cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of mirror reflectivity on laser performance of very-low-threshold vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers

The influeuce of mirror reflectivity on laser performance of InGaAs-GaAs vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers fabricated by selective oxidation is investigated by the stepwise change of the number of pairs in top mirror stack after device fabrication. Devices with 18-pair stacks in the top mirror, which is the optimized number of pairs in this structure, show an output power over 1.9 mW and a slope efficiency of 55% while maintaining a low threshold current of 212 /spl mu/A. The analysis of the threshold current and differential efficiency related to mirror reflectivity shows an internal quantum efficiency of 95%, an internal round-trip loss of 0.072, and a transparency current density of 71 A/cm/sup 2/. >
The Ten Most-Cited Papers in Journal of Emerging Technologies in Accounting: The First Five Years

INTRODUCTION his is the sixth issue of the Journal of Emerging Technologies in Accounting (JETA). As a way of commemorating the first five issues, this paper provides a list of the ten most-cited papers to-date. Publication of such lists provides insights into those papers and topics that have garnered the ost attention to-date, and illustrates the effect of journal on other research. In addition, publicaion of such lists is important in establishing “impact” of the research of the authors of those apers. “Impact” is often investigated as part of the promotion and tenure process and the annual erformance review process. Further, since more frequently cited papers from a section journal ring attention to the journal, the authors are contributing to the growth of the intellectual capital f this new journal and the section. Accordingly, this listing also provides them with some recogition of their efforts.
Learning of moving cast shadows for dynamic environments

We propose a novel online framework for detecting moving shadows in video sequences using statistical learning techniques. In this framework, support vector machines are applied to obtain a classifier that can differentiate between moving shadows and other foreground objects. The co-training algorithm of Blum and Mitchell is then used in an online setting to improve accuracy with the help of unlabeled data. We evaluate the concept of co-training and show its viability even when explicit assumptions made by the algorithm are not satisfied. Thus, given a small random set of labeled examples (in our application domain, shadow and foreground), the system gives encouraging generalization performance using a semi-supervised approach. In dynamic environments such as those induced by robot motion, the view changes significantly and traditional algorithms do not work well. Our method can handle such changing conditions by adapting online using a semi-supervised approach.
Comparison of Gas Temperatures Measured by Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Spectroscopy (CARS) of O 2 and N 2

We investigate the accuracy of temperature measurements by coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) of O2 and use measurements taken with N2 CARS and a thermocouple for comparison. Scanning vibrational CARS spectra of O2 and N2 were recorded over a broad range of temperatures: between 294 K and 1900 K in air that was heated in a tube furnace and at approximately 2450 K in a fuel-lean CH4–O2–N2 flame. Temperatures were derived from least-squares fits of simulated and experimental spectra. Both the fundamental vibrational band and the first hot vibrational band were included in fitting. In the case of the tube furnace, the N2 and the O2 CARS temperature measurements agreed to within 3%, and results were similar with the thermocouple; in the flame the agreement was to within 1%. We conclude that, for cases in which O2 is present in sufficient concentrations (≈10% or greater), the accuracy of O2 thermometry is comparable with that of N2.
ON THE POTENTIAL FOR GUIDANCE OF ABLATION THERAPY USING ACOUSTIC RADIATION FORCE IMPULSE IMAGING

Acoustic radiation force imaging methods utilize acoustic radiation force to mechanically excite tissue, and the tissue response is monitored with conventional imaging methods. Radiation force based methods comprise a subset of elasticity imaging, in which images reflect relative differences in tissue stiffness. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging is one such method that is implemented on a modified diagnostic ultrasound scanner, using the same transducer for the excitation and monitoring of the tissue response. ARFI imaging is under investigation for its potential to monitor thermal ablation procedures because thermal lesions are associated with considerable (> 4 times) stiffness increases as compared to viable tissue. Applications include monitoring radiofrequency ablation procedures in the liver, kidney, and heart, and monitoring focused ultrasound ablation procedures. We present results from ongoing studies in these areas
Spatiotemporal dimensionality and time-space characterization of vegetation phenology from multitemporal MODIS EVI

Spatiotemporal dimensionality refers to the structure of the continuum of spatial and temporal patterns in an image time series. Time-Space characterization refers to an approach for representing this continuum as combinations of spatial and temporal components with a minimum of assumptions about the forms of the patterns. Patterns can be related to processes through modeling — both deterministic and statistical. By combining characterization and modeling, two complementary analytical tools can be used together so that each resolves a key limitation of the other. Empirical Orthogonal Function analysis, used in conjunction with Temporal Mixture Models, provide a way to 1) Represent the spatiotemporal dimensionality of an image time series, 2) Identify distinct temporal modes and their spatial distributions, and 3) Map the relative contributions of these modes to the observed image time series as spatially continuous fields. Some strengths and limitations of Time-Space characterization are illustrated using multitemporal MODIS EVI time series of vegetation dynamics on the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta.
Globally Optimal Algorithms for Stratified Autocalibration

