cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of atmospheric gases using GER 63 channel scanner data acquired over Makhtesh Ramon, Negev, Israel

Abstract Geophysical Environmental Research (GER) 63 channel scanner data acquired over Makhtesh Ramon, Negev, Israel, were investigated to retrieve information about atmospheric gases. Converting the data into apparent reflectance units via radiometric calibration, solar curve utilization and an offset factor revealed spectral features that matched modelled atmospheric gas spectra. The modelled spectra were generated using Lowtran-7 code and flight conditions. Most of the absorption features in the GER-reflectance spectra matched modelled features. Inconsistencies between the peak intensity at the oxygen bands (# 18 and #24) in the modelled and GER-reflectance spectra suggest error in the GER radiometric calibration for those bands. The modelled gas spectra indicate approximately 1-6cm precipitable water vapour for the flight and show thai the local topographic relief of 500 m can be detected from the spectral slope between 1·680-2·005/mi region (1·68/1·90 and 1·80/2·005) and from the normalized depth of...
Cortical projection topography of the human splenium: Hemispheric asymmetry and individual differences

The corpus callosum is the largest white matter pathway in the human brain. The most posterior portion, known as the splenium, is critical for interhemispheric communication between visual areas. The current study employed diffusion tensor imaging to delineate the complete cortical projection topography of the human splenium. Homotopic and heterotopic connections were revealed between the splenium and the posterior visual areas, including the occipital and the posterior parietal cortices. In nearly one third of participants, there were homotopic connections between the primary visual cortices, suggesting interindividual differences in splenial connectivity. There were also more instances of connections with the right hemisphere, indicating a hemispheric asymmetry in interhemispheric connectivity within the splenium. Combined, these findings demonstrate unique aspects of human interhemispheric connectivity and provide anatomical bases for hemispheric asymmetries in visual processing and a long-described hemispheric asymmetry in speed of interhemispheric communication for visual information.
An approximation of F distribution by binomial probabilities

Abstract It is well known that the F distribution function can be expressed as an incomplete beta function. In particular when both degrees of freedom are even, the F distribution function may be simply expressed as a sum of binomial probabilities. In this note we consider the F distribution with at least one odd degree of freedom. By relating the F distribution to a generalized logistic distribution we obtain an approximation of the F distribution in terms of binomial probabilities. Because it is very close to the exact at the tails, the approximation is particularly suitable for estimating P -values of F ratio tests. All the computations involved can be carried out easily with only a hand calculator.
An exercise program to improve fall-related outcomes in elderly nursing home residents

This study tested a 3-month ankle-strengthening and walking program designed to improve or maintain the fall-related outcomes of balance, ankle strength, walking speed, risk of falling, fear of falling, and confidence to perform daily activities without falling (falls efficacy) in elderly nursing home residents. Nursing home residents (N = 81) between the ages of 64 and 100 years participated in the study. Two of the fall-related outcomes, balance and fear of falling, were maintained or improved for the exercise group in comparison to the control group.
Early Results of Small-Incision Descemet’s Stripping and Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

Purpose To describe our technique and early results of Descemet's stripping and automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), identify perioperative complications, and discuss their management. Design Prospective, noncomparative, surgical case series. Participants Twenty-six eyes of 26 patients who had corneal edema from Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy, pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, or aphakic bullous keratopathy. Intervention The donor corneal lenticule was prepared using a microkeratome and an artificial anterior chamber maintainer. Stripping of the diseased host endothelium was performed under viscoelastic using a 2.75-mm clear corneal temporal incision. The incision was enlarged to approximately 4.2 mm to allow placement of a folded 8.5-mm-diameter donor corneal lenticule. The donor graft was positioned using a temporary air bubble that was partially evacuated after 7 minutes. The corneal wound was closed with a single 10-0 nylon suture. Main Outcome Measures Preoperative and postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), manifest refraction, keratometry, topographic astigmatism, corneal pachymetry, and perioperative complications. Results Three months postoperatively, all donor grafts remained clear. The average 3-month postoperative BSCVA was 20/45 (range, 20/20–20/150). The average change in refractive astigmatism was 0.12±1.15 diopters (D) (range, −1.50 to 3.25). In patients who underwent simple DSAEK (i.e., no intraocular lens implantation), the average postoperative shift in spherical equivalent refractive error was 1.15±1.35 D (range, −0.25 to +4.25). Nine of 26 initial grafts dislocated postoperatively and had to be repositioned. Three of the repositioned grafts dislocated again and were replaced with new donor corneal lenticules, all of which remained clear. Conclusions Descemet's stripping and automated endothelial keratoplasty uses a mechanical microkeratome to harvest the donor corneal lenticule and mechanical stripping of the diseased host endothelium and Descemet's membrane. Despite a smooth graft–host interface, only 2 patients in the series achieved ≥20/25 vision. The average visual results were comparable to vision after deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty. Although patients experienced excellent postoperative acuity with minimally induced surgical astigmatism, nearly one third of the donor lenticules needed to be either repositioned or replaced. Nevertheless, DSAEK offers significant advantages over standard penetrating keratoplasty for patients with Fuchs' dystrophy in pseudophakic bullous keratopathy.
The Relationship Between Adolescent Renal Transplant Recipients’ Perceived Adversity, Coping, and Medical Adherence

