cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Governmental Centralization and Party Affiliation: Legislator Strategies in Brazil and Japan

What shapes politicians' strategies in political systems where pork, rather than programmatic platforms, wins elections? We argue that resource control provides much of the answer, as politics in pork-centric systems will in large part be organized around actors who control access to pork. We use new national and subnational data from Brazil and Japan to show how the degree of centralization of resources can affect party affiliation patterns. We find that in decentralized Brazil, both national and subnational politicians join parties that control their subnational government. In contrast, in our analysis of centralized Japan, politicians at both national and subnational levels base their party affiliation decisions on national-level partisan considerations.
The treatment of primary insomnia.

There are a several therapies available for the treatment of primary insomnia, most notably cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacologic treatment. The benzodiazepines are a group of chemically related compounds represented by medications such as triazolam, temazepam, and lorazepam. Non-benzodiazepines, such as zaleplon, zolpidem extended-release (ER), eszopiclone and zopiclone, act via a mechanism similar to the benzodiazepines but have a different chemical structure. Also available is the melatonin receptor agonist, ramelteon, as well as several antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, doxylamine, hydroxyzine.Medications, such as the antidepressants trazodone, mirtazapine, doxepin, and amitriptyline as well as the antipsychotics, quetiapine, olanzapine, and risperidone, have been used off-label for the treatment of insomnia. Patients often turn to alcohol, over-the-counter agents, and melatonin for relief of their sleep problems (Slide 1).Given these treatment options, there are several questions faced in clinical practice concerning when to treat patients for insomnia, what treatments should be used, and how long treatment should continue. CBT is typically continued for a fixed length of time. Generally, the greater the functional impairment a person experiences, the more there is to be gained from treatment. The decision about whether to treat and which treatments should be used, should consider the risks and expected benefits of all treatment options. CBT for insomnia has relatively minimal risks, with the only downsides being cost, access, and convenience. CBT should always be a therapeutic option.
Reducing data dimensionality through optimizing neural network inputs

A neural network method for reducing data dimensionality based on the concept of input training, in which each input pattern is not fixed but adjusted along with internal network parameters to reproduce its corresponding output pattern, is presented. With input adjustment, a property configured network can be trained to reproduce a given data set with minimum distortion; the trained network inputs provide reduced data. A three-layer network with input training can perform all functions of a flue-layer autoassociative network, essentially capturing nonlinear correlations among data. In addition, simultaneous training of a network and its inputs is shown to be significantly more efficient in reducing data dimensionality than training an autoassociative network The concept of input training is closely related to principal component analysis (PCA) and the principal curve method, which is a nonlinear extension of PCA.
Effects of soil salt levels on the growth and water use efficiency of Atriplex canescens (Chenopodiaceae) varieties in drying soil

The effect of salt stress on the growth and water use efficiency of the xerohalophyte Atriplex canescens (Pursh.) Nutt. in drying soil was determined by growing plants to the wilting point in soils receiving a one-time irrigation of nutrient solution containing low, medium, and high levels of NaCl. The experiment compared three varieties of A. canescens that differed in salt tolerance and capacity for Na and K uptake in previous research. Contrary to expectations, we did not find that water and salt stress were strictly additive in reducing plant performance. Soil salts enhanced the growth performance of the plants in drying soil by increasing their days to wilting, ability to extract water from the soil, organic matter production, and water use efficiency. The variety with the highest salt tolerance also had the highest growth rates and water use efficiency on drying soils. We conclude that tolerances to water and salt stress are linked through a common mechanism of Na uptake for osmotic adjustment in this species.
From bedside to bench to clinic trials: identifying new treatments for severe asthma

Asthmatics with a severe form of the disease are frequently refractory to standard medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, underlining the need for new treatments to prevent the occurrence of potentially life-threatening episodes. A major obstacle in the development of new treatments for severe asthma is the heterogeneous pathogenesis of the disease, which involves multiple mechanisms and cell types. Furthermore, new therapies might need to be targeted to subgroups of patients whose disease pathogenesis is mediated by a specific pathway. One approach to solving the challenge of developing new treatments for severe asthma is to use experimental mouse models of asthma to address clinically relevant questions regarding disease pathogenesis. The mechanistic insights gained from mouse studies can be translated back to the clinic as potential treatment approaches that require evaluation in clinical trials to validate their effectiveness and safety in human subjects. Here, we will review how mouse models have advanced our understanding of severe asthma pathogenesis. Mouse studies have helped us to uncover the underlying inflammatory mechanisms (mediated by multiple immune cell types that produce Th1, Th2 or Th17 cytokines) and non-inflammatory pathways, in addition to shedding light on asthma that is associated with obesity or steroid unresponsiveness. We propose that the strategy of using mouse models to address clinically relevant questions remains an attractive and productive research approach for identifying mechanistic pathways that can be developed into novel treatments for severe asthma.
A Multi-Agent Distributed Channel Allocation Approach for Wireless Networks

