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 108 first-degree relatives of the children to determine if HLA type, familial relationship to patient, or gender influenced the familial aggregation of SLE and the serologic and serum complement abnormalities associated with SLE. There were no significant relationships between the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA), antilymphocyte antibodies (ALA), or circulating immune complexes. Furthermore, there was no correlation between the occurrence of ANA, ALA, or circulating immune complexes with HLA type or relationship to patient. Both ANA and ALA were associated with a reduction in the mean serum C4 level, without a corresponding reduction in mean serum C3 or CH50. The reduction in mean serum C4 level with ALA occurred without regard to the subject's relationship to the patient, but the reduction in mean serum C4 level with ANA was significant only among the sisters. Because of these data, it seems that the sisters of patients with SLE are more likely than other relatives to have activation of the complement system in association with serologic abnormalities. Those sisters with ANA and ALA had the greatest amount of complement activation and may be the relatives at greatest risk for the subsequent development of SLE.
Recovery of vibrissae-dependent behavioral responses following barrelfield damage is not dependent upon the remaining somatosensory cortical tissue

Abstract Previous work has demonstrated that damage to the primary somatosensory cortex produces substantial deficits in a vibrissal cue-dependent discrimination task which recover gradually over the course of post-injury testing. The present study was designed to evaluate the possible site(s) and mechanisms underlying behavioral recovery in this task. Wistar rats were trained under red light in a T-maze to produce ipsilateral turns depending upon the presence of a vibrissal cue. Animals were then subjected to photothrombotic infractions of either the ipsilateral medial parietal cortex, the ipsilateral primary and secondary somatosensory cortex (SI/SII), the primary and secondary somatosensory cortices of both hemispheres (bilateral SI/SII) or sham surgical procedures. Behavioral testing resumed 24 hours following surgery, and continued for a total of 60 days. The performance of animals with infarcts restricted to the medial parietal cortex did not differ from that of sham-operated controls. Animals with either unilateral or bilateral SI/SII infarcts exhibited a significant decrease in percent correct responding as compared to shams and rats in the medial parietal group. These deficits recovered to pre-infarct levels over approximately 35–40 days. This rate of recovery was slower than the recovery exhibited by animals given medial parietal infarcts which spared the primary barrelfield cortex. The results of this study suggest that neither the contralateral somatosensory cortex nor the vibrissal representation within ipsilateral SII cortex play a critical role in the recovery process. The possibility that subcortical structures underlie the deficits observed following barrelfield cortical damage is discussed.
Tips for Teachers Selecting Toys to Facilitate Social Interaction

Toy selection is an important role for early childhood teachers. This research-to-practice article describes what research tells us about how toys can affect the social interactions and communication of young children including those with developmental delays.
Spillover Effects of the Uninsured: Local Uninsurance Rates and Medicare Mortality from Eight Procedures and Conditions

The presence of a large uninsured population may create incentives to providers that affect the care delivered to all individuals in a health care market. Using Current Population Survey data on uninsurance rates and hospital discharge data on Medicare beneficiaries, this study investigates the relationship between the uninsurance rate at the metropolitan statistical area (MSA) level and inpatient quality of care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries, as measured by mortality from eight procedures and conditions. The results do not indicate large or widespread negative effects of the uninsured on Medicare beneficiaries. However, some evidence suggests that the relationship between the local uninsurance rate and Medicare mortality does vary by market size.
A nonlinear elliptic equation arising from gauge field theory and cosmology

We study radially symmetric solutions of a nonlinear elliptic partial differential equation in R 2 with critical Sobolev growth, i. e. the nonlinearity is of exponential type. This problem arises from a wide variety of important areas in theoretical physics including superconductivity and cosmology. Our results lead to many interesting implications for the physical problems considered. For example, for the self-dual Chern–Simons theory, we are able to conclude that the electric charge, magnetic flux, or energy of a non-topological N -vortex solution may assume any prescribed value above an explicit lower bound. For the Einstein-matter-gauge equations, we find a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of a self-dual cosmic string solution. Such a condition imposes an obstruction for the winding number of a string in terms of the universal gravitational constant.
Automatic multi-range helium-liquefaction plant

Abstract A multi-range helium liquefaction plant, designed for automatic steadystate operation is described. Data are given for its operation during cool down, steady-state refrigeration and liquefaction under certain conditions. Information is also given on extending the system.
Modeling of analyte response to changing eluent composition in suppressed ion chromatography

Comportement a l'elution de Cl − , NO − 3 et SO 4 2− en utilisant le modele de Hoover modifie pour tenir compte des activites de la solution et de la resine
Methods and techniques for breeding the Irish potato

