cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 4255: Differences in the sociodemographic correlates of HPV-associated cancer survival in the United States

Purpose: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. One in every four individuals-nearly 80 million-is infected. More than 38,000 new cases of HPV-associated cancers are diagnosed annually. However, factors related to HPV-associated cancer survivorship, based on primary anatomic site, remain understudied. The aim of this study was to assess sociodemographic factors related to survival following diagnosis of HPV-associated cancers in the United States. Methods: Patients ≥18 years diagnosed with first-primary HPV-associated cancer between 2007 and 2014 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 18. HPV-associated cancers sites were defined as anal, cervical, oropharyngeal, penile, vaginal, and vulvar per the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, third edition codes. Kaplan-Meier curves showing cancer-specific survival (CSS) from each HPV-associated cancer site stratified by sex with differences assessed by log-rank tests. Fine and Gray proportional hazards regression models for each HPV-associated site controlled for clinical covariates and estimated sociodemographic predictors of hazard of death from cancer. Results: A total of 63,329 patients with HPV-associated cancers were included in the analyses. The most common sites were cervix for females (58%) and oropharynx for males (78%). Overall 8-year survival at the end of follow-up was 56%. For males, anal cancer had the lowest CSS (62%) compared to oropharyngeal (69%) and penile (72%) cancer (p Conclusions: There is marked variability in sociodemographic correlates among HPV-associated cancer survivors in the United States, based on sex, age, insurance and marital status, race/ethnicity, and cancer type. This has important implications for clinical decision making and identification of populations at greater risk of death from HPV-associated cancers. Citation Format: Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters, Matthew C. Simpson, Eric Adjei Boakye, Kahee A. Mohammed, Longwen Zhao, Sai D. Challapalli, Rebecca L. Rohde, Vy T. Pham, Sean T. Massa, Mark A. Varvares. Differences in the sociodemographic correlates of HPV-associated cancer survival in the United States [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4255.
Holographic Interferometer for the Study of Phase Media, Which Has Four Output Channels of Different Sensitivity

Computer simulation of the interferometer combining properties of low-sensitive Talbot interferometer and high-sensitive holographic interferometer is considered. The interferometer has four output channels having different sensitivity. Channel sensibility can be varied by means of spatial filtration. The base of the interferometer is the holographic Talbot effect. The efficiency of this interferometer was verified by computer simulation method. Some results of the computer simulation are presented in the article. These results were compared with results obtained in optical experiments under the same conditions. A wide range of sensitivity of the interferometer makes it possible to use the interferometer to study complex phase objects, primarily dynamic media.
I Feel Blacker: Applying a Black Feminist Paradigm to an Intervention Program for Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in the South

Research on black men who have sex with men (BMSM) has tended to focus on HIV-related health disparities. Because the disease disproportionately affects BMSM, this emphasis is important. Yet it is also valuable to consider other dimensions of their lives. This study examines views about race and racial identity for ninety 18–24-year-old BMSM who participated in a culturally-based risk-reduction prevention program in the South. Moreover, based on its dual emphasis on oppression and resistance for marginalized groups, we consider whether and how their sentiments can be better understood using a black feminist lens. Quantitative results suggest tensions around the topic of race, but generally more affirming views about their racial identities and increased knowledge about racial issues. Qualitative findings reflect themes of identity and group affirmation and pragmatic strategies to reduce risk. The possible benefits of culturally-based interventions are discussed.
A novel tool for monitoring endogenous human MYC transcription and translation by EGFP tag insertion at the 3’ end using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing

Abstract The MYC oncogene is overexpressed in over 70% of human cancers. Since its identification, the study of MYC has led to the discovery of the various ways through which oncogenes contribute to the ability of normal cells to become malignant. However, there are many aspects of MYC biology that remain unknown or controversial in terms of its regulation, targetability and downstream control of its targets. We developed two stable cell lines expressing MYC endogenously tagged with EGFP via CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing. This system allows efficient detection of transcriptional activity of MYC as well the resulting fusion protein while maintaining the gene expression profiles, growth factors-associated MYC induction and growth kinetics of the parental cells. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing endogenous monitoring of MYC expression in colorectal adenocarcinoma through an EGFP tag, thus making it an efficient tool for high-throughput approaches such as genetic and drug screens.
Trends in high intensity statin use among secondary prevention patients 76 years and older.

