cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Superdiscrete series coupled to 2D supergravity

We present arguments relating certain super-KP systems to minimal superdiscrete series models coupled to supergravity. The even members of the series are closely related to bosonic minimal models coupled to ordinary gravity, and are described by generalized KdV flows (with no free non-perturbative parameters). In particular, the theory is seen to be a topological field theory closely related to the bosonic one at c = −2. There are indications that supersymmetry is broken for the odd members of the series.
Structure and order parameters in the pressure-induced continuous transition in TeO/sub 2/

Lattice parameters of Te${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ have been measured from 0 to 32.5 kbar by time-of-flight neutron diffraction. Atomic-position parameters have also been measured to 20 kbar for both the low-pressure tetragonal paratellurite phase and the high-pressure orthorhombic phase, which we determined to have a structure belonging to the ${D}_{2}^{4}(P{2}_{1}{2}_{1}{2}_{1})$ space group. We found no hysteresis in the lattice parameters or position parameters in cycling through the transition. We also found that $\frac{{(b\ensuremath{-}a)}^{2}}{{a}_{0}^{2}}$ in the high-pressure phase varied linearly with pressure with a slope of 2.53(1) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$/kbar, going to zero at 9.1 kbar. We detected no discontinuity in volume or the $c$ parameter, but observed anomalies in the slopes $\frac{\mathrm{dV}}{\mathrm{dP}}$, $\frac{d(a+b)}{\mathrm{dP}}$, and $\frac{\mathrm{dc}}{\mathrm{dP}}$. All of these observations are additional experimental evidence for the continuous nature of the transition. The observed ${D}_{2}^{4}$ structure of the high-pressure phase is a subgroup of order 2 of the ${D}_{4}^{4}$ paratellurite phase which means that the free energy is an even function of the order parameter, but third-order terms coupling the primary order parameter with secondary or induced order parameters can still be formed. These can be nonzero without affecting the second-order nature of the transition. The primary order parameter ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{1}={e}_{1}\ensuremath{-}{e}_{2}$ and the two induced order parameters which we observed, ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{2}={e}_{1}+{e}_{2}$ and ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{3}={e}_{3}$, have been used to derive a Landau-like free-energy expansion describing the thermodynamics of the transition. Very little displacement of the Te atoms was observed in going through the transition, but the oxygen atoms underwent large displacements as a function of pressure. There is no change of size of the unit cell at the transition so it is a pure strain transition of the type first discussed by Anderson and Blount.
Pharmacogenetics in chronic heart failure: New developments and current challenges

The individual patient responses to chronic heart failure (HF) pharmacotherapies are highly variable. This variability cannot be entirely explained by clinical characteristics, and genetic variation may play a role. Therefore, this review will summarize the background pharmacogenetic literature for major HF pharmacotherapy classes (ie, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, digoxin, and loop diuretics), evaluate recent advances in the HF pharmacogenetic literature in the context of previous findings, and discuss the challenges and conclusions for HF pharmacogenetic data and its clinical application.
Synergistic Roles of Antibody and Interferon in Noncytolytic Clearance of Sindbis Virus from Different Regions of the Central Nervous System

Sindbis virus (SINV) is an alphavirus that causes infection of neurons and encephalomyelitis in adult immunocompetent mice. Recovery can occur without apparent neurological damage. To better define the factors facilitating noncytolytic clearance of SINV in different regions of the central nervous system (CNS) and the roles of innate and adaptive immune responses at different times during infection, we have characterized SINV infection and clearance in the brain, brain stem, and spinal cords of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and C57BL/6 (wild-type [WT]) mice and mice deficient in beta interferon (IFN-β) (BKO), antibody (μMT), IFN-γ (GKO), IFN-γ receptor (GRKO), and both antibody and IFN-γ (μMT/GKO). WT mice cleared infectious virus by day 8, while SCID mice had persistent virus replication at all sites. For 3 days after infection, BKO mice had higher titers at all sites than WT mice, despite similar IFN-α production, but cleared virus similarly. GKO and GRKO mice cleared infectious virus from all sites by days 8 to 10 and, like WT mice, displayed transient reactivation at 12 to 22 days. μMT mice did not clear virus from the brain, and clearance from the brain stem and lumbar spinal cord was delayed, followed by reactivation. Eighty-one days after infection, μMT/GKO mice had not cleared virus from any site, but titers were lower than for SCID mice. These studies show that IFN-β is independently important for early control of CNS virus replication, that antiviral antibody is critical for clearance from the brain, and that both antibody and IFN-γ contribute to prevention of reactivation after initial clearance.
Could lack of clarity in written advance directives contribute to their ineffectiveness? A study of the content of written advance directives

