cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of divided versus loop sigmoid colostomy in the management of anorectal malformation

Introduction: Anorectal malformation (ARM) is a birth defect of the digestive tract in which the anus and rectum are not normally developed. Surgical procedure such as colostomy (loop or divided) is suggested as the initial treatment for high variety ARM. Our objective was to compare frequency of stoma related complications of loop sigmoid colostomy versus divided sigmoid colostomy for high variety anorectal malformations. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out at children’s hospital and the institute of child health Lahore. A total of 180 patients were divided into two groups randomly using lottery method loop sigmoid colostomy (group-A) and divided sigmoid colostomy (group-B). After surgeries patients were followed weekly up till 4 weeks. Stoma related complications were noted. Results: The mean age in group A and group B were 3.22 ± 1.26 days and 3.36 ± 0.97 days respectively. In group A there were 77 male & 13 were female, in group B there were 67 male & 23 female patients. In group A 24.5% patients had complications: 3.4% patients had retraction, 11.1% had prolapse, 2.2% had Obstruction, parastomal hernia was seen in 5.6%, stoma necrosis were seen in 2.2%. In group B 20% patients had different complications: 2.2% patients had retraction, 2.2% had prolapse, 5.6% had obstruction, parastomal hernia were seen in 2.2% and stoma necrosis were seen in 7.8%. The complications in group A were higher when compared to group B but were not significant, p-value > 0.05. Conclusion: Divided sigmoid colostomy can be adopted to avoid stoma related complications in future.
Assessing the prevalence of meeting physical activity recommendations among U.S. healthcare workers: Data from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey.

We examined the prevalence of U.S. healthcare workers who met the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (2008 Guidelines), and the relationships among meeting the 2008 Guidelines and heal...
Sex Differences in Case Fatality Rate of COVID-19: Insights From a Multinational Registry.

Abstract Objectives To confirm whether a relationship exists between male sex and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality and whether this relationship is age dependent. Patients and Methods We queried the COVID-19 Research Network, a multinational database using the TriNetX network, to identify patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection. The main end point of the study was all-cause mortality. Results A total of 14,712 patients were included, of whom 6387 (43%) were men. Men were older (mean age, 55.0±17.7 years vs 51.1±17.9 years; P Conclusion Among patients with COVID-19 infection, men had a significantly higher mortality than did women, and this difference was not completely explained by the higher prevalence of comorbidities in men.
Abstract PS1-10: Outcomes after sentinel lymph node biopsy and radiation therapy in women over 70 years old with ER+, HER2-, clinically node negative breast cancer

Overtreatment of early-stage breast cancer with favorable tumor biology in elderly patients can result in higher rates of complications and morbidities without impacting survival. Guidelines directed towards deimplementation of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) (Choosing Wisely) and radiation therapy (RT) (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) have been recommended. We sought to describe rates and impact on disease recurrence and survival of SLNB and RT in elderly patients with early breast cancer. Patient data were obtained from the cancer registry and electronic health record from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, multicenter, single health care system. Consecutive female patients aged ≥ 70 with ER+, HER2- clinically node-negative breast cancer within a health care system from 2010 to 2018 were identified. Rates and patient characteristics associated with receipt of SLNB and RT, as well as local recurrence free survival (LRFS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared for patients that were diagnosed between 2010 and 2014 to allow for adequate follow up time. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) of mortality. Among 3,361 identified women, 2,195 (65.3%) received SLNB and 1,828 (54.4%) received RT. Rates of SLNB steadily increased (1.0% per year); this trend persisted in 2017 and 2018, even after the Society of Surgical Oncology adopted the Choosing Wisely Guidelines in 2016. During the same time period, rates of RT declined (3.4% per year). To examine outcomes, we limited the analysis to 2109 cases from 2010-2014; median (IQR) follow up time was 4.1 (2.5-5.7) years. Median (IQR) age was 77 (73-82) years. 1373 (65.1%) received SLNB and 1,219 (57.8%) received RT. Patients receiving SLNB were younger (P We conclude that receipt of SLNB has no impact upon DFS or LRFS. This data supports deimplementation of SLNB for this patient population. Receipt of RT is important for controlling locoregional recurrence, supporting use of RT in this patient cohort. Citation Format: Priscilla F McAuliffe, Neil M Carleton, Jian Zou, Yusi Fang, Stephen E Koscumb, Osama Shah, Fangyuan Chen, Sushil Beriwal, Emilia J Diego, Adam M Brufsky, Steffi Oesterreich, Steve D Shapiro, Robert Ferris, Leisha A Emens, George Tseng, Oscar C Marroquin, Adrian V Lee. Outcomes after sentinel lymph node biopsy and radiation therapy in women over 70 years old with ER+, HER2-, clinically node negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2020 San Antonio Breast Cancer Virtual Symposium; 2020 Dec 8-11; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-10.
57963 The Impact of Asian American Perceived Discrimination on Health Utilization

