cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aggregation and Unit Formation in the Perception of Moving Collinear Lines

The degree to which collinear lines are treated as a unit in resolving rotary motion in depth was investigated with the use of parallel projection to make direction of motion ambiguous. The proportion of time that the collinear lines appeared to rotate in the same direction was used as an index of their perceptual coherence. When the gap between the lines was small, there was strong grouping of the lines with respect to direction of motion as well as appearance of rigidity for the configuration. For larger gaps the grouping for direction of motion was maintained, but the lines appeared to have different axes of rotation leading to an appearance of nonrigidity. It is concluded that line elements can be aggregated for the resolution of certain properties without constituting a unit in any general sense.
Block Scheduling and Inclusion in a High School: Teacher Perceptions of the Benefits and Challenges

This investigation used qualitative methods to examine the impact of the implementation of a block schedule on an inclusive high school program that had been working successfully for several years. Data were collected using a series of classroom observations and interviews with seven teachers of students with disabilities and seven general education teachers who worked as co-teachers in inclusive classrooms. A constant comparative method of data analysis (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) was used to identify themes related to the benefits and challenges of block scheduling and the inclusion of students labeled with high-incidence disabilities. Results showed that inclusion and block scheduling were complementary and mutually supportive aspects of school reform in this high school. Furthermore, although the teachers identified several challenges related to the implementation of block scheduling, none of these challenges were unique to students with disabilities. The implications of these findings for practice are d...
The effects of mine safety legislation on mining technology in the USA

Health and safety are paramount to the success of the mining industry. Mining technology and safety habits have been advanced by innovative corporations and encouraged by governmental legislation (Glover and Morse, 2000). The governments have been influenced by public demand resulting from mining accidents and damages. Increasing public concerns have led to the passage of new safety laws in the USA (Hartman and Mutmansky 2002) – most notably the MINER Act of 2006. In the US mining law influences significantly the path which future safety innovations will take. This article gives a brief introduction of mine safety and health legislation governing the mining industry and shows how it has affected mining technology in the USA.
A study of injection dose for patients and exposure dose for technologists from the PET/CT systems

2079 Objectives It appears the different value when the injection dose is calculating for patients on each PET/CT systems. It directly affects the technologists’ radiation exposed dose. We studied the effect of the variable injection doses from several PET/CT systems to exposure dose for technologists. Methods Six technologists have worked for 5 months through unit rotations with 3 PET/CT systems {Scanner 1(S1): 0.15mCi/kg, Scanner 2(S2): 0.17mCi/kg, Scanner 3(S3): 0.12mCi/kg}. Eighteen to 19 patients have had examinations per a day on each PET/CT systems. Examination parameters were adjusted to the same. TLDs were used for checking the exposure dose of technologists. ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results Each technologists’ the monthly average exposure dose was as follows; S1: 0.76mSv, S2: 0.93mSv, S3: 0.47mSv. The maximum exposure dose was 1.12mSv, and minimum was 0.42mSv. The results showed significance in the correlation between the PET/CT system and the exposure dose (P Conclusions When the amount of injection dose was small, the exposure dose was decreased not only the patients but also the technologists. The exposure dose was decreased by the individual proficiency of technologists. However, the low injection dose can highly reduce the exposure dose for technologist so that there will be needed to following studies
Stochastic formulation of bandlimited signal interpolation

We formulate the problem of bandlimited signal interpolation within a stochastic framework. Existing literature on this subject is fragmented and requires deep knowledge of probability, functional analysis, and estimation theory. In addition, previous developments have not clarified the relationship between the theories for the stochastic and deterministic cases. We find that by formulating interpolation as a problem in linear estimation, several commonly used interpolation algorithms readily follow. This formulation of the signal interpolation problem is highly accessible to engineers and scientists having rudimentary knowledge of random processes.
Studies in the hydrophilic properties of possible ointment base constituents. VI. The n-alkyl amines.

Abstract An investigation of the n -alkyl amines from C 10 to C 13 indicates that these agents are superior emulsifying agents when compared with their analogous alcohol and mercaptan derivatives. The alkalinity of these agents, however, limits their dermatological utility.
Hispanic consumers' perceptions toward locally grown ethnic produce: A study from the east-coast US

The purpose of this study was to predict Hispanic consumer’s willingness to buy ethnic produce grown on local farms. Specifically, this result analyzes and compares the effects of Hispanic consumers’ socio-economic characteristics and their expressed value judgments on their willingness to buy locally grown ethnic fruits and vegetables. The survey instrument asked respondents whether they were willing to buy ethnic produce grown on local farms, and based on this, an ordered probit model was developed to predict the willingness to buy ethnic produce grown on local farms. The model has significant explanatory power with 80% overall model prediction success. According to the survey results, overall, 80% of the Hispanic respondents were willing to buy locally grown ethnic produce, 13% of them were indifferent and only 7% of them were less willing to buy. The high positive percentage indicates the intensity of consumers’ interest toward willing to buy locally grown produce. The study results indicated that growing demand for Hispanic ethnic produce provides a potential opportunity for farmers in the region.
ACE inhibitors and ARBs: are they better than other agents to slow nephropathy progression?

