cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The expanding genomic landscape of autism: discovering the 'forest' beyond the 'trees'

Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by significant deficits in reciprocal social interactions, impaired communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. As autism spectrum disorders are among the most heritable of neuropsychiatric disorders, much of autism research has focused on the search for genetic variants in protein-coding genes (i.e., the ‘trees’). However, no single gene can account for more than 1% of the cases of autism spectrum disorders. Yet, genome-wide association studies have often identified statistically significant associations of genetic variations in regions of DNA that do not code for proteins (i.e., intergenic regions). There is increasing evidence that such noncoding regions are actively transcribed and may participate in the regulation of genes, including genes on different chromosomes. This article summarizes evidence that suggests that the research spotlight needs to be expanded to encompass far-reaching gene-regulatory mechanisms that include a variety of epigenetic modifications, as well as noncoding RNA (i.e., the ‘forest’). Given that noncoding RNA represents over 90% of the transcripts in most cells, we may be observing just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ or the ‘edge of the forest’ in the genomic landscape of autism.
Selenium hyperaccumulation offers protection from cell disruptor herbivores.

Background Hyperaccumulation, the rare capacity of certain plant species to accumulate toxic trace elements to levels several orders of magnitude higher than other species growing on the same site, is thought to be an elemental defense mechanism against herbivores and pathogens. Previous research has shown that selenium (Se) hyperaccumulation protects plants from a variety of herbivores and pathogens. Selenium hyperaccumulating plants sequester Se in discrete locations in the leaf periphery, making them potentially more susceptible to some herbivore feeding modes than others. In this study we investigate the protective function of Se in the Se hyperaccumulators Stanleya pinnata and Astragalus bisulcatus against two cell disrupting herbivores, the western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae).
Safety Considerations in Somatic Gene Therapy of Human Disease with Retrovirus Vectors

ABSTRACT Somatic gene therapy of human disease with retrovirus vectors is a new technology with potentially important medical benefits. Although it involves recombinant DNA technologies and modified retroviruses, proper design of the vectors and delivery systems removes most potential foreseen risks. Furthermore, even in the very remote possibility that there is a nontherapeutic biological effect of the treatment, it is unlikely to be a harmful one. Thus, once very safe retrovirus vector–helper cell systems are constructed and in use, safety considerations should not hold up further human trials of retrovirus vectors.
Protein conjugation of thermoresponsive amine-reactive polymers prepared by RAFT

Reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) of N-isopropylacrylamide with a chain transfer agent containing an activated-ester moiety was employed to prepare well-defined temperature-responsive polymers for conjugation to amine-containing proteins. Bioconjugation efficiency of the polymers with lysozyme was investigated as a function of stoichiometry, polymer molecular weight, and reaction pH. The resulting polymer–protein conjugates retained the temperature-responsive nature of the original polymers.
Internet- and DVD-based instruction in oral pathology for dental students

In the past 2 years, the Maxillofacial Pathology Laboratory course for dental students at the University of Michigan has been converted from a microscope-based course to an internet-accessible, case-based learning experience that includes a cutting-edge virtual histopathology “laboratory.” Essentially this strategy moved the pathology microscopy course out of the physical laboratory to an online virtual laboratory with an associated pathology workbook. This has saved the students class time, eliminated the need to maintain or replace expensive microscopes, eliminated the space requirement for the laboratory and dramatically improved the quality of slides that students view. The new web-based system has also optimized utilization of faculty. One faculty member now spends 1 hour every other week reviewing the assigned cases and projecting network images of unknown cases in conjunction with high quality virtual “slides.” Bacus laboratories (Lombard, Ill) developed the “virtual microscope” technology that allows tissue sections to be scanned, digitized and visualized at different magnifications on a computer, as one would with a real microscope. Furthermore, we developed a DVD version of the case-based pathology course to provide all students, even those who do not have a rapid internet connection, with off-site access to the pathology course. Conclusions The online virtual laboratory and workbook give students the opportunity to reinforce concepts that they have passively acquired, by challenging them to “examine” the lesion, develop a differential diagnosis, and discuss further evaluation. This teaching approach utilizes the behavioral, cognitive, and sociocultural learning lenses, thereby encouraging the future clinician to be more responsible for his/her learning experience, possibly creating a lifelong learner. The successes and challenges of the virtual laboratory will be discussed.
Practical aspects of scoring sleep in children.