ABSTRACT IMPACT: Understanding how perceived discrimination affects Asian Americans can help stakeholders target subgroups that are at highest risk of discrimination-related behaviors and design culturally appropriate interventions to ensure equitable access to healthcare. OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed longstanding anti-Asian racism in the US. Yet, effects of discrimination on Asian American health are unknown, partly because diverse Asian American populations are analyzed in aggregate. We aim to understand how perceived discrimination affects healthcare utilization among different Asian American subgroups. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We examine the association of perceived discrimination with healthcare utilization using the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). In the CHIS, respondents reported whether they would’ve gotten better medical care if they belonged to a different race. We examine the association between these responses and physician visits within the past year, in the survey years 2003, 2004 and 2016-2017. We adjust for covariates based on the Andersen Health Behavior model. Subsequent modeling examines potential mediating and moderating factors such as limited English proficiency, immigration status, income, and survey year. Asian American subgroups analyzed include Asian Indian, Korean, Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Japanese, and other Asian. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Results will highlight how perceived discrimination incentivizes or disincentivizes certain Asian subgroups to utilize healthcare. Asian American subgroups have differing and diverse experiences with discrimination due to their historical and cultural differences; results will elucidate how discrimination affects these subgroups. Results will be compared to non-Hispanic Whites, who represent the racial group least likely to experience discrimination in the US. Mediation and moderation analysis will help understand how traditionally cited factors for healthcare utilization interact with perceived discrimination on Asian Americans. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDINGS: Asian American subgroups are understudied, despite Asian Americans being one of the fastest growing racial groups in the US. Understanding how perceived discrimination affects Asian Americans can help stakeholders target subgroups that are at highest risk of discrimination-related behaviors and design culturally appropriate interventions.
Sex dependent reduction in mechanical allodynia in the sural-sparing nerve injury model in mice lacking Merkel cells

Innocuous touch sensation is mediated by cutaneous low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs). Aβ slowly adapting type 1 (SA1) neurons constitute one LTMR subtype that forms synapse-like complexes with associated Merkel cells in the basal skin epidermis. Under healthy conditions, these complexes transduce indentation and pressure stimuli into Aβ SA1 LTMR action potentials that are transmitted to the central nervous system, thereby contributing to tactile sensation. However, it remains unknown whether this complex plays a role in the mechanical hypersensitivity caused by peripheral nerve injury. In this study, we characterized the distribution of Merkel cells and associated afferent neurons across four diverse domains of mouse hind paw skin, including a recently described patch of plantar hairy skin. We also showed that in the spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathic pain, Merkel cells are lost from the denervated tibial nerve territory, but are relatively preserved in nearby hairy skin innervated by the spared sural nerve. Utilizing a genetic Merkel cell knockout mouse model, we subsequently examined the importance of intact Merkel cell-Aβ complexes to SNI-associated mechanical hypersensitivity in skin innervated by the spared neurons. We found that in the absence of Merkel cells, mechanical allodynia was partially reduced in male mice, but not female mice, under sural-sparing SNI conditions. Our results suggest that Merkel cell-Aβ afferent complexes partially contribute to mechanical allodynia produced by peripheral nerve injury, and that they do so in a sex dependent manner. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Merkel discs or Merkel cell-Aβ afferent complexes are mechanosensory end organs in mammalian skin. Yet, it remains unknown whether Merkel cells or their associated sensory neurons play a role in the mechanical hypersensitivity caused by peripheral nerve injury. We found that male mice genetically lacking Merkel cell-Aβ afferent complexes exhibited a reduction in mechanical allodynia after nerve injury. Interestingly, this behavioral phenotype was not observed in mutant female mice. Our study will facilitate understanding of mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain.
Identifying Potential Therapeutic Applications and Diagnostic Harms of Increased Bilirubin Concentrations: A Clinical and Genetic Approach