We propose a multi-agent approach for distributed channel allocation (MA-DCA) in mobile cellular networks. Our approach assumes that each cell in a cellular network works as an agent that negotiates its bandwidth (channel) requirements with its neighbors so that the probability of its call drops is minimized, and channel reuse constraint is satisfied. Using simulations, we compare our MA-DCA approach with simple fixed channel allocation and dynamic channel borrowing approaches and illustrate that the MA-DCA is a superior approach for channel allocation.
CHEMICAL ANTAGONISM OF IONS : II. ANTAGONISM BETWEEN ANIONS AND ALSO BETWEEN CATIONS AND ANIONS IN THEIR EFFECT ON OXALATE ACTIVITY.

Sulfate ions (SO4=) produce an anomalous effect on the ionization of oxalate diion, opposite in direction to the effect of Mg++ ions. This effect of sulfate is antagonized by the presence of Cl- ions according to the equation: See PDF for Equation where f' is the antilog of the increase in pK2' due to the sulfate. In solutions containing up to 0.03 molar MgSO4 the effect of Mg++ predominates over that of SO4=. Above 0.1 molar the effect of SO4= predominates and tends to neutralize the initial deviation. In solutions containing fixed amounts of MgCl2 and varying amounts of NaSO4 (or vice versa) the effects of these two salts sharply antagonize each other in all proportions.
Robust PageRank and locally computable spam detection features

Since the link structure of the web is an important element in ranking systems on search engines, web spammers widely use the link structure of the web to increase the rank of their pages. Various link-based features of web pages have been introduced and have proven effective at identifying link spam. One particularly successful family of features (as described in the SpamRank algorithm), is based on examining the sets of pages that contribute most to the PageRank of a given vertex, called supporting sets. In a recent paper, the current authors described an algorithm for efficiently computing, for a single specified vertex, an approximation of its supporting sets. In this paper, we describe several link-based spam-detection features, both supervised and unsupervised, that can be derived from these approximate supporting sets. In particular, we examine the size of a node's supporting sets and the approximate l2 norm of the PageRank contributions from other nodes. As a supervised feature, we examine the composition of a node's supporting sets. We perform experiments on two labeled real data sets to demonstrate the effectiveness of these features for spam detection, and demonstrate that these features can be computed efficiently. Furthermore, we design a variation of PageRank (called Robust PageRank) that incorporates some of these features into its ranking, argue that this variation is more robust against link spam engineering, and give an algorithm for approximating Robust PageRank.
Mitral annular calcification as a cause of mitral valve gradients

Abstract Background Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is common, particularly in the elderly. While thought to occasionally produce significant mitral regurgitation, it is considered a rare cause of mitral stenosis. Methods Echocardiogram reports from general cardiology outpatients were searched for phrases regarding severe MAC and, separately, for mitral stenosis. Rheumatic disease or other mitral valve (MV) pathology was excluded. Mean MV and aortic valve (AV) gradients were recorded. The presence or absence of anterior MAC was noted and a semi-quantitative assessment of anterior mitral leaflet (AML) mobility was made. Ten patients with annuloplasty rings served for comparison. Results Group A (22 patients with moderately/severely reduced AML mobility) had a mean MV gradient of 7 mm Hg (range 3–14) vs. 3 mm Hg (range 1–5) in group B (21 patients with normal/mildly reduced AML mobility), p p p =0.013. No patient had more than mild mitral regurgitation. Conclusion MAC producing a potentially important MV gradient is not rare in the general cardiology population. Reduced AML mobility appears to be necessary for a gradient >5 mm Hg. Significant AV gradients are commonly associated, reflecting greater overall cardiac calcification. These patients can be easily identified by looking for reduced AML mobility as part of widespread cardiac calcification.
A 56-Year-Old Man With Multiple Airway Procedures With Fever, Cough, and Dyspnea

(CHEST 2008; 134:1332–1335) A 56-year-old man was admitted to hospital with a 1-week history of worsening cough and dyspnea on exertion. He also complained of pleuritic chest pain with fever and chills of 2 days in duration. He had a history of chronic cough with clear-to-yellowish sputum turning purulent with infection. His exercise tolerance had been diminishing over the years, currently less than a city block. He had three-pillow orthopnea but no paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. He denied any hemoptysis or weight loss. His medical history was significant for COPD and multiple upper airway procedures including a temporary tracheostomy with biopsy (Fig 1) in 1989, and a right upper lobectomy for adenocarcinoma in 1994. He was a 100–pack-year smoker and admitted to occasional cocaine use. Both his father and sister were heavy smokers and had lung cancer. On examination, the patient had a temperature of 38.0°C, respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min, heart rate of 108 beats/min, and BP of 130/70 mm Hg with an oxygen saturation of 88% while breathing room air. Head, ear, nose, and throat examination was unremarkable. The neck was supple, and no lymphadenopathy was noted. Cardiovascular system examination was normal other than sinus tachycardia. Chest examination revealed a thoracotomy scar on the right side with bilateral middle and lower zone midinspiratory crackles. Extremities revealed finger clubbing but no peripheral edema. No skin lesions were
Cytologic findings in experimental in vivo fallopian tube brush specimens.

