cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Feature-Sharing in Cascade Detection Systems With Multiple Applications

Traditional distributed detection systems are often designed for a single target application. However, with the emergence of the Internet of Things paradigm, next-generation systems are expected to be a shared infrastructure for multiple applications. To this end, we propose a modular, cascade design for resource-efficient, multitask detection systems. Two (classes of) applications are considered in the system, a primary and a secondary one. The primary application has universal features that can be shared with other applications, to reduce the overall feature extraction cost, while the secondary application does not. In this setting, the two applications can collaborate via feature sharing. We provide a method to optimize the operation of the multi-application cascade system based on an accurate resource consumption model. In addition, the inherent uncertainties in feature models are articulated and taken into account. For evaluation, the twin-comparison argument is invoked, and it is shown that, with the optimal feature sharing strategy, a system can achieve 9 $\times$ resource saving and 1.43 $\times$ improvement in detection performance.
Climate change through a poverty lens

The economic impact of climate change has typically been considered at regional or national levels. This Perspective assesses impacts at household level to determine effects on poverty and the poor. It shows how rapid development could reduce these impacts. Analysis of the economic impact of climate change typically considers regional or national economies and assesses its impact on macroeconomic aggregates such as gross domestic product. These studies therefore do not investigate the distributional impacts of climate change within countries or the impacts on poverty. This Perspective aims to close this gap and provide an assessment of climate change impacts at the household level to investigate the consequences of climate change for poverty and for poor people. It does so by combining assessments of the physical impacts of climate change in various sectors with household surveys. In particular, it highlights how rapid and inclusive development can reduce the future impact of climate change on poverty.
Restoring Vision to Consumers and Competition to the Marketplace: Analyzing the Effects of the 2004 FCLCA

Occupational licensing laws can create monopoly power for professionals in the marketplace. In the case of vision services, optometrists have the authority to write prescriptions for contact lenses, and this can result in professionals excluding information to force patients to purchase lenses from the professional writing the prescription. In this paper, we estimate the effect of the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA) on the market for vision services. We find that requiring professionals to release prescription information to patients resulted in a 10-11% reduction in the wages of optometrists. We are unable to find evidence that the change affected the labor market for opticians.
Topology control in aerial multi-beam directional networks

In multi-beam directional networks, nodes are able to simultaneously transmit to all neighbors or receive from all neighbors. This spatial reuse allows for high throughputs, but in dense networks can cause significant interference. Topology control (i.e., selecting a subset of neighbors to communicate with) is vital to reduce the interference. Good topology control balances the number of links utilized to achieve fewer collisions while maintaining robust network connectivity. In this work, we discuss the underlying challenges to topology control in multi-beam direction networks. Two topology control algorithms are developed: a centralized algorithm that retains robust connectivity at the cost of reduced throughput, and a distributed algorithm that offers higher throughput but with fewer links in the network. The performance of these algorithms is demonstrated by simulation using real beam patterns from a seven-element uniform linear array.
Milk, Game or Grain for a Manchurian Outpost: Providing for Hulun Buir’s Multi-Environmental Garrison in an Eighteenth-Century Borderland

The long record of imperial China’s Inner Asian borderland relations is not simply multi-ethnic, but ‘multi-environmental’. Human dependencies on livestock, wild animals and cereal cultivars were the prerequisite environmental relations for borderland incorporation. This paper examines such dependencies during the Qing Dynasty’s (1644–1912) establishment of the Manchurian garrison of Hulun Buir near the Qing border with Russia. Garrison logistics proved challenging because provisioning involved several indigenous groups—Solon-Ewenki, Bargut and Dagur (Daur)—who did not uniformly subsist on livestock, game or grain, but instead exhibited several, sometimes overlapping, practices not always confined within a single ethnicity. Ensuing deliberations reveal official convictions, some of which can be traced back to the preceding Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), regarding the variable effects of these practices on the formation of Inner Asian military identities. Such issues were distinctive of Qing borderland dynamics that constructed ‘Chinese’ empire not only in more diverse human society, but also in more diverse ecological spheres.
Hallbach array-based linear generator for human motion energy harvesting

In this paper, an electromagnetic based human motion energy harvesting device is proposed. It consists of two similar Halbach arrays placed in front of each other to maximize the intensity of the magnetic field within which an attached three coils subsystem oscillates to generate a power supply of up to 19 mW. The device comprises a power electronics submodule which consists of three-phase full-wave bridge rectifier that uses Schottky diodes for AC-DC conversion, followed by a boost converter for DC-DC conversion. The sizing of both the permanent magnets arrays and the coil as well as the location where to place the system on the human body have been adequately set following extensive Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations, in addition of using Matlab and Pspice software tools. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm was used to determine the optimal sizing of the device corresponding to the lowest cost. A wireless accelerometer was placed at different locations of the body of an individual (e.g. lower and upper arms, elbow, ankle, and knee) moving on an indoor treadmill with different speeds to determine the best placement of the device corresponding to the highest power.
Comparison of Covered Versus Uncovered Stents for Benign Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Obstruction

