cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathogenesis of Heart Failure: The Penultimate Survival Instinct?

Cardiac myocytes are incredibly smart cells. They will duck, dive, dart or dodge to escape annihilation. When myocardial blood flow is critically reduced, myocytes learn to restrict oxidative metabolism. Myocytes evolve (or devolve) and switch their metabolic substrates from staple to alternate sources and stall contractile activity. Although this results in ventricular dysfunction, revascularization allows for revitalization of myocytes and resolution of contractile activity. This phenomenon represents a hibernating state—that is, dysfunctional ventricular myocardium can be resuscitated when adequate blood supply is returned [1]. On the other hand, myocyte hypofunctionality after an acute coronary event is observed as the transient phase of stunning. In this case, the ischemic insult may result in degradation of troponin I [2]. In severe ischemic cardiomyopathy, repetitive stunning contributes to heart failure. Selective loss of contractile proteins is sufficient enough to impair normal contractility and allow time for healing. Similarly, remodeled myocardium also invites subnormal function. However, unlike hibernating myocardium blood flow is not compromised in remodeled myocardium and unlike stunned myocardium, remodeled cells have not suffered direct myocardial injury [3]. In various cardiomyopathies, remodeling occurs as a common response to multiple pathogenetic in-
The first‐order statistical moment of the seismic moment tensor

Summary. If a complex earthquake is assumed to be a set of individual, randomly oriented elementary pure double couple sources, the solution for the seismic moment of the complex event projected on the mean trend of the fault will perforce be comprised of sources of both double couple and compensated linear vector dipole (CLVD) types. We investigate the statistical properties of these two components of seismic sources in terms of the invariants of the seismic moment tensor of a realistic set of synthetic earthquakes. It is very likely that the size of the CLVD component is two to three orders of magnitude smaller than that of the double couple component.
Predicting harmful algal blooms: a case study with Dinophysis ovum in the Gulf of Mexico

Blooms of Dinophysis ovum and Mesodinium spp. have been observed in the Gulf of Mexico since 2007 using the Imaging FlowCytobot technology. Bloom dynamics of these two organisms in conjunction with ancillary environmental data for a 5-year period were analyzed to identify the conditions necessary for bloom initiation or presence with the goal of predicting future blooms of D. ovum. Using time-series analysis, we observed a positive time-lagged correlation between the two organisms in each year when both were present, which suggests that the presence of Mesodinium may be useful as a leading indicator for a D. ovum bloom. Although in some cases D. ovum and Mesodinium co-occurred, no strong predator– prey relationship was observed. We identified a narrow range of temperature and salinity that could be necessary for bloom initiation of D. ovum and Mesodinium in the Gulf of Mexico. Analysis of images over the time series revealed a wide range in the size of Mesodinium cells, which suggests that species other than M. rubrum may be present in the Gulf of Mexico. Based on the occurrence of a D. ovum bloom preceded by low abundances of Mesodinium, we suggest that D. ovum is able to utilize ciliates other than M. rubrum as prey. Our observations indicate that environmental conditions, as well as Mesodinium abundance and species composition, can affect initiation, presence or abundance of D. ovum and thus may help in the prediction of future blooms.
The Brick Layer Model Revisited: Introducing the Nano-Grain Composite Model

Brick layer models (BLMs), although applicable at the microscale, are inappropriate for characterizing electroceramics at the nanoscale. A new construct, the nano-grain composite model (n-GCM), has been developed to model/analyze the AC-impedance response of equiaxed polycrystalline electroceramics. The procedure employs a set of equations, based on the Maxwell–Wagner/Hashin–Shtrikman effective medium model, to calculate local electrical properties (conductivity, dielectric constant) for both “phases” (grain core, grain boundary) from experimental AC-impedance spectra and also, for the first time, grain core volume fraction. The n-GCM method was tested on a model system (a 3D-BLM material) and demonstrated with a test case (nanograined yttria-stabilized zirconia). The method appears to be applicable only at nanograin sizes, i.e., 10–100 nm. Limitations of the method, in terms of grain size (10–100 nm) and experimental uncertainty, are also discussed.
The Successful Long-Term Treatment of Age Related Erectile Dysfunction with hSlo cDNA in Rats In Vivo