Objective: The fallopian tube is now recognized as a primary source of precursor neoplastic lesions for pelvic serous adenocarcinomas. Cytologic features of fallopian tube brushings from low-risk patients have not been well described. Study Design: We describe the cytomorphology of tubal epithelium from prospectively collected experimental in vivo brushings from normal fallopian tubes of 7 low-risk patients. Liquid-based cytology slides and cell blocks were prepared and reviewed on all specimens. Results: Fifteen brush cytology specimens were obtained, ten by laparoscopy, four by hysteroscopy and one following hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy on an ex vivo specimen. Variable cytologic features were documented for background, cellularity, cellular architecture, cilia, nuclear overlap, mitoses, nuclear pleomorphism, nuclear membrane changes and nucleoli. Negative P53 and Ki-67 stain results were documented in available cell blocks. Histopathologic salpingectomy findings and clinical follow-up were benign. Conclusion: Moderate nuclear pleomorphism and nuclear overlap, prominent single and multiple nucleoli and background granular debris were common challenging cytologic findings in fallopian tube brushings from low-risk patients. With experience, cellular changes can be recognized as benign. Recognition of the range of normal fallopian tube cytology should help to minimize false-positive interpretations of cytology specimens obtained in association with risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomies.
A New Exact Runs Test for Randomness

Let Nn,k denote the number of recurrent success runs of length k≥2 in a sample of size n drawn with replacement from a dichotomous population. The exact distribution of Nn,k has recently been obtained in closed algorithmically simple form; we discuss the programming of these algorithms for values of n that are large, but not so large that asymptotic results can be invoked. Using the conditional distribution of Nn,k we derive a test for randomness and compare it with standard procedures based on runs, ranks, and variances. The simulation results showed that the new test is significantly more powerful in detecting certain types of clustering. Applications in neurology and reliability are provided.
Assessing Conserved Populations of the Rare Relict Trillium (Trillium reliquum)

ABSTRACT: This research on the federally endangered relict trillium (Trillium reliquum) focuses on documenting viable conserved populations including detailing existing threats and making recommendations for the listing status of this species based on study results. On known conservation sites, we estimate size of the trillium population (mature, juvenile, and reproductive individuals) at each site, both in each year and on average; compare density of the trillium population (mature, juvenile, and reproductive individuals) across years to determine whether populations are increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable; estimate herbivory damage; and estimate the proportion of plots invaded by exotic invasive species at each site. Data are collected from 14 sites in Georgia and South Carolina in 2011 and 2012. These survey efforts are successful in identifying where self-sustaining populations of relict trillium occur to satisfy recovery plan objectives, and where protected populations of adequate size are mi...
Micronutrient Status of Pre-Bariatric Surgery Patients: the Prevalence of Rare and Poly-micronutrient Deficiencies and Relationships with Pre-Surgery BMI?

Adequate micronutrient (MN) status plays a direct role in post-bariatric surgery (BS) outcomes. The goal of this cross-sectional analysis was to examine the prevalence of MN deficiencies in a cohort of patients preparing for BS (n=119; 87%F; 41.9±11.4y; 54.1±13.1 kg/m2). Prior to BS, in addition to routine lab work (Fe, B12, vitamin D, folate), serum levels of Zn, Cu, B1, and B6 were assessed. Sub-optimal levels of vitamin B6 were observed with the most frequency (70.6% of the cohort), followed by vitamin B1 (35.3%), Zn (15.1%), and Cu (2.5%). Incidence of pre-surgical B6 deficiency was negatively correlated with low Zn (r=-0.24, p=0.008) and low B1 status (r=-0.37, p 51.9 kg/m2 were significantly more likely to hav...
Effects of Recombinant Soluble CD4 (rCD4) on HIV-1 Infection of Monocyte/Macrophages

Recombinant soluble CD4 (rCD4) was tested for its ability to block acute human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the U937 monocytic cell line and in human pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) and for its ability to prevent transfer of virus from chronically infected PAM to target peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes (PMNL). With an initial virus inoculum of 10(3)-10(4) TCID50/ml, rCD4 completely prevented acute HIV infection of U937 cells at concentrations greater than or equal to 1 microgram/ml and provided substantial but incomplete protection at 0.1 microgram/ml. With an initial virus inoculum of 10(2) TCID50/ml, rCD4 completely prevented acute infection of PAM at concentrations greater than or equal to 0.1 microgram/ml. The transmission of HIV-1 infection to PMNL cocultured with chronically infected PAM was completely inhibited at concentrations greater than or equal to 1 microgram/ml if cell-to-cell contact was prevented. With direct PAM-PMNL contact, substantial inhibition was obtained at an rCD4 concentration of 10 micrograms/ml, and higher concentrations (200 micrograms/ml) could completely block transfer. These results demonstrated that rCD4 can be effective in preventing de novo infection of cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage, but microenvironments where cell-to-cell contact predominates are likely to pose a formidable challenge to this therapeutic strategy.
Method and Continuity in Science