Bilirubin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in animal studies and protects against inflammatory, cardiovascular, and other diseases in observational studies; therefore, bilirubin has potential as a therapeutic agent. However, observational studies could be confounded by many factors. We used a genetic (n = 61,281) and clinical (n = 234,670) approach to define the association between bilirubin and 19 conditions with a putative protective signal in observational studies. We also tested if individuals with genetically higher bilirubin levels underwent more diagnostic tests. We used a common variant in UGT1A1 (rs6742078) associated with an 26% increase in bilirubin levels in the genetic studies. Carriers of the variant had higher bilirubin levels (P = 2.2 × 10-16 ) but there was no significant association with any of the 19 conditions. In a phenome-wide association study (pheWAS) to seek undiscovered genetic associations, the only significant finding was increased risk of "jaundice-not of newborn." Carriers of the variant allele were more likely to undergo an abdominal ultrasound (odds ratio = 1.04, [1.00-1.08], P = 0.03). In contrast, clinically measured bilirubin levels were significantly associated with 15 of the 19 conditions (P < 0.003) and with 431 clinical diagnoses in the pheWAS (P < 1 × 10-5 adjusted for sex, age, and follow-up). With additional adjustment for smoking and body mass index, 7 of 19 conditions and 260 pheWAS diagnoses remained significantly associated with bilirubin levels. In conclusion, bilirubin does not protect against inflammatory or other diseases using a genetic approach; the many putative beneficial associations reported clinically are likely due to confounding.
Otoendoscopes to Enhance Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objectives As telemedicine has become increasingly utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, portable otoendoscopy offers a method to perform an ear examination at home. The objective of this pilot study was to assess the quality of otoendoscopic images obtained by non-medical individuals and to determine the effect of a simple training protocol on image quality. Methods Non-medical participants were recruited and asked to capture images of the tympanic membrane before and after completion of a training module, as well as complete a survey about their experience using the otoendoscope. Images were de-identified, randomized, and evaluated by 6 otolaryngologists who were blinded as to whether training had been performed prior to the image capture. Images were rated using a 5-point Likert scale. Results Completion of a training module resulted in a significantly higher percentage of tympanic membrane visible on otoendoscopic images, as well as increased physician confidence in identifying middle ear effusion/infection, cholesteatoma, and deferring an in-person otoscopy (P Conclusions At-home otoendoscopes can offer a sufficient view of the tympanic membrane in select cases. The use of a simple training tool can significantly improve image quality, though often not enough to replace an in-person otoscopic exam.
Programming Tilting Angles in Shape Memory Polymer Janus Pillar Arrays with Unidirectional Wetting against the Tilting Direction

By coating a thin layer of metal, including gold and gold–palladium alloy, of different thickness on the deformed shape memory polymer (SMP) pillars, we manipulate the degree of recovery of the SMP pillars. Pillars of different tilting angles were obtained as a result of balancing the strain recovery energy of the SMP pillars that favor the original straight state and the elastic energy of the metal layers that prefer the bent state. With this selective coating of a metal layer on the tilted pillars, we report a unique anisotropic liquid spreading behavior, where the water droplet is fully pinned in the direction of pillar tilting but advances in the reverse direction. This phenomenon is explained by the interplay of the surface chemistry and topography.
The source of estradiol-17β in trophoblastic neoplasia

Abstract Unconjugated and conjugated estradiol-17β (E 2 ) were measured in the sera of four patients with hydatidiform mole at frequent regular intervals after removal of the mole, in the left and right ovarian vein blood in a patient with hydatidiform mole, in the peripheral sera and serous fluid of the molar vesicles in seven cases of hydatidiform mole, and in the fluid from the left and right theca lutein cyst (TLC) of a molar pregnancy, by a radioimmunoassay method. Patients with highly elevated serum E 2 had a rapid clearance of E 2 within 24 to 36 hours after removal of the mole; those with minimal E 2 elevation had a slower clearance of the hormone from the circulation. Mole vesicle fluid had undetectable E 2 but a wide range of unconjugated E 2 which was usually lower than in the peripheral blood. Both ovarian vein blood and TLC fluid have higher E 2 concentrations than the peripheral blood. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to the contribution of the trophoblast and the ovaries to the circulating E 2 .
Determination of the Optimal Ammonium Sulfate Concentration for the Fractionation of Rabbit, Sheep, Horse, and Goat Antisera

Various ammonium sulfate concentrations and reaction conditions were employed in the fractionation of sera from rabbits, sheep, horses, and goats. Precipitates and supernatant fluids were analyzed by electrophoresis to study the effects of the controlled variables. At room temperature, the third precipitate in 35% saturated (NH(4))(2)SO(4) was the best fraction from both rabbit and sheep sera; 80 to 90% of the gamma globulins were recovered. The second and third precipitates of horse sera proteins in 30% saturated (NH(4))(2)SO(4) were both satisfactory, but only 44% of the gamma globulin was recovered after three precipitations. Goat sera yielded a very satisfactory fraction; 80% of the gamma globulin was recovered after two precipitations-the first in 30% and the second in 45% saturated (NH(4))(2)SO(4). The composition of these fractions was not influenced by the pH of the sulfate solutions (pH 5.8 and 7.2), by a range of normal room temperatures (20 to 30 C), or by diluting the sera before fractionation. Crude globulins and fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled globulins were successfully refractionated by one precipitation in the optimal sulfate concentration for the appropriate animal species. The refractionated products contained considerably less beta and alpha globulins than did the original crude fractions and little or no albumin.
Basic Movement Education in England

(1961). Basic Movement Education in England. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 32, No. 9, pp. 18-19.
Two and Three-Dimensional Simulations of Compressible Convection