We present practical algorithms for stratified autocalibration with theoretical guarantees of global optimality. Given a projective reconstruction, we first upgrade it to affine by estimating the position of the plane at infinity. The plane at infinity is computed by globally minimizing a least squares formulation of the modulus constraints. In the second stage, this affine reconstruction is upgraded to a metric one by globally minimizing the infinite homography relation to compute the dual image of the absolute conic (DIAC). The positive semidefiniteness of the DIAC is explicitly enforced as part of the optimization process, rather than as a post-processing step. For each stage, we construct and minimize tight convex relaxations of the highly non-convex objective functions in a branch and bound optimization framework. We exploit the inherent problem structure to restrict the search space for the DIAC and the plane at infinity to a small, fixed number of branching dimensions, independent of the number of views. Chirality constraints are incorporated into our convex relaxations to automatically select an initial region which is guaranteed to contain the global minimum. Experimental evidence of the accuracy, speed and scalability of our algorithm is presented on synthetic and real data.
Vascular Reactivity in Heart Failure. Role of Myosin Light Chain Phosphatase

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a clinical syndrome, which is the result of systolic or diastolic ventricular dysfunction. During CHF, vascular tone is regulated by the interplay of neurohormonal mechanisms and endothelial-dependent factors and is characterized by both central and peripheral vasoconstriction as well as a resistance to nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilatation. At the molecular level, vascular tone depends on the level of regulatory myosin light chain phosphorylation, which is determined by the relative activities of myosin light chain kinase and myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP). The MLCP is a trimeric enzyme with a catalytic, a 20-kDa and a myosin targeting (MYPT1) subunit. Alternative splicing of a 3' exon produces leucine zipper positive and negative (LZ+/-) MYPT1 isoforms. Expression of a LZ+ MYPT1 has been suggested to be required for NO-mediated smooth muscle relaxation. Thus, we hypothesized that the resistance to NO-mediated vasodilatation in CHF could be attributable to a change in the relative expression of LZ+/- MYPT1 isoforms. To test this hypothesis, left coronary artery ligation was used to induce CHF in rats, and both the dose response relationship of relaxation to 8-Br-cGMP in skinned smooth muscle and the relative expression of LZ+/- MYPT1 isoforms were determined. In control animals, the expression of the LZ+ MYPT1 isoform predominated in both the aorta and iliac artery. In CHF rats, LVEF was reduced to 30+/-5% and there was a significant decrease in both the sensitivity to 8-Br-cGMP and expression of the LZ+ MYPT1 isoform. These results indicate that CHF is associated with a decrease in the relative expression of the LZ+ MYPT1 isoform and the sensitivity to 8-Br-cGMP-mediated smooth muscle relaxation. The data suggest that the resistance to NO-mediated relaxation observed during CHF lies at least in part at the level of the smooth muscle and is a consequence of the decrease in the expression of the LZ+ MYPT1 isoform.
Availability of child care in the United States: A description and analysis of data sources

Lack of high-quality, affordable, and accessible child care is an often-cited impediment to a manageable balance between work and family. Researchers, however, have been restricted by a scarcity of data on the availability of child care across all U.S. communities. In this paper we describe and evaluate several indicators of child care availability that have been released by the U.S. Census Bureau over the last 15 years. Using community- and individual-level analyses, we find that these data sources are useful for indicating child care availability within communities, even though they were collected for other purposes. Furthermore, our results generally suggest that the data on child care availability are equally valid across communities of different urbanicity and average income levels, although it appears that larger geographic areas more accurately capture the child care market of centers than that of family day care providers. Our analyses indicate that center child care is least available in nonmetropolitan, poor communities, and that family day care is most available in nonmetropolitan, mixed-income communities. We discuss the benefits and limitations of the data sources, and point to directions for future data developments and research.
Mispricing of book-tax differences and the trading behavior of short sellers and insiders

ABSTRACT: We find evidence that investors misprice information contained in book-tax differences (BTDs), measured as the ratio of taxable income to book income, TI/BI. Low TI/BI predicts worse earnings growth and abnormal stock returns than high TI/BI. We find that short sellers and insiders arbitrage BTD mispricing, but the arbitrage is imperfect because of constraints on short selling and insider trading. Under SFAS No. 109 the predictability is stronger for TEMP/BI, the temporary component of TI/BI, which reflects greater managerial discretion. The results are incremental to a large set of known accruals-based anomaly predictors. We suggest that a sunshine policy of disclosing a reconciliation of book and taxable incomes can reduce mispricing of BTDs and improve capital market resource allocation. Data Availability: Data are obtained from the public sources as indicated in the text.
Rhabdomyosarcoma: New Windows of Opportunity

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a highly malignant, small blue cell tumor characterized by muscle differentiation. With modern treatment, more than 70% of children and adolescents with this disease are cured. Adequate biopsy to obtain sufficient tissue for accurate diagnosis and molecular characterization is critical. Patients must be assessed for tumor extent; the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study (IRS) clinical group and Staging system is universally applied in North America. Multidisciplinary therapy is necessary to maximize cure rates. Local control relies on complete surgical excision when possible; those whose tumors are not completely excised and those with alveolar histology tumors require local irradiation to maximize local control. In North America, vincristine (Oncovin ® ; Eli
Initial development of the Systems Approach to Home Medication Management (SAHMM) model