Devitt (J Gen Philos Sci 42:285–293, 2011) has developed an interesting defense of realism against the threats posed by (1) the Pessimistic Induction and (2) the Argument from Unconceived Alternatives. Devitt argues that the best explanation for the success of our current theories, and the fact that they are superior to the theories they replaced, is that they were developed and tested with the aid of better methods than the methods used to develop and test the many theories that were discarded earlier in the history of science. It is no surprise that theories developed earlier in the history of science needed to be replaced. But our current theories are different, having been developed and tested with the aid of these more recently developed superior methods. I critically analyze Devitt’s defense of realism. I argue that recent developments in methodology cannot support the claims Devitt makes. I present an argument I call the “Argument from Unconceived Methods.” Given the history of science, it seems likely that scientists will continue to develop new methods in the future. And some of these methods will enable scientists to generate data that cannot be reconciled with the currently accepted theories. Consequently, it seems that our current best theories are not immune from being replaced in the future by radically different theories.
The problem of Christian identities in Ephesians

The article examines the impact of the work of Nils Alstrup Dahl on contemporary New Testament scholarship about early Christian identities. The focus is specifically on the many complex questions ...
Identification of larval-stage-specific antigens of Onchocerca volvulus uniquely recognized by putative immune sera from humans and vaccination sera from animal models

Immunity to Onchocerca volvulus is indicated by the existence of putative immune individuals (PI), who do not develop patent infections or clinical symptoms after living in endemic areas for extended periods of time. To gain insight into the nature of the humoral response of PI from Liberia and Ecuador, their sera and those of infected individuals were investigated and compared using western blots. The antigen preparations used were extracts of third- and fourth-stage larvae (L3 and L4, respectively), excretory-secretory proteins (ES-L3) and extracts of third-stage larvae (L3-day2) that had been cultured for 2 days, and extracts of nodular and skin microfilariae. Whereas some antigens were commonly recognized by all individuals, many stage-specific antigens (of 68, 60, 55, 46, 43, 42, 20 and 18 kDa in L3; 100, 88, 80, 50, 48, 45, 40 and 20 kDa in L3-day2; 110, 80 and 72 kDa in ES-L3; 48, 18, 16 and 14 kDa in L4; and 115, 60, 47, 43 and 17 kDa in skin and/or nodular microfilariae) were uniquely recognized by sera from PI. Some of the unique antigens were also recognized by sera from mice and a chimpanzee that were resistant to challenge after immunization with irradiated third-stage larvae. The results support the validity of the assumption that a unique status of immunity develops in certain individuals living in areas where onchocerciasis is endemic.
Halogenated analgesics and hepatotoxicity.

The otherwise safe and useful anaesthetic halothane has been suspected of producing the occasional complication of hepatic necrosis, ascribed either to a drug allergy or to biotransformation to reactive intermediates. Several characteristics, such as middle age, obesity and multiple administrations of the anaesthetic, seem to put the patient at higher risk.
Urethral syndrome presenting as chronic pelvic pain

AbstractWe present and characterize eight patients who were referred for gynaecologic evaluation of chronic pelvic pain but were found to have their symptoms resulting from urethral syndrome secondary to chronic urethritis. All patients complained of chronic lower abdominal pain, dyspareunia and in some instances vulvar burning. Length of symptoms ranged from 7 months to 6 years. All patients had been treated in the past for vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis and/or urinary tract infections with no resolution of symptoms. When questioned specifically, all patients related a history of postcoital voiding dysfunction. Initial pelvic examination revealed urethral and subtrigonal tenderness. All patients then underwent a standard detailed urogynaecologic evaluation. The history, voiding diary and pelvic examination confirmed the initial findings. Urine cultures were all negative. Cystourethroscopy revealed findings of urethral erythema, exudate and cystic inclusions in the urethral wall. Al...
"Neomillennial" Learning Styles Propagated by Wireless Handheld Devices