Since 1991, advance directives have failed to have a significant impact on end of life care. One reason is that despite widespread interest in these documents, few individuals have chosen to issue advance directives. Another reason reported in several studies is that the conditions under which the patient intended the directives to apply are unclear as are some of the treatments requested or declined. The purpose of this study was to describe instructions commonly included in written advance directives concerning the conditions under which the directives should apply and the treatments that are requested or declined. Five hundred consecutive closed medical records were reviewed from the medical and surgical departments of an urban hospital. These records produced 40 (8%) advance directive documents. Patient instructions indicating when the directives should take effect and which treatments should be declined or provided were summarized. Nurses and other health professionals can use this information to assist in patients in making their advance directives as clear as possible and to make patients more aware of the potential limitations of these types of written instructions. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Comparison of descending phlebography with quantitative photoplethysmography, air plethysmography, and duplex quantitative valve closure time in assessing deep venous reflux

To assess the role of noninvasive tests--quantitative photoplethysmography, air plethysmography, and quantitative duplex scanning, we compared a group of normal (group N, eight limbs) volunteers to patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency who were stratified according to the degree of reflux seen on the current "gold standard," descending phlebography. Group M (10 limbs) had mild (grades 0 to 2) reflux, and group S (10 limbs) had severe (grades 3 to 4) reflux as determined by phlebography. Quantitative photoplethysmography could identify normal from abnormal limbs but could not distinguish the severity of reflux. Air plethysmography was used to calculate venous filling index, ejection fraction, and residual volume fraction. Ejection fraction was the same in all groups. Venous filling index could not significantly distinguish the degree of reflux (group M vs group S) but increased as reflux increased. Residual volume fraction was considerably higher in group S. Quantitative duplex valve closure time was measured in the superficial femoral and popliteal veins, with the values added together in each limb to give a total valve closure time (TVCT). A TVCT value greater than or equal to 4 seconds correlated best with severe phlebographic reflux, with a sensitivity of 90%, a specificity of 94%, and an accuracy of 93%. This value was confirmed as the best test for venous reflux by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Thus in the evaluation of patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency who are candidates for phlebography and surgery, quantitative duplex measurement of TVCT gives the best noninvasive assessment of the severity of deep venous reflux.
Higher Order Conditioning in the Newborn Rat: Effects of Temporal Disparity Imply Infantile Encoding of Simultaneous Events

Infant rats in the age range 8 to 16 days postnatal (P8-16)outperform older animals at learning an association between neutral olfactory stimuli, but only with simultaneous presentation of the odors; sequential presentation eliminates or reverses the infants' advantage. Such results suggest that infants and older animals differ in how they learn simultaneous events. This study tested whether the infant's special effectiveness with such learning is peculiar to P8-16 or is a general feature of infantile naivete seen in newborns as well. At 3 hr of age newborn rats exhibited strikingly robust sensory preconditioning and second-order conditioning, but only for simultaneous odors. Any degree of temporal disparity between odors (even 0 sec)eliminated sensory preconditioning and markedly reduced second-order conditioning. This suggests that the weak differentiation among simultaneously presented stimuli in newborns may promote something similar to perceptual configuration.
Control of multilevel direct AC converters

The growth in the demand for electric power is increasing stress on the existing grid infrastructure. Power utilities today require methods to provide dynamic grid control due to the increased penetration of renewable energy resources and increase in consumption of electricity. FACTs devices provide one possible solution. High cost and low reliability of these devices has impeded widespread use. A novel solution has been proposed in [2] where existing grid assets are augmented with thin ac converters to provide increased control capabilities. The low cost solution is realized by using a direct ac converter in tandem with existing grid assets. The converter uses a simple ac chopper as a building block with no bulk energy storage. Scaling has been shown possible in [2] by cascading the basic building block. Realistic and robust scaling of these converters lies in the ability to effectively control the voltages in every block to the desired level. This paper discusses the multilevel direct ac converter and provides methods to control the converter to ensure safe and reliable operation while maintaining low cost and high reliability.
Distribution of Listeria monocytogenes Molecular Subtypes among Human and Food Isolates from New York State Shows Persistence of Human Disease–Associated Listeria monocytogenes Strains in Retail Environments

While there is considerable information available regarding Listeria monocytogenes contamination patterns in food processing plants, our understanding of L. monocytogenes contamination and transmission in retail operations is limited. We characterized 125 food, 40 environmental, and 342 human clinical L. monocytogenes isolates collected in New York State from 1997 to 2002 using automated ribotyping and hly allelic variation. All environmental isolates were obtained from retail establishments and the majority of food isolates (98 isolates) were obtained from foods that were prepared or handled at retail. Overall, food and/or environmental isolates from 50 different retail establishments were characterized. The 125 food and 40 environmental isolates were differentiated into 29 and 10 ribotypes, respectively. For 16 retail establishments, we found evidence for persistence of one or more specific L. monocytogenes strains as indicated by isolation of the same EcoRI ribotype from food or environmental samples collected in a given establishment on different days. The human isolates were differentiated into 48 ribotypes. Statistical analyses showed that two ribotypes were significantly (P < 0.0001) more common among food isolates as compared with human isolates. However, a total of 17 ribotypes found among the human clinical isolates were also found among the food and environmental isolates. We conclude that L. monocytogenes, including subtypes that have been linked to human disease, can persist in retail environments. Implementation of Listeria control procedures in retail operations, which process and handle products that permit the growth of L. monocytogenes, are thus a critical component of a farm-to-table L. monocytogenes control program.
Nonaqueous packed capillary electrokinetic chromatographic separations of large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and fullerenes