ABSTRACTPurpose: We have previously reported that 1 intracorporeal injection of 100 μg hSlo/pcDNA reversed the effect of aging on erectile function in a rat model in vivo for at least 2 months. We report our further investigations of the amplitude, duration and physiological relevance of this novel gene transfer approach.Materials and Methods: A total of 191 retired breeder Sprague-Dawley rats were given a single intracavernous injection of phosphate buffered saline, 1,000 μg pcDNA, or 10, 100 or 1,000 μg pcDNA/ hSlo. The animals were studied 1 to 6 months after injection. The intracorporeal pressure (ICP) response to cavernous nerve stimulation and immunostaining as well as hematoxylin and eosin staining were done to evaluate effector nerve integrity and tissue histology, respectively.Results: Gene transfer prevented an age related decrease in resting ICP and a physiologically relevant, significant effect on normalizing erection in vivo, as determined by submaximal (0.5 mA) and maximal (4.0 mA) cavernous...
Recursive filtering and smoothing for Gaussian reciprocal processes with continuous indices

In this paper, we study continuous index Gaussian reciprocal processes (Grp's) (or two-point boundary valued processes) with Dirichlet boundary conditions. Our main contributions are 1) deriving first order white noise driven representations from the second order correlated noise driven representations of Grp's given by Krener, Frezza, and Levy [1]; 2) deriving Kalman-Bucy like recursive filtering equations for Grp's with continuous indices; and 3) deriving recursive smoothing equations for Grp's with continuous indices.
Initiation and termination mechanisms in kinetic gelation simulations

A kinetic gelation simulation is presented which includes a distinct initiator species decaying exponentially with time such that the rate of initiation varies as in an actual polymerization. The effects of the initiator quantity and the initiator decay constant on the polymerization are shown along with the effect of varying the probability that two radicals on adjacent sites will terminate. Varying the initiation rate and termination probability are examined in order to determine their influence on the trapping of radicals, the relative reactivity of pendant functional groups, and the overall structure of the polymer. In general it appears that the incorporation of an initiator enables the simulation to more adequartely describe the polymerization reaction, particularly time-dependent phenomena such as rate of reaction and radical concentrations.
Understanding the pyrolysis of CCA-treated wood Part II. Effect of phosphoric acid

Abstract The pyrolysis process of chromated copper arsenate-treated wood impregnated with phosphoric acid (2–6 wt.%) has been investigated using a Kugelrohr short-path distillation apparatus. The presence of phosphoric acid is shown to change the overall pyrolysis kinetics and yields of products resulting in a decrease in the amount of volatile products and an increase in the char formation. The yield of levoglucosan was found to decrease in the presence of relatively higher concentrations of phosphoric acid, while the yield of levoglucosenone increased. The pyrolysis of chromated copper arsenate-treated wood in the presence of phosphoric acid gave rise to 22% (on water-free tar basis) levoglucosenone. Such data demonstrates the potential for a new pathway toward the rational utilization of chromated copper arsenate-treated wood waste.
Cluster algorithms for quantum impurity models and mesoscopic Kondo physics

Nanoscale physics and dynamical mean-field theory have both generated increased interest in complex quantum impurity problems and so have focused attention on the need for flexible quantum impurity solvers. Here we demonstrate that the mapping of single-quantum impurity problems onto spin chains can be exploited to yield a powerful and extremely flexible impurity solver. We implement this cluster algorithm explicitly for the Anderson and Kondo Hamiltonians, and illustrate its use in the ``mesoscopic Kondo problem.'' To study universal Kondo physics, a large ratio between the effective bandwidth ${D}_{\mathrm{eff}}$ and the temperature $T$ is required; our cluster algorithm treats the mesoscopic fluctuations exactly while being able to approach the large ${D}_{\mathrm{eff}}∕T$ limit with ease. We emphasize that the flexibility of our method allows it to tackle a wide variety of quantum impurity problems; thus, it may also be relevant to the dynamical mean-field theory of lattice problems.
Resource scavenging in object-oriented, real-time, fault-tolerant control systems

This paper presents a variety of resource management techniques for real-time, fault-tolerant control systems. These techniques are based on resource scavenging, a concept that is introduced in this paper. Resource scavenging techniques attempt to meet transient resource shortfalls in one part of the system by reassigning resources from other parts of the system. The techniques presented take advantage of properties of real-time, fault-tolerant systems in general and some specific properties of control applications. At the same time, the techniques are constrained by control related requirements of the applications. The specific properties of a control application and its requirements are communicated to the system infrastructure entirely in terms of control concepts. Such a system infrastructure is also described in the paper. Finally, the paper proposes an extension to the programming language C++ that will simplify the development of applications that take advantage of resource scavenging techniques.
Obesity is associated with increased postoperative complications after total elbow arthroplasty.