The workers in the Irish potato breeding and development program in Louisiana have devised a method for the very rapid screening of large populations both North and South. Since Southern states depend upon northern areas for seed production, any variety that is grown for seed should be thoroughly tested in all areas before it is released. With this system, complete evaluation, testing, and increase of seed can be brought about within a period of 8 to 10 years.
Envelope‐tracking EM‐CKT simulation of nonlinearly loaded wire antennas under broadband excitations

Novel temporal sampling and interpolation schemes are presented to improve the performance of envelope-tracking hybrid electromagnetic-circuit simulators that express voltages, currents, and fields of interest as series of harmonic sinusoids weighted by complex time-varying coefficients (envelopes). These schemes enable broader band simulations to be performed by expanding the range of validity of expressions that relate the envelopes of currents through nonlinear circuit elements to the envelopes of the voltages across them. Diode loaded wire antennas and antenna arrays are analyzed under broadband excitations to demonstrate the viability of the proposed schemes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 57:912–918, 2015
Efficacy of Sulbactam plus Ampicillin in Gynecologic Infections

The efficacy of sulbactam plus ampicillin in the treatment of various gynecologic infections was evaluated in 24 women (median age, 35 years). Ten women had pelvic cellulitis plus vaginal cuff abscess; six, pyeloperitonitis; three, vaginal cuff abscess; three, surgical wound sepsis; one, tubo-ovarian abscess; and one, endometritis. Surgical procedures preceding infection included abdominal hysterectomy, ovarian cyst removal, ectopic pregnancy, correction of cystocele, and uterine dilatation and curettage. Twenty patients received 1 g of sulbactam plus 1 g of ampicillin per dose; four received 0.5 g of sulbactam plus 1 g of ampicillin per dose. The combination was given iv every 6 hr for three to four days and then im every 8 hr for three to five days (mean treatment duration, seven days). Pus cultures yielded Enterobacteriaceae (21 cases), enterococci (two), Bacteroides fragilis (12), other Bacteroides species (five), Peptococcus species (nine), Peptostreptococcus species (seven), and other anaerobes (five). Six infections were purely anaerobic; 18 were mixed. All but two infections were cured by both clinical and bacteriologic criteria, with no adverse reactions. Parenteral sulbactam/ampicillin seems safe and effective in the treatment of gynecologic infections of moderate severity.
Using Sedimentation Velocity to Investigate the Nucleotide-Linked Assembly of E. coli ClpA

The AAA+ (ATPases Associated with various cellular Activities) group of proteins is a large superfamily whose members are present in single-celled and multi-celled organisms. This family is subdivided into two classes; Class I ATPases contain two ATPase domains per monomer while Class II ATPases contain one ATPase domain per monomer. Both classes utilize ATP binding and hydrolysis to undergo conformational changes that allow them to perform mechanical work. Further, the biologically active form for most members of the AAA+ family is a hexamer. Quantitatively examining the biologically-relevant activities for AAA+ proteins requires a precise determination of the concentration of hexamers in solution. The difficulty in determining the hexamer concentration is that the oligomeric state of interest often resides in a dynamic equilibrium. This leads to a distribution of oligomeric states in solution. Therefore, insight into nucleotide-linked assembly is required to be able to understand how any of the AAA+ motors function. ClpA is a Class I AAA+ protein. Apparent self-association equilibrium constants were obtained using sedimentation velocity and were subsequently analyzed using binding polynomials that incorporate either zero cooperativity or infinite cooperativity into the nucleotide binding process to yield apparent nucleotide binding constants. Here we show that the population of ClpA dimers, tetramers, and hexamers is dependent upon nucleotide concentration. Further, apparent nucleotide binding constants were found for each oligomeric state. The above-stated information was used to generate a prediction of ClpA hexamer population that takes into account nucleotide-linked assembly. We anticipate the results of this study will set the stage for being able to predict the concentration of hexamers at any given nucleotide concentration, therefore allowing us to probe the kinetic and energetic properties of ClpA as well as other members of the AAA+ superfamily.
Clinical experience transitioning from IMRT to VMAT for head and neck cancer