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and a fullerene mixture (C60/C70) were separated with capillary columns (50 microns ID) packed with a reversed-phase packing (octadecylsilica, 3 microns diameter) using electrokinetic pumping. Nonaqueous (acetonitrile modified with methylene chloride or tetrahydrofuran, THF) mobile phases were used for these experiments. The effects of mobile phase composition on such factors as electroosmotic flow, plate height, and capacity factor (k') are reported. The less polar solvents methylene chloride and THF produced predictable reductions in k' when used to modify an acetonitrile mobile phase. Large amounts of the less polar modifiers (50% v/v) also resulted in a fourfold decrease in flow rate. This meant that even with a decrease in k', the retention time increased. Nonaqueous capillary electrokinetic chromatographic (CEC) separations gave efficiencies as high as 160,000 plates/m. Use of nonaqueous mobile phases provided small currents which in turn diminished the role of heating effects on efficiency. The nonaqueous system also provided greater solubility for the hydrophobic solutes. A Van Deemter plot for an acetonitrile mobile phase was obtained that exhibited expected trends in plate height with flow rate and k'. Solvent rinses with water and THF are shown to have only small effects on retention and flow rate.
Experimental progress towards laser acceleration of relativistic electrons with the Micro Accelerator Platform (MAP)

The Micro Accelerator Platform (MAP) is a side-coupled resonant, standing-wave dielectric laser accelerator. Its development and testing for laser acceleration of relativistic electrons has been under way for a few years. MAP has a vacuum gap formed between reflective thin film layers (Distributed Bragg Reflectors or DBRs) that generate the resonant electric field in the gap when powered with a laser of the design wavelength. The vacuum gap has a height around eight hundred nanometers while the thin film layers each are on the order of hundred nanometers thicknesses. Working with sub-micron scale structures like MAP has various challenges in both fabrication and testing. Laser acceleration testing has been taking place at SLAC NLCTA E163 using a 60 MeV electron beam together with an 800 nm wavelength laser to power the structure. Here, the transmission signature of the beam through a MAP structure is presented, and work towards detecting the acceleration signature will be discussed in light of simulation results. Discussion will incorporate progress on the whole experimental effort including challenges and iterations of fabrication, experimental setup and procedures, and subsequent data analysis.
RU486 administration blocks neuropeptide Y potentiation of luteinizing hormone (LH)-releasing hormone-induced LH surges in proestrous rats.

We previously demonstrated that NPY potentiates LHRH-induced LH secretion specifically under endocrine conditions in which preovulatory LH surges are generated. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that NPY's facilitatory actions are dependent upon preovulatory progesterone secretion. In Exp 1, female rats were fitted with atrial catheters on diestrus. On proestrus, hourly blood samples were collected from 1100-2100 h. At 1230 h, rats received a sc injection of the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 (6 mg/kg BW) or oil. At 1330 h, rats received pentobarbital (40 mg/kg BW), to block hypothalamic LHRH release, or saline. Every 30 min from 1400-1800 h, pentobarbital-treated rats received iv pulses of LHRH (15 ng/pulse) or saline along with concurrent pulses of NPY (5 micrograms/pulse), or saline. In Exp 2, rats received jugular catheters on diestrus, but were sampled every hour throughout the morning (0700-1600 h), rather than the afternoon, of proestrus. In these morning groups, pentoba...
A discussion on the significance of geometry in determining the resonant behavior of fractal and other non-Euclidean wire antennas