Background Obesity has become a significant public health concern in the United States. Few published data have examined the association between obesity and postoperative complications after total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). Methods Patients who underwent TEA were identified using the PearlDiver database Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients were divided into obese and nonobese cohorts using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. Each cohort was then assessed for major and minor complications within 90 days postoperatively. Odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, and χ 2 tests were calculated, with P Results From 2005 to 2011, 7580 patients who underwent TEA were identified, of whom 1030 patients (14%) were coded as obese (body mass index > 30) and 611 patients (8%) were coded as morbidly obese (body mass index > 40). The obese TEA patients had increased risk of 90-day major and minor complications. The rate of postoperative venous thromboembolism differed significantly between groups, with a trend toward a higher venous thromboembolism rate in obese patients (2.2%) vs. nonobese patients (0.7%). Rate of postoperative stiffness was similar between groups. Infection rates were higher in obese patients compared with nonobese patients. Medical complications were higher in obese patients (16.7%) compared with the nonobese cohort (4.7%). A significant difference in implant removal was notable at 6 months and 1 year in morbidly obese patients compared with nonobese counterparts. Conclusions Obesity and associated medical comorbidities place patients at increased risk for complications after TEA. Obese patients and especially morbidly obese patients thinking of undergoing TEA should be appropriately counseled preoperatively about their increased risk for complications.
Effect of Dietary Fat Source on Antibody Production and Lymphocyte Proliferation in Chickens

The purpose of the present study was to assess the effect of fat source on the immune response of chickens. One-day-old pullets were fed corn and soybean meal-based diets containing 7% by weight one of the following fat sources: lard, corn oil, canola oil, linseed oil (LO), or fish oil (FO). After being fed experimental diets for 3 wk, humoral and cellular immune responses were assessed. Chicks were injected with SRBC and antibody titers were measured, 7 days later, by hemagglutination. Concanavalin A (Con A), pokeweed mitogen (PWM), or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated proliferation of splenocytes was assessed by [3H]thymidine incorporation. Results demonstrated that antibody titers in FO-fed chicks were higher (P less than .005) compared with titers in chicks fed the other fat sources. The proliferative response to Con A and PWM were 30 to 50% lower (P less than .13 and P less than .05, respectively) in chicks fed the oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids, LO and FO. The response to LPS was poor. The effect of dietary fats source on lymphocyte proliferation was completely abrogated when autologous chicken serum was excluded from the culture medium. Fat source also seemed to affect growth and feed intake of the chickens. In conclusion, dietary fat source has a significant impact on the immune response of chickens.
Perspectives on Continuing Education in the Health Professions: Improving Health Care Through Lifelong Learning

In November 2007, the Josiah Macy, Jr. Foundation convened a conference to address a number of complex issues concerning continuing education (CE) in the health professions. Participants concluded that CE, as currently practiced, does not focus adequately on improving clinician performance and patient care, is too dependent on lectures and too removed from the daily practice of clinicians, does not encourage or emphasize newer technologies and point-of-care learning, is poorly integrated across disciplines, and is inappropriately financed. Recommendations concerning educational methods, metrics, responsibilities, research in CE, financing, and oversight are reviewed. The relationship between the goals of improving clinician performance and patient care, while maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency, are reviewed.
Comparison of perioperative outcomes following open versus minimally invasive Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy at a single, high-volume centre