Summary As the indications for pediatric polysomnography expand, and the high prevalence of sleep disorders in childhood becomes increasingly recognized, there is a need for enabling practicing physicians to identify correctly events occurring in polysomnographic tracings. A summary description of the most salient features of the various sleep states and of the characteristics and visual patterns corresponding to frequent events among several recognized diseases is provided.
GSYSR: A Relational Database Interface for Graphics

PBS (a general purpose Picture Building System) is presently supported by a relational database (XRM), through an interface called GXRAM. A new interface (GSYSR) has been developed on top of System R, in order to allow PBS to use ordered relations, not directly supported by System R.
A Robust Sorting Network

Beginning with the recently introduced balanced sorting network, we propose a shuffle-exchange type layout consisting of a single block with the output recirculated back as input until sorting is achieved. Although this network has essentially the same performance bounds as Batcher's bitonic sort, our design has the property that no comparator in the network is critical in the sense that any faulty comparator can be bypassed without disturbing the functionality of the network (just its speed). The novelty of the design is that the robustness is derived from the underlying algorithm. The network will sort in the presence of many faulty comparators. Moreover, of the (N log N)/2 comparators, only N pairs of comparators are critical. That is, the network fails only when both comparators in a pair fail. Our results enable one to build large sorting networks on a single wafer so that a high percentage of the fabricated wafers can be used; some of the wafers will sort very quickly (the ones with no faulty components), most will sort at somewhat slower than optimal speeds, but only a few will fail to be useful as sorting networks (due to too many badly placed faults).
Security problems in computer communication systems

At the present time there is a rapid growth in computer communications associated with terminal-based, multi-user computer systems, and in networks of computers [1,2,3]. Nearly all such systems communicate, process, or store information which is considered private or proprietary by their owners and users, or which must be safeguarded from unauthorized access as required by law. Furthermore, associated terminals, telecommunication systems, communication processors, and computers must be protected from intruders that may seek to alter programs or data in the system, or to disrupt the services provided. These threats are real, since it is not difficult to intercept transmissions in telecommunication networks [4,5], and it is possible to connect illicit terminals (or even computers) into the system for the purposes of "managing" the normal terminal-computer communications, masquerading as a legitimate user, or simply making the system unavailable to others [6,7].The protection of a computer communication system against the various threats involves: (1) identification, and authentication of the identity, (2) controlled access to computers and their data bases, and (3) protection of the data in transit in the telecommunication system. Associated with each are a number of problems -- conceptual, as well as technical -- and a variety of solutions. In this brief survey, the emphasis is on the problems.
Low cycle fatigue hold time behavior of cast rené 80

Strain-time programs involving continuous cycling, equal hold times in tension and compression, tensile strain hold periods, and compressive strain hold periods are compared for cast Rene 80 at 1600°F. It was found that the predictive equations for high-temperature fatigue give good agreement with experiments in which the hold times are equal. Contrary to expectation, however, tensile strain hold experiments gave longer liver than predicted, wile compressive strain hold period experiments were shorter than the predictions. Concurrently, the hysteresis loops from these two sets of experiments exhibited pronounced and opposite mean stresses, the tensile strain hold tests showing a compressive mean stress shift. These shifts were explainable in terms of the times spent in tensile and compressive loading, and could account qualitatively for the observed life behavior.
Transcriptome and Genome-Wide Analysis of the Arabidopsis Stem Cell Regulator WUS

The genomic and transcriptional analysis of the transcription factor WUSCHEL (WUS), explored in this issue of Developmental Cell, represents the next generation of stem cell analysis in Arabidopsis. The resources generated provide insights into WUS function and a wealth of new information for the entire field.
Varieties of Vagueness in the Law

Vagueness in the law, as elsewhere, comes in different forms. Some of it is unavoidable, while other cases are optional and deliberately chosen by lawmakers. My main purpose in this essay is to distinguish between different types of vagueness in the legal context and to explain their rationales. The argument proceeds in two main stages: The first part is taxonomical, mostly about the semantics of vagueness, and related linguistic indeterminacies, that we find in statutory language. The second part takes up each one of these different types of vagueness in law, suggesting some ways in which legal decision makers reason with vague language, and some of the normative considerations that apply, depending on the kind of vagueness involved.
Effects of oxygenated blending compounds on emissions from a turbocharged direct injection diesel engine

AbstractAn experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the effect of three different oxygenated compounds, diglyme, diethyl maleate and dibutyl maleate, on emissions from a Volkswagen 1.9 ...
A Psychodynamic Approach

To focus on the narrative of self-mutilating borderline patients' inner experiences as the first step in connecting such inner experiences with unconscious motivation is an excellent beginning. The basic thesis of the paper under discussion, that the patient's internal experience is the natural link between observable phenomena and motivational theory, is highly reasonable.
Ethnic Differences Among Patients With Cutaneous Melanoma