The aim of the present study was to assess adolescent renal transplant recipients’ perceived adversity (PA) for various aspects of living with a transplant, including its association with coping and medication non-adherence, from a theoretical perspective. Thirty-three adolescent renal transplant recipients were interviewed using structured questionnaires and medical record reviews. Health care provider ratings of adversity were also collected. Participants reported moderate levels of PA, with those who received a transplant at an older age reporting more adversity on several domains and girls reporting more adversity for missing school. Ratings of adversity for specific aspects of living with a transplant differed depending on age and medical factors and were related to specific coping strategies and measures of non-adherence. Consistent with the Self-Regulation Model, perceived consequences (represented as PA) appears to be related to coping and illness outcomes. Assessing PA and teaching appropriate coping strategies may yield better medical outcomes among this at-risk population.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis evades macrophage defenses by inhibiting plasma membrane repair

Induction of macrophage necrosis is a strategy used by virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to avoid innate host defense. In contrast, attenuated Mtb causes apoptosis, which limits bacterial replication and promotes T cell cross-priming by antigen-presenting cells. Here we show that Mtb infection causes plasma membrane microdisruptions. Resealing of these lesions, a process crucial for preventing necrosis and promoting apoptosis, required translocation of lysosomal and Golgi apparatus-derived vesicles to the plasma membrane. Plasma membrane repair depended on prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), which regulates synaptotagmin 7 (Syt-7), the calcium sensor involved in the lysosome-mediated repair mechanism. By inducing production of lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)), which blocks PGE(2) biosynthesis, virulent Mtb prevented membrane repair and induced necrosis. Thus, virulent Mtb impairs macrophage plasma membrane repair to evade host defenses.
Scaling theory of glass

The low-temperature behavior of vitreous systems is modeled by interacting two-level systems. Renormalization-group recursion relations for the behavior of $d$-dimensional glasses with long-range interactions which decay as ${x}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\sigma}}$ are solved nonperturbatively. For $\ensuremath{\sigma}ldl2\ensuremath{\sigma}$ we find stable low-temperature fixed points: the specific heat at low temperatures is proportional to ${T}^{\frac{d}{\ensuremath{\sigma}}}$. For $\ensuremath{\sigma}gd$ there is no stable low-temperature fixed point, and the specific heat is linear at low temperatures. The marginal case $\ensuremath{\sigma}=d$ appears to be Kondo-like: the low-temperature specific heat is probably proportional to $\ensuremath{-}\frac{T}{log}T$.
A layer-stripping fast algorithm for reconstructing an elastic medium from its compressional wave reflection response

A fast algorithm for recovering profiles of density and compressional (P) and shear-vertical (SV) wave speeds as functions of depth for the inverse seismic problem in a continuous layered elastic medium is obtained. This algorithm differs from previous fast algorithms for this problem since it requires only the compressional wave P-P reflection response at the surface of the medium, for three different slownesses or angles of incidence. Previous algorithms have required shear stress data in the form of the P-SV and SV-SV reflection responses, making them unsuitable for an ocean environment. This algorithm is thus much more suitable for reconstructing the ocean floor from pressure data taken in the ocean. The algorithm is exact, and it includes the effects of multiple reflections and mode conversions. A computer run illustrates the performance of the algorithm on synthetic data.
Rate-distortion approach to video transmission over ATM networks

Packetized video is likely to be one of the most significant users of bandwidth in future high- speed digital networks. In this paper we focus, in a unified manner, on the effects of packet losses, and the resulting error propagation, for a particular entropy-constrained subband coding (ECSBC) scheme employing hierarchical motion-compensated prediction (HMCP). We make use of the associated operational rate-distortion function to assess the quality of transmission that can be sustained under relatively low loss conditions representative of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) networks. We show that the use of error-correcting codes helps in providing adequate protection for low-to-moderate packet loss. To capture the property of correlated loss in a network, a Markov chain model is used to represent packet losses.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF MOLECULAR OXYGEN ON ATOMIC OXYGEN-HYDROCARBON REACTIONS*

