cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Burn wound classification model using spatial frequency-domain imaging and machine learning

Accurate assessment of burn severity is critical for wound care and the course of treatment. Delays in classification translate to delays in burn management, increasing the risk of scarring and infection. To this end, numerous imaging techniques have been used to examine tissue properties to infer burn severity. Spatial frequency-domain imaging (SFDI) has also been used to characterize burns based on the relationships between histologic observations and changes in tissue properties. Recently, machine learning has been used to classify burns by combining optical features from multispectral or hyperspectral imaging. Rather than employ models of light propagation to deduce tissue optical properties, we investigated the feasibility of using SFDI reflectance data at multiple spatial frequencies, with a support vector machine (SVM) classifier, to predict severity in a porcine model of graded burns. Calibrated reflectance images were collected using SFDI at eight wavelengths (471 to 851 nm) and five spatial frequencies (0 to 0.2 mm - 1). Three models were built from subsets of this initial dataset. The first subset included data taken at all wavelengths with the planar (0 mm - 1) spatial frequency, the second comprised data at all wavelengths and spatial frequencies, and the third used all collected data at values relative to unburned tissue. These data subsets were used to train and test cubic SVM models, and compared against burn status 28 days after injury. Model accuracy was established through leave-one-out cross-validation testing. The model based on images obtained at all wavelengths and spatial frequencies predicted burn severity at 24 h with 92.5% accuracy. The model composed of all values relative to unburned skin was 94.4% accurate. By comparison, the model that employed only planar illumination was 88.8% accurate. This investigation suggests that the combination of SFDI with machine learning has potential for accurately predicting burn severity.
Optimizing Opioid-Prescribing Practices After Parathyroidectomy.

Abstract Background To help control opioid overprescription, we conducted a large institutional, 3-site initiative to provide discharge prescribing guidelines for different procedures. Our aim is to refine institutional guidelines for parathyroidectomy. Methods Patients undergoing parathyroidectomy completed a 28-question survey about opioid consumption. Discharge opioid prescription amounts were converted into morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) and reported as median and interquartile range (IQR). Consumption was dichotomized into top quartile MME users (Q4) versus standard users (Q1, Q3). Univariate analysis compared opioid consumption. Results A total of 91 patients were included; 90% were opioid-naive. While the median prescribed was 75 (IQR 75, 150) MME, the median consumed was 0 (IQR 0, 20). Top users reported higher pain scores [median (IQR): 2 (2, 4)] compared to standard users [1 (0, 3), P = 0.01]. However, there was no difference in opioid consumption between unilateral neck exploration, bilateral exploration, or thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy, P = 0.11. There was no difference in opioid consumption by age, sex, or BMI (all P > 0.05). Of those receiving a prescription, 94.6% had left-over opioids at the time of survey, resulting in 82% of prescribed opioids being unused. Conclusions Over half of patients undergoing parathyroidectomy did not consume any opioid, and very few needed more than 2 d of opioid. Moreover, most patients did not dispose the unused opioids, which put these pills at risk of diversion and misuse. Surgical approach did not change consumption, illustrating that these guidelines are applicable to thyroidectomy given the similarity between techniques. We recommend prescribing nonopioid analgesics for patients undergoing parathyroidectomy.
Interventions to Improve Blood Pressure Control Among Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Patients With CKD: Kidney Awareness Registry and Education Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Rationale & Objective Sustainable interventions that enhance chronic kidney disease (CKD) management are not often studied in safety-net primary care, in which populations bear a disproportionate burden of disease and experience translational gaps between research and practice. We tested the feasibility of implementing and the impact of 2 technology-enhanced interventions designed to enhance CKD care delivery. Study Design A 2×2 randomized controlled pilot trial. Setting & Participants Primary care provider teams (n = 6) and 137 patients with CKD aged 18 to 75 years from 2 safety-net primary care clinics, 2013 to 2015. Interventions Primary care provider teams were randomly assigned to access a CKD registry with point-of-care notifications and quarterly feedback or a usual-care registry for 12 months. Patients within provider teams were randomly assigned to participate in a CKD self-management support program or usual care for 12 months. Outcomes We examined recruitment, randomization, and participation in each intervention. We also examined the impact of each intervention and their combination on change in systolic blood pressure (SBP), albuminuria, and patient self-reported behavioral measures after 12 months. Results Among potentially eligible patients identified using the electronic health record, 24% were eligible for study participation, of whom 35% (n = 137) were enrolled. Mean age was 55 years, 41% were non–English speaking, and 93% were of racial/ethnic minority. Mean baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate was 70.5 (SD = 30.3) mL/min/1.73m2; mean baseline SBP was 131 (SD = 21.8) mm Hg. Nearly 90% of clinicians reported that the CKD registry influenced their CKD management. More than 95% of patients randomly assigned to CKD self-management support engaged regularly with the intervention. Estimated changes in SBP over 1 year were nonstatistically different in each of the 3 intervention groups compared with usual care: (usual care: 0.5 [95% CI, −5.2 to 6.3] mm Hg; CKD registry only: −5.4 [95% CI, −12.2 to 1.4] mm Hg; CKD self-management support only: −6.4 [95% CI, −13.7 to 1.0] mm Hg; and CKD registry plus CKD self-management support: −0.5 [−5.5 to 4.5] mm Hg), though differences were larger among those with baseline SBPs > 140/90mm Hg. Decreases in albuminuria were similarly nonstatistically different in each of the intervention groups compared with usual care. No differences were observed in patient self-reported behaviors. Limitations Single health system. Conclusions Patient and provider interventions to improve CKD care are feasible to implement in low-income settings with promising results among those with uncontrolled blood pressure. Funding National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, number: NCT01530958.
Microscopic transport model for impurity scattering in two-dimensional novel a-T3 materials