Background Melanoma incidence continues to increase in whites, but little is known about melanoma in minority populations. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data were used to examine the incidence, manifestations, and survival in patients with melanoma with respect to race/ethnicity. Methods A SEER search (1992-2002) for primary invasive cutaneous melanoma cases identified 48 143 whites, 932 Hispanics, 394 Asian/Pacific islanders, 251 African Americans, and 52 American Indians. Multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between race/ethnicity and clinicopathologic factors; associations between race/ethnicity and survival were examined using the Cox proportional hazards model. Results Based on our cohort of patients, the average annual age-adjusted melanoma incidence per 100 000 persons was 18.4 for whites compared with 2.3, 0.8, 1.6, and 1.0 for Hispanics, African Americans, American Indians, and Asians, respectively. Lower extremity and acral lentiginous melanomas were more common among minorities. Overall 5-year survival was 72.2% to 81.1% for minorities compared with 89.6% for whites. A 1.96- to 3.01-fold greater risk of disease-specific mortality persisted in minorities compared with whites after adjusting for age, sex, and region. In addition, Hispanics (odds ratio [OR], 3.6), African Americans (OR, 4.2), American Indians (OR, 3.4), and Asians (OR, 2.4) were more likely to present with stage IV melanoma than were whites. African Americans had a 1.48-fold higher rate of risk-adjusted, stage-specific mortality compared with whites. Conclusions Melanoma is a public health concern for all ethnic populations. Differences in disease stage at presentation contributes to disparities in survival. Understanding melanoma in minority populations may lead to early detection and ultimately save lives.
Yield enhancement strategies for start-up of a high-volume 8-inch wafer fab

This paper describes the yield enhancement strategies used in the startup of Motorola's MOS 12 fab, with the goal of establishing production capability in minimum time. This goal was achieved by implementing process qualification with real time in-line defect monitoring using a well characterized memory product. Wafer inspection and troubleshooting were facilitated by the acquisition of patterned wafer inspection tools employing several different defect detection technologies: pattern analysis, optical pattern filtering, and light scattering. The considerations for equipment startup are discussed, with emphasis on in-line inspection strategy and data analysis tools.
Work, Weight, and Wellness: The 3W Program: A Worksite Obesity Prevention and Intervention Trial

Objective: In this paper, we describe the aims, intervention, and design of the Work, Weight, and Wellness program, a group-randomized worksite obesity prevention and intervention trial being conducted at 31 hotels with 11,559 employees on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. We report baseline prevalence of overweight and obesity, and the distribution of BMI (kilograms per meter squared) across sex, race, and job categories. We also describe factors that have influenced intervention adoption and employee participation. Research Methods and Procedures: The study's primary outcome is change in BMI among hotel employees over a 2-year intervention period. The intervention includes environmental and group components that target diet, physical activity, and weight management. Results: Men, Pacific Islanders, and individuals employed in managerial or facility maintenance roles had higher prevalence of obesity and higher mean BMI than women and individuals from other races or in other occupational categories. Discussion: These results may be helpful in guiding choices about the adoption or design of future worksite and community interventions addressing at-risk ethnically diverse populations and are especially relevant to the hotel industry and similar industries.
Influence of Charge Transfer Interconnection Topology on State of Charge Performance in Battery Packs: Simulation Results

The performance of a battery pack, composed of multiple connected cells, can be increased with the additional of a charge balancing system. This work explores the dynamic performance of charge balancing systems and how their ability to equilibrate the state of charge depends on the design of the underlying charge balancing network. The performance of the charge balancing system is shown through simulation studies to be related to the properties of the underlying graph of the balancing connections.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Managing plug-loads for demand response within buildings

Detailed and accurate energy accounting is an important first step in improving energy efficiency within buildings. Based on this information, building managers can perform active energy management, especially during demand response situations that require load shedding over short time scales. While individual plug-loads are an important target for demand response, they pose significant challenges due to their distributed nature and the significant diversity of devices that are deployed.This paper presents the design and implementation of our energy accounting and management system which is specifically geared towards managing plug-loads within enterprise buildings. Our system provides fine-grained visibility and control of plug-loads to building managers, allowing them to deal with demand response situations through user-specified actuation policies. At its core, our system consists of our wireless smart energy meter with actuation capabilities, ZigBee-based wireless network infrastructure, and our Demand Response Server, an analysis engine that provides interfaces for initiating load-shedding policies. Our micro-benchmarks show the different methods that building managers can utilize to efficiently manage devices during demand response events.
Use of Stochastic Analysis for FMVSS210 Simulation Readiness for Correlation to Hardware Testing