— Investigations of the systems O—CH4 and, O—n-C4H10 have been made, using techniques for producing atomic oxygen in the presence and absence of ground state molecular oxygen. The results indicated that the initial rate of removal of atomic oxygen from both systems was accelerated by the presence of molecular oxygen, whereas the initial rate of removal of hydrocarbon, for n-butane, was affected little if at all. The relative concentrations of atomic oxygen, hydrocarbon and molecular oxygen appeared to govern the overall stoichiometry. It is concluded that rate constants observed in the absence of O2 and when [RH] ≥ [O], are probably a more reliable measure of the primary step: O + RHProducts.
Effect of Tetracycline on the Phagocytic Function of Human Leukocytes

Phagocytosis and the intracellular killing of microbes are fundamental functions of polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes. Bacteriostatic antibiotics are effective only with proper neutrophil function. Thus, inhibition of leukocyte function by bacteriostatic antibiotics may have important therapeutic implications. The possibility that these functions of peripheral blood leukocytes may be effected during antimicrobial therapy has not been investigated extensively. The purpose of the present study was to extend earlier investigations into the effect of tetracycline on phagocytosis of bacteria and yeast by human neutrophils. Reports on the effect of tetracycline on the function of leukocytes have been contradictory. In 1950 an engulfment-inhibiting effect was ascribed to chloratetracycline [1]. However, in a later report by other investigators, no such effect was demonstrated with tetracycline hydrochloride [2]. In more recent reports tetracycline hydrochloride has been shown to inhibit chemotaxis [3, 4] and maximal reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium dye (NBT) [5] by human leukocytes. In one study tetracyclines were shown to inhibit the bactericidal effect of serum, but not opsonization of bacteria [6].
Study Abroad from the Participants' Perspective: A Challenge to Common Beliefs

ABSTRACT Much study-abroad program recruitment literature depicts the overseas experience as a short cut to linguistic fluency and cross-cultural understanding, a view that is also largely supported by research on the outcomes of a stay abroad; however, when the experience of learning to interact in a foreign language and of adapting to a foreign culture is viewed through the eyes of four American summer study-abroad students in France, a different perspective emerges. The findings of this study challenge many common beliefs about the overseas educational experience and, in doing so, raise questions that hold implications for study-abroad programs and foreign language classrooms alike.
REEXAMINING INVOLUNTARY PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT·

Official statistics indicate that involuntary part-time employment (part-time employment theo­ retically accepted only because full-time employment is not available) has more than tripled over the last twenty years, increasing substantially more rapidly than even unemployment and now encompassing about three million workers. The goal of this study is to examine the empirical definition of involuntary part-time employment, and to see how sensitive the level and trend in involuntary part-time employment are to the particular definition employed. Results suggest that official estimates of involuntary part-time employment may be high - perhaps 50% too high. While the level is quite sensitive, the alarming trend in inVOluntary part-time employment is robust to a variety of alternative empirical definitions.
Reappraising The Eclectic Paradigm In An Age Of Alliance Capitalism

This article discusses the implications of the advent of alliance capitalism for our theorizing about the determinants of MNE activity. In particular, it argues that, due to the increasing porosity of the boundaries of firms, countries and markets, the eclectic, or OLI, paradigm of international production needs to consider more explicitly the competitive advantages arising from the way firms organize their inter-firm transactions, the growing interdependencies of many intermediate product markets, and the widening of the portfolio of the assets of districts, regions and countries to embrace the external economies of interdependent activities.
Power supply transient signal analysis for defect-oriented test

Transient signal analysis (TSA) is a testing method that is based on the analysis of a set of V/sub DD/ transient waveforms measured simultaneously at each supply port. Defect detection is performed by applying linear regression analysis to the time or frequency domain representations of these signals. Chip-wide process variation effects introduce signal variations that are correlated across the individual power port measurements. In contrast, defects introduce uncorrelated local variations across these measurements that can be detected as anomalies in the cross-correlation profile derived (using regression analysis) from the power port measurements of defect-free chips. This paper focuses on the application of TSA to the detection of delay faults.
The Millennium Arecibo 21 Centimeter Absorption-Line Survey. III. Techniques for Spectral Polarization and Results for Stokes V

We outline the theory and practice of measuring the four Stokes parameters of spectral lines in emission/absorption observations. We apply these concepts to our Arecibo H I absorption line data and present the results. We include a detailed discussion of instrumental effects arising from polarized beam structure and its interaction with the spatially extended emission line structure. At Arecibo, linear polarization [Stokes (Q, U)] has much larger instrumental effects than circular (Stokes V). We show how to reduce the instrumental contributions to V and to evaluate upper limits to its remaining instrumental errors by using the (Q, U) results. These efforts work well for opacity spectra but not for emission spectra. Arecibo's large central blockage exacerbates these effects, particularly for emission profiles, and other telescopes with weaker sidelobes are not as susceptible. We present graphical results for 41 sources; we analyze these absorption spectra in terms of Gaussian components, which number 136, and present physical parameters including magnetic field for each.
Surgical treatment for intracerebral hemorrhage (STICH) : A single-center, randomized clinical trial