OBJECTIVES: With the increasing popularity of minimally invasive oesophageal resections, equivalence, if not superiority, to open techniques must be demonstrated. Here we compare our open and minimally invasive Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy (MIE) experience. METHODS: A prospective database of all oesophagectomies performed at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA between November 2007 and January 2011 was analysed. A total of 38 MIE and 76 open Ivor Lewis (OIE) oesophagectomies were performed for oesophageal carcinoma. Sixty-day surgical, oncological and postoperative outcomes were examined between the two groups. RESULTS: Groups had similar demographics in terms of age, gender, tumour histology, clinical stage, preoperative comorbidities and neoadjuvant therapy. No difference was found with respect to adequacy of oncological resections. The median number of lymph nodes retrieved (OIE: 21, inter-quartile range (IQR): (16, 27) versus MIE: 19, IQR: (15, 28)), resection margins (OIE: 6.6% positive versus MIE: no positive margins) and 60-day mortality (OIE: 2.6% versus MIE: no deaths) were comparable. However, rates of pulmonary complications were significantly lower in the MIE group (OIE: 43.4 versus MIE: 2.6%, P< 0.001). Additionally, the median length of ICU and hospital stay, intraoperative blood loss and amount of intravenous fluids infused intraoperatively were also significantly decreased with MIE, while median operative times and the requirement for intraoperative blood transfusion were not significantly different between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified MIE as the only variable associated with a significant reduction in the rate of pulmonary complications in our study, while pre-existing pulmonary comborbidity was associated with an increased risk of pulmonary complications. CONCLUSIONS: Open and MIE appear equivalent with regard to early oncological outcomes. A minimally invasive approach, however, appears to lead to a significant reduction in the rate of postoperative pulmonary complications. Length of ICU and hospital stay, as well as intraoperative blood loss and intravenous fluid requirements are also reduced in the setting of MIE. Long-term survival data will need to be followed closely. A large, multi-centred, randomized, controlled trial is warranted to confirm these results.
A HORMONE EFFECTING IMMOBILIZATION IN PUPARIATING FLY LARVAE

The haemolymph of 1-2 h old (orange) puparia of Sarcophaga bullata contains a factor (PIF) which immobilizes mature fly larvae, most strongly 6–24 h before pupariation. It has all the properties of a protein: a mol. wt. of between 100 000 and 300 000 daltons, it is heat labile, non-dialysable, destroyed by trypsin, and precipitated by NH4SO4. It is possibly identical with the anterior retraction factor (ARF) because the activity of both always went hand in hand. Its action seems to be unspecific in cyclorrhaphous flies. Much about PIF has been learned from studying changes in internal haemolymph pressure of larvae injected with PIF before and during pupariation. Its function is probably to shut off muscular activity after the puparium is completed. It may also function in very small dosages at the beginning of pupariation when the activity of the larvae decreases.
Complex-frequency shifted PML for high-order solution methods

A novel stretched-coordinate form of the CFS-PML has been introduced based on the introduction of auxiliary terms that satisfy distinct auxiliary differential equations (ADE). The formulation provides a more general form for representing the CFS-PML for time-dependent solutions of Maxwell's equations. It is found that the method is equal in effectiveness and efficiency as the CPML for FDTD simulations, and provides an efficient foundation for high-order time-dependent solutions of Maxwell's equations.
THE METAPHORICAL DIMENSION IN DESCRIPTIVE LANGUAGE

This study investigates the underlying dimensions of figurativeness and literalness in descriptive language. While theoretic models argue for a continuous relationship between figurative and literal language, empirical research tends to treat these categories as dichotomous. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical clustering analyses were applied to data provided by a free sort task. Results suggest that the figurative/literal dimension of language is not dichotomous; rather, the dimension appears to be continuous as theoretic models suggest. Further, the literal/figurative dimension does not appear to be a salient dimension in terms of decoders' processes for handling a variety of descriptive terms.
Successful bilateral pudendal neuromodulation to treat male detrusor areflexia following severe pubic symphysis fracture, a case report.