As the digital-aged learners of today prepare for their post-classroom lives, educational experiences within classrooms and outside of schools should reflect advances both in interactive media and in the learning sciences. Two recent research projects that explore the strengths and limitations of wireless handheld computing devices (WHDs) as primary tools for educational innovations are Harvard University’s Handheld Devices for Ubiquitous Learning (HDUL) and Schrier’s Reliving the Revolution (RtR). These projects provide rich data for analysis using our conceptual framework, which articulates (a) the global proliferation of WHDs; (b) society’s movement toward “ubiquitous computing;” (c) the potential of WHDs to enable sophisticated types of instructional designs; and (d) WHD’s fostering of new, media-based learning styles. In this chapter, our primary focus is the last of these four themes. 36 Dieterle, Dede, & Schrier Copyright © 2007, Idea Group Inc. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of Idea Group Inc. is prohibited. Introduction In the latter half of the twentieth century, first generation handheld computers left research laboratories and entered the marketplace (Polsson, 2005). Driven by advances in software, hardware, and networking, mobile computing has now moved beyond single purpose functionality (e.g., cellphones, gaming devices, personal Chapter Framework understood through "Neomillennial" Learning Styles Propagated by Wireless Handheld Devices Four complementary social trends that make WHDs increasingly important to study The proliferation
Concurrent and prospective associations between HPA axis activity and depression symptoms in newlywed women.

Abstract We investigated the extent to which individual differences in activity of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA) are associated with depressive symptoms among newlywed couples. Participants were 218 couples (M age 28.4 years; 94% White) who provided 5 saliva samples (later assayed for cortisol and DHEA-S) before and after participation in a discussion of a major area of disagreement in their relationship. Depressive symptoms were assessed initially, and approximately 19- and 37-months later. Results revealed an interactive effect suggesting that concordant levels of cortisol and DHEA-S (either both high or both low) were concurrently and prospectively associated with higher depression scores. Interestingly, this interactive effect was observed for wives only – not for husbands. These observations underscore contemporary theoretical assumptions that the expression of the association between HPA activity and depression is dependent on factors related to the interaction between characteristics of the person and features of the social environment, and moderated by co-occurring variation in endocrine milieu.
MipTec Proceedings: Transcriptional Assay Screens Using Renilla Luciferase as an Internal Control:

In cell biology research and pharmaceutical discovery, physiological responses of mammalian cells are commonly screened using transcriptional assays. Although firefly luciferase is widely used beca...
T-cell redeployment and intracellular cytokine expression following exercise: effects of exercise intensity and cytomegalovirus infection

The magnitude of lymphocytosis following exercise is directly related to exercise intensity. Infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) also augments lymphocytosis after exercise. It is not known if the enhanced T-cell response to exercise due to CMV depends on exercise intensity. Furthermore, exercise-induced changes in T-cell expression of type I and type II cytokines are thought to be intensity dependent, but direct comparisons are lacking. The aim of this experiment was to determine if CMV affects the exercise-induced redistribution of T-cell subsets at varying intensities, and determine the effect of exercise intensity on CD8+ T-cell cytokine expression. Seventeen cyclists (nine CMV seropositive; CMV+) completed three 30 min cycling trials at −5, +5, and +15% of blood lactate threshold (LT). T-cell subsets in blood and intracellular expression of type I (IL-2, interferon(IFN)-γ) and type II (IL-4, IL-10) cytokines by CD8+ T cells pre, post, and 1-h post-exercise were assessed by flow cytometry. Independently of CMV, T-cell subset redistribution was greater after +15%LT compared to −5%LT (P < 0.05). Independently of intensity, CMV− mobilized more low- (CD27+ CD28+) and medium- (CD27+ CD28−) differentiated T cells than CMV+, whereas CMV+ mobilized more high (CD27− CD28−) differentiated T cells. The numbers of IL-2+, IFN-γ+, IL-4+, and IL-10+ CD8+ T cells increased after exercise above LT. Only type I cytokine expression was influenced by exercise intensity (P < 0.05). In conclusion, T-cell redeployment by exercise is directly related to exercise intensity, as are changes in the number of CD8+ T-cells expressing type I cytokines. Although CMV+ mobilized more high-differentiated T cells than CMV−, this occurred at all intensities. Therefore, the augmenting effect of CMV on T-cell mobilization is independent of exercise intensity.
Adaptation of the Practice Environment Scale for military nurses: a psychometric analysis

Aim The aim of this study was to confirm the psychometric properties of Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index in a military population. This study also demonstrates association rule analysis, a contemporary exploratory technique. Background One of the instruments most commonly used to evaluate the nursing practice environment is the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index. Although the instrument has been widely used, the reliability, validity and individual item function are not commonly evaluated. Gaps exist with regard to confirmatory evaluation of the subscale factors, individual item analysis and evaluation in the outpatient setting and with non-registered nursing staff. Design This was a secondary data analysis of existing survey data. Methods Multiple psychometric methods were used for this analysis using survey data collected in 2014. First, descriptive analyses were conducted, including exploration using association rules. Next, internal consistency was tested and confirmatory factor analysis was performed to test the factor structure. The specified factor structure did not hold; therefore, exploratory factor analysis was performed. Finally, item analysis was executed using item response theory. The differential item functioning technique allowed the comparison of responses by care setting and nurse type. Results The results of this study indicate that responses differ between groups and that several individual items could be removed without altering the psychometric properties of the instrument. Conclusion The instrument functions moderately well in a military population; however, researchers may want to consider nurse type and care setting during analysis to identify any meaningful variation in responses. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Clinical Aspects of Intraventricular Hemorrhage