Background: High intensity statin therapy (HIST) is the gold standard therapy for decreasing the risk of recurrent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD); however, little is known about the use of HIST in older adults with ASCVD. Objectives: The aim of this cross-sequential study was to determine trends in statin intensity in older adults over a 10-year timeframe. Methods: The study was conducted in an integrated healthcare delivery system. Patients were 76 years or older with validated coronary ASCVD. Data were collected from administrative databases. Statin intensity level was assessed in eligible patients on January 1st and July 1st from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2016. Results: Overall, a total of 5,453 patients were included with 2,119 (38.9%) and 3,334 (61.1%) categorized as HIST and Non-HIST, respectively. Included patients had a mean age of 79.8 years and were primarily male and white and had a cardiac intervention. The rate of HIST use increased from 14.5% to 41.3% over the study period (p<0.001 for trend). Conversely, the rates of moderate and low intensity statin use decreased from 61.8% and 9.8% to 41.2% and 4.8%, respectively (both p<0.001 for trend). Similar trends were identified for females and males. Conclusions: The percentage of patients with ASCVD 76 years and older who received HIST substantially increased from 2007 to 2016. This trend was identified in both females and males. Future comparative effectiveness research should be conducted in this patient population to examine cardiac-related outcomes with HIST and Non-HIST use.
Leveraging Youth: Overcoming Intergenerational Tensions in Creative Production:

The sociological literature on creativity would suggest that collaboration between newcomers and more experienced members of an art world results in the fruitful combination of novelty and usefulne...
A Laboratory Session to Prepare Pharmacy Students to Manage the Opioid Crisis Situation

Objective. To educate third-year pharmacy students about the role of pharmacists in the opioid crisis and measure their knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards opioids and opioid overdose. Methods. All third-year students (n=130) enrolled in a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree program participated in opioid overdose and naloxone education and training followed by a three-part laboratory session that included mock naloxone counseling, case-based discussion of the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP), and equianalgesic opioid dose conversion scenarios. A pre- and post-assessment focused on the individual's clinical knowledge, confidence, and attitudes about opioid overdose management and naloxone use was administered before and after the laboratory session to evaluate the student's baseline understanding and experience compared to learning gains from the session. An evaluation of the laboratory session was also conducted. Results. Upon completion, 99% percent of students rated the opioid laboratory as excellent (59%) or good (40%). Students believed the laboratory was stimulating (93%), relevant to pharmacy practice (96%), and contributed to their professional development (97%), and that the information provided was at an appropriate level (98%). Knowledge-based assessments improved in the areas of PDMP timely reporting, differentiating between naloxone devices, and naloxone administration technique. Student attitudes toward managing opioid overdoses improved on a majority of items. The majority of students agreed they had enough information to help them manage an opioid overdose (88.5%) and denied the need for additional training (61.5%). Conclusion. An active-learning laboratory helped to improve pharmacy students' knowledge, confidence, and attitudes with regard to opioids and the use of naloxone to treat a patient who has overdosed.
Design of Equal Potential Integral Detection Device for High Voltage Electric Energy Metering Equipment

In this paper, the self-boosting bipolar double-winding voltage transformer and the zero-flux LPCT current transformer are used to develop the equipotential overall error detection device for high voltage energy metering equipment. The device comprises a three-phase programmable power source, a three-phase integrated high-voltage energy metering device detection calibrator, an adaptively adjusted high-voltage equal-potential current transformer and a double-secondary winding bipolar voltage transformer. It solves the problem of secondary leakage current of standard current transformer and meets the overall inspection requirements of high-voltage energy metering device.
Deep Learning to Accelerate Scatterer-to-Field Mapping for Inverse Design of Dielectric Metasurfaces

The inverse design of optical metasurfaces is a rapidly emerging field that has already shown great promise in miniaturizing conventional optics as well as developing completely new optical functio...
Growth and Regional Inequality in China During the Reform Era

Abstract Chinese city-level data indicate that differences in growth rates are far more severe than indicated in previous studies, which typically use data at higher levels of aggregation. We estimate growth equations using city-level data and find that the policy of awarding a special economic zone (SEZ) status enhances growth substantially, increasing annual growth rates by 5.5 percentage points. Annual growth rates of open coastal cities are, on average, 3 percentage points higher. Our qualitative results on the role of policy and the effects of FDI are similar to those of earlier studies that have employed provincial-level data; however, quantitatively, our results are substantially different. We also provide evidence of an indirect role of policy in the growth process through its ability to attract growth-enhancing foreign direct investment.
‘Smart’ insulin-delivery technologies and intrinsic glucose-responsive insulin analogues

Insulin replacement therapy for diabetes mellitus seeks to minimise excursions in blood glucose concentration above or below the therapeutic range (hyper- or hypoglycaemia). To mitigate acute and chronic risks of such excursions, glucose-responsive insulin-delivery technologies have long been sought for clinical application in type 1 and long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Such 'smart' systems or insulin analogues seek to provide hormonal activity proportional to blood glucose levels without external monitoring. This review highlights three broad strategies to co-optimise mean glycaemic control and time in range: (1) coupling of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to delivery devices (algorithm-based 'closed-loop' systems); (2) glucose-responsive polymer encapsulation of insulin; and (3) mechanism-based hormone modifications. Innovations span control algorithms for CGM-based insulin-delivery systems, glucose-responsive polymer matrices, bio-inspired design based on insulin's conformational switch mechanism upon insulin receptor engagement, and glucose-responsive modifications of new insulin analogues. In each case, innovations in insulin chemistry and formulation may enhance clinical outcomes. Prospects are discussed for intrinsic glucose-responsive insulin analogues containing a reversible switch (regulating bioavailability or conformation) that can be activated by glucose at high concentrations.
Arriving at no: Patient pressure to prescribe antibiotics and physicians' responses.