Abstract Background Adverse drug events and medication nonadherence are two problems associated with prescription medication use for chronic conditions. These issues often develop because patients have difficulty managing their medications at home. To guide patients and providers for achieving safe and effective medication use at home, the Systems Approach to Home Medication Management (SAHMM) model was derived from a systems engineering model for health care workplace safety. Objective To explore how well concepts from the SAHMM model can represent home medication management by using patient descriptions of how they take prescription medications at home. Methods Twelve patients were interviewed about home medication management using an interview guide based on the factors of the SAHMM model. Each interview was audio-taped and then transcribed verbatim. Interviews were coded to identify themes for home medication management using MAXQDA for Windows. Results SAHMM concepts extracted from the coded interview transcripts included work system components of person, tasks, tools & technology, internal environment, external environment, and household. Concepts also addressed work processes and work outcomes for home medication management. Conclusions Using the SAHMM model for studying patients' home medication management is a promising approach to improving our understanding of the factors that influence patient adherence to medication and the development of adverse drug events.
Near linear time (1 + ε)-approximation for restricted shortest paths in undirected graphs

We present a significantly faster algorithm for the restricted shortest path problem, in which we are given two vertices s, t, and the goal is to find the shortest path that is subject to a side constraint. More formally, rather than just having a single weight, each edge has two weights: a cost-weight, and a delay-weight. We are given a threshold T which corresponds to the maximum delay we can afford, and the goal is to find the s -- t path that minimizes total cost while still having delay-length at most T.There are many applications for this problem, as it can model situations where we need a path that has to achieve some balanced trade off between two different parameters. The exact version of the problem is known to be NP-hard [3], but there has been a series of results on (1 + e) approximations, which culminated in a O(mn) algorithm for general graphs in 1999 [4, 8]. We present the first result to break though this barrier, achieving a close to linear running time -- technically it is [EQUATION]. It does have several draw-backs, however. It is randomized (Las Vegas), it only works for undirected graphs, and it approximates both parameters (previous algorithms found a (1 + e) shortest path with delay exactly T or less, or a shortest path with delay at most (1 + e)T, whereas our algorithm incurs a (1 + e) approximation on both counts.) Our result presents an entirely new approach to the problem, which could potentially be generalized to work for directed graphs and to approximate only one of the parameters.
(p,n) reactions on C 14 and N 14 and the effective nucleon-nucleon interaction

Differential cross sections for the $^{14}\mathrm{N}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{O}$(g.s.) reaction have been measured at ${E}_{p}=35.2$ MeV with a gas-cell target. Differential cross sections for (p,n) reactions on $^{14}\mathrm{C}$ leading to the first three levels in $^{14}\mathrm{N}$ have been obtained with an isotopically-enriched graphite target for bombarding energies of 25.7, 35, and 45 MeV. The $^{14}\mathrm{C}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{N}$(2.31 MeV) cross sections have been analyzed with Lane-model distorted-wave Born approximation calculations to extract energy-dependent well depths for the isovector part of the optical potential. These isovector well depths have been combined with a set of isoscalar optical-potential parameters derived from elastic proton scattering on $^{14}\mathrm{N}$. The resulting optical potential has been used in microscopic distorted-wave Born approximation analyses of the (p,n) differential cross sections. Strengths for the isovector central ${V}_{\ensuremath{\tau}}$ and ${V}_{\ensuremath{\sigma}\ensuremath{\tau}}$ and isovector tensor ${V}_{T\ensuremath{\tau}}$ components of the effective interaction have been extracted. A comparison of the isospin-symmetric $^{14}\mathrm{C}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{N}$(g.s.), $^{14}\mathrm{N}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{O}$(g.s.), and $^{14}\mathrm{N}$(p,p\ensuremath{'})$^{14}\mathrm{N}$(2.31 MeV) reactions has been made, and unexpected differences among the angular distributions are found.[NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{14}\mathrm{N}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{O}$(g.s.), ${E}_{\mathrm{p}}=35.2$ MeV, measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\theta})$, $\ensuremath{\theta}={10}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}\ensuremath{-}{150}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$, $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\theta}={5}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$. $^{14}\mathrm{C}$(p,n)$^{14}\mathrm{N}$(g.s., 2.31, 3.95 MeV), ${E}_{p}=25.7,35,45$ MeV, measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\theta})$, $\ensuremath{\theta}={10}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}\ensuremath{-}{160}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$, $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\theta}={5}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$. Gas target, enriched target, Lane-model analysis, microscopic DWBA analysis.]
Demonstrating Social Support from Autism Bloggers Community on Twitter