To identify whether long-term symptom relief and stent patency vary with the use of covered versus uncovered stents for the treatment of benign SVC obstruction. We retrospectively identified all patients with benign SVC syndrome treated to stent placement between January 2003 and December 2015 (n = 59). Only cases with both clinical and imaging follow-up were included (n = 47). In 33 (70%) of the patients, the obstruction was due to a central line or pacemaker wires, and in 14 (30%), the cause was fibrosing mediastinitis. Covered stents were placed in 17 (36%) of the patients, and 30 (64%) patients had an uncovered stent. Clinical and treatment outcomes, complications, and the percent stenosis of each stent were evaluated. Technical success was achieved in all cases at first attempt. Average clinical and imaging follow-up in years was 2.7 (range 0.1–11.1) (covered) and 1.7 (range 0.2–10.5) (uncovered), respectively. There was a significant difference (p = 0.044) in the number of patients who reported a return of symptoms between the covered (5/17 or 29.4%) and uncovered (18/30 or 60%) groups. There was also a significant difference (p = < 0.001) in the mean percent stenosis after stent placement between the covered [17.9% (range 0–100) ± 26.2] and uncovered [48.3% (range 6.8–100) ± 33.5] groups. No significant difference (p = 0.227) was found in the time (days) between the date of the procedure and the date of clinical follow-up where a return of symptoms was reported [covered: 426.6 (range 28–1554) ± 633.9 and uncovered 778.1 (range 23–3851) ± 1066.8]. One patient in the uncovered group had non-endovascular surgical intervention (innominate to right atrial bypass), while none in the covered group required surgical intervention. One major complication (SIR grade C) occurred that consisted of a pericardial hemorrhagic effusion after angioplasty that required covered stent placement. There were no procedure-related deaths. Both covered and uncovered stents can be used for treating benign SVC syndrome. Covered stents, however, may be a more effective option at providing symptom relief and maintaining stent patency if validated by further studies.
Management of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Femoral Condyle: A Critical Analysis Review.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the femoral condyle remains poorly understood, with an unclear etiology.Lesions that separate have a poor prognosis, thus making treatment strategies that promote healing and prevent separation attractive.Magnetic resonance imaging is the preferred imaging modality and c
Color Privileges, Humor, and Dialogues: Theorizing How People of African Descent in Brazil Communicatively Manage Stigmatization and Racial Discrimination

The purpose of this chapter is to introduce a theoretical framework aimed at explaining how an overt and systemic culture of racism impacts the communication style of marginalized groups. Specifically, this chapter uses the Racial Democracy Effect Theory to explain how racial stigmatization and the false notion of racial harmony, inhibits Brazilians of African descent, keeping them in a dialogical state of marginalization. To explore the applicability of the Racial Democracy Effect Theory, a survey was conducted with 24 people of African descent in Brazil. The study aimed at exploring (1) the communicative techniques people of African descent preferred when interacting with others when any racial teasing occurred; (2) if the type of reaction was contingent upon the membership of the offender; (3) if the level of aggression was stronger if the offender shared the same phenotype; and (4) if there was any relationship between skin color and the techniques chosen. The data showed that members of groups that have been traditionally marginalized prefer non-assertive techniques. The data also revealed that the level of aggressiveness was higher towards people of the same phenotype versus people of different phenotypes.
The Influence of Gut Microbial Metabolism on the Development and Progression of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the presence of excess fat in the liver parenchyma in the absence of excess alcohol consumption and overt inflammation. It has also been described as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome (Than NN, Newsome PN, Atherosclerosis. 239:192–202, 2015). The incidence of NAFLD has been reported to be 43–60% in diabetics, ~90% in patients with hyperlipidemia and 91% in morbidly obese patients (Than NN, Newsome PN, Atherosclerosis. 239:192–202, 2015, Machado M, Marques-Vidal P, Cortez-Pinto H, J Hepatol, 45:600–606, 2006, Vernon G, Baranova A, Younossi ZM, Aliment Pharmacol Ther, 34:274–285, 2011). The risk factors that have been associated with the development of NAFLD include male gender, increasing age, obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes and hyperlipidemia (Attar BM, Van Thiel DH, Sci World J, 2013:481893, 2013, Gaggini M, Morelli M, Buzzigoli E, DeFronzo RA, Bugianesi E, Gastaldelli A, Forum Nutr, 5:1544–1460, 2013). All of these risk factors have been linked to alterations of the gut microbiota, ie., gut dysbiosis (He X, Ji G, Jia W, Li H, Int J Mol Sci, 17:300, 2016). However, it must be pointed out that the prevalence of NAFLD in normal weight individuals without metabolic risk factors is ~16% (Than NN, Newsome PN, Atherosclerosis. 239:192–202, 2015). This fact has led some investigators to hypothesize that the gut microbiota can impact lipid metabolism in the liver independently of obesity-related metabolic factors (Marchesi JR, Adams DH, Fava F, Hermes GD, Hirschfield GM, Hold g, et al., Gut, 65:330 339, 2016) (Le Roy T, Llopis M, Lepage P, Bruneau A, Rabot S, Bevilacqua C, et al., Gut, 62:1787–1794, 2013). In this chapter, we will explore the effect of the gut microbiota on hepatic lipid metabolism and how this affects the development of NAFLD.
INTERN-TEACHER ROLES: ILLUSION, DISILLUSION AND REALITY