THE JOURNAL OF CLINICAL HYPERTENSION 413 Chronic kidney disease is the most common medically treatable cause of secondary hypertension. It most often results from poorly controlled diabetes and/or elevated blood pressure (BP).1 Kidney disease has various stages and may present with albuminuria (>200 mg/d) or proteinuria (>300 mg/d) as a laboratory marker. Some of the most common antihypertensive therapies used in the treatment of hypertension in people with kidney disease involve agents that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The compelling indications for use of these medications in kidney disease derives from data from a variety of studies in advanced (stage 3 or 4) nephropathy (ie, glomerular filtration rate [GFR] >15 but 1.4 mg/dL and >300 mg/d of proteinuria), the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs resulted in similar outcomes on nephropathy progression when compared with other classes of antihypertensive drugs. This was true for cardiovascular outcomes including stroke.6 In a more recent analysis by Casas and colleagues,7 databases were searched up until January 2005 for randomized trials reviewing the use of antihypertensive drugs and progression of kidney disease. Primary end points in 127 trials were evaluated (ie, doubling of serum creatinine and/or development of end-stage renal disease, as well as secondary continuous markers of renal outcomes www.lejacq.com ID: 7234 E d i t o r i a l
Residual feed efficiency established in a post-weaning growth test may not result in more efficient ewes on the range

Abstract Reduction of feed required for normal lamb and wool production could improve the profitability of sheep producers. Our objectives were to determine growth and feed efficiency traits of Targhee sheep receiving a growing diet as ewe-lambs (Exp. 1) and a maintenance diet as yearlings (Exp. 2). Furthermore, we compared the repeatability of these traits between the two experiments. Within each experiment, residual feed intake (RFI) was strongly correlated (0.77 and 0.89) with DMI and no relationships were detected between RFI and ADG or metabolic BW. The low-RFI group had a 19 and 29% reduction in DMI compared to the high-RFI group for Exp. 1 and 2, respectively. No differences were detected for wool fiber diameter change (Exp. 1) or hay digestibility (Exp. 2) among RFI groups (P ≥ 0.70). No significant correlations were detected for growth or feed efficiency traits between Exp. 1 and 2. These results suggest that considerable feed efficiency differences exist in ewe-lambs during active growth and yearlings at maintenance. However, based upon the lack of relationship between Exp. 1 and 2 for feed efficiency, the authors suggest that RFI established on a postweaning growth test may not result in more efficient ewes on the range.
The role of the ovarian tumor locus in Drosophila melanogaster germ line sex determination

The locus ovarian tumor (otu) is involved in several aspects of oogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. The possible role of otu in the determination of the sexual identity of germ cells has not been extensively explored. Some otu alleles produce a phenotype known as ovarian tumors: ovarioles are filled with numerous poorly differentiated germ cells. We show that these mutant germ cells have a morphology similar to primary spermatocytes and that they express male germ line-specific reporter genes. This indicates that they are engaged along the male pathway of germ line differentiation. Consistent with this conclusion, we found that the splicing of Sex-lethal (Sxl) pre-mRNAs occurs in the male-specific mode in otu-transformed germ cells. The position of the otu locus in the regulatory cascade of germ line sex determination has been studied by using mutations that constitutively express the feminizing activity of the Sxl gene. The sexual transformation of the germ cells observed with several combinations of otu alleles can be reversed by constitutive expression of Sxl. This shows that otu acts upstream of Sxl in the process of germ line sex determination. Other phenotypes of otu mutations were not rescued by constitutive expression of Sxl, suggesting that several functions of otu are likely to be independent of sex determination. Finally, we show that the gene dosage of otu modifies the phenotype of ovaries heterozygous for the dominant alleles of ovo, another gene involved in germ line sex determination. One dose of otu+ enhances the ovoD ovarian phenotypes, while three doses partially suppress these phenotypes. Synergistic interaction between ovoD1 and otu alleles leads to the occasional transformation of chromosomally female germ cells into early spermatocytes. These interactions are similar to those observed between ovoD and one allele of the sans fille (snf) locus. Altogether, our results imply that the otu locus acts, along with ovo, snf, and Sxl, in a pathway (or parallel pathways) required for proper sex determination of the female germ line.
Antibodies Are Required for Complete Vaccine-Induced Protection against Herpes Simplex Virus 2