Fractal-shaped wire antennas have been shown to exhibit resonance compression and multi-band behavior that has primarily been attributed to the space-filling properties of the fractal geometry. Exhibiting a lower resonant frequency than a same-sized Euclidean antenna, fractal-shaped antennas can be made smaller than a Euclidean antenna that is resonant at the same frequency. While numerous fractal-shaped antennas - such as Minkowski Island fractal loops and Koch fractal monopoles -have been described in the literature, most discussions regarding these antennas have primarily focused on comparing their resonant behavior to those of simple Euclidean antennas. To understand the significance of any fractal geometry in determining the resonant behavior of the fractal-shaped antenna, it is also necessary to consider the other physical properties of the antenna. For the wire-loop antenna, these physical properties include the loop area, the total wire length, and the wire. diameter. For the wire monopole antenna, these physical properties include the monopole height, the total wire length, and the wire diameter. In the previous discussions of fractal-shaped antennas, there has been little or no comparison of the fractal antenna's performance properties with those of another wire antenna having a different non-Euclidean geometry, but otherwise having the same physical properties. While the antennas would have different geometries, they would have the same physical area or height, the same total wire length, and the same wire diameter. In this paper, the performance properties of the Minkowski Island fractal loop and the Koch fractal monopole are compared with those of other non-Euclidean-geometry antennas. It is demonstrated through numerical modeling and measurement that antennas having other non-Euclidean wire geometries offer similar and, in some cases, improved, performance over their fractal-antenna counterparts. From the analysis presented here, it is also demonstrated that antenna geometry alone - fractal or otherwise - is not the significant factor determining the resonant behavior of wire antennas.
Evaluation of the Newburg Sandstone of the Appalachian Basin as a CO2 Geologic Storage Resource

The West Virginia Division of Energy is currently evaluating several deep saline formations in the Appalachian Basin of West Virginia that may be potential carbon dioxide (CO 2) sequestration targets. The Silurian Newburg Sandstone play, developed in the 1960s and 1970s, primarily involved natural-gas production from reservoir rock with well-developed porosity and permeability. High initial pressures encountered in early wells in the Newburg indicated that the overlying Silurian Salina Formation provides a competent seal. Because of the large number of CO 2 point sources in the region and the favorable reservoir properties of the formation (including an estimated 300 bcf of natural-gas production), the Newburg Sandstone was evaluated for the potential geologic storage of CO 2. Within the Newburg play, there are several primary fields separated geographically and geologically by saltwater contacts and dry holes. Previous studies have determined the storage potential within these individual fields. This study shows that the Newburg is more suitable for small-scale injection tests instead of large-scale regional storage operations.
A Philosopher’s Perspective on the “Problem” of Molecular Shape

For more than the last two decades, protagonists have argued there is a problem with classical molecular structure. Woolley (1986, 204) claims “(w)e might expect a deductive account of the behavior and properties of molecules according to quantum theory in which the same notion of [classical] molecular structure is a derived concept. The ‘problem’ of molecular structure arises because quantum chemistry has not achieved this result.” Since shape is irreducible, it is only a “concept for solving chemical problems, not an object of belief” (Woolley 1985, 1083). According to Primas (1981, 250), “the EPR correlations predicted by pioneer quantum mechanics compellingly exclude any classical concept of molecular structure.” Woolley and Primas attribute the “problem” to philosophical doctrines held by scientists. “[T]he need to put molecular structure in by hand…. entails a conflict with certain a priori philosophical stances (classical realism, reductionism) which other [sic] may subscibe [sic] to” (Woolley 1986, 204). Primas (1981, 252) claims “many of the difficulties… are created by philosophical preconceptions [such as operationalism, logical monism and realism] which we are free to discard as inconvenient ideologies.”
Spontaneous Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion and Rapid Cerebral Aneurysm Progression: Case Series and Literature Review

Purpose An accurate determination of the natural history of a cerebral aneurysm has implications on management. Few risk factors other than female gender and cigarette smoking have been identified to be associated with cerebral aneurysm progression, particularly rapid progression.
Gadolinium induces macrophage apoptosis

Gadolinium (Gd) suppresses reticuloendothelial functions in vivo by unknown mechanisms. In vitro exposure of rat alveolar macrophages to GdCl3.6H20 caused cell death, as measured by trypan blue permeability, in both dose- and time-dependent fashions. Even a 10-min exposure to Gd caused significant cell death by 24 h. The morphology of Gd-treated cells, pyknosis and karyorrhexis prior to loss of membrane integrity, suggested apoptosis. Upon flow cytometric examination, Gd-treated propidium iodide-excluding cells demonstrated light scatter changes characteristic of apoptotic cells (decreased forward and increased right angle scatter). Gel electrophoresis of DNA from Gd-treated macrophages clearly showed the ladder pattern unique to apoptotic cells. Electron-dense structures containing Gd were observed via electron spectroscopic imaging within phagosomes and also within nuclei (associated with condensed chromatin). Gadolinium, endocytosed by macrophages and distributed to nuclei, causes apoptosis of macrophages in vitro.
Use of the Internet in an introductory circuit analysis course

The author addresses the use of the Internet in an introductory circuit analysis course that uses CircuitTutor software which incorporates graphics, text, sound, and animation in interactive tutorials designed to promote active learning by engineering students. New CircuitTutor problems, assigned as quizzes, are designed to have their answers submitted for grading over the Internet computer network. This approach is improving student learning, and students gain a greater appreciation of computer networking. >
Abstract 4974: Oligoclonal characterization of tumor-infiltrating plasma cells in breast cancer: Germ cell expansion and immunity .

Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer in women in the United States and many other parts of the world. About 80% of all the breast cancers are Invasive Ductal Carcinomas (IDC). Breast cancers often show detectable lymphocytic infiltrates, and only about one-fourth of them contain moderate to heavy infiltration of B-cells and plasma cells. B cells are the effector cells of humoral immunity and can terminally differentiate into antibody secreting plasma cells. In the present study, we have analyzed the immunoglobulin variable genes of tumor-infiltrating plasma cells from IDC patients. This was done to determine the clonal character of the plasma cells and their possible role in the tumor immunity. Fresh malignant breast tumors were obtained following surgery, and their frozen sections were screened for the lymphocytic infiltration. The tumor samples from patients which showed good plasma cell-infiltration were used for this study. Both malignant breast tumors, A55 (estrogen receptor-positive 80%; progesterone receptor-positive >90%) and A91 (estrogen receptor positive 70%; progesterone receptor positive 90%), were categorized as invasive ductal carcinomas. Using a laser capture microdissection technique (PALM Microlaser Technologies AG, Bernried, Germany), single and small clusters of plasma cells in the tumors were collected. The tumor plasma cells were processed for human immunoglobulin variable gene analysis using appropriate RT-PCR primer sets for heavy and light chains. A set of B- cells from healthy volunteer blood was also run as a RT-PCR quality control. The analyses of variable regions (V Heavy and V Light ) of immunoglobulin genes show a very limited number of plasma cell clones in both the tumors. These results indicate their origin from a possible B-cell germ center within the tumor. These plasma cells may be secreting antibodies relevant to the tumor antigens. In order to confirm this, we plan to clone these VH and VL genes and produce antibodies in vitro and examine their binding to the tumor from which they were derived. The work will be extended to study the effects of these antibodies on breast cancer cell proliferation. Citation Format: Anurag Shukla, Yu-Jing Sun, David Krag. Oligoclonal characterization of tumor-infiltrating plasma cells in breast cancer: Germ cell expansion and immunity . [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4974. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4974
Surface Modification of Soda Glass by Recoil Ion Implantation of In2O3

Recoil ion implantation of In2O3 into soda glass substrates has been investigated. Increased adhesion results, while the optical and electrical properties are altered. Large energy deposition rates can lead to the reduction of the oxide, thus decreasing visible transmission. Thermal annealing in air results in the recovery of optical and electrical properties. The influence of ion energy and dose on the modification of the glass has been examined.
Isolation of a Spermatozoal Immobilization Factor from Escherichia Coli Filtrates

A low-molecular weight spermatozoal immobilization factor (SIF) has been isolated from Escherichia coli cultures. This factor is stable to heating, freezing, and lyophilization, and immobilizes but does not kill spermatozoa. The concentration of spermatozoa influenced the effectiveness of the SIF in immobilizing spermatozoa, indicating that bacterial infections could have a greater influence on the oligospermic ejaculate than on a normal specimen. SIF is a stable factor and binds to spermatozoa via a reversible mechanism.
Probing unconventional superconductivity in inversion-symmetric doped Weyl semimetal

Unconventional superconductivity has been predicted to arise in the topologically nontrivial Fermi surface of doped inversion-symmetric Weyl semimetals (WSMs). In particular, Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov (FFLO) and nodal BCS states are theoretically predicted to be possible superconductor pairing states in inversion-symmetric doped WSMs. In an effort to resolve the preferred pairing state, we theoretically study two separate four-terminal quantum transport methods that each exhibit a unique electrical signature in the presence of FFLO and nodal BCS states in doped WSMs. We first introduce a Josephson junction that consists of a doped WSM and an $s$-wave superconductor in which we show that the application of a transverse uniform current in $s$-wave superconductors effectively cancels the momentum carried by FFLO states in doped WSMs. From our numerical analysis, we find a peak in Josephson current amplitude at finite uniform current in $s$-wave superconductors that serves as an indicator of FFLO states in doped WSMs. Furthermore, we show using a four-terminal measurement configuration that the nodal points may be shifted by an application of transverse uniform current in doped WSMs. We analyze the topological phase transitions induced by nodal pair annihilation in nonequilibrium by constructing the phase diagram and we find a characteristic decrease in the density of states that serves as a signature of the quantum critical point in the topological phase transition, thereby identifying nodal BCS states in doped WSMs.
Toward transparent and self-activated graphene harmonic transponder sensors

We propose the concept and design of a transparent, flexible, and self-powered wireless sensor comprising a graphene-based sensor/frequency-modulator circuitry and a graphene antenna. In this all-graphene device, the multilayered-graphene antenna receives the fundamental tone at C band and retransmits the frequency-modulated sensed signal (harmonic tone) at X band. The frequency orthogonality between the received/re-transmitted signals may enable high-performance sensing in severe interference/clutter background. Here, a fully passive, quad-ring frequency multiplier is proposed using graphene field-effect transistors, of which the unique ambipolar charge transports render a frequency doubling effect with conversion gain being chemically sensitive to exposed gas/molecular/chemical/infectious agents. This transparent, light-weight, and self-powered system may potentially benefit a number of wireless sensing and diagnosis applications, particularly for smart contact lenses/glasses and microscope slides that ...
Exercise training and intensity does not alter vascular volume responses in women