Objective: To perform a single-center pilot investigation of early hematoma removal in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Background: Considerable debate remains regarding the utility of surgical clot evacuation for ICH. Methods: This was a prospective trial of open craniotomy within 12 hours of ICH symptom onset versus best medical therapy. Patients were eligible if they had a nontraumatic ICH >9 mL with significant neurologic impairment and were prepared for surgery within 12 hours of symptom onset. The study included a prospective registry of patients and a randomized trial. Results: The registry group included 34 medical and seven surgical patients. The surgical group had larger hemorrhages (median, 96 mL) and a lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (median, 10) compared with the medical group (33 mL; GCS score, 13). Six-month mortality was less in the medical group (36%) compared with the surgical group (54%). In the randomized series, median ICH volumes were similar in the surgical group (n = 17; 49 mL) compared with the medical group (n = 17; 44 mL). Median GCS score was also similar (medical, 10; surgical, 11). Mortality was lower in the surgical group (6%) compared with the medical group (24%) at 1 month, but similar at 6 months (surgical group, 17%; medical group, 24%). Conclusion: A trial of early surgery for ICH is feasible. This study represents the largest prospective, randomized series of surgery for ICH. A modest early mortality benefit for surgery is possible, but long-term benefit for surgery was not established in this single-center pilot investigation.
Fuzzy set-based automatic bug triaging (NIER track)

Assigning a bug to the right developer is a key in reducing the cost, time, and efforts for developers in a bug fixing process. This assignment process is often referred to as bug triaging. In this paper, we propose Bugzie, a novel approach for automatic bug triaging based on fuzzy set-based modeling of bug-fixing expertise of developers. Bugzie considers a system to have multiple technical aspects, each is associated with technical terms. Then, it uses a fuzzy set to represent the developers who are capable/competent of fixing the bugs relevant to each term. The membership function of a developer in a fuzzy set is calculated via the terms extracted from the bug reports that (s)he has fixed, and the function is updated as new fixed reports are available. For a new bug report, its terms are extracted and corresponding fuzzy sets are union'ed. Potential fixers will be recommended based on their membership scores in the union'ed fuzzy set. Our preliminary results show that Bugzie achieves higher accuracy and efficiency than other state-of-the-art approaches.
Postoperative residual curarization from intermediate-acting neuromuscular blocking agents delays recovery room discharge

Abstract Background Postoperative residual curarization (PORC) [train-of-four ratio (T4/T1) Methods At admission to the PACU, neuromuscular transmission was assessed by acceleromyography (stimulation current: 30 mA) in 246 consecutive patients. The potential consequences of PORC-induced increases in PACU length of stay on PACU throughput were estimated by application of a validated queuing model taking into account the rate of PACU admissions and mean length of stay in the joint system of the PACU plus patients recovering in operation theatre waiting for PACU beds. Results PACU length of stay was significantly longer in patients with T4/T1 Conclusions PORC is associated with a delayed PACU discharge. The magnitude of the effect is clinically significant. In our system, PORC increases the chances of patients having to wait to enter the PACU.
Fast redundant binary partial product generators for booth multiplication

The use of signed-digit number systems in arithmetic circuits has the advantage of constant time addition irrespective of word length. In this paper, we present the design of a binary signed-digit partial product generator, which expresses each normal binary operand in one's complement form with an extra bit denoting the sign bit of the operand. The carry free nature of RBAs is exploited to add the extra bits with the partial products, without using additional adder stages. This technique allows RB encoding to be used in multipliers with operand widths which are perfect powers of two, without increasing the delay of partial product accumulation. The proposed partial product generator achieves the highest reduction in the number of partial products for a radix-4 multiplier (78%), by combining advantages of RB encoding with RB addition. The proposed partial product generator together with a set of fast redundant binary adder stages configured in a binary tree fashion can result in the design of high performance multipliers.
Computer-Assisted Instruction of Early Academic Skills:

Five preschool students with disabilities received direct instruction on three primary skills: matching shapes, colors, and numbers or letters. This was followed by guided practice using constant t...
Relationships Between Shoreline Development and Nest Site Selection by Black Crappie and Largemouth Bass

To evaluate potential effects of lakeshore development on nest site selection, we compared locations of black crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus and largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides nests in three Minnesota lakes with available habitat in the littoral and riparian zones and the presence or absence of developed shoreline. We used binomial logistic regression to determine how the frequency of nest sites varied among lakes and with the presence or absence of five habitat variables. Black crappies in all three lakes were more likely to nest adjacent to undeveloped shoreline. Black crappies were also more likely to nest in stands of emergent vegetation, particularly hardstem bulrush Scirpus acutus. Largemouth bass were more likely to nest near undeveloped shoreline but were less dependent on hardstem bulrush. Shoreline development has the potential to alter nest site selection by largemouth bass and, particularly, by black crappies.
Scientific Archaeology and the Origins of Symbolism: a reply to Bednarik