The FMVSS210 regulation establishes requirements for seat belt assembly anchorages to be strong enough for effective occupant restraint. The belt separation from the vehicle structure in crash tests needs to be avoided. Federal government mandate requires use of Pelvic and Torso Body Blocks for testing belt anchor strengths for lap and shoulder belts respectively. The belt anchorages are expected to withstand loads of 13.34 kN if both lap and shoulder belts are used and 22.24 kN if only lap belts are used. The analytical simulation of the hardware test is done using explicit dynamic code LS-DYNA. Hardware testing is of quasi-static nature while the simulation uses the dynamic code. However the analysis could be made to approach the quasi-static test by adjusting some input parameters in the simulation. In addition some input parameters need adjustment for making the model robust and to make it correlate to the hardware test. This study involves the use of Optimal Symmetnc Latin Hypercube Design to explore the design space, and to develop a fast surface response model. This response model can be viewed as a surrogate model to the actual LS-DYNA simulation and is used in this work to rank the input parameters by the percent contdbution they make towards the variation of the desired output responses. After determining the fit of the response model, it is used to perform the stochastic simulation. The confidence interval for test correlation prediction can then be estimated. This technique can further be used to do design sensitivity studies and for optimizing the vehicle structure with respect to FMVSS210 regulation.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Thyrotropin-Independent Induction of Thyroid Endoderm from Embryonic Stem Cells by Activin A

To model the differentiation of thyroid epithelial cells, we examined embryoid bodies derived from undifferentiated murine embryonic stem cells treated with activin A to induce endoderm differentiation, the germ layer from which thyroid cells occur. The resulting endodermal cells were then further exposed to TSH and/or IGF-I for up to 21 d. Oct-4 and REX1 expression, required to sustain stem cell self-renewal and pluripotency, were appropriately down-regulated, whereas GATA-4, and α-fetoprotein, both endodermal-specific markers, increased as the embryonic stem cells were exposed to activin A. By d 5 culture, TSH receptor (TSHR) and sodium iodide symporter (NIS) gene and protein expression were markedly induced. Cells isolated by the fluorescence-activated cell sorter simultaneously expressed not only TSHR and NIS proteins but also PAX8 mRNA, an expression pattern unique to thyroid cells and expected in committed thyroid progenitor cells. Such expression continued until d 21 with no influence seen by the addition of TSH or IGF-I. The sequence of gene expression changes observed in these experiments demonstrated the emergence of definitive thyroid endoderm. The activin A induction of thyroid-specific markers, NIS and TSHR, occurred in the absence of TSH stimulation, and, therefore, the emergence of thyroid endoderm in vitro paralleled the emergence of thyroid cells in TSHR-knockout mice. Activin A is clearly a major regulator of thyroid endoderm.
Motion estimation and object tracking based on time-sequentially sampled imagery

Two new algorithms are presented for estimating optical flow fields. These algorithms are based on the spatiotemporal properties of the data obtained time-sequentially from the field of view (FOV). The first is a centroid-based algorithm which estimates the velocity from the distance traveled by the centroid of the time-sequential data during the observation period. This algorithm performs well considering its simplicity. Next, a Fourier-based algorithm is presented. When motion within a time-varying scene is constant speed translation, the spectral energy is confined to a plane in the frequency domain. It is shown how to estimate a set of points on this plane using the 1-D FFT of the weighted time-sequential data. An estimate of the velocity vector is obtained by finding the orientation of the plane which gives a least squares fit to this set. >
Long-term management impacts on soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics of grazed bermudagrass pastures

Abstract Managed pastures have potential for C and N sequestration in addition to providing forage for livestock. Our objectives were to investigate changes in soil organic C (SOC) and soil organic N (SON) concentrations and mineralizable C and N in cattle ( Bos indicus ) grazed bermudagrass [ Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] pastures up to 32 y after establishment. Management included low- and high-grazing intensity, fertilization, and winter overseeding with annual ryegrass ( Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and clover ( Trifolium sp.). Soil (0–15 cm) was sampled 7, 15, 26, and 32 y after establishment of Coastal and common bermudagrass pastures. No significant differences in SOC or SON concentrations were observed between Coastal and common bermudagrass pastures. Grazing strategies played important roles in C and N sequestration, as high-grazing intensity resulted in a lower increase in SOC and SON concentrations over time compared to low-grazing intensity. Increases in SOC were observed up to 26 y, while increases in SON were observed up to 32 y after establishment of bermudagrass pastures. Soil organic C increased 67 and 39% from 7 to 26 y at low-grazing intensity for bermudagrass+ryegrass and bermudagrass+clover pastures, respectively. SOC and SON concentrations did not increase beyond 15 y after bermudagrass establishment at high-grazing intensity. An exception was the Coastal bermudagrass+ryegrass pastures, which exhibited higher SON at 32 y than at 7 y at both grazing intensities. By 32 y, SON increased 83 and 45% in Coastal bermudagrass+ryegrass pastures at low- and high-grazing intensity, respectively, compared to 7 y. The introduction of clover to pastures decreased SOC and SON relative to ryegrass at high- but not at low-grazing intensity. Potentially mineralizable C increased from 7 to 15 y, while mineralizable N increased from 7 to 32 y. Potentially mineralizable N was also greater for bermudagrass+clover than bermudagrass+ryegrass pastures. Long-term increases in SOC and SON concentrations suggest that managed and grazed pastures have strong potential for C and N sequestration.
Phosphate Flow between Hybrid Histidine Kinases CheA3 and CheS3 Controls Rhodospirillum centenum Cyst Formation