With an increasing number of kids diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), countries face a shortage of resources for efficient delivery of autism support. Social media sites provide open and accessible communication platforms for families, caregivers, and individuals with autism to share, connect, and exchange information with others. We systematically analyze these interactions on blogs and Twitter among families and autism communities to extract knowledge and develop practical and useful learning tools. The study found that the autism community provides significant social support to its members. Social support facilitated by community members can help caregivers surmount challenges and be effective in reducing psychological stress and enhancing the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with ASD.
Multi-Scale Near-Field Thermohydrologic Analysis of Alternative Designs for the Potential Repository at Yucca Mountain

A multi-scale, thermohydrologic (TH) modeling methodology has been developed that integrates the results from 1-, 2-, and 3-D drift-scale models and a 3-D mountain-scale model to calculate the near-field TH variables affecting the performance of the engineered barrier system (EBS) of the potential repository at Yucca Mountain. This information was used by Total System Performance Assessment--Viability Assessment (TSPA-VA) and is being used by the ongoing TSPA, supporting the License Application Design Selection, to assess waste-package (WP) corrosion, waste-form dissolution, and radionuclide transport in the EBS. Line-load WP spacing, which places WPs nearly end to end in widely spaced drifts, results in more locally intensive and uniform heating along drifts, causing hotter, drier, and more uniform conditions on WPs than point-load spacing, which is used in the VA design. Backfilling drifts with a granular material with coarse, well-sorted, nonporous grains (e.g., a coarse quartz sand) results in a large, persistent reduction in RH on WPs; point-load spacing allows only the medium-to-high-heat-output WPs to benefit from RH reduction, but line-load spacing enables all WPs to benefit.
Regulation of fetal lung maturation

The recent identification of the genes for the surfactant proteins has greatly facilitated the study of the regulation of fetal lung alveolar epithelial cell development at the molecular level. In general, expression of the genes for the surfactant proteins is enhanced by the same hormones that stimulate phospholipid synthesis. There are, however, some notable differences that indicate that the genes for the different components of surfactant are independently regulated. Species differences in the response of the surfactant proteins to hormones such as glucocorticoids and adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate have also been demonstrated. This review focuses on current knowledge of the hormonal regulation of the surfactant proteins against a background of previous studies of lung development.
Antioxidant Activity of Crude Extracts from Gynostemma pentaphyllum

The compounds in Gynostemma pentaphyllum were extracted and purified,and the free radical DPPH· scavenging activity of the extracts was determined.The results showed that the crude extracts from ethyl acetate had strong free radical DPPH· scavenging activity,and the fraction 4 and 5 had contained the composition that could scavenge the free radical DPPH·strongly.
S Investigation on influencial factors of pneumococcal vaccination among the elderly people in Changning district of Shanghai

[Objective] To analyze the influencial factors of pneumococcal vaccination among the elderly people and propose some measures for improving the coverage of pneumococcal vaccination. [Methods] 500 elderly people were divided into two groups according to wether they had pneumococcal vaccination.The study applied a multiple logistic model to test the influencial factors of pneumococcal vaccination. [Results] The association of pneumococcal vaccination with influenza vaccination,suffuring from respiratory system diseases,average family income,knowledge about pneumococcal vaccine and suffuring from other chronic diseases were identified in this study,but the association were not seen in terms of education,occupation and family type. [Conclusion] To improve the coverage of pneumococcal vaccination among the elderly people multiple measures are needed including wide and intensive propaganda and reducing the price of vaccination.
[Studies of the helminthic fauna of Alaska. IV. Haploparaxis galli N. Sp., a cestode from the snow chicken, lagopus rupestris].

Eine neueHaploparaxis-Art,H. galli, aus dem Darm des Schneehuhns,Lagopus rupestris (Gmelin), wird beschrieben und von den verwandten Formen differenziert. Die typische Lokalitat ist Tolugaksee, Brooksgebirge, arktisches Alaska.
A Method for Counting Phytohemagglutinin-Stimulated Lymphocytes

A technic is described for accurately enumerating the number of viable. PHA-stimulated lymphocytes in culture. This technic is both simple and fast. The technic depends upon the elimination of debris by means of the proteolytic enzyme, pronase, and the removal of cell cytoplasm by cetrimide leaving clean, intact nuclei which can be counted and sized. Serially determined absolute lymphocyte counts in cultures with phytohemagglutinin are reported. These show that there is a net gain in both cellularity and number of cells incorporating tritiated thymidine and that there is logarithmic growth throughout the 72-hour culturing interval. Quantitative studies of this lymphocyte response as a function of PHA concentration are in progress.
Tumble Graphs: Avoiding Misleading End Point Extrapolation When Graphing Interactions From a Moderated Multiple Regression Analysis.