Interns in a field-based teacher-education program expected to improve teaching of children from low-income families. Their powerlessness in the face of what they perceived as harsh, ineffective te...
Die Zukunft der Visualität des Bargelds, oder: Auslaufmodell Banknote?

Auf den ersten Blick scheint die Abschaffung des Bargelds fur Handel, Konsumenten, Mediziner und naturlich Banken vor allem Vorteile zu bringen. Fur den Verbraucher ist Bargeld mit Unbequemlichkeit verbunden, schlieslich muss man stets Munzen und Scheine mit sich fuhren sowie Wege zum Geldautomaten einplanen; hinzu kommt noch ein gewisses Sicherheitsrisiko in Hinblick auf Diebstahl und Raub. Fur Gewerbetreibende ist Bargeld ebenfalls mit einem Sicherheitsrisiko verbunden, zudem konnen in erheblichem Umfang Finanzmittel gebunden sein.
Nation-scale primary prevention to reduce newly incident adolescent drug use: the issue of lag time.

Background There is limited evidence about the effects of United States (US) nation-level policy changes on the incidence of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking. To investigate the potential primary prevention effects on precocious drug use and to clarify lag-time issues, we estimated incidence rates for specified intervals anticipating and lagging after drug policy enactment. Our hypotheses are (a) reductions in underage drinking or smoking onset and (b) increases of incidence at the legal age (i.e., 21 for drinking and 18 for smoking). Methods The study population is 12-23-year-old non-institutionalized US civilian residents. Estimates are from 30 community samples drawn to be nationally representative for the US National Surveys on Drug Use and Health 1979-2015. Estimates were year-by-year annual incidence rates for alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking by 12-23-year-olds, age by age. Meta-regressions estimate age-specific incidence over time. Results Incidence of underage alcohol drinking declined and followed a trend line that started before 1984 enactment of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act, but increased drinking incidence for 21 year olds was observed approximately 10 years after policy enactment. Eight years after the Synar amendment enactment, evidence of reduced smoking incidence started to emerge. Among 18 year olds, a slight increase in tobacco smoking incidence occurred about 10 years after the Synar amendment. Conclusion Once nation-level policies affecting drug sales to minors are enacted, one might have to wait almost a decade before seeing tangible policy effects on drug use incidence rates.
Survey of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus covert infection for healthy people in Henan Province, China

Abstract Background: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a severe emerging disease, and its incidence has been increasing in recent years. A cross-sectional study was conducted for healthy people in high SFTS endemic areas of Henan province in 2016. Methods: This study used stratified random sampling method and finally 14 natural villages were selected as the investigation site. The questionnaire survey and serum collection were carried out from April to May in 2016. All the serum samples were detected by SFTSV IgM and IgG antibodies by ELISA. Only positive samples of SFTSV IgM antibody need be tested SFTSV RNA and virus cultured. A month after the specimen collection, all persons positive for IgM antibody were followed up one by one to confirm whether he or she was recessive infection. Results: 1463 healthy persons were investigated in total. The average seropositive rates of SFTS virus specific IgG and IgM antibodies were 10.46% (153/1463) and 0.82% (12/1463), respectively. IgM antibody was positive in 12 individuals, and 6 of them SFTS virus RNA were also detected. In addition, 5 SFTS virus were isolated from the 6 SFTS virus RNA (+) individuals. By genomic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, 5 new isolates from healthy crowd all belonged to groups A, which were similar to other isolates from SFTS patients. After one month, all people with SFTS virus IgM antibody had no illness or symptoms. Conclusions: This study confirmed there is SFTS recessive infection in human, and it is the first report about SFTS virus isolation in healthy people. Author Summary: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a severe emerging infectious disease, was discovered in rural areas of China. The first SFTS case was found in Henan province, which has had the largest number of SFTS cases in China every year since the disease was discovered. However, as a high incidence area of SFTS in Henan province, the serum prevalence rate of the virus in healthy people is still not clear. Therefore, a cross-sectional survey was performed in high endemic areas and epidemic seasons in 2016. The results showed that the level of specific SFTS seroprevlence was relatively higher and possibility increasing. SFTS RNA were positive and SFTS virus was isolated from the specimens of healthy people. This study confirmed there is SFTS recessive infection in human, and it is the first report about SFTS virus isolation in healthy people.
Flexible Object Handling in Additive Manufacturing with Service Robotics