Genomic and genetic analyses have demonstrated that many species contain multiple chemotaxis-like signal transduction cascades that likely control processes other than chemotaxis. The Che₃ signal transduction cascade from Rhodospirillum centenum is one such example that regulates development of dormant cysts. This Che-like cascade contains two hybrid response regulator-histidine kinases, CheA₃ and CheS₃, and a single-domain response regulator CheY₃. We demonstrate that cheS₃ is epistatic to cheA₃ and that only CheS₃∼P can phosphorylate CheY₃. We further show that CheA₃ derepresses cyst formation by phosphorylating a CheS₃ receiver domain. These results demonstrate that the flow of phosphate as defined by the paradigm E. coli chemotaxis cascade does not necessarily hold true for non-chemotactic Che-like signal transduction cascades.
Invariant reconstruction of visual surfaces

This study addresses a problem that arises in the early stages of visual processing. Low-level vision processing tasks generate information describing distances and orientations at sparse locations of visible surfaces in a scene. The information from these various low-level tasks need to be combined to form an estimate of the visual surface for all points in the scene. This step is commonly referred to as the surface reconstruction problem. The problem is cast as an ill-posed inverse problem, which must be stabilized using a priori information relative to image and constraint formation. A desirable property of any reconstruction algorithm is invariance with respect to rigid transformations of the surface in three-dimensional space. Two surface reconstruction algorithms that are based on invariant surface characteristics are proposed. These algorithms are studied in detail, and an example is presented to demonstrate their effectiveness. The discrete realization of the algorithms is also briefly discussed. >
Assembly of NADPH Oxidase in Human Neutrophils Is Modulated by the Opacity-Associated Protein Expression State of Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (the gonococcus, Gc) triggers a potent inflammatory response and recruitment of neutrophils to the site of infection. Gc survives exposure to neutrophils despite these cells' antimicrobial products, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS production in neutrophils is initiated by NADPH oxidase, which converts oxygen into superoxide. The subunits of NADPH oxidase are spatially separated between granules (gp91(phox)/p22(phox)) and the cytoplasm (p47(phox), p67(phox), and p40(phox)). Activation of neutrophils promotes the coassembly of NADPH oxidase subunits at phagosome and/or plasma membranes. While Gc-expressing opacity-associated (Opa) proteins can induce neutrophils to produce ROS, Opa-negative (Opa-) Gc does not stimulate neutrophil ROS production. Using constitutively Opa- and OpaD-positive (OpaD+) Gc bacteria in strain FA1090, we now show that the difference in ROS production levels in primary human neutrophils between these backgrounds can be attributed to differential assembly of NADPH oxidase. Neutrophils infected with Opa- Gc showed limited translocation of NADPH oxidase cytoplasmic subunits to cellular membranes, including the bacterial phagosome. In contrast, these subunits rapidly translocated to neutrophil membranes following infection with OpaD+ Gc. gp91(phox) and p22(phox) were recruited to Gc phagosomes regardless of bacterial Opa expression. These results suggest that Opa- Gc interferes with the recruitment of neutrophil NADPH oxidase cytoplasmic subunits to membranes, in particular, the p47(phox) "organizing" subunit, to prevent assembly of the holoenzyme, resulting in an absence of the oxidative burst.
Identification of a novel putative gastrointestinal stem cell and adenoma stem cell marker, doublecortin and CaM kinase-like-1, following radiation injury and in adenomatous polyposis coli/multiple intestinal neoplasia mice.

In the gut, tumorigenesis arises from intestinal or colonic crypt stem cells. Currently, no definitive markers exist that reliably identify gut stem cells. Here, we used the putative stem cell marker doublecortin and CaM kinase-like-1 (DCAMKL-1) to examine radiation-induced stem cell apoptosis and adenomatous polyposis coli (APC)/multiple intestinal neoplasia (min) mice to determine the effects of APC mutation on DCAMKL-1 expression. Immunoreactive DCAMKL-1 staining was demonstrated in the intestinal stem cell zone. Furthermore, we observed apoptosis of the cells negative for DCAMKL-1 at 6 hours. We found DNA damage in all the cells in the crypt region, including the DCAMKL-1-positive cells. We also observed stem cell apoptosis and mitotic DCAMKL-1-expressing cells 24 hours after irradiation. Moreover, in APC/min mice, DCAMKL-1-expressing cells were negative for proliferating cell nuclear antigen and nuclear β-catenin in normal-appearing intestine. However, β-catenin was nuclear in DCAMKL-1-positive cells in adenomas. Thus, nuclear translocation of β-catenin distinguishes normal and adenoma stem cells. Targeting DCAMKL-1 may represent a strategy for developing novel chemotherapeutic agents. Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
The priority token bank in a network of queues