This article revisits how the end points of plotted line segments should be selected when graphing interactions involving a continuous target predictor variable. Under the standard approach, end po...
Adsorption and reaction of SO2 on model Ce1-xZrxO2(111) catalysts

The interaction of SO2 with ceria−zirconia model catalysts was studied using high-resolution synchrotron-based X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Epitaxial Ce1 - xZrxO2(111) (x = 0.1 and 0.3) thin films (500−700 A in thickness) were grown by oxygen-plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on single-crystal Y-stabilized ZrO2(111). Slightly defective surfaces were achieved by vacuum annealing at 900 K, and highly defective surfaces with O vacancies were obtained by 1.5-keV Ne+ sputtering. On the slightly defective Ce0.9Zr0.1O1.95(111) and Ce0.7Zr0.3O1.95(111) surfaces, the only products upon SO2 adsorption at 300 K are SO4/SO3 species, which gradually desorb from the surface between 300 and 900 K. SO2 adsorption on the heavily reduced surfaces results in different behavior. A complex set of compounds is observed during adsorption and thermal conversion processes. The Ceδ+ states (δ ≤ 3) play a dominant role in the adsorption of SO2 and cleavage of S−O bonds. The relative amount of sulfur-derived adsorbat...
CE-38 Phenome-wide association studies identify a new association of atrial fibrillation in males with systemic lupus erythematosus

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has a female to male ratio of 9:1. While SLE is more prevalent in females, males with SLE may have increased disease severity and mortality. Mechanisms for these worse outcomes are not fully known. We assessed differences in comorbidities in males vs. females by performing the first electronic health record (EHR)-based phenome-wide association studies (PheWAS) in SLE to compare ICD-9 code-based phenotypes in males versus females. PheWAS are a systematic and efficient approach to identify novel clinical associations within subgroups of patients. Materials and Methods We used our validated algorithm of ≥4 counts of the SLE ICD-9 code (710.0) and ANA positive >1:160 while excluding dermatomyositis and systemic sclerosis ICD-9 codes to identify SLE cases in a de-identified EHR called the Synthetic Derivative (SD). The SD contains over 2.5 million subjects with clinical data collected over several decades with approximate even distribution of predominantly Caucasian males and females. Our algorithm has a positive predictive value (PPV) of 89%, sensitivity of 86%, and an internally validated PPV of 94%. PheWAS were performed in males vs. females adjusting for covariates in a?logistic model and correcting for multiple testing using Bonferroni. Results Using our validated algorithm, we identified 986 females and 111 males with SLE. Males and females with SLE were predominantly Caucasian (69% vs. 69%, p = 0.32) and had similar mean current age (52 ± 18 vs. 50 ± 17, p = 0.42), age at first use of a SLE ICD-9 code (43 ± 18 vs. 40 ± 17, p = 0.08), and years of follow-up in the EHR (8 ± 5 vs. 9 ± 5, p = 0.23). Adjusting for race/ethnicity and current age, males were more likely to have cardiovascular ICD-9 codes vs. females including atrial fibrillation odds ratio (OR) = 4.50 (95% CI: 2.32 – 8.72), p = 8.6 x 10 −6 , other chronic ischaemic heart disease OR = 4.40 (2.24 – 8.64), p = 1.7 × 10 −5 , atrial fibrillation and flutter OR = 4.08 (2.12 – 7.83), p = 2.4 × 10 −5 (Figure 1). Conclusion We report the first association of atrial fibrillation in males with SLE. While there is a 5-fold increased risk of cardiovascular disease overall in SLE, the risk of atrial fibrillation, specifically in males, has not been identified. These findings demonstrate the ability of PheWAS to uncover novel phenotype associations within subgroups of a disease.
A conundrum for density functional theory

Computational modeling of molecules and materials is now an essential part of the scientific endeavor in chemistry, physics, and biology. A widely used methods is density functional theory (DFT), which provides energies and electron densities of molecular systems in a computationally tractable manner. However, as Medvedev et al. show on page 49 of this issue ( 1 ), recent developments in DFT have improved the energies while not always concurrently improving the electron densities, suggesting a departure from the theoretical principles underlying DFT.
Design of a metamaterial inspired single-cell zeroth order resonant(ZOR) antenna

This work presents a zeroth order resonant (ZOR) antenna. The antenna is based on the metamaterial transmission-line and consists of a single unit LC cell made using microstrip transmission-lines. A systematic approach is followed to realize the single cell ZOR antenna for any desired resonant frequency. The shunt inductor is realized using a meander line microstrip structure while the series capacitance is obtained through an inter-digital capacitor. Using the design approach, a uniplanar ZOR antenna is designed on FR4 substrate which operates at a frequency of 8.34 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 12% and occupies an area of 15 × 15 mm2. The prototype is fabricated and good agreement is found between the measured and simulation results.
Neuronal Rescue in Cerebellar Cultures

Cerebellar explants derived from neonatal mice and maintained in Maximow chambers for 2–3 weeks develop many of the features of cerebellum in vivo (Seil, 1979). The 5 major classes of cortical neurons are proportionally represented, including Purkinje, Golgi, basket, stellate and granule cells, the last being the only excitatory neurons in the cerebellar cortex (Eccles et al., 1967). Normal synaptic relationships develop between these cortical neurons in vitro (Seil, 1979; Herndon et al., 1981; Blank and Seil, 1982). The expected neuron-glia interactions also occur in this culture system, and Purkinje cell somata and dendrites are ensheathed by astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes myelinate myelin-receptive axons. The normal extracerebellar afferents, are not, however, present in significant numbers in these isolated explants.
Intractable seizures and IDH mutation in low grade gliomas (P1.164)