The valley-dependent skew scattering of conduction electrons by impurities in two-dimensional α-T3 materials is studied. The interplay of Lorentz and Berry forces, which act on mobile electrons in position and momentum spaces respectively, is quantified. Interactions of electrons with ionized impurities at two valleys are observed in different scattering directions. Both the zeroand first-order Boltzmann moment equations are used for calculating scattering-angle distributions of resulting skew currents, which are significantly enhanced by introducing microscopic inverse energy- and momentum-relaxation times to two moment equations.
Validation of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System Treatment Response Criteria After Thermal Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumors can be successfully eradicated with thermal ablation (TA). We assessed the validity of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System Treatment Response (LR-TR) criteria with a retrospective analysis of a single-center database of patients with small HCC tumors (<3 cm in diameter) who underwent both laparoscopic TA and liver transplantation (LT) from 2004 to 2018. Postablation MRIs were assigned LR-TR categories (nonviable, equivocal, and viable) for ablated lesions and Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) categories (probable or definite HCC) for untreated lesions. Interpretations were compared with the histopathology of the post-LT explanted liver. There were 45 patients with 81 tumors (59 ablated and 22 untreated; mean size, 2.2 cm), and 23 (39%) of the ablated tumors had viable HCC on histopathology. The sensitivity/specificity of LR-TR categories (nonviable/equivocal versus viable) of ablated tumors was 30%/99%, with a positive predictive value (PPV)/negative predictive value (NPV) of 93%/69%. The sensitivity varied with residual tumor size. The sensitivity/specificity of LI-RADS 4 and 5 diagnostic criteria at detecting new HCC was 65%/94%, respectively, with a PPV/NPV of 85%/84%. The interrater reliability (IRR) was high for LR-TR categories (90% agreement, Cohen's ĸ = 0.75) and for LI-RADS LR-4 and LR-5 diagnostic categories (91% agreement, Cohen's ĸ = 0.80). In patients with HCC <3 cm in diameter, LR-TR criteria after TA had high IRR but low sensitivity, suggesting that the LR-TR categories are precise but inaccurate. The low sensitivity may be secondary to TA's disruption in the local blood flow of the tissue, which could affect the arterial enhancement phase on MRI. Additional investigation and new technologies may be necessary to improve imaging after ablation.
Computational Activity to Visualize Stereoisomers in Molecules with an Axis of Chirality

The topic of chirality is often a difficult concept to grasp for the typical undergraduate chemistry student. Often, the chirality of molecules is taught by using the concept of an asymmetric carbon center that generates molecules with nonsuperimposable mirror images. When students encounter a chiral molecule lacking a stereogenic center such as an asymmetric carbon, the confusion is amplified. In order to study this distinction, this computational study was designed to help students visualize molecules containing an axis of chirality but no stereogenic center. The molecules chosen for this activity are allenes, binaphthyls, and spiranes. Students first perform a visual inspection by drawing the possible enantiomers side-by-side in a 3D structure drawing program. They then compute vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra for the enantiomers. Chiral molecules uniquely interact with circularly polarized light due to the dissymmetry in their molecular orbitals. Therefore, determining if a molecule is chiral may be achieved by computing its VCD spectrum: where chiral molecules produce a peaked spectrum and achiral molecules feature a zero-intensity flat-lined spectrum. For a given enantiomer, the VCD spectrum shows both positive and negative peaks. Just as enantiomers are mirror images, VCD spectra are mirror images of each other, meaning a positive peak from one enantiomer will be a negative peak from the other enantiomer.
Drivers of artificial light at night variability in urban, rural and remote areas