This paper takes a known approach for scheduling and admission control in integrated services networks, the priority token bank (PTB), whose mechanism and performance have been studied in a single queue, and extends the algorithm to address the challenges of implementing it in a network of queues. An integrated services network must handle traffic streams with disparate arrival processes and performance objectives, and efficiently supporting these streams becomes more difficult when performance guarantees must be met across a number of switches and when a stream's burstiness can dramatically increase from source to destination. Three variations on the basic mechanism are proposed to address this problem: PTB-separate classes, PTB-minimum interdeparture time, and PTB-weighted fair queuing. It is shown that the PTB scales well to a network of queues, and that, under the constraint that performance requirements for guaranteed traffic such as packet voice, HDTV, and packet video must be met, the mean delay experienced by other traffic is much better with the priority token bank mechanisms than with other proposed algorithms.
Enhanced efficacy of single-dose versus multi-dose azithromycin regimens in preclinical infection models

Objectives: As a result of the prolonged half-life and unique pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) characteristics of azithromycin, shorter dosing regimens are being evaluated for the treatment of community-acquired infections. To provide further support for a shorter dosing regimen, the efficacy of azithromycin was determined in preclinical infection models comparing single- versus multi-dose regimens. Methods: The efficacy of single versus multi-dose regimens of azithromycin was compared in mouse pneumonia, acute peritonitis, and neutropenic thigh infection models and in a gerbil model of Haemophilus influenzae acute otitis media. Azithromycin was administered as a single oral dose on the first treatment day, or as two divided doses over 2 treatment days, or as three divided doses over 3 treatment days. The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin was profiled following single and multi-dose regimens with the single dose data fit to an Emax model to characterize the PK-PD of azithromycin. Results: In the mouse efficacy models, administration of single-dose azithromycin produced superior rates of survival and bacterial clearance compared with the same total dose divided over 2 or 3 days. In the gerbil model, a single dose sterilized the middle ear and more rapidly cleared H. influenzae. The pharmacokinetic evaluation confirmed similar total exposure (AUC) in serum and pulmonary tissue for the three regimens. Correlation of PK-PD parameters and antimicrobial efficacy confirmed a concentration-dependent and dosing-independent relationship for azithromycin.
The Testing Industry

A definitive analysis of the testing industry in the United States describing how standardized testing grew from a fairly obscure academic enterprise in the late 19th century into a major commercial endeavor in this century has yet to be written. Over the last fifty years there has been a variety of treatments of various segments of the testing marketplace. A few analysts have provided relatively broad accounts of the industry (e.g. Holmen & Docter, 1972; Kohn, 1977; Fremer, 1989). Several people have written sketchy accounts of the history of standardized testing in the United States in general (Cronbach, 1975; Haney, 1981, 1984), in education (Resnick 1981; Madaus & Kellaghan, 1992), in psychology (Sokal, 1987), and in employment (Hale, 1982). A number of histories have been written on particular testing programs (e.g. Ruger’s 1975 history of the American College Testing Program; Peterson’s 1983 history of the Iowa Testing Programs; Hazlett’s 1974 and Greenbaum, Solomon & Garet’s 1977 accounts of the early history of the National Assessment of Educational Progress), or on particular testing organizations (e.g. Nairn & Associates’ 1980 history and critique of ETS; Sokal’s 1981 account of the founding of the Psychological Corporation; Valentine’s 1987 history of the College Board). Additionally, there have been a number of biographies of people important in the development of testing in the United States, such as Edward Lee Thorndike (Clifford, 1968), Lewis Terman (Chapman, 1980), G. Stanley Hall (Ross, 1972), James McKeen Cattell (Sokal, 1987b), and Walter Dill Scott (Mayrhauser, 1989).
NonCartesian MR image reconstruction with integrated gradient nonlinearity correction.