A Drum Dock Manager in an auto manufacturing company suffers a pelvic fracture, severing the bulbar urethra and completely fracturing the right side of his pelvis. He is unable to void without catheterization but has a complete sensation to void. Can neuromodulation help him achieve spontaneous voiding? We reviewed the electronic medical record of Mr. M.E. from Detroit Medical Center following his 2012 forklift accident and subsequent orthopedic surgeries. He successfully underwent bilateral sacral neuromodulation, with a resulting max flow of 16.8 mls/sec and post-void residual urine of 50–100 mls. Unfortunately, he later presented with bilateral pocket and sacral lead infection, and both systems had to be removed. Six weeks later, M.E. had bilateral pudendal neurostimulation placement to avoid the previously infected areas. Max flow improved to 14.5 mls/sec and 0–50 mls residual urine. However, urodynamics proved that his Pdet at max flow was in excess of 120 cm of H20 pressure while he had been on finesteride and tamsulosin for the preceding five years for the management of his documented benign prostate hyperplasia symptoms. He underwent Green light laser transurethral resection of the prostate and had max flow improvement to 22.5 mls/second with zero residual urine with multiple straight catheterization confirmations. Sacral neuromodulation may successfully correct traumatic urinary retention in male patients. Additionally, pudendal neuromodulation can be successfully utilized as a salvage method for an infected sacral neuromodulation impulse generator (IPG) and tined lead with a return to proper voiding.
Independent yields of 82Br, 86Rb, 136Cs and 150Pm in spontaneous fission of 252Cf

Independent fission yields in the spontaneous fission of 252Cf were determined by radiochemical techniques for the shielded nuclides 82Br, 86Rb, 136Cs and 150Pm. They were found to be < 3·7 × 10−6 per cent, 5·4 × 10−6 per cent, 2·2 × 10−2 per cent and 2·0 × 10−2 per cent, respectively. The corresponding fractional chain yields lead to empirical Zp (most probable charge) values which are in good agreement with Zp values determined by physical methods (K X-rays).
Disk striping

Just like parallel processing elements can substantially speed up computationally intensive tasks, concurrent transfer of data in and out of memory can speed up data intensive tasks. In this paper we study one general purpose facility for achieving parallel data motion: disk striping. A group of disks is striped if each data block is multiplexed across all the disks. Since each subblock is in a different device, input and output can proceed in parallel. With the help of an analytical model, we investigate the effect of striping on disk service times and its advantages and limitations in one of a set representative applications, file processing. We also explore several possible enhancements to striping: immediate reading, ordered blocks, and matched disks.
Apical Left Ventriculotomy is Safe in Infants and Young Children Requiring Cardiac Surgery

Objectives: Incisions in the left ventricle have previously been associated with increased mortality and morbidity, particularly in infants. In order to determine whether this assumption is still t...
[Postoperative opacification of posterior chamber intraocular lenses - a review]

Postoperative opacification of intraocular lenses (IOLs) is a very unpleasant complication for the ophthalmic surgeon and the patient. We report on our experiences with opacification of different foldable IOL designs and rigid poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) posterior chamber lenses.1. Snowflake degeneration of PMMA IOLs: This condition is an unanticipated and surprising late postoperative finding 8 to 15 years after implantation. In our opinion, this complication is probably not related to the PMMA biomaterial itself, but rather it appears to represent a manufacturing problem that has affected a selected, albeit large number of lenses manufactured in the 1980s-mid 1990s.2. Degeneration of UV absorber material and calcium deposits within the optic of hydrophilic IOLs: Two years postoperatively degenerations of UV absorber material and calcium deposits within the optic of single piece hydrophilic acrylic lenses SC60B-OUV manufactured by MDR (Medical developmental research Inc. Clearwater FL, USA) can occur. Although the precise mechanism is not fully known, it was assumed that these opacifications are due to premature aging of the UV blocking agent incorporated in the lens biomaterial and calcification.3. Calcification on the surface of the Bausch & Lomb Hydroviewtrade mark IOLs: Twelve to 15 months postoperatively granular surface calcifications in Hydroviewtrade mark IOLs occured. The mechanism is not fully understood. According to Bausch and Lomb studies, part of the components of the packaging contained silicone, which may have come off the packaging onto the lens optic, where it then appears to be a catalyst for calcium precipitation. The manufacturer has correlated a change in packaging with the appearance of the opacification. The manufacturer now believes that this problem has been solved. However, final verification will require a careful 1 - 2 years clinical study.4. Glistenings in the hydrophobic acrylic AcrySoftrade mark IOLs: The time frame of glistenings in the AcrySoftrade mark IOLs is highly variable. It has been suggested that the occurrence of glistenings may be related to variations in the temperature of the lens just prior to and or during insertion into the eye. Formation of vacuoles may occur within the submersed acrylic polymer when there is a transient increase and then decrease in temperature during the surgical procedure. "Glistenings" may then subsequently form by ingress of anterior chamber fluid. Contrast sensitivity can been decreased in some patients, but clinically significant decrease of visual acuity has been rare.
Heat Accumulation for Timing Lygus Control Measures in a Safflower-Cotton Complex