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) 0ΔNLS is a live HSV-2 ICP0- mutant vaccine strain that is profoundly attenuated in vivo due to its interferon-hypersensitivity. Recipients of the HSV-2 0ΔNLS vaccine are resistant to high-dose HSV-2 challenge as evidenced by profound reductions in challenge virus spread, shedding, disease and mortality. In the current study, we investigated the requirements for HSV-2 0ΔNLS vaccine-induced protection. Studies using (UV)-inactivated HSV-2 0ΔNLS revealed that self-limited replication of the attenuated virus was required for effective protection from vaginal or ocular HSV-2 challenge. Diminished antibody responses in recipients of the UV-killed HSV-2 vaccine suggested that antibodies might be playing a critical role in early protection. This hypothesis was investigated in B-cell-deficient μMT mice. Vaccination with live HSV-2 0ΔNLS induced equivalent CD8+ T cell responses in wild-type and μMT mice. Vaccinated μMT mice shed ~40-fold more infectious HSV-2 at 24 hours post-challenge relative to vaccinated wild-type (B-cell+) mice, and most vaccinated μMT mice eventually succumbed to a slowly progressing HSV-2 challenge. Importantly, passive transfer of HSV-2 antiserum restored full protection to HSV-2 0ΔNLS-vaccinated μMT mice. The results demonstrate that B cells are required for complete vaccine-induced protection against HSV-2, and indicate that virus-specific antibodies are the dominant mediators of early vaccine-induced protection against HSV-2.
Radioimmunotherapy of Neuroblastoma

Effecting cures in patients with neuroblastoma remains a major challenge despite aggressive multimodality therapy. Antibody-mediated anti-GD2 immunotherapy has recently been shown to improve survival and is now considered part of frontline therapy for high-risk neuroblastoma. Radioimmunotherapy has the potential to target effective radiation to neuroblastoma, at the same time avoiding the toxicities of external beam radiotherapy which are often severe in children. The anti-GD2 radiolabeled antibodies 131I-3F8 and 131I-14G2a have been shown to target neuroblastoma and have been used for radioimmunodetection and are more specific and sensitive at detecting disease than 131I-MIBG. Toxicities, biodistribution and dosimetry for intravenous 131I-3F8 have been determined in phase I and II trials in patients with neuroblastoma. Myelosuppression, reversible with hematopoietic stem cell rescue is a major toxicity. Patients also experienced pain and allergic reactions. 131I-3F8 has been injected into the ventricles via Ommaya injection in leptomeningeal neuroblastoma without long-term toxicities being observed. Intra-Ommaya anti-4Ig-B7H3 radiolabeled monoclonal antibody 131I-8H9 is also being studied in a phase I study for patients with leptomeningeal disease. Radioimmunotherapy with both radioiodinated antibodies is a key component of a therapeutic regimen for relapsed leptomeningeal neuroblastoma which has resulted in encouraging long-term survival rates in a majority of patients with this hitherto uniformly lethal disease. Detailed dosimetry information and high-quality images have been acquired via PET imaging after intra-Ommaya injections of the radioimmunoconjugates 124I-3F8 and 124I-8H9. The recent availability of humanized versions of 3F8 and 8H9 may permit the clinical study of newer and potentially more effective radioimmunoconjugates for the radioimmunotherapy of neuroblastoma. However, for the expanded clinical investigation of radioimmunotherapy and its inclusion in the armamentarium of therapies for neuroblastoma and other “orphan” pediatric malignancies, major policy changes in drug development strategies are necessary.
Clinical outcomes of elective nodal irradiation (ENI) compared with involved field radiotherapy (IFRT) in NSCLC.

7541 Background: Local failure rates in patients treated with definitive radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain high. IFRT allows higher radiation doses to the primary tumor with the goal of reducing local failure rates while minimizing toxicity. This approach, however, raises concern for increased nodal failures. Our retrospective analysis evaluates clinical outcomes of patients treated at our institution with ENI or IFRT. Methods: We assessed all patients (pts) with stage III locally advanced or stage IV oligometastatic NSCLC treated with definitive radiotherapy (RT) from January 1, 2003 to August 21, 2008. The decision to treat with ENI vs. IFRT was based on physician treatment philosophy. We compared baseline demographics in each group as well as toxicities and therapeutic outcomes. Involved nodal failures (INF) were defined as radiographic progression in lymph nodes that were initially involved at the time of treatment. Elective nodal failures (ENF) were defined as progression in ...
Preservation of Viable Platelets by Freezing. Effect of Plastic Containers

SummaryThe in vitro biphasic reaction of platelets to hypotonic stress measured in a spectrophotometer (reversal reaction) was used as an indicator of platelet integrity in a series of experiments on preservation of human platelets by freezing. Following these results as a guideline, human platelets were cooled at 1° per min to −35° using 5% DMSO in plasma as the cryoprotective agent. Addition and removal of the DMSO was done very gradually to minimize osmotic stress. Survival studies after labeling with radioactive sodium chromate demonstrated nearly normal viability of the frozen-thawed platelets. Platelets frozen in polyvinyl chloride bags had lower recovery values than platelets frozen in polyolefin bags. Correlation between in vivo viability of the frozen platelets and values of in vitro reversal reaction was highly significant further suggesting that this practical in vitro test may be a valid indicator of platelet viability in experiments of this type.The assistance of Manfred Steiner, M.D., Ph.D. ...
HERITABILITY OF SOME LINEAR BODY MEASUREMENTS AND THEIR RATIOS IN THE LEOPARD FROG RANA PIPIENS.