The focus of this paper is the flexible handling of printed objects; specifically looking at the unloading process of a 3D printed object from the printer’s build plate.To design functioning universal gripper fingers 150.000 models were analyzed, in order to calculate an appropriate range of dimensions. To determine the exact position, orientation and dimensions of the printed object a simple but effective algorithm analyzes the GCode file provided by the printer. Based on this information a detachment-strategy is chosen, which is a combination out of one or more of four basic movements. Upon receiving this information the robot executes the unloading process. Furthermore, five different gripper finger approaches and designs are examined and tested with an industrial gripper on a lightweight robot. The presented flexible handling approach provides the first step towards an economical way of handling printed objects from the build plate, reducing the non-value adding time of 3D printing. The proposed concept is not bound to the fused filament fabrication (FFF) technique, but can be applied universally to any 3D printing process by means of minor adjustments to the presented designs.
Production of hydrogen peroxide enabled by microdroplets

Geometry and dimensionality of a reaction system are known to play an important role in determining the yield as well as the rate of the reaction, especially in simple bimolecular reactions (1⇓⇓⇓⇓⇓⇓–8). Recently, several results have been reported for reactions in small droplets, which include charged microdroplets (3), microdiameter emulsions (2), inverted micelles (4), and the surfaces of aerosol particles (1). It has been found that chemical reactions can be accelerated in water microdroplets (2, 3, 6, 7), which indicates that the surface of aqueous microdroplets provides a unique reaction environment with different thermodynamics and kinetic properties compared to the bulk phase. In PNAS, Lee et al. (8) report experimental evidence that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is spontaneously produced from pure water by atomizing bulk water into microdroplets, which does not occur in bulk aqueous solutions. Production of H2O2 increases with decreasing microdroplet size, and the generated H2O2 concentration is ∼30 µM. Further analysis suggests that hydroxyl radical (OH) (which is generated by loss of an electron from OH− near the surface of the water microdroplet) recombination is the most likely source. H2O2 is a very simple compound in nature but with great importance in clinical, pharmaceutical, textile, environmental, and food manufacturing applications. One of the most important applications of H2O2 is its use in pulp and paper bleaching (9). It is also a very attractive oxidant for liquid-phase reactions, since H2O2 can oxidize a large variety of inorganic and organic substrates in liquid-phase reactions under very mild reaction conditions. Also, it can be used to improve the environment by oxidative removal of toxic compounds (10). Upon decomposition, H2O … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: frjoseph{at}sas.upenn.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Cognitive Stimulation as a Mechanism Linking Socioeconomic Status With Executive Function: A Longitudinal Investigation.

Executive functions (EF), including working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility, vary as a function of socioeconomic status (SES), with children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds having poorer performance than their higher SES peers. Using observational methods, we investigated cognitive stimulation in the home as a mechanism linking SES with EF. In a sample of 101 children aged 60?75 months, cognitive stimulation fully mediated SES-related differences in EF. Critically, cognitive stimulation was positively associated with the development of inhibition and cognitive flexibility across an 18-month follow-up period. Furthermore, EF at T1 explained SES-related differences in academic achievement at T2. Early cognitive stimulation?a modifiable factor?may be a desirable target for interventions designed to ameliorate SES-related differences in cognitive development and academic achievement.
Structure-based characterization of novel TRPV5 inhibitors

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 5 (TRPV5) is a highly calcium selective ion channel that acts as the rate-limiting step of calcium reabsorption in the kidney. The lack of potent, specific modulators of TRPV5 has limited the ability to probe the contribution of TRPV5 in disease phenotypes such as hypercalcemia and nephrolithiasis. Here, we performed structure-based virtual screening (SBVS) at a previously identified TRPV5 inhibitor binding site coupled with electrophysiology screening and identified three novel inhibitors of TRPV5, one of which exhibits high affinity, and specificity for TRPV5 over other TRP channels, including its close homologue TRPV6. Cryo-electron microscopy of TRPV5 in the presence of the specific inhibitor and its parent compound revealed novel binding sites for this channel. Structural and functional analysis have allowed us to suggest a mechanism of action for the selective inhibition of TRPV5 and lay the groundwork for rational design of new classes of TRPV5 modulators.
When does online review matter to consumers? The effect of product quality information cues

Word of Mouth (WOM) is powerful, and online reviews are often the most accessible WOM information source in electronic commerce. Maintaining favorable online reputation has been the top priority for businesses, and investments in improving online review valence have been increasing. Extensive studies explored how online reviews might influence sales, however, the results have been inconsistent. This study explores whether and how consumers might incorporate online reviews into decision making based on signaling theory and examines when online review valence influences sales and when it might not. In a signaling perspective, online reviews might serve as a product quality signal, and subsequently, consumers might incorporate less the online review information into decision making if other product information cues such as expert ratings or brands help to verify the product quality. The findings from 633,029 consumer decisions on a hotel-booking website indicate that product quality information cues moderate the effect of online reviews on purchase likelihood. Also, product quality information cues were highly endogenous in estimating the effect of online reviews on sales. Online reviews are not likely to be a significant influencer on sales if the seller signal product quality with convincing information cues.
Low Temperature Release of Stored Energy in Cold Worked Copper