Abstract Light pollution generated by the excessive use of artificial light at night is an environmental and ecological concern. Artificial light at night is diffused far from the sources, for long distances by scattering in the atmosphere (skyglow), thus affecting the night sky and the biodiversity of rural and natural areas. The characterization of the level and variability of light pollution has become an important issue for several disciplines. This study analyzes light pollution in urban, rural and remote sites in Tuscany (Italy) by monitoring night sky brightness. Night sky brightness (NSB) data collected from 2016 to 2019 were analyzed to assess annual and seasonal variability at each site and between sites. The relationship between night sky brightness and moonlight and weather conditions were also analyzed. Trend analysis was also performed to evaluate the degradation of the quality of the measurement with time due to dirty accumulation on the sensor shield. NSB in Tuscany during moonless nights ranged between 17.3 and 21.8 mpsas. The monthly cycle of moonlight is the main driver of night sky brightness variability in the remote site (21.8 mpsas on moonless nights and 18.5 mpsas on full moon nights) with a slight, but significant darkening effect during rainy conditions (22.3 mpsas). In urban sites, moonlight cycle is almost completely masked by weather conditions, as it can be seen from the analysis of seasonal variability, lunar monthly cycle analysis and weather condition analysis. Average night sky brightness on rainy days might reach 15.4 mpsas (approximately 436 times brighter than the natural background), an intensity that is even higher than average night sky brightness in full moonlight at the same site (16.6 mpsas). Light pollution can reach levels that might affect nocturnal species, and therefore the study of long term variability of light pollution is important for ecological studies.
Improving patient retention by optimizing appointment scheduling in an underserved oncology population within a public safety-net health system.

193Background: Cancer patients in underserved populations are at high risk for patient attrition and treatment delay. We theorized that decreased appointment scheduling was contributing to a high n...
ERYTHROPOIETIN INDUCES WHILE HEME OXYGENASE INHIBITS MOBILIZATION OF ENDOTHELIAL PROGENITOR CELLS IN FLOW-ASSOCIATED PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN RATS

Introduction Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by advanced pulmonary vascular lesions. Erythropoietin (EPO) mobilizes endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) that may participate in the repair of these pulmonary vascular lesions, possibly via activation of Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1). HO-1 is an inducible enzyme with anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic activities. To test the hypothesis that Epo induces mobilization of EPCs via HO-1, we treated rats with flow-associated PAH with Epo in combination with a blocker of HO-1 (SnMP). Materials and Method PAH was created in male Wistar rats by injection of monocrotaline (60 mg/kg) followed by an abdominal aorto-caval shunt one week later. Immediately afterwards, rats were randomized to treatment with EPO (n = 10), EPO and a HO-1 blocker (SnMP, n = 10), HO-1 blocker alone (n = 10) or no treatment (n = 10). Two and four weeks later, EPCs were isolated from peripheral blood and stained. Results Epo treatment in rats with flow-associated PAH induces EPC mobilization after 4 weeks (314±53 in PAH+EPO vs. 183±38 in PAH, p Conclusion In the rat model of flow-associated PAH we showed that EPO mobilizes EPCs, but the mobilization of EPCs is not via activation of HO-1. In contrast, HO-1 appears to be a negative regulator of EPC mobilization.
Comparing FOLFOX delivery in trial and real-world populations using longitudinal cumulative dose.

1521Background: Patterns of chemotherapy delivery are likely to differ between trial and real-world populations. Typical measures used to compare these patterns are calculated at treatment completi...
Preservice Teachers’ Self-efficacy During a Field Experience at a Juvenile Detention Facility

The purpose of this study was to explore preservice teachers’ perceptions of self-efficacy during a field experience at a juvenile detention facility as they taught writing. A mixed-methods study w...
Abstract LB194: Analysis of Hippo/YAP abnormalities in head and neck cancer