Abstract Primary intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) refers to bleeding directly into the ventricular system. Secondary IVH occurs more frequently and refers to bleeding extending from the parenchyma or subarachnoid space into the ventricular chambers. Aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, trauma, and tumors are common causes of IVH. Premature infants and those with low birth weight may develop germinal matrix IVH. IVH may result in obstructive hydrocephalus and increased intracranial pressure that may be associated with significant morbidity or mortality and requires emergent treatment with external ventricular drainage and intraventricular thrombolysis. IVH is a proven risk factor of increased mortality and poor functional outcome. Prognosis of patients who develop IVH is variable, extending from a good functional recovery to very poor outcomes and death and is related to the amount of blood within the ventricles and involvement of the third and fourth ventricles.
Why would we expect the mind to work that way? The fitness costs to inaccurate beliefs

An adaptationist analysis of beliefs yields the prediction that we ought to expect accuracy in the cognitive systems which generate them - stereotypes or otherwise - for the most part. There are, however, some limited situations in which some inaccuracy in beliefs advertised to others might be adaptive.
Evaluation of a 153Gd flood source for anatomic shadowing in scintigraphy scans

1864 Objectives In certain scintigraphy studies where anatomic reference is desired, a 57Co flood source often is introduced to acquire an anatomic shadow along with the emission image. The 136 keV photons from the 57Co source produce the shadow in the 140 keV 99mTc window. However this method is not ideal since crosstalk degrades lesion detection. A 153Gd flood source was investigated as an alternative, with the goal of improving lesion detection. Methods The 153Gd source emits 100 keV photons which do not appear in the 140 keV window; thus emission data and transmission data are acquired in separate windows. Phantoms with 99mTc point sources of various activities were imaged to quantify signal versus background counts using different flood sources (57Co, 153Gd, or none). Some crosstalk was observed with the 153Gd source and was attributed to simultaneous detection of 100 keV photons and x-ray photons (~40 keV) from 153Gd decay. Use of brass filters to suppress x-ray detection also was studied. Results Lesion signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was significantly higher with the 153Gd flood source than with the 57Co flood source in all phantom configurations studied. Lesion SNR with the 153Gd flood source was improved slightly further when introducing filters to attenuate x-rays from 153Gd decay. Compared to the case of no flood source, lesion SNR with the 153Gd flood source was similar or slightly lower. Clinical images (breast lymphoscintigraphy and wholebody lymphedema scans) using the 153Gd source demonstrated the ability to visualize low-intensity lesions without significant background. Conclusions Using the 153Gd flood source, co-registered functional and anatomic images are produced for both anterior and posterior views. Lesion detection is improved compared to using a 57Co flood source for anatomic shadowing.
Value of surgical resection and timing of therapy in patients with pancreatic cancer at high risk for positive margins

Background Surgical resection remains the best chance at long-term survival in pancreatic cancer, though margin-positive resections are associated with diminished survival. We examined the effect of margin-positive resection on survival, as well as the role and timing of additional therapies through the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Patients and methods Patients with stage IIA–III pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosed from 2004 to 2013 were identified in NCDB. Survival was compared using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards modelling for patients who underwent surgery with negative (R0), microscopically positive (R1) and macroscopically positive (R2) margins or non-surgical treatment. We further analysed patients by margin status, timing of additional therapy (neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) vs adjuvant therapy (AT) vs none) and clinical stage. Results We analysed 44 852 patients. Median survival (MS) for patients who did not undergo surgery was 10.3 months, compared with 19.7 months for R0 (P Conclusion R1 resections portend poorer survival than R0 but do not negate the benefit of surgery when additional therapy is given. NAT was associated with improved R0 rates and improved survival for stage III positive-margin patients.
Mortality risk after clinical management of recurrent and metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Management of locoregional recurrence (LRR) and distant metastasis (DM) in adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is guided by limited data. We investigated mortality risks in patients diagnosed and treated for recurrent ACC. A retrospective review of ACC patients treated from 1989 to 2016 identified 36 patients with LRR or DM. High-risk disease was defined as skull base involvement (for LRR) or International Registry of Lung Metastases Group III/IV or extrapulmonary site of metastasis (for DM). Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards were used for time-to-event analysis. Among 20 LRR and 16 DM patients, the median times to recurrence were 51 and 50 months, respectively. The median follow-up post-recurrence was 37.5 months (interquartile range (IQR)16.5–56.5). Post-recurrence 3-year overall survival (OS) was 78.5%, 73.3% for LRR and 85.1% for DM (p = 0.62). High-risk recurrences were associated with worse 3-year OS (68.8% for high-risk and 92.3% for low-risk, χ2 = 10.4, p = 0.001). Among LRR patients, 90% had surgery as part of their treatment. Multimodality therapy, age, and histopathologic features (size, margins, solid histology, lymphovascular or perineural invasion) were not associated with PFS or OS. High-risk LRR was the only variable associated with OS (χ2 = 5.9, p = 0.01). Among DM patients, six were initially managed with observation and ten received surgery, RT, or systemic therapy. Upfront therapy was not associated with improved PFS or OS. High-risk DM was the only variable associated with OS (χ2 = 4.7, p = 0.03). High-risk LRR and DM were associated with decreased 3-year OS. More effective therapies are needed for high-risk ACC recurrences.
Can I Talk to a Squid? The Origin of Visual Communication Through the Behavioral Ecology of Cephalopod