Pure polycrystalline copper and alpha-brass specimens were deformed in compression at temperatures near -185\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. The release of stored energy was observed during subsequent warmups to room temperature and above. The annealing spectrum of pure copper shows prominent peaks at -25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C and -90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, and smaller resolvable peaks at lower temperatures. The total energy release was about 0.17 cal/g for a specimen strained to 0.65. In contrast to pure copper, the spectrum for brass shows only one clearly resolvable peak at -10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C and extends to higher temperatures. The energy release was almost three times that of pure copper for comparable strains.The sensitivity of the experimental method is about ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ cal/g per degree centigrade, and the results are believed to be accurate to about thirty percent. The apparatus was calibrated by measuring the known heat-of-fusion of mercury.A tentative theory of the multiple peaks in the rate of energy release below -70\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C is given. This theory supposes that the moving imperfections in this temperature range are divacancies and that the energy of motion of a divacancy is different depending on its orientation in the internal stress field.
Partial data permutation for training deep neural networks

Random data permutation is considered as a best practice for training deep neural networks. When the input is large, permuting the full dataset is costly and limits scaling on distributed systems. Some practitioners use partial or no permutation that may potentially result in poor convergence.We propose a partitioned data permutation scheme as a low-cost alternative to full data permutation. Analyzing their entropy, we show that the two sampling schemes are asymptotically identical. We also show with minibatch SGD, both sampling schemes produce unbiased estimators of the true gradient. In addition, they have the same bound on the second moment of the gradient. Thus they have similar convergence properties. Our experiments confirm that SGD has similar training performance in practice with both sampling schemes.We further show that due to inherent randomness such as data augmentation and dropout in the training, even faster sampling schemes than partial permutation such as sequential sampling can achieve good performance. However, if no extra randomness is present in training, sampling schemes with low entropy can indeed degrade performance significantly.
"Bumpy" ride for the female cyclist: A rare case of perineal nodular induration, the ischial hygroma.

Abstract Introduction Cycling is known to cause groin pain, typically adductor/hamstring strains and “saddle sores” (skin abrasion, ulceration and/or folliculitis). Rarely does it result in pathological mesenchymal lesions. Presentation of case We report a case of a 52-year-old female avid cyclist with chronic groin pain. Activity alteration, bike fit, and saddle modification did not ameliorate her symptoms. MRI revealed no hamstring or bony abnormality but demonstrated low T1/high T2 signal in the right perineum inferior to the ischial tuberosity. Discussion Perineal nodular induration, or “cyclist’s nodule,” is a reactive fibroblastic and myofibroblastic pseudotumor almost exclusively reported in male cyclists. PNI can become so nodular that it has even been referred to as an accessory testicle or “the cyclist’s third testicle.” Conclusion We report an unusual case of PNI in a female cyclist and review the differential diagnosis of non-infectious soft tissue perineal pain in cyclists. Clinicians should be aware of this rare condition to avoid confusion with other mesenchymal lesions.
Investigating dynamics of COVID-19 spread and containment with agent-based modeling

Governments, policy makers and officials around the globe are trying to mitigate the effects and progress of the COVID-19 pandemic by making decisions which will save the most lives and impose the least costs. Making these decisions needs a comprehensive understanding about the dynamics by which the disease spreads. In this work, we propose an epidemic agent-based model that simulates the spread of the disease. We show that the model is able to generate an important aspect of the pandemic: multiple waves of infection. A key point in the model description is the aspect of 9fear9 which can govern how agents behave under different conditions. We also show that the model provides an appropriate test-bed to apply different containment strategies and this work presents the results of applying two such strategies: testing, contact tracing, and travel restriction. The results show that while both strategies could result in flattening the epidemic curve and significantly reduce the maximum number of infected individuals; testing should be applied along with tracing previous contacts of the tested individuals to be effective. The results show how the curve is flattened with testing partnered with contact tracing, and the imposition of travel restrictions.
Professorship and Parenthood

No matter how biased, sexist, and inappropriate it may seem in the twenty-first century to say that kids only have one mother and that being a mother is really the most important job, I will say it because it is true.
Premature thelarche in an infant girl with failure to thrive related to dietary soy exposure.