Objective: Assess seizure intractability in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutated and wild-type low-grade gliomas (LGG). Background: Many LGG harbor IDH mutations which correlate with better prognosis. IDH mutation is associated with tumor associated epilepsy as the mutant IDH reduces α-ketoglutarate to 2-hydroxyglutarate, which is structurally similar to glutamate. Tumor directed therapy can improve seizure control in LGG patients. Design/Methods: Retrospective review of patients ≥ 18 years old, histologic proven LGG with known IDH mutation status, seizures, and ≥ 2 encounters in neurology clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering from 10/2005-6/2015. Seizure history was followed until histological high-grade transformation or death. Seizures requiring ≥ 2 changes in anti-epileptic drugs were considered intractable. Incidence rates of intractable seizures were calculated using competing risk survival. Results: We reviewed 62 patients (48% women), median age 38 years with low-grade oligodendroglioma (n=25), astrocytoma (n=26), oligoastrocytoma (n=9), and indeterminate glioma (n=2). Sixteen patients did not harbor IDH mutations. IDH mutations observed were IDH1 R132H (n=44) and IDH2 R172K (n=2). Fifty-six patients (90%) had surgical resection. Twenty-nine (47%) patients received chemotherapy and 21 (34%) received radiotherapy: 16 (26%) received both. The 4-year cumulative incidences of intractable seizures were 13.9% (95%CI: 13.3–14.5) in IDH mutated and 8.6% (95%CI: 7.0–10.1) in IDH wild-type groups. At the time of analysis, 91% (42/46) IDH mutated and 50% (8/16) wild-type patients were alive. The overall survival significantly differed (p Conclusions: Patients with IDH mutated LGGs are more likely to have intractable seizures compared to patients with IDH wild-type LGGs. IDH wild-type tumors are often treated as high-grade gliomas due to known association with poor prognosis. Given the epileptogenicity of IDH mutation, more aggressive tumor directed therapy may be considered if seizures are intractable. Disclosure: Dr. Avila has received royalty payments from Up-To-Date. Dr. Reiner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Umemura has nothing to disclose.
Ethics in Resuscitation

Seriously ill patients often face tragically difficult choices. Commonly, an advanced resuscitative intervention offers a chance of longer life, with a chance, too, of profound suffering. In a given day, all over the world, thousands undergo the procedure of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), whereas others are placed on a “do not attempt resuscitation” (DNAR) status. In the United States, it has been estimated that approx 100,000 lives may be saved with advanced resuscitation (1). The performance of CPR, however, may conflict with the patient’s own desires and may not be in his or her best interest, especially if suffering from a terminally ill condition. It has also been shown that up to 20% of individuals do not wish to be resuscitated (2,3). Decisions concerning CPR are complicated by the fact that often the decision to initiate CPR must be made within seconds by health care providers who generally have very little knowledge about the patient’s illness or of any existing advance directives.
Immune Responses, Immune Tolerance, and Viruses

Exactly how viruses or other microbes can persist in the host they invade is one of the most challenging problems in animal virology and an intellectual puzzle in biology. Because the immune system is responsible for purging these agents from the host, their continued presence has long been equated with partial or total malfunction of the appropriate immune response.
Reporting Molar Refractions

It has become common practice to report the deviation of molar refraction from a volume fraction average of the molar refractions of the components for binary liquid mixtures in anticipation of assessing intermolecular electronic interactions. It is demonstrated here that this method does not yield information about such interactions but, in effect, reveals information almost exclusively related to the difference between volume fraction and mole fraction. The deviation of molar refraction from a mole fraction average of the refractions of the components, i.e., the excess molar refraction, provides the proper basis for assessing intermolecular electronic interactions.
Laparoscopic-Assisted Closure of 3 and 5 mm Port Sites in Infants

Abstract Introduction: Although 3 and 5 mm port-site hernias are rare in minimally invasive surgery, the incidence is higher in young children and infants possibly because of a thinner abdominal wa...
Building Bridges for Data Science Education

Data science encompasses elements of statistics, computer science, and mathematics as well as domain-specific knowledge, suggesting that with interdisciplinary conversations and collaborations we can make data science curricula more comprehensive and successful. Development of such programs provide an exciting collaboration opportunity for faculty in statistical and computer and mathematical sciences as well as a wide array of other disciplines. This BOF provides an opportunity for faculty involved/interested in the development of undergraduate data science curricula to come together and discuss forming collaborations across disciplines and what the disciplines can learn from each other. The discussion will be led by faculty from computer science and statistics departments who have been involved with both disciplinary and interdisciplinary data science education initiatives. One of the goals of this BOF is to jumpstart conversations across disciplines, which we hope the audience will continue at their home and/or nearby institutions.
Cancer cell surface induced peptide folding allows intracellular translocation of drug.