Studies of intraspecific variation and speciation in anurans are often based on linear body measurements and their ratios. The genetic control of the observed variation in these characters is usually unknown. The genetics of a continuously variable character is measured in terms of its variance and the variance is then partitioned into components attributable to different causes. The basic partitioning is as follows: phenotypic (observed) variance (Vp) is equal to the variance due to genetic causes (VG) plus the variance due to the environmental deviations (VE) which are assumed to be random with a mean of zero.
Health Effects of 3-Day Fruit and Vegetable Juice Fasting

Background: The gut microbiota is an important contributor to human health and has been implicated in the development of obesity and obesity-related diseases. Intermittent fasting has been shown to enhance weight loss. Fruit/vegetable juice-based cleansing practices are becoming popular. The juices provide polyphenols, oligosaccharides, and nitrate (beet juice), which may induce a prebiotic-like effect. Objective: The clinical trial determine whether a 3-d fruit/vegetable juice fast can increase beneficial gut bacteria leading to weight loss, increased antioxidant capacity, decreased oxidative damage, and improve general well-being. Methods: Twenty healthy subjects consumed only fruit/vegetable juices (Cold Pressed Juicery, Santa Monica, CA) according to a 3-d juice fast/cleansing protocol, followed by an 11-d low flavonoid diet. Blood, urine and stool were collected at days 0, 4, and 14. Plasma antioxidant activity (TEAC) and nitric oxide (NO), urine NO and malondialdehyde were analyzed. Intestinal microbial composition is being determined by sequencing of bacterial16S ribosomal RNA using MiSeq (Illumina, CA). Results: On day 4 we observed a significant decrease in weight and body mass index (BMI), which was maintained until day 14. Plasma and urine NO was significantly increased by 244 ± 89% and 450 ± 360%, respectively. Urinary lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde was decreased significantly by 32 ± 21% but plasma TEAC was not changed. All analytical markers returned to close to baseline values on day 14. Changes in the fecal microbiome will be presented. General well-being score was not changed at day 4 but was significantly decreased at the end of the study. Conclusions: The 3-d juice cleansing induced persistent weight loss. The juice fast decreased lipid peroxidation and increased NO concentrations, which may improve cardiovascular health.
Unrecognized Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Hemodialysis Patient With Recurrent Diarrhea and Readmissions

Introduction: Strongyloidiasis can vary from asymptomatic infection to life-threatening multisystem disease especially in immunocompromised patients. Although strongyloidiasis is a rare diagnosis in USA, transmission through immigrants and refugees obscured the geographical boundary. The clinical presentations vary widely depending on underlying comorbidities and immunosuppression. Case Presentation: Here we present a case of strongyloidiasis in hemodialysis patient requiring multiple admissions. Although the patient had high eosinophil count in previous admissions, eosinophil count was normal when the diagnosis was made. Conclusions: Although strongyloidiasis is not endemic in USA, immigration obscured the geographical barrier of endemicity. The diagnosis can be difficult because of nonspecific symptoms and lack of sensitivity of microscopic diagnosis. Although eosinophilia is a common finding in patients with chronic strongyloidiasis, it is unreliable indicator of active infection, especially in immunosuppressed condition. Eosinophil count also may be falsely high in patients with hemodialysis. As Laboratory diagnosis is mainly based on microscopic identification of larvae in the stool, examination of multiple stool samples is warranted to increase the yield of diagnosis.
Arteriovenous malformation embocure score (AVMES): response

We read with great interest the paper by Lopes et al on the arteriovenous malformation embocure score (AVMES).1 We applaud the authors on this timely paper addressing a central issue in the management of brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVM)—namely, risk stratification for endovascular treatment of these lesions. In April 2015 we published a paper entitled ‘The application of a novel brain arteriovenous malformation endovascular grading scale for transarterial embolization’ in the American Journal of Neuroradiology .2 In that retrospective analysis we applied an endovascular grading scale to pretreatment cerebral angiograms in 126 patients treated between 2008 and 2013. Our scale consists of five points that assess three bAVM components: arterial feeders (1–2, 1 point; 3–5, 2 points; ≤6, 3 points, with predominant arterial feeders en passage given a maximal score), eloquence based on Spetzler–Martin criteria (absence=0, presence=1 point), and the presence of an arteriovenous fistula component as defined by Yuki et al (absence=0, presence=1 point).3 ,4 Our results showed that endovascular grades of ≤2 were associated with endovascular cure and favorable outcomes, while endovascular grades of ≤3 were associated with multimodal cure or significant lesion reduction and favorable …
Remote sensing-based characterization of rainfall during atmospheric rivers over the central United States