Introduction: Squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) comprise more than 95% of all head and neck cancers. Over the past decades the incidence and mortality rates of HNSCC have been steadily increasing worldwide. HNSCCs account for 6% of all human cancers and for 3% of all cancers in the United States. Leukoplakia, also known as smoker9s keratosis are described as non-cancerous, pre-malignant inflammatory patches is a major risk factor in the development of HNSCC. In fact, up to 31% of all leukoplakias are believed to transform into HNSCC. Our interest into the molecular contributions to head and neck carcinogenesis has led us to follow up intriguing findings on the contributions of Yes Associated Protein (YAP) pathways that were found to upregulate proliferation, invasion/migration, and survival in head and neck cancer. More recent studies have found that Hippo/Yap activation occurs in many human cancers as well. Materials and Methods: We performed several in silico analyses of available human cancer genetic data. We interrogated data from various Head and Neck Cancer studies. Specifically, we included data from the Recurrent and Metastatic Head & Neck Cancer (MSKCC, JAMA Oncol 2016), Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Broad, Science 2011), Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Johns Hopkins, Science 2011), Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (TCGA, PanCancer Atlas), and the Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (MD Anderson, Cancer Discov 2013) using CBioPortal web tool. We explored factors responsible for Hippo pathway activation via loss of negative regulators or amplification of Hippo drivers. Results: We found many negative regulators, such as TAOK1, LATS1/2, among others to be mutated, exclusive of FAT1 loss, a known event in HNSCC. We also found amplification of YAP1, a driver of the Hippo pathway. We saw a loss of FAT1 in 22% of tumors, mutations in TAOK1 and LATS1/2 were seen in over 5% of tumors, exclusive of other mutations or gene expression derangements. YAP1 amplification was observed in up to 5% of tumors. Conclusions: These findings substantiate earlier findings where the YAP pathway was found to be upregulated in head and neck cancer subsets. Intriguingly, the loss of negative regulators or amplification of oncogenes, such as YAP1, likely contribute to Hippo/YAP upregulation. Since they are important pathways that may be activated at the crux of oral carcinoma in situ/invasion, findings from our in silico interrogation shed light on genetic abnormalities that probably occur earlier in the carcinogenesis spectrum. Further interrogation of leukoplakia preclinical models or data sets could shed additional light on contributions of Hippo/YAP to oral carcinogenesis. Citation Format: German Velez Reyes, Beverly Wuertz, Frank G. Ondrey. Analysis of Hippo/YAP abnormalities in head and neck cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr LB194.
Treatment intensity and mortality among COVID-19 patients with dementia: A retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: We sought to determine whether dementia is associated with treatment intensity and mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. METHODS: This study includes review of the medical records for patients >60 years of age (n = 5394) hospitalized with COVID-19 from 132 community hospitals between March and June 2020. We examined the relationships between dementia and treatment intensity (including intensive care unit [ICU] admission and mechanical ventilation [MV] and care processes that may influence them, including advance care planning [ACP] billing and do-not-resuscitate [DNR] orders) and in-hospital mortality adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, comorbidity, month of hospitalization, and clustering within hospital. We further explored the effect of ACP conversations on the relationship between dementia and outcomes, both at the individual patient level (effect of having ACP) and at the hospital level (effect of being treated at a hospital with low: 20% ACP rates). RESULTS: Ten percent (n = 522) of the patients had documented dementia. Dementia patients were older (>80 years: 60% vs. 27%, p < 0.0001), had a lower burden of comorbidity (3+ comorbidities: 31% vs. 38%, p = 0.003), were more likely to have ACP (28% vs. 17%, p < 0.0001) and a DNR order (52% vs. 22%, p < 0.0001), had similar rates of ICU admission (26% vs. 28%, p = 0.258), were less likely to receive MV (11% vs. 16%, p = 0.001), and more likely to die (22% vs. 14%, p < 0.0001). Differential treatment intensity among patients with dementia was concentrated in hospitals with low, dementia-biased ACP billing practices (risk-adjusted ICU use: 21% vs. 30%, odds ratio [OR] = 0.6, p = 0.016; risk-adjusted MV use: 6% vs. 16%, OR = 0.3, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Dementia was associated with lower treatment intensity and higher mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Differential treatment intensity was concentrated in low ACP billing hospitals suggesting an interplay between provider bias and "preference-sensitive"" care for COVID-19."
Urban and peri-urban agriculture in the global food security conundrum

First paragraph: Rural exodus and increased urbanization have led to the development of urban slums in major cities across the world, resulting in food insecurity. Food deserts and food pantries are cropping up in the developed world as famine and malnutrition ravage parts of the developing world, exacerbated by endless conflicts. Therefore, food systems and value chains are facing pressures and are increasingly vulnerable due to strains on natural ecosystems and the impact of climate change. These strains have impacted not only land use, but also soil quality, leading to reduced quantity and quality of food available at reasonable costs to the urban poor. Thus, there is an urgent need for crea­tive methods of food production in the urban cen­ters to improve the sustainable food supply value chain. Food gardens as part of urban agriculture have the potential to mitigate the rise in hunger and food insecurity as it has inherent health, socio-cultural, environmental, and economic benefits as documented by Lawson (2005) and in Soleri, Cleveland, and Smith’s Food Gardens for a Changing World. Urban food gardens provide fresh, nutri­tious food that alleviates hunger and improves the health and wellbeing of the local community—plus any excess produce can be sold for additional in­come. Food gardens improve urban environmental quality and carbon footprint, and add value as places of community connection, networking, and empowerment.
Where Corporations Are: Why Casual Visits to New York are Bad for Business

In this article, we examine the recent case of Hotel 71 Mezz Lender LLC v. Falor (2010), from the New York Court of Appeals. In this case, New York’s highest court held that LLCs are “present” in New York for jurisdictional purposes when the president of the LLC has submitted to New York jurisdiction in an unrelated law suit against him personally, and where the president came to New York for a deposition in that action. This, we claim, was unconstitutional. In addition, the New York Court of Appeals pronounced itself obliged by the United States Constitution to change the New York law of situs of intangible property. This, we argue, was erroneous. New York is under no constitutional obligation to adopt a specific situs rule about intangible property. Furthermore, the Court of Appeals relied on the situs rule of Harris v. Balk, 198 U.S. 215 (1905) in backward fashion. The Harris case equated the situs of an “account debtor” with the situs of the debt he owed. In Falor, the New York court equated the situs of an LLC with the situs of the equity owners of the LLC, effectively piercing the corporate veil sub silentio. This we view as a profound analytical error that could have far-reaching consequences for business litigation involving interests holders of LLCs.
Minimal Brain Dysfunction and Neuropsychological Test Performance in Offspring of Alcoholics