Abstract While the vast majority of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) are viral, between a quarter and a third of adults presenting with ARIs are given an antibiotic, making antibiotic prescribing for ARIs a major contributor to the inappropriate prescribing problem. We argue that inappropriate prescribing persists because of the interplay between physicians and patients in the medical visit. Relying on a convenience sample of 68 video recordings of primary care medical visits drawn from corpora collected in 2003–2004 and 2015–2016 in the US, we show that although few patients are “demanding” or “requesting” antibiotics, many convey subtle forms of pressure through priming physicians for a bacterial diagnosis in their problem presentations; nudging towards a bacterial diagnosis during information gathering; and resisting non-antibiotic recommendations during the counseling phase. We find that patient priming, nudging, and resisting are effective strategies to influence clinical prescribing behavior. However, we also identify two ways that physicians can counter patient pressure by working to manage patient expectations through foreshadowing a non-antibiotic outcome and using persuasion when confronted with resistance. These, we show, are effective means of countering patient pressure. We argue for the dual importance of how physicians communicate and when they communicate.
Isometric exercise and inter-individual response differences on resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Isometric exercise (IE) has been shown to reduce resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in adults. However, no one to date has determined whether true inter-indivi...
In adults and children, a rapid POC antigen test for COVID-19 (LumiraDx) had ≥97% sensitivity and specificity vs. RT-PCR.

SOURCE CITATION: Drain PK, Ampajwala M, Chappel C, et al. A rapid, high-sensitivity SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid immunoassay to aid diagnosis of acute COVID-19 at the point of care: a clinical performance study. Infect Dis Ther. 2021;10:753-61 33629225.
Estimating accuracy from unlabeled data

We consider the question of how unlabeled data can be used to estimate the true accuracy of learned classifiers. This is an important question for any autonomous learning system that must estimate its accuracy without supervision, and also when classifiers trained from one data distribution must be applied to a new distribution (e.g., document classifiers trained on one text corpus are to be applied to a second corpus). We first show how to estimate error rates exactly from unlabeled data when given a collection of competing classifiers that make independent errors, based on the agreement rates between subsets of these classifiers. We further show that even when the competing classifiers do not make independent errors, both their accuracies and error dependencies can be estimated by making certain relaxed assumptions. Experiments on two data real-world data sets produce estimates within a few percent of the true accuracy, using solely un-labeled data. These results are of practical significance in situations where labeled data is scarce and shed light on the more general question of how the consistency among multiple functions is related to their true accuracies.
Metformin to restore normal menses in oligo-amenorrheic teenage girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Abstract Purpose: To describe our clinical experience in using Metformin combined with a high protein-low carbohydrate diet to restore normal menstrual cycles in teenaged females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: To enter the study, patients had to have well-documented PCOS, be oligo- (six cycles or less in the preceding year) or amenorrheic (absence of menstrual cycles for 1 year), and not have exclusionary diseases or drugs. Accompanying a high protein-low carbohydrate diet, Metformin (1.5–2.55 g/day) was given for 10.5 ± 6.4 months (range, 4.5–26.5 months). Follow-up every 8–10 weeks for ≥6 months was scheduled with interval history, review of menstrual status, assessment of any Metformin-related side effects, brief physical examination, and determination of weight and blood pressure. Results: All 11 girls had normal fasting blood glucose and glycohemoglobin. Pre-Metformin, five girls were amenorrheic, three had only one menstrual cycle in the previous year, and three had ≥6 cycles/year. With Metformin, 10 of 11 girls (91%) resumed regular normal menses; 39% of 38 follow-up visits with regular normal menstrual cycles were ovulatory with normal luteal-phase serum progesterone (≥2.3 ng/mL). Of the 11 girls, nine (82%) lost weight; five girls lost ≥11 lb and seven lost ≥5 lb. After adjusting for weight reduction, with Metformin, estradiol and progesterone rose ( p = .0014, .027, respectively) (changes consistent with resumption of regular normal menses), total plasma cholesterol fell ( p = .026), and there was a downward trend in testosterone ( p = .068). Conclusion: Metformin safely ameliorates the endocrinopathy of PCOS in previously oligo-amenorrheic teenage females with PCOS, facilitating resumption of normal menses in most girls.
Systemic cholecystokinin amplifies vago‐vagal reflex responses recorded in vagal motor neurones