In 1987, we published a review of archaeological data that had been interpreted by others as evidence for the making and use of symbols before the Upper Palaeolithic (Chase & Dibble 1987). It has become clear to us since then that our study raises a number of issues we did not address directly. The foregoing critique by Bednarik touches on a few of them, but there are more fundamental issues he does not confront. Also, some of his criticisms seem to stem primarily from a misunderstanding or misreading of our article. What we will do here, then, is to respond briefly to his criticisms (we will not discuss his comments on the work of other authors), and then go on to address some of the important issues that he has not considered.
Electronic steering of antenna nulls for interference reduction

The paper reports on theory, tests and design of a low-cost broadband radio-frequency device that combines signals from two antennas to selectively null interfering signals. The theory and analysis of limitations pertain to both manual and adaptive null control devices. Tests illustrate cases in which nulling works well and those where propagation features limit null effectiveness. An important result of the tests is recognition that much work remains to be done to determine optimum antenna pairs for particular types of interference. An analysis section provides equations of general use for designing alternative implementations.
Toward a more trait-centered approach to diffuse (co)evolution

Summary • How species evolve depends on the communities in which they are embedded. Here, we briefly review the ideas underlying concepts of diffuse coevolution, evolution, and selection. • We discuss criteria to identify when evolution will be diffuse. We advocate a more explicitly trait-oriented approach to diffuse (co)evolution, and discuss how considering effects of interacting species on fitness alone tells us little about evolution. We endorse the view that diffuse evolution occurs whenever the response to selection by one interacting species on a given trait is altered by the presence of a second interacting species. • Building on the work of others, we clarify and expand the criteria for diffuse evolution and present a simple experimental design that will allow the detection of diffuse selection. • We argue that a greater focus on selection on specific traits and the evolutionary response to that selection will improve our conceptual understanding of how communities affect the evolution of species embedded within them.
Identifying newly approved medications in Medicare claims data: a case study using tocilizumab.

Background After U.S. licensure, parenterally administered medications are identified using non-specific drug codes. Accurately identifying these medications is critical to safety and effectiveness research. Methods to identify medications prior to assignment of specific drug codes have not been well described. Objectives To describe a generalized approach using non-specific drug codes to identify parenteral therapies in Medicare claims and to assess the ability of that approach to identify tocilizumab (TCZ), a new biologic agent approved in 2010. Methods We used 2008–2010 Medicare data for a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients for algorithm development. Our algorithm classified non-specific drug codes based upon: 1) ICD9 codes; 2) unit values (i.e. dose); 3) codes for infusion/injection procedures; 4) expected versus observed total reimbursement amount and reimbursement per unit. We assessed algorithm performance by linking to an arthritis registry to examine external validity. Results Of 472 803 claims with non-specific drug codes, 9762 claims satisfied the TCZ algorithm. 74.3% of 9762 claims were classified as TCZ by exact unit price or allowed amount, 4.4% by unique doses, 21.3% by diagnosis code and small deviation from unit price or allowed amount. The algorithm demonstrated good performance characteristics: sensitivity 94% (95% CI 80–99), specificity 100% (99–100) and PPV 97% (84–100). Conclusion Claims-based algorithms in Medicare or similar data systems can accurately identify newly approved biologics administered parenterally prior to the assignment of specific drug codes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
maternal Satisfaction and Pain Control in Women Electing Natural Childbirth

Background and Objectives Many women who choose natural childbirth for labor ultimately request epidural analgesia to control labor pain. Unfortunately, parturients and family members may often be unprepared for epidural anesthesia, which can contribute to disappointment and dissatisfaction with their labor and delivery. This study examines how epidural analgesia for labor influences maternal satisfaction in women who initially choose natural childbirth. Methods This study compared pain and maternal satisfaction in women who elected natural childbirth and successfully followed through (n = 23), with those who elected natural childbirth, but requested epidural analgesia during their labor (n = 24). Subjects rated their pain throughout labor and completed pre- and postlabor questionnaires. Results Women who requested epidural analgesia for pain during labor reported significantly lower pain scores than those women who had natural childbirth (P Conclusions This study examined the influence of epidural analgesia in parturients electing natural childbirth. Pain relief alone was not found to improve maternal satisfaction. This study highlights the importance of experience and prelabor expectations on maternal satisfaction with childbirth.
Film at eleven: Recent developments in the commodification of crime