Previous studies have indicated that alcoholics report a high frequency of problem behaviors in childhood. Additionally, certain neuropsychological deficits are often evident. Both childhood problem behavior and antecedent neuropsychological deficits have been suggested as risk factors for the later development of alcoholism. However, neither set of variables nor their interrelationship have been previously investigated in a sample at high risk for the development of alcoholism. In this study, unaffected offspring of an alcoholic parent and unaffected offspring of nonalcoholic parents were examined. Although attention deficit disorder/ hyperactivity and conduct disorder prior to age twelve predicted the onset of drinking, the frequency of childhood behaviors was similar in both groups. Further, the neuropsychological performances of the highrisk and low-risk samples were also similar and within normal limits. The theoretical and methodological implications of these findings for future research are discussed.
Introduction to the Neutron

As a fundamental particle, the neutron has many unique attributes that provide a variety of contrast mechanisms enabling many imaging techniques that will be discussed throughout this book. This chapter introduces the neutron with a short summary of its discovery and continues with a presentation of its fundamental properties. A physical picture of the attenuation of a primary beam of particles and the mathematical formulae that govern that attenuation are presented. This chapter concludes with a discussion of neutron interactions with matter that provide the physical basis underlying neutron imaging.
Metabolism and Selective Toxicity of 6-Nitrobenzylthioinosine in Toxoplasma gondii

The purine nucleoside analogue NBMPR (nitrobenzylthioinosine or 6-[(4-nitrobenzyl)thio]-9-beta-D-ribofuranosylpurine) was selectively phosphorylated to its nucleoside 5'-monophosphate by Toxoplasma gondii but not mammalian adenosine kinase (EC 2.7.1.20). NBMPR was also cleaved in toxoplasma to its nucleobase, nitrobenzylmercaptopurine. However, nitrobenzylmercaptopurine was not a substrate for either adenosine kinase or hypoxanthine-guanine-xanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (EC 2.4.2.8). Because of this unique and previously unknown metabolism of NBMPR by the parasite, the effect of NBMPR as an antitoxoplasmic agent was tested. NBMPR killed T. gondii grown in human fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner, with a 50% inhibitory concentration of approximately 10 microM and without apparent toxicity to host cells. Doses of up to 100 microM had no significant toxic effect on uninfected host cells. The promising antitoxoplasmic effect of NBMPR led to the testing of other 6-substituted 9-beta-D-ribofuranosylpurines, which were shown to be good ligands of the parasite adenosine kinase (M. H. Iltzsch, S. S. Uber, K. O. Tankersley, and M. H. el Kouni, Biochem. Pharmacol. 49:1501-1512, 1995), as antitoxoplasmic agents. Among the analogues tested, 6-benzylthioinosine, p-nitrobenzyl-6-selenopurine riboside, N(6)-(p-azidobenzyl)adenosine, and N(6)-(p-nitrobenzyl)adenosine, like NBMPR, were selectively toxic to parasite-infected cells. Thus, it appears that the unique characteristics of purine metabolism in T. gondii render certain 6-substituted 9-beta-D-ribofuranosylpurines promising antitoxoplasmic drugs.
Mechanical Properties of Kenaf/Polypropylene Nonwoven Composites

With an industrial trend of going green, the use of natural fibers in polymer composites is growing rapidly, especially in the automotive industry. The objectives of this research are to investigate mechanical performance of kenaf/polypropylene nonwoven composites (KPNCs) in production of automotive interior parts, and to develop preliminary linear models for quantifying elastic range of the KPNCs under various loading conditions. Using polypropylene (PP) fiber as bonding fiber, the KPNCs were fabricated with 50/50 blend ratio by weight. Unlike the manufacturing method of fiber reinforced plastics, all KPNCs were produced by carding and needle-punching techniques and thermally bonded by a panel press with 3-mm thickness gauge. Mechanical properties of the KPNCs in terms of uniaxial tensile, open-hole tensile, tensile at different strain rates, flexural, and in-plane shear were measured instrumentally. It was found that sample which was processed at higher temperature (230 °C) but shorter time (60 s) had the best mechanical performance. KPNCs were relatively insensitive to the notch but sensitive to strain rates. The linear elastic finite element model of KPNCs agreed well with the experimental results in the valid strain range of 0–0.5 % for uniaxial tensile test and 0–1 % for flexural test.
Autoimmunity in Myocarditis: Relevance of Animal Models☆

Infections (viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi) are major etiological factors causing clinical myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy. In many patients and symptom-free relatives antibodies and T cells reactive to heart antigens are detected, which implies that autoimmunity is probably a major pathogenic mechanism of cardiac injury. Animal models have been established to elucidate how infections initiate autoimmunity and how autoimmune mediators cause death or transient dysfunction of myocytes. Two major types of experimental models are discussed: adjuvant-induced myocarditis, in which animals are given multiple immunizations of heart proteins (myosin, adenine nucleotide translocator); and virus-induced myocarditis, in which animals are infected with the viruses predominantly associated with the human disease.
Systemic histiocytosis presenting as multiple sclerosis