A 7-month-old female infant presented with failure to thrive. She was breastfed till 3 months of age, thereafter switched to soy-based milk formula. There was no history to suggest excess energy losses, recurrent infections or chronic diarrhoea. Three months after switching to exclusive soy-based milk formula, parents noticed significant enlargement of both breasts. Clinical examination was unremarkable except for enlargement of both breasts. None of the other secondary sexual characteristics were present. Initial blood investigations showed hyponatraemic hypokalaemic hypochloraemic metabolic alkalosis, which corrected after 2 days with intravenous hydration. The patient subsequently maintained normal electrolyte balance with recommended intake of cow’s milk-based standard formula milk. Further exploration of her soy-based milk revealed that it was low in sodium and calories, unsuitable for children. This was not a standard and approved infant soy-based formula milk. She achieved excellent weight gain and reduction of breast size on cessation of soy-based milk formula.
Enhanced Mentored Undergraduate Research Experiences: Successful Strategies Used in Two Laboratories at Auburn University

Purpose There is a growing trend toward the provision of undergraduate research experiences as a high impact educational practice that promotes the development of critical thinking and problem-solv...
When We Lie to the Government, it's a Crime, but When the Government Lies to Us, it's . . . Constitutional?

“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.” To put it another way, don’t lie. Unfortunately, human history is littered with innumerable examples of people who have disregarded that rather simple requirement of honesty. Little kids lie (“I didn’t break the vase, Mommy!”). Corporate executives lie. Lawyers lie. Accounting Firms lie. Politicians lie. Police Officers lie. Even Presidents lie. In this piece, I will first look at several sanctions that result from lying to government officials. I will then briefly discuss several infamous incidents involving some well-known individuals who tried lying to the government. Finally, I will look at a few real life examples showing how and why those sanctions are not always applied in the opposite direction. This is especially the case when the perpetrator is a government official who is telling the lie during the regular course of his duties. This includes how the Constitution is implicated so that some governmental employees do not always face legal sanctions for lying on the job. The end result is now a general distrust of politicians, law enforcement officers, and attorneys, and an all too real cynicism about governmental affairs.
When more is less: Urban disparities in access to surgical care by transportation means.

Abstract Background Structural factors limiting access to surgical care require elucidation. We hypothesize transportation time to hospitals with surgical capacity disproportionately burdens minority populations. Methods We identified hospitals with surgical capacity within a 20-mile radius of our city center. Using geocoding, we estimated travel times from each census tract to the nearest facility by car or public bus. Results For 143 tracts within the county, drive time was 13 ± 4 min and bus time was 33 ± 15 min. Only 41.2% of the population had a facility within 30 min by bus; access was further diminished for those with minority race/ethnicity and/or no insurance. Bus time was associated with percent minority population in a census tract: for each 10% increase in minority population there was a 4.3-min increase in bus time (p Conclusions Geographic information systems analysis has potential to identify communities with disproportionate burden to access surgical services.
Predictors of Nonelective Surgery for Spinal Metastases: Insights from a National Database.

STUDY DESIGN Secondary analysis of a national all-payer database. OBJECTIVE Our objectives were to identify patient- and hospital-level factors independently associated with the receipt of nonelective surgery and determine whether nonelective surgery portends differences in perioperative outcomes compared to elective surgery for spinal metastases. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Spinal metastases may progress to symptomatic epidural spinal cord compression that warrants urgent surgical intervention. Although nonelective surgery for spinal metastases has been associated with poor postoperative outcomes, literature evaluating disparities in the receipt of nonelective versus elective surgery in this population is lacking. METHODS The National Inpatient Sample (2012-2015) was queried for patients who underwent surgical intervention for spinal metastases. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to evaluate the association of patient- and hospital-level factors with the receipt of nonelective surgery, as well as to evaluate the influence of admission status on perioperative outcomes. RESULTS After adjusting for disease-related factors and other baseline covariates, our multivariable logistic regression model revealed several sociodemographic differences in the receipt of nonelective surgery. Patients of black (odds ratio [OR] = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-1.84, P = 0.032) and other race (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.13-1.98, P = 0.005) had greater odds of undergoing nonelective surgery than their white counterparts. Patients of lower income (OR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.06-1.84, P = 0.019) and public insurance status (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.26-1.93, P < 0.001) were more likely to receive nonelective surgery than higher income and privately insured patients, respectively. Higher comorbidity burden was also associated with greater odds of non-elective admission (OR = 2.94, 95% CI: 2.07-4.16, P < 0.001). With respect to perioperative outcomes, multivariable analysis revealed that patients receiving nonelective surgery were more likely to experience nonroutine discharge (OR = 2.50, 95% CI: 2.09-2.98, P < 0.001) and extended length of stay [LOS] (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.91-3.16, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The present study demonstrates substantial disparities in the receipt of nonelective surgery across sociodemographic groups and highlights its association with nonroutine discharge and extended LOS.Level of Evidence: 3.
Delivering the Same Intervention to Hispanic/Latinos With Pre-diabetes and Diabetes. Early Evidence of Success in a Longitudinal Mixed Method Study.