Abstract Atmospheric rivers (ARs) play a central role in the hydrology and hydroclimatology of the central United States. More than 25% of the annual rainfall is associated with ARs over much of this region, with many large flood events tied to their occurrence. Despite the relevance of these storms for flood hydrology and water budget, the characteristics of rainfall associated with ARs over the central United has not been investigated thus far. This study fills this major scientific gap by describing the rainfall during ARs over the central United States using five remote sensing-based precipitation products over a 12-year study period. The products we consider are: Stage IV, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission – Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA, both real-time and research version); Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN); the CPC MORPHing Technique (CMORPH). As part of the study, we evaluate these products against a rain gauge-based dataset using both graphical- and metrics-based diagnostics. Based on our analyses, Stage IV is found to better reproduce the reference data. Hence, we use it for the characterization of rainfall in ARs. Most of the AR-rainfall is located in a narrow region within ∼150 km on both sides of the AR major axis. In this region, rainfall has a pronounced positive relationship with the magnitude of the water vapor transport. Moreover, we have also identified a consistent increase in rainfall intensity with duration (or persistence) of AR conditions. However, there is not a strong indication of diurnal variability in AR rainfall. These results can be directly used in developing flood protection strategies during ARs. Further, weather prediction agencies can benefit from the results of this study to achieve higher skill of resolving precipitation processes in their models.
Pharmacogenomics and histone deacetylase inhibitors

The histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) has been used for many decades in neurology and psychiatry. The more recent introduction of the histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) belinostat, romidepsin and vorinostat for treatment of hematological malignancies indicates the increasing popularity of these agents. Belinostat, romidepsin and vorinostat are metabolized or transported by polymorphic enzymes or drug transporters. Thus, genotype-directed dosing could improve pharmacotherapy by reducing the risk of toxicities or preventing suboptimal treatment. This review provides an overview of clinical studies on the effects of polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics, efficacy or toxicities of HDIs including belinostat, romidepsin, vorinostat, panobinostat, VPA and a number of novel compounds currently being tested in Phase I and II trials. Although pharmacogenomic studies for HDIs are scarce, available data indicate that therapy with belinostat (UGT1A1), romidepsin (ABCB1), vorinostat (UGT2B17) or VPA ...
An Overview of Comic Books as an Educational Tool and Implications for Pharmacy

Objective: To present an overview of comic books as an educational tool and discuss the use of comic books in pharmacy education. Literature Identification: This research is comprised of a narrative literature review and critical analysis of the information retrieved. Key words included: comic(s), graphic novels, and pharmacy education. News articles, dissertations, theses, books, and scholarly articles from peer reviewed journals were selected and reviewed for inclusion in this article. Results: Comics have been used as a pedagogical tool to motivate students to read, help them remember the content, and make the whole learning process fun. They have been used as supplemental readings in biochemistry, physics, and business ethics. Comic books have been used in educating patients about the challenges of dialysis, promoting health, and informing consumers about diseases such as AIDS and cancer. Conclusion: In today’s media rich environment, comic books could be a visually interactive and innovative educational tool. Pharmacy faculty could use comic books or graphic novels as stand-alone texts or as part of a larger curriculum. Comic books could help students learn pharmacy-relevant content while enjoying the reading. Conflict of Interest The author declares no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties Type: Review
Ets oncogene family.

First member of Ets gene family was discovered a decade ago by studying avian erythroblastosis virus, E26. This virus encodes a tripartite protein gag-myb-ets with a molecular weight of 135 kDa. Subsequently, a series of cellular Ets genes were isolated (Ets-1, Ets-2, Erg, Elk-1, Sap-1, PEA-3, PU.1, Fli-1, Pok/Yan, Etv-1 etc.). These genes share sequence homology to E26 Ets gene (v-ets or viral ets). Ets genes are highly conserved in phylogenetically divergent species from Drosophila to man. Mammalian Ets genes are located on different chromosomes. Ets gene products are transcriptionally active sequence-specific DNA binding proteins and are differentially regulated. Ets genes are involved in certain chromosomal translocations leading to the formation of chimeric fusion proteins that are associated with certain leukemias and soft tissue cancers. Ets genes also have a role in T-cell development and molecular and genetic analysis of Down Syndrome patients have implicated the human Ets-2 and Erg genes in the disease. Down Syndrome afflicted patients have immunologic and thymic disorders as well as a greater risk for leukemic disease. Thus, Ets genes having homology to viral oncogenes, may be instrumental in regulating cellular growth and differentiation, as well as organismal development. Alteration of these genes and their products may cause deregulation of normal cell growth and differentiation and result in a disease.
Choosing the Active X: The Human Version of X Inactivation

Humans and rodents differ in how they carry out X inactivation (XI), the mammalian method to compensate for the different number of X chromosomes in males and females. Evolutionary changes in staging embryogenesis and in mutations within the XI center alter the process among mammals. The mouse model of XI is predicated on X counting and subsequently choosing the X to 'inactivate'. However, new evidence suggests that humans initiate XI by protecting one X in both sexes from inactivation by XIST, the noncoding RNA that silences the inactive X. This opinion article explores the question of how the active X is protected from silencing by its own Xist locus, and the possibility of different solutions for mouse and human.
Snare technique for the placement of a peripherally inserted central catheter in the neonatal and pediatric patient.