A patient resembling one with progressive multiple sclerosis in clinical presentation and by magnetic resonance imaging was studied in detail. Some features atypical for multiple sclerosis prompted a persistent search for an alternative cause. The diagnosis of a non-Langerhans systemic histiocytosis involving brain and bone was established and showed a partial response to radiation therapy. This patient illustrates the continued importance of a broad approach to the evaluation of possible multiple sclerosis, with particular attention to atypical features.
Efficacy of the Pentavalent Rotavirus Vaccine in Subjects After 1 or 2 Doses in the Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial

To the Editor .— The purpose of this letter is to point out data discrepancies between an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guideline and an Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) abstract and to request clarification/explanation. In the January 2007 issue of Pediatrics , the policy statement “Prevention of Rotavirus Disease: Guidelines for Use of Rotavirus Vaccine” …
A regional approach to the analysis of Belgian agricultural energy use and production

Abstract By reducing inputs as well as outputs to the same unit of measure, economic agricultural geography can define a number of useful characteristics of agricultural systems. In this field the reduction into energy units can be applied. This study aims to enlighten the intensity and the structure of the Belgian agricultural production on the basis of the production expressed in energy units on the one hand and the consumption of fossil energy on the other. The relation between these two values gives the energy yield. The calculations of the total edible production (output) are based on production data derived from agricultural censuses. We have also calculated the direct and indirect energy consumption (input) based on the machinery and on the use of intermediary production means (fuels, fertilizers, feedstuffs). An analysis at regional level shows that a great diversification of regional production structures corresponds with a highly diversified energy consumption for the absolute input and its composition. Central Belgium with its orientation towards “field crops” reaches a high out-/input level thanks to its very high output in spite of a medium input. In the rest of the country the out-/input values are not very high. They are obtained in two different ways. In the northern part of the country we have a very intensive agriculture with very high inputs and outputs. A very important part of the production is of animal origin and this explains the small value of the out-/input ratio. In the southern part of the country we notice rather small in- and output values and also a small ratio, which corresponds with a less intensive system oriented towards cattle. Thus, intensity, and structure are two different elements. Then, the typology and the absolute values of in- and output based on energy values are compared with calculations by means of the gross standard margin on the one hand and the final values on the other. In conclusion, the usefulness of the regional approach is emphasized. On the one hand it reflects complete results, and on the other it describes in most cases the problems of the individual farms in a satisfactory way. On the basis of similar systems, structures and circumstances of production, the observations concerning the Belgian agricultural regions can be said to hold true for other European regions as well.
Application of acoustic methods for the monitoring of products made of hard alloys

A system for the ultrasonic (US) control of large hard alloy articles developed in the Institute of Superhard Materials of the Ukrainian National Academy of Sciences is described. Ultrasonic control detects defects with a size from 0.3 mm in the sintering stage, which substantially reduced the number of damages in critical friction units. We investigate the influence of the structure on the sound velocity, modulus of elasticity, and damping properties of VK6 and VK8 hard alloys supplied by different producers.
Anal ultrasound and endosonographic measurement of perineal body thickness: a new evaluation for fecal incontinence in females.

Perineal body thickness (PBT) is measured by endoanal ultrasonography. The literature has shown that women with obstetric trauma to the anal sphincter have decreased PBT, and a measurement of 10 mm or less has been proposed as abnormal. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the proposed definitions of normal to pathologic findings in patients with fecal incontinence (FI) and to correlate PBT with anorectal physiologic findings. All female patients who had endoanal ultrasonography and PBT measurement for evaluation of FI were assessed and divided into three groups on the basis of PBT: 10 mm or less, 10 to 12 mm, more than 12 mm. The degree of FI (0 = complete continence; 20 = complete incontinence) was correlated with PBT. For this study, 83 female patients with a mean age of 59.7 years (range, 30–88 years) had endoanal ultrasonography and PBT measurement. Sphincter defects were suggested by endoanal ultrasonography in 77% of the patients in the three groups as follows: 57 (97%) of 59 patients, 4 (36%) of 11 patients, and 3 (23%) of 13 patients. The mean external sphincter defect angle was 110° (range, 45–170°), and the mean FI score was 13.8. For 89% of the patients there was a history of vaginal delivery. As reported, 35% had undergone one or more prior perineal surgeries, 27% had both, and 4% denied having had either. A significant correlation between sphincter defect and PBT (p < 0.001) was noted. External sphincter defect angles were negatively correlated with PBT (p = 0.001). A PBT of 10 mm or less is considered abnormal, whereas a PBT of 10 mm to 12 mm is associated with sphincter defect in one-third of patients with FI. Those with a PBT of 12 mm or more are unlikely to harbor a defect unless they previously have undergone reconstructive perineal surgery.
A gene/pseudogene tandem duplication encodes a cysteine-rich protein expressed during zygote development in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

The Class V zygote-specific gene from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has been cloned and sequenced. This gene encodes a polypeptide of 86 amino acids, which contains a signal peptide and 6 cysteine residues arranged in an inverted symmetrical repeat. The Class V gene product is postulated to be a component of the zygote cell wall. Southern analysis revealed two tandemly oriented and closely linked copies of the Class V gene, designated A and B. The A gene appears to be a pseudogene, based on analysis of Class V cDNAs, primer extension with gene-specific primers, and Northern analysis which failed to detect an A gene transcript. Genetic analysis using a related Chlamydomonas species that lacks the A gene, but which produces normal zygotic progeny, further indicates that the A gene is not required for zygote development.
Audio-computerized self-interviewing versus face-to-face interviewing for research data collection at drug abuse treatment programs.