BackgroundDespite nationwide efforts to address the diabetes epidemic and reduce prevalence disparities, higher rates persist among the poor, especially those with limited literacy. Currently, indi...
Physical Organic Model Systems and the Problem of Enzymatic Catalysis

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses physical organic model system and the problem of enzymatic catalysis. It describes chemical model investigations, which relate to three hydrolytic enzymes, α-chymotrypsin, carboxypeptidase, and lysozyme. These enzymes serve as the best examples of the model approach because detailed structural information is available. In each case, the complete amino-acid sequence of the enzyme is known, and the three-dimensional structure has been determined by x-ray crystallographic analysis at 2 A resolutions. The enzymes have the aliphatic hydroxyl group of serine, the imidazole ring of histidine, and carboxyl groups as catalytically important functional groups at the active sites. The problem resolves itself into determining how such functional groups can participate in the hydrolytic reactions and how the rates of the enzymatic reactions can be accounted for in mechanistic terms. Model studies have made a major contribution towards an understanding of the mechanistic possibilities, which lysozyme might employ. Rate enhancements have been obtained in several simple chemical reactions that are of similar magnitude to those observed in analogous enzyme-catalyzed reactions, and the goal of analyzing the individual factors that can give such large rate accelerations is now within reach.
Dendritic Crystal Growth in Microgravity

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses dendritic crystal growth in microgravity, where microgravity is the unique environment created during space flight in free fall along a low-Earth orbit (LEO). If an attempt is made to grow crystal in microgravity, a spectrum of “g-jitter” is encountered, which is random, oscillatory accelerations, and vibrations. G-jitter can influence some crystal growth processes and it arises from the presence of rotating equipment, such as pumps and fans, and from the movement of on board astronauts. The chapter reviews the scientific accomplishments of three space flight crystal growth experiments carried out on board. These experiments address the fundamental questions concerning the dendritic crystal growth. The formation of the dendritic crystals involves the coupling of two different processes: the steady-state propagation of the tip region, accounting for the formation of the main or primary stem, and the time-dependent crystallization of the secondary and tertiary side branches. These processes work together to establish the most obvious length scales of a dendrite.
Ultraviolet Difference Spectra in Human Hemoglobin II. DIFFERENCE SPECTRA IN ISOLATED SUBUNITS OF HEMOGLOBIN

Abstract Hemoglobins αa, αpmb, and βpmb (where PMB is pmercuribenzoate) lack the pH-dependent and form-dependent ultraviolet difference spectra seen in hemoglobin A. Hemoglobin H exhibits difference spectra which are smaller than those in hemoglobin A and, in the case of pH-dependent spectra, at different wave length location. A difference spectrum of reconstitution of hemoglobin A from hemoglobins αa and H exists at pH 8.5 but not at pH 6. The major perturbation in this spectrum is probably attributable to the chromophore of tyrosine C7α(42).
Telomeres, Telomerase, Stress, and Aging

1 Telomere Maintenance and the Aging of Cells and Organisms 2 Telomere Maintenance and Human Diseases 3 Measurement of Cell Aging and Potential Confounding Factors 4 Summary and Conclusions Keywords: telomeres; telomerase; cellular senescence; tumor suppressor p53; cytokines; PCR; polymerase chain reaction; hTER ; human telomerase RNA; hTERT ; human telomerase reverse transcriptase; TRAP; telomere repeat amplification protocol; dyskeratosis congenita
Antepartum evaluation of the pre-ejection period of the fetal cardiac cycle

Abstract The pre-ejection period (PEP) of the cardiac cycle was studied in 65 antepartum fetuses by means of a noninvasive technique which used simultaneous recordings of abdominal fetal electrocardiogram (FECG) and ultrasound fetal Doppler cardiogram (FDCG). Although most of the fetuses were products of high-risk pregnancies, 45 fetuses had uneventful perinatal courses. The PEP's from these fetuses demonstrated a significant positive relationship with gestational age (p
Beyond the traditional approach to teaching anatomy for yoga.

Context: The traditional approach to teaching anatomy for yoga, while systematic, is often ineffective. Methods: A unique approach to teaching anatomy for a Yoga Teacher Training seminar is presented, founded on the principles of Thomas Myers' Anatomy Trains. Lab activities are detailed and Bloom's Taxonomy is applied to ensure students are engaged in higher level thinking and application. Conclusion: Going beyond the traditional approach to teaching anatomy for yoga can be extremely rewarding for students and teachers alike.
Effect of cholesterol feeding on hepatic fatty acid synthesis and serum and tissue enzyme activities in rabbits.