PURPOSE The effect of endurance training on vascular volumes in females has received little research attention. Further, the effect of exercise training intensity on vascular volumes is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the hypothesis that greater hematologic changes would be induced in women by higher exercise intensity during endurance training. METHODS There were 26 healthy, sedentary adult females with the following characteristics (mean +/- SD): maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) = 30.0+/-6.6 ml x kg(-1) x min(-1); age = 32+/-5 yr; body mass index (BMI) = 23.7+/-3.6 kg x m(-2)) who were randomly assigned to control (CON, n = 8); high intensity (HI, 80% of VO2max, n = 10), or low intensity (LO, 40% of VO2max, n = 8) cycle ergometer training groups. Training, conducted 3-5 (3.37+/-0.05) d x wk(-1) for 12 wk, was supervised. Estimated exercise energy expenditure was equated across training groups, progressing from 150-375 kcal per session (mean +/- SE across training weeks = 298+/-0.34 and 297+/-0.37 kcal per session for HI and LO, respectively). Plasma volume (PV, T-1824 dilution); calculated total blood (TBV) and red cell volumes (RCV); calculated total hemoglobin (THb); erythropoietin concentration ([Epo]) and selected hematologic variables were measured at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 8 and 12 of training. RESULTS The observed relative (percent) changes in PV, TBV, RCV and THb from pre-training baseline values were not statistically significant. Decreases (p < 0.05) in hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin ([Hb]) and RBC count were observed in both training groups. Mean corpuscular Hb (MCH) and Hb concentration (MCHC) increased (p < 0.05) during training. [Epo] was decreased at week 2 compared with baseline (p < 0.03), but was similar to baseline at weeks 4, 8 and 12. CONCLUSIONS Within the limits of this study, endurance training did not increase PV, TBV, RCV and THb in previously sedentary females regardless of the intensity of training.
Understanding the Framing Effect: Do Affective Responses to Decision Options Mediate the Influence of Frame on Choice?

Little research has examined how gain- and loss-framed options influence participants’ affective states. In the current paper, we present two studies that measure affective responses to framed options to identify a potential mediator of the relation between frame and choice. We found that participants reported more positive responses after reading gain-framed options that presented a certain outcome compared to loss-framed options that presented a certain outcome, consistent with the choice patterns of the framing effect. We also found that framing effects were mediated by affective evaluation of the options. We suggest future researchers continue to assess the influence of affective response on evaluating options and making decisions.
User Interface Design Guidelines for Computer-Based Learning Environments

AbstractThis paper is intended to begin codifying guidelines of user interface design for computer-based learning environments. Data was collected from an analysis of the literature, an analysis of commercial computer-based learning environments, and interviews with the designers and developers of the analyzed programs. The guidelines presented in this paper are not hard andfast rules of what to do and when to do it, but rather represent a collection of issues to consider when designing and developing the visual user interface.
Evaluating the long-term influence of alternative commercial thinning regimes and harvesting systems on projected net present value of precommercially thinned spruce–fir stands in northern Maine

Commercial thinning (CT) is an important silvicultural practice in the northeastern United States. Relatively little is known, however, about the interaction of harvest system and treatment (removal intensity or timing of entry) on the overall profitability of CT. To address this question, 10-year measurements from a controlled CT experiment across six sites in Maine were used to project the long-term effect of removal intensity (33% and 50% relative density reduction) and timing of entry (no delay, 5-year delay, 10-year delay) on (i) maximum net present value (NPV), (ii) timing of maximum NPV, and (iii) the effect of three harvesting systems (cut-to-length, whole-tree, hybrid systems) on maximum NPV. A regional growth and yield model was used to project individual-tree growth and mortality into the future. Harvest costs for the harvesting systems were estimated using regional cycle-time equations. No difference was found in maximum NPV between the CT and non-CT areas or the timing of CT entry. Stand age ...
The nutrition transition and agricultural transformation: a Preston curve approach

The nutrition transition in diets and health is closely tied to other aspects of economic development, including agricultural transformation and urbanization as well as demographic change and epidemiological transition from infectious to noncommunicable disease. Over time, dietary patterns typically shift from widespread inadequacy of many foods and nutrients, especially for children and mothers, into surplus energy intake and rising obesity with continued inadequacy of healthier foods. Diet-related diseases remain the largest single cause of premature death and disability in all regions. This article combines food availability and dietary intake data from more than 100 countries over 30 years with a wide range of other evidence to characterize the nutrition transition and its association with changes in agricultural production and the food environment, asking how future dietary patterns might be steered toward healthier outcomes as national incomes grow.
Evaluation of anti-Zika virus activities of broad-spectrum antivirals and NIH clinical collection compounds using a cell-based, high-throughput screen assay.