Purpose: To derive a noniterative gridding-type reconstruction framework for nonCartesian magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) that prospectively accounts for gradient nonlinearity (GNL)-induced image geometrical distortion during MR image reconstruction, as opposed to the standard, image-domain based GNL correction that is applied after reconstruction; to demonstrate that such framework is able to reduce the image blurring introduced by the conventional GNL correction, while still offering effective correction of GNL-induced geometrical distortion and compatibility with off-resonance correction. Methods: After introducing the nonCartesian MRI signal model that explicitly accounts for the effects of GNL and off-resonance, a noniterative gridding-type reconstruction framework with integrated GNL correction based on the type-III nonuniform fast Fourier transform (NUFFT) is derived. A novel type-III NUFFT implementation is then proposed as a numerically efficient solution to the proposed framework. The incorporation of simultaneous B0 off-resonance correction to the proposed framework is then discussed. Several phantom and in vivo data acquired via various 2D and 3D nonCartesian acquisitions, including 2D Archimedean spiral, 3D shells with integrated radial and spiral, and 3D radial sampling, are used to compare the results of the proposed and the standard GNL correction methods. Results: Various phantom and in vivo data demonstrate that both the proposed and the standard GNL correction methods are able to correct the coarse-scale geometric distortion and blurring induced by GNL and off-resonance. However, the standard GNL correction method also introduces blurring effects to corrected images, causing blurring of resolution inserts in the phantom images and loss of small vessel clarity in the angiography examples. On the other hand, the results after the proposed GNL correction show better depiction of resolution inserts and higher clarity of small vessel. Conclusions: The proposed GNL-integrated nonCartesian reconstruction method can mitigate the resolution loss that occurs during standard image-domain GNL correction, while still providing effective correction of coarse-scale geometric distortion and blurring induced by GNL and off-resonance.
Reaction μ - +Nucleus-->e - +Nucleus in Gauge Theories

The process ${\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}+\mathrm{nucleus}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}+\mathrm{nucleus}$ is examined within the framework of gauge theories. We find that the rate for this reaction is much larger than what one might naively expect for a large class of models which allow the decay $\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}e+\ensuremath{\gamma}$. Further experimental search for this rare process is strongly urged.
Photodynamic Action of Protoporphyrin on Resealed Erythrocyte Membranes: Mechanisms of Release of Trapped Markers

When administered to tumor-bearing animals, certain porphyrin photosensitizers, most notably “hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD), tend to become localized in the tumor area. This tissue is then susceptible to selective destruction when the sensitizer is photoactivated by visible light (Dougherty et al., 1975). The mechanisms of porphyrin targeting and cytotoxicity are poorly understood and are currently the subjects of intensive investigation. Recent studies on neoplastic cells in culture have suggested that loss of viability may be closely linked with structural and functional derangements in the plasma membrane (Kessel, 1977; Kohn and Kessel, 1979). However, the exact molecular factors involved have not been elucidated. We have been investigating porphyrin-sensitized photodamage in the human red blood cell (RBC) membrane as a simple model for understanding porphyrin phototoxicity in general. Some of this work may provide new insights into the tumoricidal aspects of this phenomenon.
Abstract PR10: Menopausal female hormone use in relation to risk of estrogen receptor positive and estrogen receptor negative breast cancer in African American women: Findings from the AMBER consortium

Background: Previous studies, mostly of white women, have found that female hormone supplements, particularly medications that combine estrogen with progestin, are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. We examined the use of estrogen alone and estrogen combined with progestin in relation to risk of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and ER-negative (ER-) breast cancer in a large combined analysis of data from African American women. Methods: Questionnaire data from two cohort (Black Women9s Health Study, Multiethnic Cohort Study) and two case-control (Carolina Breast Cancer Study, Women9s Circle of Health Study) studies of breast cancer in African American women were harmonized as part of the African American Breast Cancer Epidemiology and Risk (AMBER) Consortium. Female hormone use was examined among post-menopausal women age 40 and older. ER+ (n=1,486) and ER- (n=638) cases were compared with 8,425 controls. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated in polytomous logistic regression analysis with adjustment for study, age, year, geographic region, education, age at menopause, type of menopause, body mass index, oral contraceptive use, family history of breast cancer, parity, age at first birth, alcohol use, and smoking. Results: 37% of women had ever used estrogen alone and 17% had ever used estrogen plus progestin. Use of estrogen plus progestin, relative to never use, was associated with increased risk of ER+ breast cancer (OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.22-1.68). ORs were highest for long duration use (10+ years) and for recent use. The positive associations were also stronger in women with body mass index less than 25 and women age 60 and older. Length of time between menopause and initiation of hormone therapy did not modify the association. By contrast, use of estrogen alone was not associated with ER+ cancer (OR=1.02, 95% CI 0.88-1.17). There were no significant associations of estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestin with ER- breast cancer. Conclusions: Use of combination menopausal hormone supplements was associated with increased risk of ER+, but not ER-, breast cancer among African American women. These results are consistent with findings from studies of white women. This abstract was also presented as Poster B42. Citation Format: Emma Viscidi, Lynn Rosenberg, Chi-Chen Hong, Melissa A. Troester, Elisa V. Bandera, Christopher A. Haiman, Laurence N. Kolonel, Andrew F. Olshan, Christine B. Ambrosone, Julie R. Palmer. Menopausal female hormone use in relation to risk of estrogen receptor positive and estrogen receptor negative breast cancer in African American women: Findings from the AMBER consortium. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Seventh AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 9-12, 2014; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015;24(10 Suppl):Abstract nr PR10.
On the Length of the Adult Life in the Webbing Clothes Moth, Tineola Bisselliella Hum.