We present some results of numerical studies of compressible, nonlinear convection in highly stratified fluids. Both two and three-dimensional flows are considered. In three dimensions the flow forms an irregular cellular pattern near the surface with downflows at the cellular boundaries and upflows at the cellular centers. At greater depth the downflows collapse into isolated columns surrounded by gentler upflows. The two dimensional simulations show that at high Rayleigh numbers convection becomes supersonic near the upper boundary. Non-stationary shock systems appear which interact with the thermal boundary layer giving rise to a vigorous time dependence.
An Introduction to Critical Cartography

This paper provides a brief introduction to critical cartography. We define critical cartography as a one-two punch of new mapping practices and theoretical critique. Critical cartography challenges academic cartography by linking geographic knowledge with power, and thus is political. Although contemporary critical cartography rose to prominence in the 1990s, we argue that it can only be understood in the historical context of the development of the cartographic discipline more generally. We sketch some of the history of this development, and show that critiques have continually accompanied the discipline. In the post-war period cartography underwent a significant solidification as a science, while at the same time other mapping practices (particularly artistic experimentation with spatial representation) were occurring. Coupled with the resurgence of theoretical critiques during the 1990s, these developments serve to question the relevance of the discipline of cartography at a time when mapping is increasingly prevalent and vital.
A Microsoft Excel Application for Automatically Building Historical Geography GIS Maps

The ability to visualize location and time information on satellite-generated maps using geographic information systems (GIS) such as Google Earth has enabled researchers with limited mapping expertise to use GIS for a wide range of applications. GIS holds special benefits for research in historical geog- raphy involving visualization of events and time-based changes in geographical information. This article describes a Microsoft Excel VBA application which automatically converts information contained in a Microsoft Excel workbook into a .kml (Keyhole Markup Language) file suitable for display by mapping systems such as Google Earth. The application requires no knowledge of KML or Excel VBA. An example illustrates how the application can be used to trace the Mongol invasion of Eastern Europe.
Collection of gravitropic effectors from mucilage of electrotropically-stimulated roots of Zea mays L.

We placed agar blocks adjacent to tips of electrotropically stimulated primary roots of Zea mays. Blocks placed adjacent to the anode-side of the roots for 3 h induced significant curvature when subsequently placed asymmetrically on tips of vertically-oriented roots. Curvature was always toward the side of the root unto which the agar block was placed. Agar blocks not contacting roots and blocks placed adjacent to the cathode-side of electrotropically stimulated roots did not induce significant curvature when placed asymmetrically on tips of vertically-oriented roots. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry indicated that blocks adjacent to the anode-side of electrotropically-stimulated roots contained significantly more calcium than (1) blocks not contacting roots, and (2) blocks contacting the cathode-side of roots. These results demonstrate the presence of a gradient of endogenous Ca in mucilage of electrotropically-stimulated roots (i.e. roots undergoing gravitropic-like curvature).
Direct Suppression of Superantigen-Induced IgM Secretion in Human Lymphocytes by 2,3,7,8-TCDD

Abstract The superantigen, toxic shock syndrome toxin (TSST-1), can activate T-cells to proliferate and secrete lymphokines and can act as a nominal antigen to induce proliferation and immunoglobulin secretion in human B-cells. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachiorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD) is an environmental toxicant that produces potent suppression of murine immunocompetence. The present studies were initiated in order to examine the direct effects of TCDD upon human lymphocytes stimulated with TSST-1. TCDD had no effect upon TSST-1-induced T-cell proliferation and produced only a nonsignificant suppression (15%) of TSST-1-induced B-cell proliferation only at the highest concentration tested (30 nM). In contrast, TSST-1-induced B-cell differentiation, as manifested by IgM secretion, was significantly suppressed by TCDD over the concentration range tested (i.e., 0.3 to 30 nM) in trials using B-cells from four separate donors. However, there was obvious variability in the sensitivity to TCDD in that we detected IC 50 values of
A test of a common elements theory of transfer

All discussions of interface design criteria emphasize the importance of consistent operating procedures both within and across applications. This paper presents a model for positive transfer and thus a theoretical definition of consistency. An experiment manipulating training orders for utility tasks was designed to evaluate the transfer model. The experimental manipulations produced large transfer effects. Quantitative predictions were derived from the Kieras and Polson (1985) theory of human-computer interaction and the transfer model and fit using regression techniques. The transfer model accounted for 88% of the variance of the 31 cell means.
Tissue‐conserving surgery for prognosis, treatment, and function preservation