Effects of cholesterol-feeding on hepatic fatty acid syn thesis, tissue lipid peroxidation, and the activity of certain enzymes were examined in rabbits. Rabbits were fed a stock diet supplemented either with 2% soy bean oil or with 2% soy bean oil and 1% cholesterol (dis solved in oil) for 102 days. The rate of lipid peroxidation was very low in the liver and aorta in both groups. Liver glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and Superoxide dismutase activities were significantly lower in cholesterol- fed rabbits when expressed on a per g liver basis, but not on a per mg protein or per liver basis. Glutathione peroxidase activity in the aorta was reduced by cholesterol-feeding. Cholesterol-feeding did not influence the activity of glutathione peroxidase in the serum or Superoxide dismutase in the aorta. Liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 and microsomal peroxidase activities were significantly lower in cholesterol-fed rabbits when expressed on a per g liver basis, but not on a per liver basis or per mg microsomal pro tein basis. The decrease in cytochrome c reductase activity was not signifi cant. Cholesterol-feeding, however, significantly increased the rate of incor poration of (14C)glucose carbon into liver long-chain fatty acids in vitro. Liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydro- genase activities were significantly increased by cholesterol-feeding when expressed on a per liver basis, but not on a per mg protein or per g liver basis. The study indicates that cholesterol-feeding enhances hepatic fatty acid synthesis and increases the total activities of liver NADPH-generating dehydrogenases, but had no effect on the total activity of other enzymes or microsomal parameters determined in rabbits. J. Nutr. 108: 226-231, 1978.
Pharmacology of polymorphic variants of the human 5-HT1A receptor.

Abstract The 5-HT1A receptor is a critical mediator of serotonergic (5-HT) function. We have identified 13 potential single nucleotide polymorphisms resulting in amino acid changes throughout the human 5-HT1A receptor. The pharmacological profiles of these 13 polymorphic variants were then characterized using a high-throughput assay based on ligand-dependent transformation of NIH/3T3 cells. The majority of the polymorphic variants displayed wild-type pharmacological profiles in response to a panel of well-established agonists at the 5-HT1A receptor. However, the A50V polymorphic variant, which had an alanine to valine substitution in transmembrane 1, exhibited a loss of detectable response to 5-HT. Interestingly, all other agonists tested, including buspirone, lisuride, and (+)8-OH-DPAT, exhibited efficacies similar to that of the wild-type receptor. The competitive antagonist, methiothepin, also displayed a 19-fold decrease in potency at the A50V variant receptor. However, both 5-HT and methiothepin were able to compete for [ 3 H ]WAY-100635 binding to the A50V variant with affinities similar to the wild-type receptor. Moreover, the Bmax of [ 3 H ]WAY-100635 binding was 14-fold lower for the A50V variant than for the wild-type receptor. Thus, the A50V receptor variant exhibited ligand-specific functional alterations in addition to lower expression levels. These data suggest a previously unappreciated role for transmembrane 1 in mediating 5-HT response at the 5-HT1A receptor. Furthermore, individuals that potentially harbor the A50V polymorphism might display aberrant affective behaviors and altered responses to drugs targeting the 5-HT1A receptor.
A new modality for immunosuppression: targeting the JAK/STAT pathway

Thousands of organs are transplanted each year and millions of people suffer from autoimmune diseases, which creates a need for an armamentarium of immunosuppressive drugs. Unfortunately, immunosuppressants have unwanted side effects owing, in part, to the fact that they have ubiquitous molecular targets. Cytokines have emerged as important controllers of the immune response, and work during the past decade has identified Janus kinases (JAKs) and signal transducers, and activators of transcription (STATs), as crucial intracellular elements in cytokine signalling. Here, we discuss the potential of the JAK/STAT pathway as a target for new immunosuppressants. In particular, the inhibition of JAK3 seems to be an excellent strategy, because of the selective expression and precise functions of this kinase.
Radiocarbon dating, reservoir effects, and calibration

Abstract We summarize how radiocarbon measurements are made using accelerator mass spectrometry. We also discuss some complications inherent in the radiocarbon-dating method when calibrating radiocarbon dates to calendar dates. For example, measurements of radiocarbon (14C) in some types of materials are complicated by a “reservoir effect”, caused by an apparent age of the source reservoir that differs from the contemporary atmospheric surface 14C value. In other cases, mobile carbon sources in nature can produce mixed sources of carbon. We explore these effects and discuss their possible implications for 14C measurements and how we can deal with them.
A Molecular Lock-and-Key Approach To Detecting Solution Phase Self-Assembly. A Fluorescence and Absorption Study of Carminic Acid in Aqueous Glucose Solutions

We introduce a novel approach to the study of complex ternary systems where a fluorescent chromophore contains a functionality that incorporates into precrystalline aggregates in concentrated solutions. We demonstrate the feasibility of this approach by using carminic acid, a fluorescent molecule possessing a pendant glycosyl moiety, in aqueous glucose solutions. We report the steady state absorption and emission response of carminic acid as well as its picosecond dynamical response. These data, taken collectively, show that saturated glucose solutions exhibit anomalous molecular scale organization and that the persistence time of this organization is significantly less than a nanosecond. Our results indicate that kinetic contributions to crystallization are expected to play an important, sometimes dominant, role in this technologically important process.