Abstract Many lead molecules identified in drug discovery campaigns are eliminated from consideration due to poor solubility and low cell permeability. These orphaned molecules could have clinical value if solubilized and delivered properly. SVS-1 is a de novo designed peptide that preferentially folds at the surface of tumor cells, adopting a β-hairpin conformation that rapidly translocates into the cytoplasm, and ultimately nucleus, of cells. SVS-1 is stable in serum and small molecules attached to the peptide are effectively delivered to cancer cells via mechanisms involving physical translocation and, to a lesser extent, clathrin-dependent endocytosis. For example, ligating the model hydrophobic drug Paclitaxel (PTX) to SVS-1 improved its aqueous solubility by ~ 1000-fold and successfully delivered and released PTX to cancer cells in vitro and tumors in vivo without toxic adjuvants. These results suggest that SVS-1 can serve as a simple, effective delivery platform for molecules with poor solubility and permeability.
Ghana's HIV epidemic and PEPFAR's contribution towards epidemic control

Background : The aim of this review was to summarize the data on HIV/AIDS epidemiology and affected populations in Ghana and to describe the United States President’s Emergency Plan for Emergency Relief’s (PEPFAR) response to the epidemic. Design : We conducted a literature review focusing on PEPFAR’s contribution to the HIV response in Ghana. Additionally, we summarized the epidemiology of HIV. We searched both peer-reviewed and grey literature. Setting : Ghana Results : Overall, HIV prevalence in Ghana is 1.6% with regional variation. Key populations (KPs) are disproportionately affected by HIV in the country. FSW and their clients, and MSM, account for 28% of all new infections. PEPFAR provides technical assistance (TA) to Ghana to maximize the quality, coverage and impact of the national HIV/AIDS response. To ensure adequate supply of antiretrovirals (ARVs), in 2016-2017, PEPFAR invested $23.7 million as a onetime supplemental funding to support Ghana’s ARV treatment program. In addition, the National AIDS Control Programme in collaboration with PEPFAR is implementing a scale up of viral load testing. PEPFAR is also implementing a comprehensive package of prevention services in five regions to help reach MSM and FSW and to expand HIV testing services for KPs. Conclusions : Ghana is making changes at both policy and program level in the fight against HIV/AIDS and is working towards achieving the UNAIDS’ 90-90-90 targets. PEPFAR is providing TA to ensure these goals can be achieved. Funding : This manuscript has been supported by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Keywords : HIV, epidemic, Ghana, PEPFAR
Roundtable: Teaching Little Women

In this article, three scholars who regularly teach Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women offer insights about the novel’s meaning and significance, provide rationales for teaching it, and share success...
The phonological word in the Ningbo dialect

Abstract This paper examines the domain of the prosodic word in the Ningbo dialect. The goal of this paper is to provide a critical review of the studies on the prosodic word (PW) in various languages of the world, and to investigate the phonological phenomena within the domain formed by morpho-syntactic words in the Ningbo dialect as well as discussing the role that the prosodic word plays in the phonological rule application in the Ningbo dialect. This paper provides a complete survey on various types of morpho-syntactic formation in the Ningbo dialect as well as examining the application of phonological phenomena with reference to the different types of morpho-syntactic words. It will show that the lexical tone sandhi rule (LTS) applies within the domain formed by the major types of morpho-syntactic words in Ningbo dialect. However, pure phonological information may also affect the application of LTS.
Evaluation of Elastin-Like Polypeptides for Tumor Targeted Delivery of Doxorubicin to Glioblastoma

To increase treatment efficiency for glioblastoma, we have developed a system to selectively deliver chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (Dox) to Glioblastoma (GBM) tumors. This carrier is based on elastin-like polypeptide (ELP), which is soluble at physiological temperatures but undergoes a phase transition and accumulates at tumor sites with externally applied, mild (40–41 °C) hyperthermia. The CPP-ELP-Dox conjugate consists of a cell penetrating peptide (CPP), which facilitates transcytosis through the blood brain barrier and cell entry, and a 6-maleimidocaproyl hydrazone derivative of doxorubicin at the C-terminus of ELP. The acid-sensitive hydrazone linker ensures release of Dox in the lysosomes/endosomes after cellular uptake of the drug conjugate. We have shown that CPP-ELP-Dox effectively inhibits cell proliferation in three GBM cell lines. Both the free drug and CPP-ELP-Dox conjugate exhibited similar in vitro cytotoxicity, although their subcellular localization was considerably different. The Dox conjugate was mainly dispersed in the cytoplasm, while free drug had partial nuclear accumulation in addition to cytoplasmic distribution. The intracellular Dox concentration was increased in the CPP-ELP-Dox cells compared to that in the cells treated with free Dox, which positively correlates with cytotoxic activity. In summary, our findings demonstrate that CPP-ELP-Dox effectively kills GBM cells. Development of such a drug carrier has the potential to greatly improve current therapeutic approaches for GBM by increasing the specificity and efficacy of treatment and reducing cytotoxicity in normal tissues.
Thrombin Modulates PAR1-PAR4 Heterodimers