Objectives: To describe an approach based on initial tissue-conserving surgery used to obtain histologically determined prognostic information that has therapeutic implications and the potential to enhance preservation of function. Study Design: Analysis of a group of patients with head and neck cancer treated initially with tissue-conserving surgery based on Mohs' histographic sectioning and selected neck dissection to derive histologically determined prognostic information with therapeutic implications and preservation in function. Methods: This study is primarily based on an analysis of patients from January 1, 1989, through June 4, 1996 assigned to a protocol evaluating resection of oral cavity squamous cell cancer with margin control using Mohs' histographic technique and/or a group of patients with neck assessment of NO on clinical examination who are undergoing supraomohyoid neck dissections. Results: Thirty-three primary tumor resections were performed using the Mohs' technique, and 54% required two or more Mohs' sections before clear histologic margins were obtained following resection based on clinically determined negative margins. There were 44 patients who underwent unilateral or bilateral supraomohyoid neck dissections, and 33% had occult, histologically positive nodes. When compared with the disease of the neck specimens, a preoperative computed tomography scan had a sensitivity of 25%, a specificity of 77%, and an accuracy of 63%. Conclusions : This report describes the effectiveness of Mohs' histographic sectioning and selective neck dissection as a means of determining prognostic information that can be used to develop a focused and cost-effective treatment program that, along with contemporary reconstructive techniques, provides a potential enhancement of function preservation.
Inhibition of reproduction of Xyleborus ferrugineus by ascorbic acid and related chemicals

Abstract Effects of various dietary chemicals on the reproduction of the ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus ferrugineus were studied. Ascorbic acid, araboascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, hydroquinone, catechol, cysteine, and α-tocopherol each inhibited progeny production by virgin females. Detailed studies of the effects of ascorbic acid showed that it inhibited progeny production by causing a nutritionally detrimental non-enzymic browning of the dietary casein. Amino acid analyses of such browned and unbrowned casein, after in vitro digestion with pepsin and pancreatin, showed that lesser amounts of certain amino acids were released from the browned material. Effects of the non-enzymic browning were overcome by increasing the casein component of the diet. It was further concluded that araboascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, hydroquinone, and catechol probably inhibit reproduction of X. ferrugineus by the same mechanism as ascorbic acid. No explanation of the inhibitory action of α-tocopherol on X. ferrugineus is offered.
Excitation gap from optimized correlation functions in quantum Monte Carlo simulations.

We give a prescription for finding optimized correlation functions for the extraction of the gap to the first excited state within quantum Monte Carlo simulations. We demonstrate that optimized correlation functions provide a more accurate reading of the gap when compared to other ``nonoptimized'' correlation functions and are generally characterized by considerably larger signal-to-noise ratios. We also analyze the cost of the procedure and show that it is not computationally demanding. We illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed procedure by analyzing several exemplary many-body systems of interacting spin-$1/2$ particles.
Nonzoogloeal bacteria in wastewater zoogloeas

Abstract A micromanipulation technique was employed for the single cell isolation of microorganisms from 51 washed activated sludge and trickling filter zoogloeas. Only 203 of the isolated organisms were successfully recovered as viable cultures. Fifty-six isolates were nonzoogloeal and found both in branched and unbranced zoogloeas. The nonzoogloeal bacteria were generally biochemically active. Branched zoogloeas visibly formed a minor portion of the biomass of trickling filters and activated sludge whereas amorphous zoogloeas were present in large proportions. The biochemical diversity of bacteria present in amorphous zoogloeas may be an indication that these zoogloeas are important in wastewater treatment.
Two simple devices for microneurosurgery: automatic drip irrigating needle and a suction retractor.

Abstract During microneurosurgical procedures, frequent intermittent irrigation and/or suction are often necessary. We describe two simple devices: the automatic drip irrigating needle and the suction retractor. We have confirmed their usefulness through our routine use of these simple devices since 1982.
Characterization of Aggregates Formed from Oligonucleotides in the Presence of a Surfactant

Characterization of aggregates formed from oligonucleotides of 20 to 100 bases in length in the presence of the surfactant, CTAB (cetyl trimethylammonium bromide) has been performed. UV spectroscopy was used to observe changes in the absorbance spectra of single and double stranded DNA in the presence of CTAB as a function of temperature and CTAB concentration. The results indicate that the spectral changes are a result of light scattering from various size aggregates formed between DNA and CTAB when the ratio of CTAB to DNA concentration is about 0.5 or larger. Electrophoresis has been used to compare the mobilities of both double and single stranded DNA in the presence of CTAB and the results show that the DNA - CTAB samples give rise to broad bands in the gel images indicative of a range of aggregate sizes. Atomic force microscopy was used to obtain a topographical view of the aggregates that were dried on single crystal silicon surfaces and reconstituted in water. The aggregates in solution were apparent in optical images and both optical and atomic force microscope images showed that the aggregates were non-spherical and that they varied in size from nanometers to microns.
Influence of stimulus symmetry on visual scanning patterns

Eye movements of four Ss performing a complexity rating task in which the stimuli consisted of random shapes differing in symmetry, number of turns (sides) in the perimeter, and structural angularity were examined. It was found that for both symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes, the number of fixations and fixation time increased directly with structural complexity (number of sides). Distributions of fixations for symmetrical shapes clustered in one-half of the shapes, while the distributions of fixations for asymmetrical shapes did not exhibit this one-sided bias. No differences were found in the distributions of fixation time to either half of asymmetrical or symmetrical shapes. The findings suggest that S utilizes an organizing code in addition to the featural code in characterizing a given shape. The organizing code permits S to generate the feature code for a gwen shape on the basis of partial information.
Safety information gathering via information carriers through a DTN in a disaster-stricken area