To quantify clinical differences for volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) versus intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in terms of dosimetric endpoints and planning and delivery time, twenty head and neck cancer patients have been considered for VMAT using Nucletron Oncentra MasterPlan delivered via an Elekta linear accelerator. Differences in planning time between IMRT and VMAT were estimated accounting for both optimization and calculation. The average delivery time per patient was obtained retrospectively using the record and verify software. For the dosimetric comparison, all contoured organs at risk (OARs) and planning target volumes (PTVs) were evaluated. Of the 20 cases considered, 14 had VMAT plans approved. Six VMAT plans were rejected due to unacceptable dose to OARs. In terms of optimization time, there was minimal difference between the two modalities. The dose calculation time was significantly longer for VMAT, 4 minutes per 358 degree arc versus 2 minutes for an entire IMRT plan. The overall delivery time was reduced by 9.2 ± 3.9 minutes for VMAT (51.4 ± 15.6%). For the dosimetric comparison of the 14 clinically acceptable plans, there was almost no statistical difference between the VMAT and IMRT. There was also a reduction in monitor units of approximately 32% from IMRT to VMAT with both modalities demonstrating comparable quality assurance results. VMAT provides comparable coverage of target volumes while sparing OARs for the majority of head and neck cases. In cases where high dose modulation was required for OARs, a clinically acceptable plan was only achievable with IMRT. Due to the long calculation times, VMAT plans can cause delays during planning but marked improvements in delivery time reduce patient treatment times and the risk of intra-fraction motion.
Antipsychotic treatment response in schizophrenia.

Purpose Research supporting the “early-onset” theory of antipsychotic activity is reviewed, with an emphasis on psychometric assessment of early response to antipsychotic agents as a tool for optimizing schizophrenia treatment outcomes. Summary A growing body of evidence indicates that a poor response to antipsychotic therapy in the first weeks of schizophrenia treatment may justify a prompt switch to alternative medication in some cases. In placebo-controlled trials of both first- and second-generation antipsychotics, nonresponse at week 1 or 2, as determined with assessment instruments such as the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), was found highly predictive of nonresponse at week 4 or later; however, an early favorable response to a particular antipsychotic agent does not appear to be a similarly strong predictor of continued responsiveness. While the available evidence indicates that the BPRS, PANSS, and other scoring tools can be useful in guiding schizophrenia treatment decisions, it also emphasizes the importance of patient-specific factors (e.g., severity of illness at diagnosis, age at symptom onset, premorbid adolescent functioning) as determinants of both initial and longer-term antipsychotic response. Conclusion The current evidence suggests that early nonresponse to antipsychotic treatment may predict subsequent non-response, though early response is not necessarily indicative of future response. If patients do not respond to treatment within the first two weeks of an acute exacerbation, clinicians (being cognizant of patient-specific factors) should consider switching antipsychotic agents, except in patients with first-episode psychosis, for whom a longer trial of the initially prescribed therapy appears to be appropriate.
THE CHROMOSOMES OF TUMORS INDUCED IN MICE BY HUMAN ADENOVIRUS, TYPE 12.

SummaryA chromosome study was done on 4 primary tumors and 71 passage tumors induced in mice by human adenovirus type 12. Fifty-six percent of the cells analyzed (1127/2001) showed the normal stemline (40 telocentrics), and 80% of the cells were in the diploid range (30 to 50). Aneuploidy, polyploidy, mixoploidy, low rates of endoploidy (S/2001), and relatively few structural aberrations (17/804) were present. Structural aberrations consisted of metacentrics, breaks, rejoining constrictions, rings, and extra long and minute chromosomes. Modality peaks at 42 and 55 were present; 1.2% of the cells were in the triploid range (52 to 69), 9.9% in the tetraploid range (75 to 84), and 2.5% were pentaploid and higher.
Interference Competition between the Net-Building Caddisfly Ceratopsyche oslari and the Amphipod Gammarus lacustris

ABSTRACT We investigated the interspecific interactions between the amphipod, Gammarus lacustris (Sars) and the cosmopolitan caddisfly, Ceratopsyche oslari (Banks). We believe this is an example of interference competition and may be one of several factors that limits the distribution of C. oslari from the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam. Field observations indicated that C. oslari was associated with fewer food capture nets in the Colorado River than in the Paria River tributary. Laboratory experiments indicated the amphipod Gammarus lacustris, which is abundant in the Colorado River but absent from the Paria River, had a detrimental effect on net-building success by C. oslari. Net numbers in laboratory chambers declined significantly after 6 d due to destruction by the swimming and feeding activities of G. lacustris. Competition with the introduced, non-native G. lacustris for interstitial spaces along with several abiotic factors, may limit the distribution of C. oslari in the Colorado River.
The nonlinear gyroresonance interaction between energetic electrons and coherent VLF waves propagating at an arbitrary angle with respect to the Earth's magnetic field

A theory is presented of the nonlinear gyroresonance interaction that takes place in the magnetosphere between energetic electrons and coherent VLF waves propagating in the whistler mode at an arbitrary angle psi with respect to the earth's magnetic field B-sub-0. Particularly examined is the phase trapping (PT) mechanism believed to be responsible for the generation of VLF emissions. It is concluded that near the magnetic equatorial plane gradients of psi may play a very important part in the PT process for nonducted waves. Predictions of a higher threshold value for PT for nonducted waves generally agree with experimental data concerning VLF emission triggering by nonducted waves.