The quest of modernity has come to its final phase in the form of post modernism. Many past attempts to define “individualism” and “self” encountered the wall of linguistics structure and categorization, the governing principals of human consciousness. Postmodernism tends to recycle the facade of preexisting methods and theories, thereby creating fragmentation and dislocation. Simultaneously, computer technology is rapidly reshaping our visual culture by offering more streamlined production and distribution possibilities. Considering this environment, it is essential to investigate its effect and implication on the visual culture, by asking existential questions such as: Why do we make images? Where do they come from and what is their primary function? In order to pursue these rather difficult questions, my work focuses on the adaptive coloration of cephalopods’ (squid, octopus and cuttlefish) as comparative models that can code and re-map visual information such as paintings, photographs, and videos. The genetically and evolutionally pure empirical data of the squid and cuttlefish not only uncover certain key information needed to understand the origin of visual communication, but also function as a catalyst that can redirect our culture away from the over-stimulated hyper reality. This, in turn, can create a valuable interdisciplinary platform to discuss the current trends in both art and science.
Neural Principles of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders

Recent progress in understanding the neurobiology and pharmacology of brain neurotransmitters and their neural circuits and pathways has been remarkable and serves as the foundation for in-depth preclinical research on neurological and psychiatric disorders. Most of the neurotransmitter receptors have been cloned and their anatomical localization and distribution have been clarified using advanced neurochemical methods. Novel discoveries have greatly stimulated clinical studies in the neuropathophysiology and neurogenetics of brain disorders. Sophisticated developments in neuroimaging techniques have yielded revolutionary insights into the complexity of maldevelopment or dysfunction of neuronal elements in neurological and psychiatric disorders, and have assisted in the rational design of novel neuropsychotropic agents for improved treatment of these disorders.
Invasive Thermometry Techniques

Several reviews of invasive thermometry for clinical hyperthermia have previously appeared in the literature (Cetas et al. 1980; Cetas 1982, 1985, 1987, 1990; Fessenden et al. 1984; Hand 1985; Martin 1986; Samulski 1988; Samulski and Fessenden 1990). Since the latest reviews appeared, there has been little advancement in the development of thermometers for invasive thermometry, but several papers have appeared which focus on improving the quality and standardization of thermometry (Dewhirst et al. 1990; Emami et al. 1991; Sapozink et al. 1991; Waterman et al. 1991). These papers report the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (ROTG) task force’s recommendations for improving thermometry for multi-institutional trials, but many of the general concepts and guidelines presented are applicable to nonprotocol treatments. In general, there has been an impetus to obtain more temperature data during therapy to describe more completely the three-dimensional temperature field and for evaluation of thermal descriptors which have been found to be of prognostic significance. Measurements of temperature at a few fixed points are no longer considered adequate. Instead, it is recomnended that catheters and thermal mapping techniques be used in connection with standardized catheter placement strategies.
Does the RAM Cannula Provide Continuous Positive Airway Pressure as Effectively as the Hudson Prongs in Preterm Neonates

Objective To compare the level of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) delivered by the RAM cannula system (Neotech, Valencia, CA) with that delivered by a traditional CPAP nasal delivery interface (Hudson prongs; Hudson-RCI, Temecula, CA) in preterm infants with respiratory distress. Methods This was a crossover intervention study in a convenience sample of preterm infants with respiratory distress requiring treatment with CPAP. We measured the mean intraoral (pharyngeal) pressure, which approximates the applied CPAP level, using both the RAM cannula and Hudson prongs. The primary outcome was a comparison of the differences between the set CPAP levels and the measured intraoral pressures of both delivery systems. Results We analyzed data from 12 preterm infants with mean (standard deviation) birth weight of 1,225 (405) g and gestational age of 28.4 (2.1) weeks at a median postnatal age of 10 days. The mean difference (95% confidence interval) between the set CPAP level and measured intraoral pressure was −2.45 cm H2O (−3.36, −1.55) with the RAM cannula and +0.40 cm H2O (−0.30, 1.12) with Hudson prongs, p = 0.0002. Conclusion For given set CPAP pressure level in preterm infants, the RAM cannula system consistently delivers lower pharyngeal pressure (effective CPAP) levels than Hudson prongs.
Real-Time Large Crowd Rendering with Efficient Character and Instance Management on GPU