Recent increases in the number of crime‐related commodities (e.g., burglar alarms, security systems, private security forces, and crime‐related television news programs) are critically examined in relation to mildly fluctuating national crime rates. Increasing sales of crime‐related and target‐hardening products during the time when crime oscillated only slightly are explained as capitalism's ability to create commodities from both social problems and unfounded needs. Using secondary data, I describe these crime trends and the consumption of crime‐prevention goods. Although the media apparently contributed to increasing concerns about victimization while crime was fairly stable, the process of commodity exchange for crime goods is far from simply a media‐induced phenomenon. This article relies on a critical and dialectical approach as a way of analyzing these contradictory developments.
Gratitude and Generosity: Two Keys to Success and Happiness

Happiness has become a serious area of research in many disciplines including psychology, economics, education, and business. There is a growing body of research showing a significant relationship between gratitude and happiness. Practicing gratitude and generosity are important for all who seek true happiness. In fact, teaching children to show gratitude enhances learning and reduces the prevalence of mental health problems such as depression.
Chemoimmunotherapy may overcome the adverse prognostic significance of 11q deletion in previously untreated patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

BACKGROUND: An 11q22 deletion is considered an independent factor predicting poor survival in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). METHODS: We searched the electronic CLL database for consecutive patients who presented to the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Department of Leukemia from October 2003 to April 2007 with untreated CLL and who had an 11q22 deletion, detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of bone marrow samples. FISH analysis was performed using the following probes: trisomy 12 (12p11.1-q11), TP53 (17p13.1), ATM (11q22.3), LAMP1 (13q34), and D13S319 loci (13q14.3). RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients with untreated CLL with an 11q22 deletion were identified. The median patient age was 59 years (range, 26–81 years); 80% were men, 53% had Zubrod performance status >0, and 13% had Rai stage III to IV disease. Lymphadenopathy (massive), splenomegaly, anemia, and thrombocytopenia were present in 96% (12%), 19%, 9%, and 4%, respectively. In addition, 62% of patients had deletions in 13q, and 3% had trisomy 12. Forty patients required therapy for progressive disease. The overall response rates for FCR (fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab), CFAR (FCR plus alemtuzumab), and rituximab plus granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor were 100%, 100%, and 33%, respectively. The 11q22 deletion was undetectable in 25 of 27 patients monitored after treatment using FISH analysis. The median follow-up was 17 months. At 1 and 3 years, the survival rates were 97% and 91%, respectively, and the relapse-free survival rates were 100% and 77%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: CLL with an 11q22 deletion was associated with high rates of response, survival, and relapse-free survival when treated with chemoimmunotherapy. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Electrical and Electromechanical Characteristics of Nanoassembled Carbon Nanotube Thin Film Resistors on Flexible Substrates

We report the fabrication of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) thin-film transistors on plastic substrates with layer-by-layer self-assembly. The resistance of the SWNT thin film decreases when the number of assembled SWNT layers increases. Increasing the substrate bending angle greatly decreases the resistance of the SWNT thin film. The resistance changes of thin films containing 14 and 16 SWNT layers are measured as 38.2% and 47.1%, which are more than 10 times higher than silicon. The observed "piezoresistive" phenomenon of the assembled SWNT thin films creates opportunities for highly sensitive sensors and electronic devices in many areas.
Comparative efficacy of daptomycin and vancomycin in the therapy of experimental foreign body infection due to Staphylococcus aureus

The therapeutic activity of daptomycin was compared with that of vancomycin in a rat model of subcutaneously implanted tissue cages chronically infected with strain Rev1, a spontaneous methicillin-susceptible revertant of the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain MRGR3, showing equivalent virulence to its parent. The MIC and MBC of daptomycin (in Mueller-Hinton broth supplemented with 50 mg/L Ca2+) or vancomycin for strain Rev1 were 1-2 and 2-4 or 1 and 2 mg/L, respectively. In vitro elimination of strain Rev1 in the presence of 50% tissue cage fluid was more rapid with daptomycin 4 mg/L compared with vancomycin. After 2 weeks of infection, viable counts of strain Rev1 averaged 6.49 log10 cfu/mL of tissue cage fluid (n = 87). Intraperitoneal administration of daptomycin 30 mg/kg once daily, or vancomycin 50 mg/kg twice daily, produced antibiotic levels continuously above MBC. After 7 days of therapy with daptomycin or vancomycin, mean +/- S.E.M. counts of Rev1 decreased (P < 0.05) by 1.11 +/- 0.25 (n = 28) or 0.80 +/- 0.31 (n = 35) log10 cfu/mL, respectively, compared with cages of untreated animals, but were not significantly different from each other. In daptomycin-treated rats, three cages yielded subpopulations with reduced susceptibility to daptomycin. In conclusion, a low dose regimen of daptomycin was at least equivalent to vancomycin against chronic foreign body infections due to S. aureus. Drug dosage should be adapted to obtain inflammatory fluid levels of daptomycin minimizing emergence of resistant subpopulations.
China's Other Medical Systems: Recognizing Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian Traditional Medicines:

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine, as it is understood and adopted by those with a growing interest in complementary and alternative practices to biomedicine, is often used as an umbrella term for traditional medical practices from regions within and bordering the People's Republic of China. However, there are multiple distinct medical traditions in China, including that of the Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Mongolians. Objective: It is important to recognize the commonalities and differences of these unique systems of medicine practiced by the 3 different cultures among China's borders. Methods: Through an in-depth analysis of the individual beliefs and theories that form the foundation of each system, we trace the origins of the concepts that were synthesized into the Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian medical systems. Furthermore, we compare diagnostic techniques and contrast treatment modalities among the 3 systems. Discussion: We discuss humoral theory, constitution theory, elemental theory, organ theory,...
Thought this Was Easy? U.S.-Thailand Free Trade Agreement

This case describes and analyzes the negotiations surrounding the U.S.-Thailand free trade agreement (FTA) that never materialized. The case offers an excellent opportunity to discuss the complexities of trade negotiations, the welfare analyses of FTAs (with trade diversion and creation), and the growth of FTAs and customs unions (CUs) as opposed to multilateral trade liberalizations.
Role of involvement in the travel decision

As the tourism industry grows, the need to predict travel behaviours increases. This study analysed the travel decision of college students who vacationed during the spring break. The involvement construct, borrowed from consumer behaviour literature, was utilised to evaluate the role of involvement in travel decision making. Demographics and their relationship to level of involvement were also evaluated. The data supported the hypothesis that there was a significant relationship between the level of involvement and the decision to go on a spring break. A relationship between involvement and destination selection was also found.
Routine cystoscopy after robotic gynecologic oncology surgery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Our aim was to determine whether the use of routine cystoscopy increases lower urinary tract injury detection (bladder and/or ureter) after robotic surgery performed by gynecologic oncologists. METHODS A retrospective chart review of patients who presented for robotic hysterectomy from 2009-2012 was performed at 2 separate academic medical centers, one that performed routine cystoscopy and one that did not. Statistical analysis was performed with t tests and χ2 tests. RESULTS We identified 140 cases without cystoscopy and 109 cases with routine cystoscopy. There were no intraoperative or postoperative urinary injuries detected in either group. There were no significant differences in age and body mass index. In the non-cystoscopy group, a larger specimen size (P<.001), less blood loss (P=.013), and a longer mean operative time were observed (P<.0001). In the routine cystoscopy group, more lymphadenectomies were performed with hysterectomy (P=.007) and more patients underwent hysterectomy for ovarian cancer (P=.0192). There were no differences in surgical indications or secondary procedures including bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, radical hysterectomy, ureterolysis, and pelvic organ prolapse-related procedures. The minimum follow-up period was 30 days in both groups. CONCLUSION Routine use of cystoscopy did not appear to affect the detection rate of intraoperative lower urinary tract injury during robotic gynecologic surgery because this rate was zero in both groups. However, cystoscopy is relatively simple to perform and can be efficiently incorporated into robotic surgery to avoid the severe morbidity and possible litigation surrounding a urinary tract injury.
Natural Enemy Activity on Glandular Pubescent Potato Plants in the Greenhouse: An Unreliable Predictor of Effects in the Field

Under greenhouse conditions there is a direct relationship between the density of glandular trichomes on aphid-resistant potato clones ( Solanum tuberosum x S. berthaultii , F3 and S. berthaultii ) and the adverse effectson 11 aphidophagous species. These negative effects include a reduction in adult coccinellid searching time, a decrease in the distance newly hatched chrysopid and coccinellid larvae move, and a decrease in the number of eggs Chrysopa oculata oviposit on highly pubescent foliage. Survival of the parasitoid Aphidius matricariae decreases when adults are exposed to moderate and high densities of glandular pubescence. However, the severe negative effects observed under greenhouse conditions are attenuated in the field. Field studies show that natural enemies and moderate levels of glandular pubescence are compatible mortality factors in the management of aphids on potatoes. Thus, although these greenhouse and laboratory studies elucidate the behavioral responses of natural enemies to glandular trichomes, they inadequately predict the effects of glandular pubescence on beneficial insects in the field.
A simple model of gravitationally-driven water flow in a semicircular aquifer to estimate geothermal power potential: Examples from Arizona and Colorado