Aims To assess audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (A-CASI) as a mode of data collection with injecting drug users (IDUs) entering two drug treatment programs in New York City. A-CASI has been found to increase reporting of sensitive items among a variety of population subgroups. Design A ﬁeld test of A-CASI data collection conducted within an ongoing cross-sectional study of drug use and HIV risk behaviors among IDUs entering drug treatment. Participants were assigned without bias to either a computer-assisted interviewer-administered personal interview (CAPI) or to a mixed CAPI/A-CASI interview. In the latter, ‘sensitive’ portions (dealing with stigmatized behavior) of the questionnaire were self-administered through A-CASI, while the remaining portions were interviewer-administered. Setting The Detoxification Program and the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program (MMTP) at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Participants Seven hundred and eighty-three IDUs entering drug treatment. Measurements Odds ratios and adjusted odds ratios (controlling for demographic differences) for comparison of A-CASI versus CAPI responses on 111 sensitive questions. Findings Twenty-three statistically significant differences (each at P < 0.05), all in the direction of more reporting of the behaviors by the A-CASI group. Forty-one per cent of A-CASI participants said they would prefer any subsequent interviews to be fully A-CASI and 46% said they would prefer the mixed CAPI/A-CASI mode. Conclusions A-CASI was associated with greater reporting of potentially stigmatized drug, sex and HIV risk behaviors on a moderate number of questions. Moreover, a large majority of participants who used A-CASI would like to be assigned to this method of data collection in future interviews.
The phase behavior of simple compounds

Abstract The phase behavior of simple compounds is not necessarily simple. Several examples are given in which either common approximations fail, or “expected” phases do not appear. These include TiO2, ZnO and Ag-halides. In addition, an example is given of development of an inhomogeneous stress system in a situation where homogeneity is usually assumed.
Heterologous expression of a mammalian epithelial sodium channel in yeast

The alpha and beta subunits of the amiloride-sensitive rat epithelial sodium channel (alpha beta ENaC) were expressed in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We used a combination of yeast strains, including a mutant in the secretory pathway (sec6), and Western blotting techniques, to show that alpha beta ENaC was synthesized and targeted through the secretory system to the plasma membrane. Yeasts expressing alpha beta ENaC were more sensitive to salt than the parent strain. In addition, amiloride, a specific blocker of ENaC, was found to suppress salt sensitivity in the yeast strain expressing alpha beta ENaC.
Sex-dependent changes in ADHD-like behaviors in juvenile rats following cortical dopamine depletion

Reduced cortical dopamine levels have been observed in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Global dopamine depletions by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA; with noradrenergic protection) in neonatal rats produces locomotor hyperactivity, with less known about how cortical depletion modulates risky behaviors. Here, we determined the effect of a medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) 6-OHDA depletions (30-60%) or sham microinjection at postnatal day 11 on behavior in male and female juvenile rats. Separate groups were studied for delay discounting (impulsive choice), novelty-preference, and preferences for cues and environments associated with cocaine (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg), their extinction, and reinstatement with place conditioning. Because PFC D1 receptors play a role in these behaviors, confocal microscopy was used to measure D1-immunoreactive projections to the nucleus accumbens core. Both 6-OHDA males and females increased delay discounting relative to sham controls, although only 6-OHDA females increased novelty preferences. Preferences for cocaine-associated environments, their extinction, and reinstatement with a priming dose of cocaine were reduced in 6-OHDA subjects overall. However, impulsive choice at 5s positively correlated with preferences for cocaine-associated environments in 6-OHDA subjects, but not sham controls. As possible compensation for low dopamine levels, D1-immunoreactivity on traced neurons increased in 6-OHDA females; dopamine levels did not remain low in adolescent 6-OHDA males and D1 did not change. We believe that these modest depletions restricted to the PFC demonstrate the role of dopamine, and not norepinephrine, in understanding these behaviors in other animal models where cortical dopamine is reduced during development.
Calculating dose and output factors for wedged photon radiotherapy fields using a convolution/superposition method