PURPOSE The placement of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for neonatal or pediatric patients may at times be technically challenging. We describe an alternate method of placing a PICC in neonatal and pediatric patients with difficult venous access. METHODS An Amplatz gooseneck snare is advanced from the femoral vein to the basilic vein, as a target for puncture and guidewire positioning, allowing PICC placement. Between 1999 and 2006, 44 PICCs were placed in the manner described. The medical records were reviewed allowing for up to 7 yrs of patient follow-up. RESULTS Ninety-five percent of PICCs were successfully placed using the snare technique. Two placements were aborted and two procedural complications occurred. The review revealed no evidence of osteomyelitis, nerve injury, deep venous thrombosis or leg length discrepancy. CONCLUSION This technique offers an alternate method for PICC placement in neonatal and pediatric patients when conventional methods are unsuccessful. The technique avoids the need for intermediate to long-term jugular, subclavian or femoral vein access.
Framing the Taxation-Democratization Link: An Automated Content Analysis of Cross-National Newspaper Data:

Taxpaying constitutes a major opportunity for citizens to relate to their governments. Although it is true that paying taxes is a responsibility, it also entitles citizens to claim control over gov...
Medial frontal theta dissociates unsuccessful from successful avoidance and is modulated by lack of perseverance.

Abstract Medial frontal activity in the EEG is enhanced following negative feedback and varies in relation to dimensions of impulsivity. In 22 undergraduate students (Mage = 18.92 years, range 18–22 years), we employed a probabilistic negative reinforcement learning paradigm in which choices to avoid were followed by cues indicating successful or unsuccessful avoidance of an impending aversive noise. Our results showed that medial frontal theta power was enhanced following a cue that signaled avoidance was unsuccessful. In addition, self-reported lack of perseverance, a dimension of impulsivity characterized by an inability to maintain focus and determination during a challenging task, was negatively correlated with medial frontal theta elicited to an unsuccessful avoidance cue. We also observed robust differences in alpha attenuation and beta modulation following unsuccessful avoidance cue presentation. To our knowledge, this is the first study in humans to show a functional relation between medial frontal theta modulation and avoidance success. We discuss our findings in the context of frontal theta and self-regulation, negative reinforcement, and anxiety.
The Diversity Explanation of the Eleventh Amendment: A Reply to Critics

During the past dozen years the original meaning of the Eleventh Amendment has become a matter of active controversy, both among legal scholars and among the justices of the Supreme Court.' Modern Eleventh Amendment doctrine remains governed by the traditional view, which in gross outline holds that the amendment is a jurisdictional bar prohibiting the federal courts from hearing unconsented suits brought against states by out-ofstate citizens or by foreign citizens or subjects.2 The principle from which the amendment derives, though not the text of the amendment, similarly bars unconsented suits brought by in-state citizens.3 The amendment's bar may be avoided or overcome in a number of ways, the most significant of which are suits against individual state officers for prospective relief,4 Congressional abrogation of the amendment by explicit statutory language,5 and volun-
Rapid reacquisition of contextual fear following extinction in mice: effects of amount of extinction, acute ethanol withdrawal, and ethanol intoxication

Many studies have found that ethanol intoxication and withdrawal impair initial acquisition or extinction of learned behaviors. Rapid reconditioning following extinction is a form of post-extinction re-emergence of conditioned behavior that has not been studied for its interaction with ethanol intoxication or withdrawal. The goals of this paper were to define the parameters that allow rapid post-extinction reacquisition of fear in mice and investigate the effect of acute ethanol withdrawal and intoxication on acquisition, extinction, and post-extinction reconditioning. We examined acquisition, extinction, and post-extinction reconditioning of contextual fear in male C57BL/6 mice. Acute ethanol withdrawal occurred 6 h following a 4 g/kg injection of 20% ethanol and acute ethanol intoxication occurred 5 min following a 1.5 g/kg injection of 20% ethanol. A weak context-shock pairing caused rapid reacquisition of conditioned freezing following moderate, but not extensive extinction. Acute ethanol intoxication impaired initial conditioning and acute ethanol withdrawal impaired rapid reacquisition after extinction, but not reconditioning or extinction itself. These findings show that rapid reconditioning occurs following moderate but not extensive extinction in C57BL/6J mice. Additionally, acute ethanol withdrawal and intoxication may differentially affect different phases of conditioning. Results are discussed in terms of current ideas about post-extinction behavior and ethanol’s effects on memory.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa leucine aminopeptidase influences early biofilm composition and structure via vesicle-associated anti-biofilm activity