In the event of a disaster affecting a large area, failures in facilities or power shortage may disrupt public communication services, including the mobile phone service, making it difficult to check safety of individuals in the disaster-stricken area. This paper assumes that disaster victims have mobile terminals, and that a delay/disruption tolerant network (DTN) can be built to interconnect these terminals, the terminals of rescuers (who also serve as safety information carriers), and the servers in shelters within the area so that information about the safety of individuals can be gathered. It proposes a protocol to be used to send safety information from the terminal of a victim to that of an information carrier, and a protocol to be used to send safety information from the terminal of an information carrier to a shelter server. We have implemented these protocols on a network simulator. Using a network model in which victims are scattered randomly over a 1.2 km2 area, we have evaluated the probability at which safety information reaches a shelter server and examined the process of data gathering, for different numbers of victims, different numbers of information carriers, etc. We have found that, when the number of information carriers is about one-fifth of the number of victims, the safety information reaching probability is as high as 95%.
Bacterial cellulose. II. Optimization of cellulose production by Acetobacter xylinum through response surface methodology

Abstract The optimum fermentation conditions for the batch, non-agitated production of cellulose by a strain of Acetobacter xylinum was determined by means of response surface methodology. A five-level, four-factor central composite design was used to determine the relationship of four factors (fructose and sucrose concentrations, pH and temperature of incubation) to the response, cellulose yield (in g of crude cellulose/l of medium). All four factors affected cellulose yield significantly. Maximum product yield could be obtained by employing the following predicted optimum fermentation conditions: fructose concentration = 24.8 g/l, sucrose concentration = 76.5 g/l, pH = 4.49 and temperature of incubation = 29.3°C. Upon verification, the predicted cellulose yield (13.24 g/l) was found to be very close to the average experimental yield (12.67 g/l), indicating that the mathematical model obtained was an adequate predictor of cellulose yield. Better yields were obtained in this study than had been obtained by others.
Resting Potentials Inside the Cochlear Partition of the Guinea Pig

IN an earlier experiment1, the tip of a needle was pressed against the cochlear partition of a lightly anaesthetized guinea pig, and the microphonics produced by the displacement of the cochlear partition were observed. The mechanical work necessary for a certain displacement of the cochlear partition could be measured and compared with the electric energy produced by the microphonics for this displacement. This comparison showed that the electric output in the vestibular canal of the cochlea was larger than the mechanical energy used up in the displacement of the cochlear partition. This finding suggested that the cochlear partition contains a pool (source) of electrical energy.
Effects of l-deprenyl treatment on noradrenergic innervation and immune reactivity in lymphoid organs of young F344 rats

Sympathetic noradrenergic (NA) neuronal activities in the thymus, spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and immune responses in the spleen were examined in young male F344 rats treated daily with 0, 0.25 mg, or 2.5 mg/kg body weight of L-deprenyl, an irreversible monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitor. Rats were treated daily for 1, 15, or 30 days, and sacrificed 7 days after the last deprenyl treatment. Deprenyl treatment increased norepinephrine (NE) content in the spleen without modifying the pattern and density of NA innervation in the splenic white pulp. The concentration of NE was unaltered in the thymus, but it was increased in the MLN of deprenyl-treated rats. One day of treatment with deprenyl decreased splenic NK cell activity while 15 days of deprenyl treatment enhanced splenic NK cell activity. Deprenyl elevated Con A-induced T lymphocyte proliferation following 30 days of treatment, but did not alter spleen cell Con A-induced IL-2 production or the percentage of CD5 + T cells in the spleen. A moderate decrease in the percentage of sIgM + B cells was observed in the spleens of 15- and 30-day deprenyl-treated rats. These results suggest that deprenyl has sympathomimetic action on sympathetic NA nerve fibers in the spleen; the enhancement of NA neuronal activity may contribute to the modulation of immune responses in the spleen.
Enhancement of binding energies in linked Hubbard clusters.

We calculate the binding energy of a pair of holes doped into half-filled Hubbard clusters which are linked together. For some geometries, two linked clusters exhibit binding which is monotonically reduced by intercluster hopping, as is the case between simple negative-U centers. However, for certain of the geometries, we find that binding in the linked clusters can be considerably enhanced over that of the individual clusters, or, in some cases, even induced by a relatively weak linking. In these cases, the new binding is not simply a stabilization of that for individual clusters, but instead reflects a partial sharing of the hole pair between clusters.
Antibiotic resistance in triclosan tolerant fecal coliforms isolated from surface waters near wastewater treatment plant outflows (Morris County, NJ, USA)