Although the webbing clothes moth ( Tineola bisselliella Hum.) is a common pest in many parts of the world, few investigators seem to have been interested in the bionomics of this insect. The observations to be discussed in the present paper have been made in connection with an extensive study which is under way concerning the food habits of clothesmoth larvae. The insects are being reared from the egg stage. As soon as the eggs hatch, each larva is placed in a small shell vial with its particular kind of food. The vials are kept in a dark cupboard under temperature and humidity conditions comparable to those of an ordinary living room. While the larvae are small, the vials are examined from time to time as opportunity offers. When the larvae become nearly full grown, however, daily observations are made, as it is desired to know the exact length of the life cycle in every instance. Knowing the date of emergence, it seemed worth while to carry the observations further and to determine the length of the adult life for each individual reared.
Elimination of I131 labelled homologous and heterologous serum proteins from blood of various species.

SummaryThe rates at which heterologous serum proteins are eliminated from the blood of guinea pigs, rabbits, rats and mice prior to the immune response may differ greatly from rates of elimination of homologous serum proteins. While elimination of homologous proteins, particularly albumins, appears to be related primarily to the metabolic rate of the host, elimination of heterologous proteins apparently reflects, in addition, the physiological and metabolic suitability of the protein to the particular host. Rabbit gamma globulin is unique in that it persists in foreign hosts as long or longer than do the homologous proteins. The half-lives of serum proteins in guinea pig are independent of the methods used for their separation (alcohol and ammonium sulfate fractionation).
Influence of Perceived Teacher Acceptance and Parental Acceptance on Youth’s Psychological Adjustment and School Conduct A Cross-Cultural Meta-Analysis

This cross-cultural meta-analysis tests the contribution of teachers’ and parents’ acceptance to youth’s psychological adjustment and school conduct. It is based on nine studies involving 2,422 sch...
Evaluation and Management of Mid-Urethral Sling Complications

Currently, a mid-urethral sling is the standard of care for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. However, complications can occur that are unique to polypropylene mesh such as mesh exposure, perforation, or contracture. Other complications such as de novo urgency and/or urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), urinary tract infection, and/or urinary obstruction can also occur. The diagnosis of these complications requires a high index of suspicion, and treatment is critical as these complications can be quite morbid. As such, this review will discuss the most recent literature regarding the intraoperative and post-operative evaluation and management of mid-urethral sling complications.
Convergence Analysis for Extended Iterative Algorithms and Fractional Calculus

We present local and semilocal convergence results for some extended methods in order to approximate a locally unique solution of a nonlinear equation in a Banach space setting.
The Role and Responsibilities of Pharmacy Student Government Associations in Pharmacy Programs

Objective. To identify student government designs used by pharmacy programs and to examine their functions, duties, and relationships with other student organizations. Methods. A 21-question survey was developed and distributed to pharmacy deans, who were asked to forward the survey to the leader of their student government organization. Results were analyzed in aggregate. Results. Seventy-one programs responded (56%). Of respondents, 96% had a pharmacy student government association (PSGA). Programs officers generally consisted of a president (87%), secretary (81%), vice-president (79%), and treasurer (70%). Functions of the PSGAs included oversight of fundraisers (76%), on-campus events (69%), social events (61%), organizational meetings (59%), and off-campus events (57%). Approximately half (45%) of PSGAs were part of a larger, university-wide student government. Conclusion. While student government organizations are nearly universal in pharmacy programs, their oversight of other student organizations, as well as their involvement within a larger university-wide student government, varies greatly.
Preceptor support to improve nurse competency and satisfaction: A pilot study of novice nurses and preceptors in a pediatric intensive care unit

Objective : To develop and implement an evidence-based preceptor program that improves satisfaction and competency among pediatric intensive care nurses. The preparation-practice gap-defined as the discrepancy between new graduates’ abilities and the demands of their first jobs-increases stress, turnover, costs and medical errors. Preceptor programs and strong preceptor teaching might be able to narrow this gap. Methods : We developed, implemented and evaluated a Preceptor Support Program to bridge the preparation-practice gap: The Preceptor Support Program. This program integrated electronic progress monitoring and communication; preceptor huddles; checklists; online resources and hands-on teaching materials. Improvements in competency and satisfaction were measured, using pre/post testing for 34 preceptors. For 30 novice nurses, satisfaction ratings were obtained and competency was measured with pre/post administration of the Basic Knowledge Assessment Test (BKAT). Results : Novice nurse BKAT scores (competency measurement) increased from 73 to 83 ( p < .001). Novice nurse satisfaction increased from 3.1 to 3.6. Preceptor satisfaction increased from 3.0 to 3.2 ( p = .04) and preceptor competence was increased from 4.7 to 4.8. Conclusions : Our evidence-based Preceptor Support Program improved satisfaction and competency for both the preceptors and novice nurses in our Pediatric ICU.