Abstract Recent studies have clearly underscored the association between Zika virus (ZIKV) and severe neurological diseases such as microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Given the historical complacency surrounding this virus, however, no significant antiviral screenings have been performed to specifically target ZIKV. As a result, there is an urgent need for a validated screening method and strategy that is focused on highlighting potential anti-ZIKV inhibitors that can be further advanced via rigorous validation and optimization. To address this critical gap, we sought to test whether a cell-based assay that measures protection from the ZIKV-induced cytopathic effect could serve as a high-throughput screen assay for discovering novel anti-ZIKV inhibitors. Employing this approach, we tested the anti-ZIKV activity of previously known broad-spectrum antiviral compounds and discovered several compounds (e.g., NITD008, SaliPhe, and CID 91632869) with anti-ZIKV activity. Interestingly, while GTP synthesis inhibitors (e.g., ribavirin or mycophenolic acid) were too toxic or showed no anti-ZIKV activity (EC 50 > 50 μM), ZIKV was highly susceptible to pyrimidine synthesis inhibitors (e.g., brequinar) in the assay. We amended the assay into a high-throughput screen (HTS)-compatible 384-well format and then screened the NIH Clinical Compound Collection library, which includes a total of 727 compounds organized, using an 8-point dose response format with two Zika virus strains (MR766 and PRVABC59, a recent human isolate). The screen discovered 6-azauridine and finasteride as potential anti-ZIKV inhibitors with EC 50 levels of 3.18 and 9.85 μM for MR766, respectively. We further characterized the anti-ZIKV activity of 6-azauridine and several pyrimidine synthesis inhibitors such as brequinar in various secondary assays including an antiviral spectrum test within flaviviruses and alphaviruses, Western blot (protein), real-time PCR (RNA), and plaque reduction assays (progeny virus). From these assays, we discovered that brequinar has potent anti-ZIKV activity. Our results show that a broad anti-ZIKV screen of compound libraries with our CPE-based HTS assay will reveal multiple chemotypes that could be pursued as lead compounds for therapies to treat ZIKV-associated diseases or as molecular probes to study the biology of the ZIKV replication mechanism.
Improved outcomes for inborn babies with uncomplicated gastroschisis.

Abstract Introduction Gastroschisis (GS) is a common abdominal wall defect necessitating neonatal surgery and intensive care. We hypothesized that inborn patients had improved outcomes compared to patients born at an outside hospital (outborn) and transferred for definitive treatment. Methods A single center, retrospective chart review at a pediatric tertiary care center was performed from 2010 to 2015. All patients whose primary surgical treatment of GS was performed at this center were included. We compared patients delivered within our center (inborn) to patients delivered outside of our center and transferred for surgical care (outborn). Babies with complicated gastroschisis were excluded. Results During the study period 79 patients with GS were identified. Of these, 53 were inborn and 26 were outborn. Sixteen patients were excluded for complicated GS. The rate of complicated GS was higher in the outborn group (32%) compared to the inborn population (11%) (p=0.03). Duration of stay, readmission rate and time on TPN were all significantly decreased for inborn patients, while time to definitive closure was similar. Mortality was 0% for both inborn and outborn patients. Conclusion Patients with uncomplicated GS seem to benefit from delivery with immediate pediatric surgical care available eliminating the need for transfer. Level of evidence III
Human Performance on Modified Fixed-Interval Schedules

Human subjects were exposed to modified fixed-interval schedules of reinforcement in which responding was effective only if it occurred within certain segments of the interval. In Experiment 1, the response constraints for one group of students were presented in an Fi 20-sec schedule; for a second group, the constraints were operative in an Fi 60-sec schedule. In Experiment 2, students were exposed to a modified conjunctive schedule in which a minimum of 28 responses was required within an FI 60-sec schedule. Constraints involving the placement of responses within the interval were also operative. In both conditions, instructions to subjects were minimal. The number of sessions required for stable performance differed across experimental conditions. Moreover, as one condition replaced another, there was often a sharp decline in overall reinforcement rate. It was hypothesized that these differentials in reinforcement frequency become discriminative stimuli for the alteration of response patterns. These results were discussed in terms of subjects’ sensitivity to experimental manipulations of reinforcement contingencies.
The Electrode – Principles of the Neural Interface: Circuits