Abstract Triclosan (TCS) is a common antimicrobial agent that has been detected in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent outflows. A link between TCS exposure and increased antibiotic resistance in microbes has been postulated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether fecal coliforms (FC) isolated from surface waters located near (WWTP) outflows display TCS resistance and, if so, whether such organisms exhibit increased resistance to antibiotics. Water samples were collected at two streams in Morris County, NJ that receive WWTP effluent: Loantaka Brook and the Whippany River. Water samples were collected at three sites within each location near the WWTP effluent outflow. Abiotic river parameters were measured and FCs were enumerated for each sample. River parameters were analyzed to determine if TCS or antibiotic resistance was correlated to water quality. Triclosan resistance levels were determined for individual isolates, and isolates were screened against seven classes of antibiotics at clinically relevant levels to assess cross-resistance. At Loantaka Brook, 78.8% of FC isolates were resistant to TCS with an average minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 43.2 μg ml −1 . In addition, 89.6% of isolates were resistant to four classes of antibiotics and all were identified as Citrobacter freundii . There was a significant effect of stream location on mean TCS MIC values in the Loantaka Brook, with effluent isolates maintaining significantly higher MIC values compared to upstream isolates. At Whippany River sites, TCS resistant isolates were detected on 94% of sampling dates with a significant relationship between TCS resistance and multiple antibiotic resistances (≥three antibiotic classes, p p =0.007) and to nitrofurantoin ( p =0.037) when compared to TCS sensitive isolates. Environmental FC isolates resistant to high level TCS included species of Escherichia , Enterobacter , Serratia and Citrobacter . There was no correlation between river water quality and resistance of isolates to TCS. Presence of isolates not resistant to TCS, but resistant to other antibiotics, were significantly correlated to increased river flow, precipitation, and decreased nutrient levels, suggesting that observed resistance is due to run-off events. This study demonstrates that TCS resistant FC are common in river systems receiving WWTP effluent and display multiple drug resistance.
Taxol Biosynthesis: Molecular Cloning and Characterization of a Cytochrome P450 Taxoid 7β-Hydroxylase

Biosynthesis of the anticancer drug Taxol in yew species involves eight cytochrome P450-mediated oxygenations and four coenzyme A-dependent acylations of the diterpenoid core. A family of cytochrome P450 genes, obtained from a yew cell cDNA library, were functionally expressed and screened with taxusin (taxa-4(20),11(12)-dien-5α,9α,10β,13α-tetraol tetraacetate) as a surrogate substrate. One clone converted this substrate to an oxygenated derivative that was identified as 7β-hydroxytaxusin. The structure and properties of this 7β-hydroxylase are similar to those of other taxoid hydroxylases. Kinetic and binding assays indicated selectivity of the 7β-hydroxylase for polyoxygenated and acylated taxoid substrates, an observation consistent with the operation of this enzyme in the central portion of the Taxol biosynthetic pathway. Although the 7β-hydroxyl of Taxol is not essential for antimitotic activity, this functional group provides a convenient means for preparing taxoid derivatives.
Aggregate precautionary savings: when is the third derivative irrelevant?

Abstract When are aggregate precautionary savings positive? We address this question in the context of a general equilibrium model where infinitely-lived agents receive idiosyncratic labor endowment shocks, hold a risk-free asset to smooth consumption and face a liquidity constraint. We prove that (1) the steady-state capital stock is always larger in any equilibrium with idiosyncratic shocks and a liquidity constraint than without idiosyncratic shocks (i.e. aggregate precautionary savings are positive) as long as consumers are risk averse and (2) aggregate precautionary savings occurs if and only if the liquidity constraint binds for some agents.
Differentiating closed-loop cortical intention from rest: building an asynchronous electrocorticographic BCI.

Objective. Recent experiments have shown that electrocorticography (ECoG) can provide robust control signals for a brain–computer interface (BCI). Strategies that attempt to adapt a BCI control algorithm by learning from past trials often assume that the subject is attending to each training trial. Likewise, automatic disabling of movement control would be desirable during resting periods when random brain fluctuations might cause unintended movements of a device. To this end, our goal was to identify ECoG differences that arise between periods of active BCI use and rest. Approach. We examined spectral differences in multi-channel, epidural micro-ECoG signals recorded from non-human primates when rest periods were interleaved between blocks of an active BCI control task. Main Results. Post-hoc analyses demonstrated that these states can be decoded accurately on both a trial-by-trial and real-time basis, and this discriminability remains robust over a period of weeks. In addition, high gamma frequencies showed greater modulation with desired movement direction, while lower frequency components demonstrated greater amplitude differences between task and rest periods, suggesting possible specialized BCI roles for these frequencies. Significance. The results presented here provide valuable insight into the neurophysiology of BCI control as well as important considerations toward the design of an asynchronous BCI system.
Mediodorsal Thalamus Hypofunction Impairs Flexible Goal-Directed Behavior