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a potent regulator of visceral functions as a consequence of its actions on vago-vagal reflex circuit elements. This paper addresses three current controversies regarding the role of CCK to control gastric function via vago-vagal reflexes. Specifically: (a) whether CNS vs. peripheral (vagal afferent) receptors are dominant, (b) whether the long (58) vs. short (8) isoform is more potent and (c) whether nutritional status impacts the gain or even the direction of vago-vagal reflexes. Our in vivo recordings of physiologically identified gastric vagal motor neurones (gastric-DMN) involved in the gastric accommodation reflex (GAR) show unequivocally that: (a) receptors in the coeliac-portal circulation are more sensitive in amplifying gastric vagal reflexes; (b) in the periphery, CCK8 is more potent than CCK58; and (c) the nutritional status has a marginal effect on gastric reflex control. While the GAR reflex is more sensitive in the fasted rat, CCK amplifies this sensitivity. Thus, our results are in stark contrast to recent reports which have suggested that vago-vagal reflexes are inverted by the metabolic status of the animal and that this inversion could be mediated by CCK within the CNS.
Virtue Jurisprudence: A Virtue-Centered Theory of Judging

"Virtue jurisprudence" is a normative and explanatory theory of law that utilizes the resources of virtue ethics to answer the central questions of legal theory. The main focus of this essay is the development of a virtue-centered theory of judging. The exposition of the theory begins with exploration of defects in judicial character, such as corruption and incompetence. Next, an account of judicial virtue is introduced. This includes judicial wisdom, a form of phronesis, or sound practical judgment. A virtue-centered account of justice is defended against the argument that theories of fairness are prior to theories of justice. The centrality of virtue as a character trait can be drawn out by analyzing the virtue of justice into constituent elements. These include judicial impartiality (even-handed sympathy for those affected by adjudication) and judicial integrity (respect for the law and concern for its coherence). The essay argues that a virtue-centered theory accounts for the role that virtuous practical judgment plays in the application of rules to particular fact situations. Moreover, it contends that a virtue-centered theory of judging can best account for the phenomenon of lawful judicial disagreement. Finally, a virtue-centered approach best accounts for the practice of equity, departure from the rules based on the judge's appreciation of the particular characteristics of individual fact situations.
Inhibition of Carbohydrate Metabolism by Oxygen and N-Ethylmaleimide in Rat Heart Homogenates

The inhibitory effects of oxygen and N-ethylmaleimide upon glycolysis and adenosine triphosphate accumulation in rat heart homogenate systems were studied. The main effect of N-ethylmaleimide was to inhibit ATP synthesis and thus to decrease the phosphorylation of glucose and fructose 6-phosphate. It is likely that this compound exerts its action by interfering with reactions of the tricarboxylic acid cycle or electron transport. Oxygen at a pressure of 1 atm was found to inhibit glycolysis directly. The experiments provide strong evidence that the mechanism of this inhibitory effect of oxygen involves the inactivation of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase by oxidation of enzyme sulfhydryl groups. Depression of glycolysis by oxygen was prevented by reduced glutathione, cysteine, and dithiothreitol. Some protection against oxygen toxicity was afforded by ascorbic acid. Addition of dithiothreitol or reduced glutathione to a homogenate system inhibited by oxygen caused a reversal of the toxic effects of oxygen.
Collaborative Attack vs. Collaborative Defense

We have witnessed many attacks in the cyberspace. However, most attacks are launched by individual attackers even though an attack may involve many compromised computers. In this paper, we envision what we believe to be the next generation cyber attacks — collaborative attacks. Collaborative attacks can be launched by multiple attackers (i.e., human attackers or criminal organizations), each of which may have some specialized expertise. This is possible because cyber attacks can become very sophisticated and specialization of attack expertise naturally becomes relevant. To counter collaborative attacks, we might need collaborative defense because each “chain” in a collaborative attack may be only adequately dealt with by a different defender. In order to understand collaborative attack and collaborative defense, we present a high-level abstracted framework for evaluating the effectiveness of collaborative defense against collaborative attacks. As a first step towards realizing and instantiating the framework, we explore a characterization of collaborative attacks and collaborative defense from the relevant perspectives.
Very low birth weight infant vitamin D supplementation: double-blind, randomized clinical efficacy trial (828.13)