This chapter reviews the empiric evidence that deep brain stimulation (DBS) activates directly and proximately wide areas of the brain. DBS of the basal ganglia structures has been taken as the exemplar. Antidromic activation of the MC in non-human primates undergoing STN DBS is consistent with the finding of robust cortical electroencephalographic (EEG) potentials at short latencies in response to subthalamic nucleus (STN) DBS consistent with antidromic activation. The empiric evidence that a great many structures are within oligosynaptic distance of the DBS effect is clear. The issue is whether the widespread effects or the local effects are causal to the clinically meaningful DBS effects. The DBS local effect hypothesis only plausibility is its resonance with past and, unfortunately, current theories of basal ganglia physiology and pathophysiology. DBS is a remarkably effective therapy and, in fact, is better than the best pharmacological therapy as evident by the improvement with DBS when all manner of pharmacological therapies have failed.
Introduction to Municipal Incorporation in the USA

Municipal incorporation is one of several types of local government boundary change in the USA. Additional forms of local government boundary change include: annexation, consolidation/merger, secession, and special district formation. Municipal incorporation is the legal process by which unincorporated territory is converted into a municipality. In the USA, this process has produced over 19,000 municipalities ranging in size from a few people to several million residents. Combined these events greatly influence the urban and political landscape of where a majority of US citizens live, work, and play. The reasons for establishing a new municipality have evolved over the centuries since the first cities were created in Mesopotamia. Defense, c ommerce, and r eligion have largely given way to annexation, race, and the demand for services as principal rationales for incorporating a new municipality. Today, the USA continues to witness the incorporation of new cities, but these geographic phenomena are generally understudied. This book hopes to shed light on this underexplored topic and lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the complex nature of municipal incorporation proceedings in the USA.
Total Renal Artery Occlusion: Recovery of Function After Revascularization

Current trends in managing atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis favor medical therapy, on account of negative results from prospective trials of revascularization, such as CORAL and ASTRAL. One result of this trend has been encountering occasional patients with progressive disease, sometimes leading to total arterial occlusion. We illustrate a case of accelerated hypertension with complete renal artery occlusion in which the patient recovered function after surgical bypass and we review the clinical approach used and the advanced imaging modalities available to us. A high index of suspicion and careful radiologic imaging play important roles in selecting patients who may have residual function and may benefit from revascularization. This case illustrates an example whereby restoring renal artery perfusion for carefully selected patients can be life changing, with recovery of kidney function and improved blood pressure, pill burden, and overall quality of life.
Funds of Identity in Education: Acknowledging the Life Experiences of First Year Tertiary Students

ABSTRACTTeacher education students bring diverse funds of knowledge to formal education. These funds of knowledge are particularly important for the successful transition of first year tertiary students into higher education. In preservice teacher education contexts, students draw knowledge from varied life contexts and their funds of knowledge become funds of identity when experiences associated with onto-epistemologies are used in the service of identity formation. This descriptive case study draws data from an online first year preservice teacher education unit (subject) to consider examples of funds of identity that can inform the work of practitioners in developing significant and contextualized learning experiences. Students' prior schooling experiences give meaning to their teacher education coursework and project potential teacher identities.
Liverpool neurological infectious diseases course

The Liverpool neurological infectious diseases course is for anyone who has ever struggled with a patient who has meningitis, encephalitis, or another neurological infection and not known how best to manage him or her. The course is the only one of its kind in the United Kingdom, and there were 110 delegates from across the UK when I attended, plus people from Europe, Africa, and Asia. I took the course when I was a year 4 specialist registrar, but I wish I had known about it earlier. Patients with neurological infections are common, but their management is often very difficult. The presenting syndromes are elusive, which makes the diagnosis difficult, and determining the best treatment can be hard. Liverpool is the home of the School of Tropical Medicine, and it is also the base for several important institutions such as the Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery; Alder Hey …
Vaccine Images on Twitter: Analysis of What Images are Shared.

Background: Visual imagery plays a key role in health communication; however, there is little understanding of what aspects of vaccine-related images make them effective communication aids. Twitter, a popular venue for discussions related to vaccination, provides numerous images that are shared with tweets. Objective: The objectives of this study were to understand how images are used in vaccine-related tweets and provide guidance with respect to the characteristics of vaccine-related images that correlate with the higher likelihood of being retweeted. Methods: We collected more than one million vaccine image messages from Twitter and characterized various properties of these images using automated image analytics. We fit a logistic regression model to predict whether or not a vaccine image tweet was retweeted, thus identifying characteristics that correlate with a higher likelihood of being shared. For comparison, we built similar models for the sharing of vaccine news on Facebook and for general image tweets. Results: Most vaccine-related images are duplicates (125,916/237,478; 53.02%) or taken from other sources, not necessarily created by the author of the tweet. Almost half of the images contain embedded text, and many include images of people and syringes. The visual content is highly correlated with a tweet’s textual topics. Vaccine image tweets are twice as likely to be shared as nonimage tweets. The sentiment of an image and the objects shown in the image were the predictive factors in determining whether an image was retweeted. Conclusions: We are the first to study vaccine images on Twitter. Our findings suggest future directions for the study and use of vaccine imagery and may inform communication strategies around vaccination. Furthermore, our study demonstrates an effective study methodology for image analysis.