Abstract An analytical model has been developed from which the basic thermal parameters of the flow through non-magmatic hot-spring systems can be calculated from data that can be obtained at their discharge: water outflow temperature, mean surface temperature, and water geochemistry. From this flow, the maximum thermal power potential of a system can be calculated. The model has been applied to Clifton Hot Springs in eastern Arizona, USA, and the potential power generation of this system was estimated to be within the range of 0.8–3 MW. The model has also been successfully applied to three hot spring systems in Colorado with different characteristics. The simple model is not thought to represent the details of flow in the aquifers, but provides a useful approximation of the temperatures and thermal power potential in the systems.
Simulator for Neural Networks and Action Potentials

A key challenge for neuroinformatics is to devise methods for representing, accessing, and integrating vast amounts of diverse and complex data. A useful approach to represent and integrate complex data sets is to develop mathematical models [Arbib (The Handbook of Brain Theory and Neural Networks, pp. 741-745, 2003); Arbib and Grethe (Computing the Brain: A Guide to Neuroinformatics, 2001); Ascoli (Computational Neuroanatomy: Principles and Methods, 2002); Bower and Bolouri (Computational Modeling of Genetic and Biochemical Networks, 2001); Hines et al. (J. Comput. Neurosci. 17, 7-11, 2004); Shepherd et al. (Trends Neurosci. 21, 460-468, 1998); Sivakumaran et al. (Bioinformatics 19, 408-415, 2003); Smolen et al. (Neuron 26, 567-580, 2000); Vadigepalli et al. (OMICS 7, 235-252, 2003)]. Models of neural systems provide quantitative and modifiable frameworks for representing data and analyzing neural function. These models can be developed and solved using neurosimulators. One such neurosimulator is simulator for neural networks and action potentials (SNNAP) [Ziv (J. Neurophysiol. 71, 294-308, 1994)]. SNNAP is a versatile and user-friendly tool for developing and simulating models of neurons and neural networks. SNNAP simulates many features of neuronal function, including ionic currents and their modulation by intracellular ions and/or second messengers, and synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity. SNNAP is written in Java and runs on most computers. Moreover, SNNAP provides a graphical user interface (GUI) and does not require programming skills. This chapter describes several capabilities of SNNAP and illustrates methods for simulating neurons and neural networks. SNNAP is available at http://snnap.uth.tmc.edu .
Prevention of urinary tract infection by the exogenous glycosaminoglycan sodium pentosanpolysulfate

The transitional cells at the surface of the urinary bladder secrete and bind to their surfaces 1 or more glycosaminoglycans whose presence prevents bacterial adherence to the mucosa. Because it is believed that adherence is prerequisite to infection, we did the current studies to determine whether the antiadherence effect of natural and synthetic glycosaminoglycans prevents infection. We exposed intact rabbit bladders, mucin deficient rabbit bladders, and rabbit bladders treated with sodium pentosanpolysulfate, a similar but synthetic substitute for the surface glycosaminoglycan(s), to bacteria in vivo. We measured infection rates 48 hours after exposure. The infection rate was significantly higher in mucin deficient bladders than in controls (p less than 0.02). There was no significant difference between infection rates in controls and infection rates in bladders treated with sodium pentosanpolysulfate. These results support our impression that a bladder with an intact mucin layer is better able to resist infection than is a mucin deficient bladder. The natural surface glycosaminoglycan(s) and the synthetic substitutes that reproduce their antiadherence effect appear to be protecting factors.
The Interrelationship Between Repeat Cesarean Section, Smoking Status, and Breastfeeding Duration

Abstract Background: The rate of breastfeeding duration is staggeringly low with only one-quarter of infants in the United States being exclusively breastfed at 6 months. Maternal smoking and mode of delivery have been identified as independent risk factors for shorter breastfeeding duration. This study aims to evaluate the effect of repeat cesarean delivery on breastfeeding duration, taking into account smoking status. Materials and Methods: Data from the U.S. population-based Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System survey, 2004–2011, were analyzed. Women who delivered a live singleton baby, had a previous birth through cesarean delivery, and provided mode of delivery and breastfeeding information were included in the analysis. Multinomial logistic regression models provided crude and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All models were stratified by smoking status. Results: Among smokers, women who had repeat cesarean section had a 2-fold higher odds of never breastfeeding...
Thoth: Software for data visualization & statistics

Thoth is a standalone software application with a graphical user interface for making it easy to query, display, visualize, and analyze tabular data stored in relational databases and data files. From imported data tables, it can create pie charts, bar charts, scatter plots, and many other kinds of data graphs with simple menus and mouse clicks (no programming required), by leveraging the open-source JFreeChart library. It also computes useful table-column data statistics. A mature tool, having underwent development and testing over several years, it is written in the Java computer language, and hence can be run on any computing platform that has a Java Virtual Machine and graphical-display capability. It can be downloaded and used by anyone free of charge, and has general applicability in science, engineering, medical, business, and other fields. Special tools and features for common tasks in astronomy and astrophysical research are included in the software.