Objective: To evaluate whether infants receiving a supplemental 400 IU/day above standard preterm infant vitamin D (vitD) supplementation differed in mineral and bone health from infants receiving placebo. Methods: Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] < 20 ng/ml (vitD deficiency) were enrolled within 3 days of birth and randomized to active (400 IU/day supplemental vitD) or placebo group until term age equivalent (TAE). At TAE, plasma 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, urinary calcium and phosphorus excretion, and femur and spine bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) were measured. Statistical analysis was by Chi-square, Fisher exact, and Wilcoxon Rank Sum. Results: Thirty-eight (19 each group) vitD-deficient infants were enrolled and followed at TAE. Active and control groups did not significantly differ in gender, race, birth gestational age, days from birth to TAE visit, or 25(OH)D at entry (13.6 and 11.8 ng/ml). From b...
Linguistic geometry: a new paradigm for intelligent systems

In order to discover the inner properties of human expert heuristics, which were successful in a certain class of complex control systems, we develop a formal theory, the linguistic geometry. The paper reports on two new examples of application of linguistic geometry to autonomous robotic navigation that demonstrate dramatic search reduction. >
Nonpoint source groundwater pollution and endogenous regulatory policies

[1] Theory suggests that in the absence of transaction costs, pollution externalities can be mitigated efficiently by charging polluters a tax equal to the marginal social cost of pollution. All other regulatory mechanisms therefore may be no more efficient than a marginal cost pollution tax. We developed a stylized model of dynamic groundwater pollution without transaction costs to examine alternate policies. Using mitigation cost, tax burden, and excess burden we compared the relative efficiency of each tax policy under competitive market conditions. For groundwater nitrate pollution in a Midwestern farming region, results show that the least cost policy is a constant tax on the polluting input, followed by a variable tax on the polluting input and a pollution tax.
Chronic Cancer: Bringing Palliative Care Into the Conversation

Palliative care is a treatment model that aims to relieve patient suffering and improve quality of life, and is essential for those living with chronic cancer. However, most palliative care referrals are made as a last resort when all other treatment options have failed. This article argues that social workers have an important role in early palliative care discussions because of their unique skill set. Techniques for early introduction of palliative care are addressed, as are ways for empowering patient advocacy. A case narrative of a young woman with chronic cancer is included as an example of the need for ongoing palliative care conversations.
Reliability of percutaneous intramuscular electrodes for upper extremity functional neuromuscular stimulation in adolescents with C5 tetraplegia

Abstract Chronically indwelling percutaneous intramuscular electrodes were implanted in the upper extremity muscles of five adolescents with C5 or C5–6 tetraplegia in an effort to provide lateral and palmar prehension using the neuroprosthetic system designed by Case Western Reserve University. The responses from 177 electrodes were evaluated at 3-month intervals and included measurements of electrical impedance and an assessment of recruitment properties. Electrode failures were categorized as breakage, an altered stimulated response or adverse sensation during stimulation. Survival probabilities were generated for all electrodes, each muscle group, the volar and dorsal exit sites, intrinsic and extrinsic muscles, and according to the subjects' time postinjury. The overall probability of an electrode surviving to 6 months was 0.75 and the 1 year survival probability was 0.56. Among muscle groups, the finger extensor and thumb adductor electrodes had the highest proportion of failures and the poorest survival likelihoods within the first year after implant. According to the Breslow test, significantly smaller survival chances were predicted for electrodes exiting dorsally and for the newly-injured adolescents (
Energy expenditure and muscular activation patterns through active sitting on compliant surfaces.

Abstract Purpose To test the effectiveness of sitting surfaces with varied amounts of stability on muscle activity and energy expenditure. Methods Using a within-participants repeated measures design, 11 healthy young-adult females (age = 20.0 ± 1.8 years) were measured using indirect calorimetry to assess energy expenditure, and electromyography to assess muscular activation in trunk and leg musculature under 3 different sitting surfaces: flat-firm surface, air-filled cushion, and a stability ball. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance with follow-up pairwise contrasts used to determine the specific effects of sitting surface on muscle activation and energy expenditure. Results Significantly greater energy expenditure was recorded for the stability ball (p = 0.01) and the cushion (p = 0.03) over the flat surface (10.4% and 9.6% greater, respectively), with no differences between the ball and the cushion. Both the ball and the cushion produced higher tibialis anterior activation over the flat surface (1.09 and 0.63 root-mean-square millivolts (RMSmv), respectively), while the stability ball produced higher soleus activity over both cushion and flat surfaces (3.97 and 4.24 RMSmv, respectively). Additionally, the cushion elicited higher adductor longus activity over the ball and flat surfaces (1.76 and 1.81 RMSmv, respectively), but no trunk musculature differences were revealed. Conclusion Compliant surfaces resulted in higher levels of muscular activation in the lower extremities facilitating increased caloric expenditure. Given the increasing trends in sedentary careers and the increases in obesity, this is an important finding to validate the merits of active sitting facilitating increased caloric expenditure and muscle activation.
Dominant Inheritance of Overo Spotting in Paint Horses

Analysis of selected studbook records of the American Paint Horse Association, consisting of 687 foals sired by 13 overo stallions from non-overo mares, supports the inheritance of overo spotting as an autosomal dominant gene. More than one gene may control patterns registered as overo. Additional studies are necessary to explain the sporadic occurrence of overo spotting from nonspotted quarter horse parents and to confirm the inheritance of overo spotting in other breeds.
Method and results for optimizing the MOPITT methane bandpass.

The Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT) instrument will measure carbon monoxide and total column methane in the Earth’s atmosphere by means of gas-filter correlation radiometry. The center, width, and shape of the bandpass filters used to isolate the spectral channels must maximize the signal level and sensitivity to the gas of interest and minimize the interference from other absorbing gases (notably water vapor). I calculated the sensitivity to methane and the interference from other gases as a function of filter center and width. A slight shift in the filter parameters from the MOPITT baseline values increases the methane sensitivity by 20% and decreases the water vapor interference to 6% of its baseline value.
All-Optical Asymmetric Fabry-Perot Reflection Modulators

Operating conditions of all-optical asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulators are discussed based on the experimental results of two modulators with different nonlinear spacers of GaAlInAs/AlInAs and strained-layer InGaAs/GaAs multi-quantum wells. These modulators operate at wavelengths of 1.3 and 0.92 µm, and offer an on/off contrast ratio of greater than 1000:1. An “on” state with an insertion loss of 2.2 dB existed for pump intensities of 30 kW/cm2 and 3 kW/cm2, respectively. The corresponding carrier densities for these pump intensities are approximately the same, at 4×1017cm–3. The switching pump beam intensity of the modulator and its response time are analyzed in terms of saturation carrier density and carrier lifetime of the nonlinear spacer material. Requirements for the nonlinear spacer material and device parameters are discussed for low power and fast modulators.
Assessing ectomycorrhizal fungal spore banks of truffle producing soils with pecan seedling trap-plants

Recently, the truffle species Tuber lyonii Butters was found to be dominant in ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungal communities of cultivated pecan (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch). Many truffle fungi exhibit the trait of effectively colonizing plant roots via spores. We hypothesized that T. lyonii would be well represented in the spore bank of pecan orchard soils where it is found. We used axenically-grown pecan seedlings as trap-plants to bait for EcM associates in soils collected beneath truffle-producing pecan trees. EcM fungi on seedlings were characterized through rDNA sequencing and were compared to EcM communities of adult trees in these orchards. Tuber lyonii mycorrhizas were well formed on seedlings inoculated with truffle spores, but were limited to just a few of the trap-plants grown in field soils. We compared EcM communities of adult pecan orchard trees to those on trap-plants and found distinct communities on each, with a high degree of similarity at the ordinal but not species level. Although species of Pezizales are abundant in pecan EcM communities and as propagules in their soil spore banks, only a low level of T. lyonii was detected in soil spore banks beneath orchard trees naturally colonized by T. lyonii. Other factors including land-use history or orchard management may better explain this truffle species presence and abundance in pecan EcM communities.
The color of sound: race, religion and music in Brazil

John Burdick's The Color of Sound: Race, Religion and Music in Brazil might seem a limited subject matter considering he is only interested in the three modern gospel music scenes of urban Brazil. ...
Diversity in the origins of proteostasis networks--a driver for protein function in evolution.

All three domains of life – Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya – have a proteostasis network that modulates protein folding in response to changes in the environment and to genetic variation. This proteostasis network has co-evolved with the proteome and is thought to play a part in driving evolution.
How dendritic cells shape atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the arteries, which results in major morbidity and mortality. Immune cells initiate and sustain local inflammation. Here, we focus on how dendritic cell (DC)-mediated processes might be relevant to atherosclerosis. Although only small numbers of DCs are detected in healthy arteries, these numbers dramatically increase during atherosclerosis development. In the earliest fatty streaks, DCs are found next to the vascular endothelium. During plaque growth, new DCs are actively recruited, and their egress from the vessel wall is dampened. In the adventitia next to mature atherosclerotic lesions, tertiary lymphoid organs develop, which also contain DCs. Thus, DCs probably participate in all stages of atherosclerosis from fatty streaks to mature lesions.
Efficient Test Molecule Sampling in Molecular Simulation

Abstract Excluded volume map sampling (EVMS) is a particularly efficient means of performing test molecule sampling to estimate or impose chemical potential in molecular simulations. This paper discusses the motivation and applications of excluded volume map sampling, presents computer code demonstrating its implementation, and gives an example of its application.
TopoToolbox: using sensor topography to calculate psychologically meaningful measures from event-related EEG/MEG