Lygus bugs, Lygus hesperus Knight and L. elisus Van Duzee, are major pests of cotton in the San Joaquin Valley, California. A simple method of heat accumulation is described which utilizes only daily maximum and minimum temperatures. The procedure is used to predict the time when 50–70% of the lygus bug nymph population in safflower is in the 3rd–5th stages. This critical stage is reached upon accumulating ca. 16,000 degree days, beginning Apr. 1 and using 52°F (11.1°C) as a developmental threshold. This enables growers to apply a single areawide insecticide treatment to their safflower fields before the Lygus begin to disperse to other crops. This treatment largely eliminates the Lygus threat to cotton on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley.
Research on the noise characteristics of typical communication frequency in low-voltage power line communication

The low-voltage power line noise acquisition equipment was used to collect noise data in three power environments including the student dormitory,teaching experimentation area and residential area,processing to get 10 ~ 500 kHz noise power spectrum was gotten variation tendency of the power line noise amplitude with typical communication frequency and different periods were analyzed. The results showed that: noise amplitude will decrease with the increase of the frequency; Low-frequency noise has a greater impact on the power line; During power peak periods,noise amplitude will fluctuate 10 ~ 35 dBμV. Therefore,as far as noise level,the America standard carrier frequency band of 100 ~ 450 kHz was more suitable for power line carrier communication than the European standard carrier frequency band of 3 ~ 148. 5 kHz.
Development of CODEHOP RT-PCR to detect Flavivirus

Objective To develop a rapid method of detecting Flavivirus by RT-PCR using consensus-degenerate hybrid oligonucleotide primers(CODEHOPs). Methods In accordance with the amino acid sequences of polyproteins of different flaviviruses in GenBank,apair of primers was designed using CODEHOP,and then CODEHOP RT-PCR was developed to rapidly detect all types of flaviviruses.The specificity and sensitivity of this technique were evaluated using 3 different virus strains. Results CODEHOP RT-PCR specifically amplified flavivirus.The size of the target fragment and the sequence coincided with the anticipated result(400-500bp).The minimum detection of flavivirus RNA was 8pg. Conclusion CODEHOP RT-PCR has the advantages of a high specificity and sensitivity and can be used to detect flaviviruses.
Indoxacarb biotransformation in the German cockroach

Insecticides that are used for pest control undergo physical and biological (enzymatic) degradation. Indoxacarb is an oxadiazine class sodium channel blocker insecticide used for German cockroach (Blattella germanica L.) control. At present, no information is available on enzymatic biotransformation or metabolism of indoxacarb in this important urban pest. We studied the biotransformation pathways of indoxacarb in one susceptible and three field strains with varying susceptibility levels using liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry. As shown in other insect species we found evidence for hydrolase-based bioactivation of indoxacarb to a toxic decarbomethoxylated metabolite, DCJW. In addition, both indoxacarb and DCJW were further metabolized to hydroxy, oxadiazine ring-opened and hydroxylated ring-opened metabolites. In general, higher indoxacarb disappearance, increased formation of DCJW and the above-mentioned metabolites were observed in the three field strains. In vitro biotransformation studies showed that hydroxylated and oxadiazine ring-opened metabolite formation is NADPH/cytochrome P450-dependent. Bioassays and in vivo metabolism experiments using the enzyme-inhibiting insecticide synergists, piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and S,S,S,-tributyl phosphorotrithioate (DEF), provided insights into potential indoxacarb resistance mechanisms that may proliferate in German cockroach field strains following unchecked selection pressures. The information presented here is an essential step toward developing indoxacarb resistance management programs and also reveals mechanisms of secondary/tertiary indoxacarb toxicity.
Thioredoxin Redox Status Assessment During Embryonic Development: The Redox Western