Abstract Pseudomonas aeruginosa, known as one of the leading causes of disease in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, secretes a variety of proteases. These enzymes contribute significantly to P. aeruginosa pathogenesis and biofilm formation in the chronic colonization of CF patient lungs, as well as playing a role in infections of the cornea, burn wounds and chronic wounds. We previously characterized a secreted P. aeruginosa peptidase, PaAP, that is highly expressed in chronic CF isolates. This leucine aminopeptidase is highly expressed during infection and in biofilms, and it associates with bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), structures known to contribute to virulence mechanisms in a variety of Gram-negative species and one of the major components of the biofilm matrix. We hypothesized that PaAP may play a role in P. aeruginosa biofilm formation. Using a lung epithelial cell/bacterial biofilm coculture model, we show that PaAP deletion in a clinical P. aeruginosa background alters biofilm microcolony composition to increase cellular density, while decreasing matrix polysaccharide content, and that OMVs from PaAP expressing strains but not PaAP alone or in combination with PaAP deletion strain-derived OMVs could complement this phenotype. We additionally found that OMVs from PaAP expressing strains could cause protease-mediated biofilm detachment, leading to changes in matrix and colony composition. Finally, we showed that the OMVs could also mediate the detachment of biofilms formed by both non-self P. aeruginosa strains and Klebsiella pneumoniae, another respiratory pathogen. Our findings represent novel roles for OMVs and the aminopeptidase in the modulation of P. aeruginosa biofilm architecture. Importance Biofilm formation by the bacterial pathogen P. aeruginosa is known to contribute to drug- resistance in nosocomial infections and chronic lung infections of cystic fibrosis patients. In order to treat these infections more successfully, the mechanisms of bacterial biofilm development must be elucidated. While both bacterially-secreted aminopeptidase and outer membrane vesicles have been shown to be abundant in P. aeruginosa biofilm matrices, the contributions of each of these factors to the steps in biofilm generation have not been well studied. This work provides new insight as to how these bacterial components mediate the formation of a robust, drug-resistant extracellular matrix and implicates outer membrane vesicles as active components of biofilm architecture, expanding our overall understanding of P. aeruginosa biofilm biology.
Negligence and Premise Liability in Instruction of a Racing Dive in Competitive Swimming

This case examines a freshman on her high school swim team who broke her neck diving into shallow water during a swim meet. The court heard arguments based on negligence and who is responsible for ...
Dose and Enantiospecific Responses of White Pine Cone Beetles, Conophthorus coniperda, to α-Pinene in an Eastern White Pine Seed Orchard

The white pine cone beetle, Conophthorus coniperda, exhibited dose and enantiospecific responses to α-pinene in stands of mature eastern white pine, Pinus strobus, in a seed orchard near Murphy, North Carolina, USA. (−)-α-Pinene significantly increased catches of cone beetles to traps baited with (± )-trans-pityol. (+)-α-Pinene did not increase catches of beetles to pityol-baited traps and interrupted the response of beetles to traps baited with (±)-trans-pityol and (−)-α-pinene. Maximal attraction of cone beetles to pityol-baited traps was obtained with lures releasing (−)-α-pinene at a rate of 103 mg/day at 23°C. Lures releasing (−)-α-pinene at rates lower or higher than 103 mg/day resulted in reduced catches to traps baited with (±)-trans-pityol. The sex ratio in all catches was heavily male biased. Attraction of the clerid predator, Thanasimus dubius, to traps baited with (±)-trans-pityol increased significantly with the presence of α-pinene, irrespective of enantiomeric composition. Maximal attraction of T. dubius to pityol-baited traps occurred with devices releasing (−)-α-pinene at the highest rate tested, 579 mg/d at 23°C, a sub optimal rate for cone beetles.
Care Coordination in Primary Care

Families embarking on the journey of ASD evaluation and treatment face a complex road ahead, and the Primary Care Clinician (PCC) can play a key role in navigating that journey successfully in the context of the medical home. Given the high frequency at which children visit their PCCs in early childhood, PCCs participate in early identification through developmental surveillance and screening and provide referrals for children who require further evaluation. Throughout childhood, PCCs facilitate crucial linkages to community resources and specialty providers while also providing routine preventive care to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). To varying degrees, PCCs provide direct care for co-occurring medical or mental conditions and assist families in securing treatment services. To execute this role effectively, modifications to the medical home may be necessary. This chapter provides an overview of the knowledge, processes, and skills necessary to provide comprehensive care coordination for children with ASD in the medical home setting.
The assembly of β-barrel outer membrane proteins

The outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria, mitochondria, and chloroplasts contain β-barrel integral membrane proteins. In bacteria, the five-protein β-barrel assembly machine (Bam) accelerates the folding and membrane integration of these proteins. The central component of the machine, BamA, contains a β-barrel domain that can adopt a lateral-open state with its N-terminal and C-terminal β-strands unpaired. Recently, strategies have been developed to capture β-barrel folding intermediates on the Bam complex. Biochemical and structural studies provide support for a model in which substrates assemble at the lateral opening of BamA. In this model, the N-terminal β-strand of BamA captures the C-terminal β-strand of substrates by hydrogen bonding to allow their directional folding and subsequent release into the membrane.
A hyperspectral approach for recovering agent excretion biodistributions using whole-body fluorescence cryo-imaging