Achieving the efficient rendering of a large animated crowd with realistic visual appearance is a challenging task when players interact with a complex game scene. We present a real-time crowd rendering system that efficiently manages multiple types of character data on the GPU and integrates seamlessly with level-of-detail and visibility culling techniques. The character data, including vertices, triangles, vertex normals, texture coordinates, skeletons, and skinning weights, are stored as either buffer objects or textures in accordance with their access requirements at the rendering stage. Our system preserves the view-dependent visual appearance of individual character instances in the crowd and is executed with a fine-grained parallelization scheme. We compare our approach with the existing crowd rendering techniques. The experimental results show that our approach achieves better rendering performance and visual quality. Our approach is able to render a large crowd composed of tens of thousands of animated instances in real time by managing each type of character data in a single buffer object.
Effects of thermal aging and ionizing radiation on sPVC and aromatic polyether urethane used to store nuclear materials

Abstract The present work tested the degradation of two polymeric materials under conditions routinely encountered in nuclear applications. Polymers in the form of plastic bags are commonly used along with metal containers to store and transport nuclear materials. The role of the bag, also known as bag-out bag, is to prevent contamination in case the metal containers are breached. Polymeric materials of interest are sPVC and aromatic polyether urethane (APU-ether), which in this study were exposed to alpha, gamma and thermal conditions. These conditions were specifically chosen to simulate the harsh environments normally encountered in the storage of nuclear materials. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of these materials were investigated by a series of characterization methods before and after exposures. Our results highlight the superior stability of APU-ether under thermal aging and ionizing radiation and provide new insights into the durability of polymeric materials used in nuclear applications. These findings will serve as the foundation for a rational selection of new bag-out bag materials to be considered in the nuclear industry.
Restoring Fire-Grazer Interactions to Pursue Heterogeneity in Sandhills Prairie

Heterogeneity has emerged as a fundamental principle for rangeland management and the importance of environmental heterogeneity for biological diversity has raised questions about the appropriateness of rangeland practices that seek to promote uniform grassland structure and composition. Principles of uniformity in rangeland management reflect a utilitarian target of “managing for the middle” by minimizing both overgrazing and underutilization while avoiding or preventing fire and other disturbances that consume aboveground biomass. We implemented a study to evaluate pioneering efforts to restore historical fire-grazer interactions via patch burning in an effort to increase spatial heterogeneity in the Nebraska Sandhills, a sandy soil, mixed-grass ecoregion with a long history of “management for the middle”. The application of patch burning did not increase landscape heterogeneity of vegetation structure or composition in the Nebraska Sandhills. Instead, grassland structure exhibited greater temporal variability than spatial variability in growing and dormant seasons. The low stocking rate and the rapid regrowth of live herbaceous vegetation following fire likely constrained the degree of spatial heterogeneity observed in our study and highlights the challenges of balancing forage supply and demand in semi-arid grasslands.
The Reserve Bank of India

The origin of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) can be traced back to 1926, when the Royal Commission on Indian Currency and Finance - commonly referred to as the Hilton Young Commission - recommended the institution of a central bank to separate the control of currency and credit from the government and to increase banking facilities over the country. 73 The Reserve Bank of India, the central bank of India, is entrusted with monetary stability, the management of currency, and the supervision of the financial and payments system. The RBI bank also operates the credit systems and the currency and thus plays a critical role in the Indian economy. However, its functions have evolved in response to the country’s changing economic environment, and the increasingly globalized economy. At its origin, the RBI was a private institution before it was nationalized by The Banking Regulation Act of 1940. At first, the RBI headquarters were located in Kolkata, Bengal, but since 1937 its headquarters have been permanently moved to Mumbai, Maharashtra. Beside its headquarters, the RBI has 26 regional offices and branches in India.
Role of Gut Microbiota in Neonatal Lung Injury: Implications for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Purpose: Cross-talk between the intestinal microbiome and the lung (the gut-lung axis) and its role in lung health is of growing interest. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a debilitating lung disease with long-term consequences and is one of the most common causes for morbidity in premature neonates. Postnatal exposure to high concentrations of oxygen contributes to the development of BPD and replicates the disease phenotype in neonatal mice. Perturbation of the neonatal microbiome can have long-term impacts on lung health and may be caused by exposure to antibiotics. …
Landscapes of appropriation and assimilation: the impact of immigrant-origin populations on U.S. cuisine

Although assimilation theories acknowledge that the host society adopts aspects of migrant culture, empirical work continues to focus on the assimilation trajectories of immigrants. This study repr...