Oxidative stress can contribute significantly to the mechanisms that cause teratogenesis and embryotoxicity, but cellular antioxidant defense systems have evolved to counteract the detrimental consequences of oxidative insult. Numerous antioxidant systems exist in developing organisms but have been shown to be dynamically expressed and may only become functional during specific periods of development. Thioredoxins (Trxs) are a class of low-molecular-weight oxidoreductase antioxidants that play an important role in reactive oxygen species detoxification and transcription factor regulation, both of which are critical to normal development. In this chapter, we describe a method by which cytosolic thioredoxin-1 (Trx1) and mitochondrial thioredoxin-2 (Trx2) redox status can be measured. In brief, derivatization of reduced Trx at the active site cysteine thiols using a large maleimide derivative, targeting the redox-sensitive residues making the protein larger. Nonreducing SDS-PAGE is performed to separate reduced (labeled) and oxidized (unlabeled) Trx based on their size. Band densitometries can be measured and used in the Nernst equation to calculate redox potentials. These approaches provide a means to evaluate this unique redox couple during development and allow for the measurement of compartmentalized (mitochondrial vs. cytosolic) oxidation during chemical insult.
Indexing the income tax code, monetary/fiscal interaction, and the great moderation

Abstract This paper considers the consequences of automatically indexing the US federal income tax code to inflation. Indexation, implemented during the 1981 federal tax overhaul, and active monetary policy constitute necessary conditions for a unique rational expectations equilibrium in standard New Keynesian models with a generalized, progressive labor income tax. Additionally, fixing the monetary regime shows that indexation reduces overall volatility in the model as well as the contribution of supply-side disturbances. Together, these results support a fiscal extension to the “good policy” hypothesis of the Great Moderation and encourage further indexation of the United States tax code.
Tracking the origins, defi ning and quantifying quality of care: Can we reach a consensus?

This editorial presents a summary of the narrative used in teaching fundamentals of quality management in healthcare to medical students and health professionals with limited or negative prior experience in the fi eld of quality monitoring and improvement – i.e. those who fi nd the topic dry and disconnected from their everyday clinical experience, lacking in human dimension, and confusing due to the multitude of de fi nitions of quality of care and the considerable inconsistency of the terminology used in quality assessment. In order to remedy the problem, the topic is presented through an historical perspective of the concept of quality as seen throughout the ages - beginning in antiquity, through 19 th and early 20 th century quality control initiatives which evolved into the quality management policies and culture now fi rmly present in many of the contemporary domains of human endeavor. It is also envisioned that specifi c tools developed in this study for didactic purposes (a new defi nition of quality of care and a framework for classifying quality indicators) may play a role in encouraging a more effective dialog among all those passionate about the issue of healthcare quality monitoring, assessment, and improvement.
Management of Uterine Fibroids: A Focus on Uterine-sparing Interventional Techniques

Uterine fibroids occur in approximately 50% of women over the age of 40 years, and an estimated 50% of those are symptomatic. Menorrhagia is the most common symptom and the primary indication for treatment, although bulk symptoms often occur and can be treated. Pharmacotherapy is typically inadequate unless it can be expected to successfully bridge to menopause or allow for a less-invasive intervention. However, hormonal therapies have risks. Hysterectomy is still the most commonly performed procedure for symptomatic fibroids and has the lowest rate of reintervention (compared with myomectomy or uterine artery embolization [UAE]), but rates of more serious complications are higher and patient satisfaction and ability to return to normal activities may also be less favorable. Myomectomy is not necessarily less morbid than hysterectomy and may have a greater failure rate than UAE. Techniques and devices vary with little standardization, and operator experience is crucial to success. The largest studies of UAE show very low rates of serious complications and rapid recovery. UAE significantly improves symptoms related to uterine fibroids in 85%-90% of patients. Herein, this article will discuss the nature of fibroids and their diagnosis, pharmacotherapy, surgical treatment, and nonsurgical interventional treatment, including UAE and magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound. (©) RSNA, 2016.
Recent advances in the detection of specific natural organic compounds as carriers for radionuclides in soil and water environments, with examples of radioiodine and plutonium