The open-source toolbox "TopoToolbox" is a suite of functions that use sensor topography to calculate psychologically meaningful measures (similarity, magnitude, and timing) from multisensor event-related EEG and MEG data. Using a GUI and data visualization, TopoToolbox can be used to calculate and test the topographic similarity between different conditions (Tian and Huber, 2008). This topographic similarity indicates whether different conditions involve a different distribution of underlying neural sources. Furthermore, this similarity calculation can be applied at different time points to discover when a response pattern emerges (Tian and Poeppel, 2010). Because the topographic patterns are obtained separately for each individual, these patterns are used to produce reliable measures of response magnitude that can be compared across individuals using conventional statistics (Davelaar et al. Submitted and Huber et al., 2008). TopoToolbox can be freely downloaded. It runs under MATLAB (The MathWorks, Inc.) and supports user-defined data structure as well as standard EEG/MEG data import using EEGLAB (Delorme and Makeig, 2004).
Creating an effective professional learning sessions model on technology integration for a Kenyan school district

The Kenyan Government's `Vision 2030' demands technology integration in teaching and learning. The Kenyan educational context, including resources, the characteristics of the student population and the examination system creates a challenge to the current model of teacher professional development. A new leadership and management course for school leaders has been shown to have the potential to increase school leaders' awareness of the benefits of technology. Trained school leaders are expected to provide "Professional learning" for the teachers that they are responsible for. A pilot training programme was completed by a first cohort drawn from 80 % of the schools in one district. Leaders from 15 schools were included and were taken through the modelled "Professional learning session" (PLS). Their response to the structure and content of the programme was explored in order to find ways to increase its impact. Data was collected using individual and focus group interviews, artefact analysis and observation. After the first cohort, a second cohort completed a revised version of the programme. The outcomes from the programme demonstrated that the inclusion of all stakeholders in the design of a long-term programme with contextualized content is critical. Collective follow-up including observation, feedback and action planning has a significant impact on professional learning.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction for Women with Spinal Cord Injury

Women with spinal cord injury (SCI) have unique health care needs related to their physical and psychological well-being. These health-related needs that occur after SCI are likely to affect these women's quality of life (QOL) and their satisfaction with life. This study aims to investigate the role of selected factors such as age, time since injury, and neurological status on the health-related QOL and life satisfaction of women with SCI. This study also assesses gender differences across these factors in terms of health-related QOL and life satisfaction. Secondary data analyses were used to determine the association among the selected factors and study outcomes. The sample included 2,887 SCI participants (580 women and 2,307 men) from the SCI Model System's National SCI Statistical Center (NSCISC) database. We used the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form or Health Status Questionnaire (SF-12) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to measure two types of QOL outcomes. Our findings suggest that women ...
Localization of a lysosomal enzyme in platelets from patients with the White platelet syndrome.

The White platelet syndrome (WPS) is an autosomal dominant platelet disorder. Platelet structural abnormalities include the presence of Golgi complexes in up to 13% of their cells, frequently accompanied by centrioles, deficient numbers or absent alpha granules in 30–40% of their platelets and masses of dense tubular system (DTS) channels often forming areas of cytoplasmic sequestration. The degradation of cytoplasm and organelles in the sequestered areas suggested the possibility that hydrolytic enzymes remained in the DTS and were being transferred to sequestration vacuoles. The present study has used ultrastructural cytochemistry to localize the sites of a lysosomal enzyme, aryl sulfatase, in normal and WPS platelets. Enzyme reaction product, lead sulfide, was localized to lysosomal organelles in normal platelets, and only in rare examples appeared in the DTS. Aryl sulfatase activity was found in the Golgi complexes, a few lysosomes, much of the DTS and areas of cytoplasmic sequestration in WPS platele...
Neural Processing, Perception, and Behavioral Responses to Natural Chemical Stimuli by Fish and Crustaceans

This manuscript reviews the chemical ecology of two of the major aquatic animal models, fish and crustaceans, in the study of chemoreception. By necessity, it is restricted in scope, with most emphasis placed on teleost fish and decapod crustaceans. First, we describe the nature of the chemical world perceived by fish and crustaceans, giving examples of the abilities of these animals to analyze complex natural odors. Fish and crustaceans share the same environments and have evolved some similar chemosensory features: the ability to detect and discern mixtures of small metabolites in highly variable backgrounds and to use this information to identify food, mates, predators, and habitat. Next, we give examples of the molecular nature of some of these natural products, including a description of methodologies used to identify them. Both fish and crustaceans use their olfactory and gustatory systems to detect amino acids, amines, and nucleotides, among many other compounds, while fish olfactory systems also detect mixtures of sex steroids and prostaglandins with high specificity and sensitivity. Third, we discuss the importance of plasticity in chemical sensing by fish and crustaceans. Finally, we conclude with a description of how natural chemical stimuli are processed by chemosensory systems. In both fishes and crustaceans, the olfactory system is especially adept at mixture discrimination, while gustation is well suited to facilitate precise localization and ingestion of food. The behaviors of both fish and crustaceans can be defined by the chemical worlds in which they live and the abilities of their nervous systems to detect and identify specific features in their domains. An understanding of these worlds and the sensory systems that provide the animals with information about them provides insight into the chemical ecology of these species.
Maternal depressive symptoms and homeless children's mental health: Risk and resiliency