Abstract Abstract 2203 Thrombin is a potent platelet agonist. Thrombin activates platelets and other cells of the cardiovascular system by cleaving its receptors, protease activated receptor 1 (PAR1), PAR4 or both. PARs are G-protein coupled receptors that activate cellular signaling through Gq and G12/13. There is structural evidence that GPCRs, as a class, function as dimers and that dimerization can alter signaling specificity. Our previous studies have determined that PAR4 forms homodimers and have mapped the homodimer interface to transmembrane helix 4 (TM4). We have also shown that coexpression of PAR1 with PAR4 lowers the threshold for PAR4 activation by thrombin ∼10-fold. The purpose of the current study is to examine the physical interaction between PAR1 and PAR4 and how these interactions influence PAR1’s ability to enhance PAR4 activation. The PAR1-PAR4 heterodimers were examined by bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC). Similar to our previous studies with PAR4 homodimers, PAR1 homodimers were constitutive and did not require receptor activation. In contrast, PAR1-PAR4 heterodimers were not detected under basal conditions. However, when the cells were stimulated with 10 nM thrombin, we were able to detect a strong interaction between PAR1 and PAR4. We next examined if PAR1-PAR4 heterodimers would be induced by stimulating PAR1 or PAR4 individually with their agonist peptides TFLLRN (100 μM) or AYPGKF (500 μM), respectively. The agonist peptides were unable to induce heterodimers when added to the cells individually or simultaneously. These data demonstrate that PAR1 and PAR4 require allosteric changes induced by receptor cleavage by thrombin to mediate heterodimer formation. To examine this further, we removed 37 amino acids from the C-terminus of PAR1, which disrupts the eighth helix. The truncated PAR1 was able to form constitutive heterodimers with PAR4 and these heterodimers were unaffected by thrombin. These data suggest that PAR1 is the allosteric modulator of the PAR1-PAR4 heterodimers. Finally, the stability of the constitutive PAR1 and PAR4 homodimers was unchanged in response to thrombin or the agonist peptides. Taken together, these data suggest that PAR1 and PAR4 have a dynamic interaction depending on the context of their expression. Since PAR1 is an attractive antiplatelet target, the molecular interactions of this receptor on the cells surface must be taken into account when developing and characterizing these antagonists. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Adsorption of pharmaceuticals from aqueous solutions using biochar derived from cotton gin waste and guayule bagasse

Biochars produced from cotton gin waste (CG) and guayule bagasse (GB) were characterized and explored as potential adsorbents for the removal of pharmaceuticals (sulfapyridine-SPY, docusate-DCT and erythromycin-ETM) from aqueous solution. An increase in biochar pyrolysis temperature from 350 οC to 700 οC led to an increase in pH, specific surface area, and surface hydrophobicity. The electronegative surface of all tested biochars indicated that non-Coulombic mechanisms were involved in adsorption of the anionic or uncharged pharmaceuticals under experimental conditions. The adsorption capacities of Sulfapyridine (SPY), Docusate (DCT) and Erythromycin (ETM) on biochar were influenced by the contact time and solution pH, as well as biochar specific surface area and functional groups. Adsorption of these pharmaceutical compounds was dominated by a complex interplay of three mechanisms: hydrophobic partitioning, hydrogen bonding and π–π electron donor–acceptor (EDA) interactions. Despite weaker π–π EDA interactions, reduced hydrophobicity of SPY− and increased electrostatic repulsion between anionic SPY− and the electronegative CG biochar surface at higher pH, the adsorption of SPY unexpectedly increased from 40% to 70% with an increase in pH from 7 to 10. Under alkaline conditions, adsorption was dominated by the formation of strong negative charge-assisted H-bonding between the sulfonamide moiety of SPY and surface carboxylic groups. There seemed to be no appreciable and consistent differences in the extent of DCT and ETM adsorption as the pH changed. Results suggest the CG and GB biochars could act as effective adsorbents for the removal of pharmaceuticals from reclaimed water prior to irrigation. High surface area biochars with physico-chemical properties (e.g., presence of functional groups, high cation and anion exchange capacities) conducive to strong interactions with polar-nonpolar functionality of pharmaceuticals could be used to achieve significant contaminant removal from water.
Neurophysiology of the Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus is a small brain region located at the center of the brain, near the pituitary gland, that acts as “control center” and plays a vital role in the regulation of basic physiological needs. Through connections with structures of the endocrine and nervous systems, the hypothalamus is able to play an essential role in maintaining homeostasis by integrating signals from the brain and the body. In this chapter, multiple physiological processes regulated by the hypothalamus, including the regulation of food intake, reproduction, body temperature, fluid balance, and blood pressure, will be discussed. Each section will include the primary hypothalamic regions involved in these processes, the neurotransmitter systems integral for these hypothalamic functions, and a discussion of circuitry and pathways that regulate these basic functions.