We have developed a convolution/superposition method to calculate dose distributions in photon treatment fields with beam modifiers such as physical wedges. The dose component due to wedge generated radiation was accounted for by using an extended phantom model, which integrated a wedge, an air gap, and a patient phantom as the calculation phantom. The inhomogeneities in the extended phantom and the effect of beam hardening by the wedge were both corrected for in the convolution dose calculation. The calculated dose was verified by Monte Carlo simulation of the same extended phantom. A new dual photon source model was also used in the convolution method to account for both primary photons from the target and extra-focal photons from the primary collimator and flattening filter. Thus, realistic photon energy fluence distributions in the extended phantom were used for the dose calculation. The calculated dose distributions and the wedge factors agreed with the measured data within 2% for a variety of treatment fields including asymmetric fields. Our results showed that the wedge-generated radiation could contribute a significant fraction of the total dose in patients. This dose component depends on a specific field configuration, thus wedge factor changes with photon energy, wedge angle, field size, depth, and patient phantom SSD. The variation of the wedge factor can be predicted accurately by our convolution approach with the extended phantom model, which allows for more accurate dose or monitor unit computation for photon fields with beam modifiers.
Environmental regulation of brain trophic interactions

Emerging evidence indicates that trophic interactions that influence brain development are critical throughout life, mediating processes as diverse as learning, memory and regrowth after injury. This review summarizes recent work suggesting that impulse activity regulates trophic interactions in the brain, allowing the conversion of millisecond-to-millisecond signalling into long-term changes in neural circuit function. For example, depolarizing stimuli regulate trophic factor gene expression, an effect mediated by excitatory transmitters. Responsiveness to trophic factors is also regulated by activity, since depolarization increases the expression of trophic receptor genes. Moreover, different excitatory transmitter receptor subtypes mediate trophic or regressive effects, allowing a neural system to precisely memorialize excitatory or inhibitory experiences. A number of open questions are articulated to define potential future directions.
Calcium oxalate: calcium phosphate transformations.

Knowledge of the physical–chemical mechanisms responsible for the crystal growth and dissolution events involved in stone formation might enable the manipulation of thermodynamics in such a way as to increase the solubility of sparingly soluble phases (such as calcium oxalates and phosphates), thereby reducing the driving force for stone formation. This may be accomplished through modification of pH, reduction of supersaturation with respect to nucleating phases, and the presence of key inhibitors. If these modifications are made during the initial stages of crystallite nucleation, they could potentially reduce the participation of phases such as Randall’s plaques in stone formation.
The surgery of the rheumatoid wrist: postoperative appearances and complications of the more common procedures

There is considerable orthopedic interest in the surgical management of rheumatoid arthritis involving the wrist. Surgery is being used more frequently in treating this condition, and many surgical options are available. The biomechanical basis, indications, postoperative appearances, and complications of these many operations should be known to the radiologist involved in preoperative care and postoperative follow-up. Some of the more frequent procedures are presented, and the complications are discussed.
Response of the ionosphere thermosphere system to magnetospheric processes

Abstract The magnetosphere–ionosphere–thermosphere system at high latitudes is strongly coupled via electric fields, particle precipitation, plasma and neutral outflows, and field-aligned currents. Although the climatology of the coupled system is fairly well established, our understanding of the variability of the disturbed state (weather) is rudimentary. This variability is associated with magnetic storms and substorms, nonlinear processes that operate over a range of spatial scales, time delays, and feedback mechanisms between the different domains. The variability and resultant structure of the ionosphere can appear in the form of propagating plasma patches and polar wind jets, pulsing ion and neutral polar winds, auroral and boundary blobs, and ionization channels associated with polar cap arcs, discrete auroral arcs, and storm-enhanced densities (SEDs). The variability and structure of the thermosphere can appear in the form of propagating atmospheric holes, neutral gas fountains, neutral density patches, and transient neutral jets. In addition, during periods of enhanced plasma convection, the neutral winds can become supersonic in relatively narrow regions of the polar cap. The spatial structure in the ionosphere–thermosphere system not only affects the local environment, but the cumulative effect of multiple structures may affect the global circulation and energy balance. A focused topical review of recent results in our modeling the variability and structure of the high-latitude ionosphere–thermosphere system is presented. This review was given at the Greenland Space Science Symposium (May 2007).
Electronic Resources Management : An Update

Purpose – Aims to review the Digital Library Federation's (DLF) Electronic Resource Management Initiative (ERMI) guidelines and related commercial e‐resource management system development.Design/methodology/approach – Documents commercial e‐resource development by reviewing materials made public by leading library system vendors.Findings – Provides information about commercial and library‐developed systems and where additional information about each can be found.Originality/value – Provides the status of industry initiatives to respond to the DLF ERMI functional specifications. Suggests the need to improve workflows in conjunction with implementation of an e‐resources system to more effectively manage electronic resources.
Generating non-jumping numbers recursively

Let r>=2 be an integer. A real number @a@?[0,1) is a jump for r if there is a constant c>0 such that for any @e>0 and any integer m where m>=r, there exists an integer n"0 such that any r-uniform graph with n>n"0 vertices and density >=@a+@e contains a subgraph with m vertices and density >=@a+c. It follows from a fundamental theorem of Erdos and Stone that every @a@?[0,1) is a jump for r=2. Erdos asked whether the same is true for r>=3. Frankl and Rodl gave a negative answer by showing some non-jumping numbers for every r>=3. In this paper, we provide a recursive formula to generate more non-jumping numbers for every r>=3 based on the current known non-jumping numbers.