Homelessness places children at risk for mental health problems. Maternal depression may influence child outcomes through its effects on the mother-child relationship. This study examined the relationship between maternal depressive symptoms and child mental health in a sample of homeless mothers and their preschool children. The relationship between maternal depressive symptoms and child behavior problems was not significant. The data suggest that mental health services for homeless mothers and their young children are needed. However, 70% of the children in this sample had no behavior problems. Their adaptation reflects resilience to extraordinary stressors and provides a unique opportunity to understand child resiliency.
Clinical outcomes of medical or surgical therapy in patients below age 40 with acute diverticulitis

Clinical outcomes of medical or surgical therapy in patients below age 40 with acute diverticulitis
Rapid Induction of Conditioned Opiate Withdrawal in the Rat

Previous studies of conditioned opiate withdrawal in animals either have suffered from a lack of readily quantifiable data (e.g., measurement of diarrhea and vocalization in rodents) or were very long and costly (e.g., disruption of operant responding in monkeys). In this study, an attempt was made to produce a rapid and quantifiable measure of conditioned opiate withdrawal in the rat. Rats were trained to lever-press for food reinforcement on a fixed-ratio-15 schedule. All rats were then implanted with two subcutaneous 75-mg morphine pellets and allocated into three groups. The paired group received four naloxone injections (0.025 mg/kg SC) in the operant chambers paired with a distinctive tone and smell. The unpaired group was also exposed to the tone and smell in the chambers on four occasions, but received the naloxone injections in the home cage. The saline control animals were never exposed to naloxone or the tone and smell. On the test day, all rats were exposed to the tone and smell and injected with saline. The paired group showed a significant reduction in operant responding in response to the tone and smell when compared either with the other two groups, or to their own response rates on the previous day. In a second experiment, the paired and unpaired groups were again challenged with the tone and smell and a saline injection 1 month after removal of the morphine pellets. Again, the paired group showed a significant disruption of response. These results suggest that the conditioned stimulus acquired significant behavior-disruptive properties manifest even in the absence of opiate receptor occupancy. A rapidly acquired, quantifiable measure of conditioned withdrawal in the rat will allow systematic evaluation of the neurobiological basis for this phenomenon.
Synthesis of solid-supported mirror-image sugars: A novel method for selecting receptors for cellular-surface carbohydrates

We introduced a novel method, through mirror-image phage display, for the identification of high-affinity D-peptides to target specific cell-surface carbohydrates. Both 3-deoxy-alpha-L-manno-2-octulosonic acid (L-KDO) and L-sialic acid and an L-sialo-disaccharide have been synthesized and attached to a solid support for selection of high-affinity peptide binders displayed on phages. Our initial studies in this effort produce single-chain Fab sequences and dodecapeptides that bind to sialic acid and KDO with nanomolar and high micromolar affinity.
Epidemiology and outcome of infective endocarditis in hemodialysis patients.

ABSTRACT Background Survival in patients with infective endocarditis (IE) ranges from 4 to 50% depending on the type of organism, the type of valve involvement and the type of treatment. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of data in hemodialysis (HD) patients at our center from 1990 to 2000. Demographics, risk factors, and outcome data were extracted in the subgroup of patients with first-episode IE diagnosed primarily by echocardiography. Results A total of 2239 patients underwent HD at our center. Thirty-two (1.4%) had IE defined using the Duke Criteria. Permanent and temporary venous dialysis catheters, arteriovenous (AV) grafts, and AV fistulae were used in 19 (59%), 12 (38%), and 1 (3%) patient respectively. Mean access duration was 7.6 ± 7.9 months. Thirty (94%) patients had positive blood cultures, with the majority having Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Two (7%) patients had positive echocardiographic findings but negative blood cultures due to the commencement of empiric antibiotic therapy prior to blood cultures. The mitral valve was mainly affected. Transesophageal echocardiography was performed in 23 (72%) patients and detected an intracardiac mass in all 23 patients. One-year mortality was 56.3%. A poor 1-year prognosis was associated with presenting features of low hemoglobin, elevated leukocyte count, hypoalbuminemia, severe aortic and mitral regurgitation, and annular calcification in mitral valve IE. Conclusion The prevalence of IE in HD patients is 1.4%. One-year mortality was 56.3%. Close observation is required during the first year when patients with severe valvular regurgitation and hematological abnormalities have a high mortality.