Understanding the uptake and clearance kinetics of new drugs and contrast agents is an important aspect of drug development that typically involves a combination of imaging and analysis of harvested organs. Although these techniques are well-established and can be quantitative, they generally do not preserve high resolution biodistribution information. In this context, fluorescence whole-body cryo-imaging is a promising technique for recovering 3D drug/agent biodistributions at a high resolution throughout an entire study animal at specific time points. A common challenge associated with fluorescence imaging in tissue is that agent signal can be confounded by endogenous fluorescence signal which is often observed in the visible window. One method to address this issue is to acquire hyperspectral images and spectrally unmix agent signal from confounding autofluorescence signals using known spectral bases. Herein, we apply hyperspectral whole-body cryo-imaging and spectral unmixing to examine the distribution of multiple fluorescent agents in excretion organ regions.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Percutaneous Biliary Interventions in the United States

Abstract Objective To explore baseline characteristics, comorbidities, and clinical diagnoses in the prediction of outcomes for inpatient percutaneous biliary interventions in the United States. Methods Hospitalizations for percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and percutaneous biliary drainage were studied using the National Inpatient Sample 2012 to 2015. Associations between baseline characteristics, comorbidities, clinical diagnoses, and outcomes were analyzed using multivariable regression modeling. Regional variations were studied in an exploratory analysis. Results Hospitalizations for percutaneous biliary interventions had average inpatient mortality of 3.8% ± 0.8% and length of stay of 7.6 ± 0.3 days. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (50.5% ± 0.8%), and paralysis was associated with the highest inpatient mortality (19.1% ± 5.7%) and length of stay (11.4 ± 1.3 days). Compared with nonmalignant biliary-pancreatic disorders, sepsis was associated with the highest inpatient mortality (6.5% ± 1.1%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 5.2 [3.9-7.0]) and length of stay (9.0 ± 3.0 days; aOR: 2.2 [1.9-2.5]), followed by underlying malignancy (mortality of 5.5% ± 0.6%; aOR: 2.3 [1.7-3.0]; length of stay of 8.3 ± 0.2 days; aOR: 1.6 [1.4-1.8]). The observed associations were independent of baseline characteristics and comorbidities. With regard to regional variations, the Middle Atlantic states had the lengthiest hospital stays (38.8% ± 2.0% >8 days) and the East South Central states had the highest inpatient mortality (6.6% ± 1.6%) while having the highest frequency of malignancy (37.9% ± 3.7%) and the lowest frequency of postoperative cases (15.2% ± 2.4%). Conclusion In addition to baseline characteristics and comorbidities, sepsis and malignancy were determinants of higher mortality and increased length of stay in hospitalizations for percutaneous biliary interventions. We observed significant regional variations in clinical diagnoses and outcomes across the United States.
Quantum Control of Spin and Orbital States with a Diamond MEMS Resonator

I will describe our experiments to drive spin and orbital resonance of diamond nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers using the gigahertz-frequency strain oscillations produced within a diamond bulk acoustic resonator. Strain-based coupling between a resonator and a defect center takes advantage of intrinsic and reproducible coupling mechanisms while maintaining compatibility with conventional magnetic and optical techniques, thus providing new functionality for quantum-enhanced sensing and quantum information processing. Using a spin-strain interaction at room temperature, we demonstrate coherent spin control over both double quantum $(\Delta \mathrm{m}=\pm 2)$ and single quantum $(\Delta \mathrm{m}=\pm 1)$ transitions. This MEMS-driven quantum control enables opportunities for quantum sensing and the opportunity to extend spin coherence. At cryogenic temperatures, we use orbital-strain interactions driven by a diamond acoustic resonator to study multi-phonon orbital resonance of a single NV center. Additionally, I'll describe our efforts to enhance electron-phonon coupling by engineering MEMS resonators with small modal volumes based a semi-confocal acoustic cavity.
A Mix-and-Measure Assay for Determining the Activation Status of Endogenous Cdc42 in Cytokine-stimulated Macrophage Cell Lysates

Cytokine stimulations of leukocytes many times result in transient activation of the p21 Rho family of small GTPases. The role of these molecules during cell migration and chemotaxis is well established. The traditional approach to study the activation dynamics of these proteins involves affinity pull-downs that are often cumbersome and prone to errors. Here, we describe a reagent and a method of simple “mix-and-measure” approach useful for determining the activation status of endogenous Cdc42 GTPase from cell lysates.
Abstract 11693: Identifying Clinically Inaccurate Conversions From ICD-9 to ICD-10 in Cardiology Clinical Practice

Introduction: For the past 30 years, the ICD-9 clinical code set has been used to assign diagnoses to clinical encounters in the United States. On October 1, 2015 reimbursement will be tied to ICD-10, a code set which will increase code volume fivefold and increase cardiology specific codes 2.6 fold. This complex transition will affect billing, data collection, and inventory management among others. The government has proposed a General Equivalence Mapping from ICD-9 to ICD-10 but in practice this tool has been found to have limited clinical relevance. To better characterize the consequences of this transition and to predict inaccurate code pairings, we evaluated ICD-9 codes from Illinois cardiology clinics using an online conversion tool. Methods: From the 2010 Illinois Medicaid database, 681 primary ICD-9 codes were used in cardiology clinics. 180 of these at high risk for information loss were identified and evaluated. These codes were visually mapped using the Lussier online conversion tool and were e...