Abstract Background Cognitive inflexibility is a core symptom of several mental disorders including schizophrenia. Brain imaging studies in schizophrenia patients performing cognitive tasks have reported decreased activation of the mediodorsal thalamus (MD). Using a pharmacogenetic approach to model MD hypofunction, we recently showed that decreasing MD activity impairs reversal learning in mice. While this demonstrates causality between MD hypofunction and cognitive inflexibility, questions remain about the elementary cognitive processes that account for the deficit. Methods Using the Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs system, we reversibly decreased MD activity during behavioral tasks assessing elementary cognitive processes inherent to flexible goal-directed behaviors, including extinction, contingency degradation, outcome devaluation, and Pavlovian-to-instrumental transfer ( n = 134 mice). Results While MD hypofunction impaired reversal learning, it did not affect the ability to learn about nonrewarded cues or the ability to modulate action selection based on the outcome value. In contrast, decreasing MD activity delayed the ability to adapt to changes in the contingency between actions and their outcomes. In addition, while Pavlovian learning was not affected by MD hypofunction, decreasing MD activity during Pavlovian learning impaired the ability of conditioned stimuli to modulate instrumental behavior. Conclusions Mediodorsal thalamus hypofunction causes cognitive inflexibility reflected by an impaired ability to adapt actions when their consequences change. Furthermore, it alters the encoding of environmental stimuli so that they cannot be properly utilized to guide behavior. Modulating MD activity could be a potential therapeutic strategy for promoting adaptive behavior in human subjects with cognitive inflexibility.
Detrital organic matter and soil CO2 efflux in forests regenerating from cutting in West Virginia

Abstract Measures of forest floor, soil organic matter, fine roots, and soil CO 2 efflux were made on regrowing hardwood forests ranging in age from 6 months to 23 yr (cuts) and compared with measures from uncut forests (controls) to determine if detrital organic matter is lost following cutting and to estimate the period over which loss occurs. Mean organic matter contents of the forest floor were 35% lower on the cuts compared to the controls. The loss of forest floor was rapid during the first 10 yr following cutting with minimal change to year 23. No overall difference was observed between cuts and controls with respect to organic matter content of the soil A horizon (to a 10 cm depth) or live or dead root masses. On the cuts 2 efflux was 13% higher and soil temperatures were 6% higher than their controls indicating that the loss of forest floor was a result of increased decomposition. Detrital organic matter in the forest floor and mineral soil was 873 g m −2 lower on the cuts which was equal to 11% of the total detrital organic matter in the profile.
Searches and Traffic Stops: Racial Profiling and Capriciousness

The purpose of the present study is to examine traffic stop data—in particular data on searches—to better understand racial profiling. We use a measure of capriciousness to understand whether the decision to search occurs at random. Using data from more than 40,000 traffic stops from Louisville, Kentucky, the present study finds that race is one of many factors that are used in the determination of a search. For the overall, White, and Black samples, we find that the decision to search occurs at random, suggesting that racial profiling is not occurring in these data.
Digital Sequential Imaging: An Interactive Data Analysis Station For Physicians.

The ability to interact with multiple images either from a temporal or spacial sequence has become a critical requirement for dislay stations in a PACS system. This paper presents the design and implementation of such a system.
8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) as a potential survival biomarker in patients with nonsmall-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND. 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) is 1 of the most abundant oxidative products of cellular DNA. Accumulation of impaired 8-OH-dG could lead to increased genomic instability that in turn could lead to a more malignant phenotypic behavior of tumors. Therefore, the effects of 8-OH-dG on survival in 99 resected nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients was evaluated. METHODS. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to measure the levels of 8-OH-dG in tumor DNA. The median levels of 8-OH-dG were 6.5 pmol/μg for all study subjects. RESULTS. Patients with low levels of 8-OH-dG had significantly longer survival times compared with those with high levels of 8-OH-dG (log-rank test: P < .001). In Cox regression analysis, patients with high levels of 8-OH-dG had an over 3-fold increased hazard of death. In addition, a statistically significant correlation between levels of 8-OH-dG and age was noted (rho = 0.206, P = .048). Furthermore, we observed a genotype-phenotype modification between hOGG1 gene polymorphism (Ser326Cys) and levels of 8-OH-dG. CONCLUSIONS. The results demonstrated that levels of 8-OH-dG could predict survival in resected NSCLC patients. It is postulated that an intact base excision repair mechanism may reduce the accumulation of oxidative DNA damage that is thought to contribute to the tumor's malignant potential and therefore the risk of death. Cancer 2007 © 2006 American Cancer Society.
The photoelectron spectra of the tetrafluoro and tetramethyl compounds of the group IV elements

Abstract The photoelectron spectra of CF 4 , SiF 4 , GeF 4 , C(CH 3 ) 4 , Si(CH 3 ) 4 , Ge(CH 3 ) 4 , Sn(CH 3 ) 4 , and Pb(CH 3 ) 4 h
Cyber-Politics: The Online Strategies of '96

This article analyzes electronic democracy in what critics have called the first national cyber-political campaign. The author examines what is known about these media users, the fledgling politica...