Abstract Among the key environmental factors influencing the fate and transport of radionuclides in the environment is natural organic matter (NOM). While this has been known for decades, there still remains great uncertainty in predicting NOM-radionuclide interactions because of lack of understanding of radionuclide interactions with the specific organic moieties within NOM. Furthermore, radionuclide-NOM studies conducted using modelled organic compounds or elevated radionuclide concentrations provide compromised information related to true environmental conditions. Thus, sensitive techniques are required not only for the detection of radionuclides, and their different species, at ambient and/or far-field concentrations, but also for potential trace organic compounds that are chemically binding these radionuclides. GC-MS and AMS techniques developed in our lab are reviewed here that aim to assess how two radionuclides, iodine and plutonium, form strong bonds with NOM by entirely different mechanisms; iodine tends to bind to aromatic functionalities, whereas plutonium binds to N-containing hydroxamate siderophores at ambient concentrations. While low-level measurements are a prerequisite for assessing iodine and plutonium migration at nuclear waste sites and as environmental tracers, it is necessary to determine their in-situ speciation, which ultimately controls their mobility and transport in natural environments. More importantly, advanced molecular-level instrumentation (e.g., nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance coupled with electrospray ionization (ESI-FTICRMS) were applied to resolve either directly or indirectly the molecular environments in which the radionuclides are associated with the NOM.
Assessing Algorithmic and Computational Thinking in K-12: Lessons from a Middle School Classroom

As educators move to introduce computing in K-12 classrooms, the issue of assessing student learning of computational concepts, especially in the context of introductory programming, remains a challenge. Assessments are central if the goal is to help students develop deeper, transferable computational thinking (CT) skills that prepare them for success in future computing experiences. This chapter argues for the need for multiple measures or “systems of assessments” that are complementary, attend to cognitive and noncognitive aspects of learning CT, and contribute to a comprehensive picture of student learning. It describes the multiple forms of assessments designed and empirically studied in Foundations for Advancing Computational Thinking, a middle school introductory computing curriculum. These include directed and open-ended programming assignments in Scratch, multiple-choice formative assessments, artifact-based interviews, and summative assessments to measure student learning of algorithmic constructs. The design of unique “preparation for future learning” assessments to measure transfer of CT from block-based to text-based code snippets is also described.
Regulation of the activity of the promoter of RNA‐induced silencing, C3PO

RNA-induced silencing is a process which allows cells to regulate the synthesis of specific proteins. RNA silencing is promoted by the protein C3PO (component 3 of RISC). We have previously found that phospholipase Cβ, which increases intracellular calcium levels in response to specific G protein signals, inhibits C3PO activity towards certain genes. Understanding the parameters that control C3PO activity and which genes are impacted by G protein activation would help predict which genes are more vulnerable to downregulation. Here, using a library of 1018 oligonucleotides, we show that C3PO binds oligonucleotides with structural specificity but little sequence specificity. Alternately, C3PO hydrolyzes oligonucleotides with a rate that is sensitive to substrate stability. Importantly, we find that oligonucleotides with higher Tm values are inhibited by bound PLCβ. This finding is supported by microarray analysis in cells over-expressing PLCβ1. Taken together, this study allows predictions of the genes whose post-transcriptional regulation is responsive to the G protein/phospholipase Cβ/calcium signaling pathway.
Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization as Treatment for Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND Traditional treatment for symptomatic subdural hematoma (SDH) has been surgical evacuation, but recurrence rates are high and patients often harbor complex medical comorbidities. Growth and recurrence is thought to be due to the highly friable nature of the vascularized membrane that forms after initial injury. There have been reported cases of middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization for treatment of recurrent SDH after surgical evacuation with the goal of eliminating the arterial supply to this vascularized membrane. OBJECTIVE To present the first known case series of MMA embolization as upfront treatment for symptomatic chronic SDHs that have failed conservative management in lieu of surgical evacuation. METHODS Five patients with symptomatic chronic SDHs underwent MMA embolization using PVA microparticles at our institution. Size of SDH was recorded in maximum diameter and total volume. RESULTS Four patients underwent unilateral and 1 underwent bilateral MMA embolization successfully. All cases had significant reduction in total volume of SDH at longest follow-up scan: 81.4 to 13.8 cc (7 wk), 48.5 to 8.7 cc (3 wk), 31.7 and 88 to 0 and 17 cc (14 wk, bilateral), 79.3 to 24.2 cc (8 wk), and 53.5 to 0 cc (6 wk). All patients had symptomatic relief with no complications. Histologic analysis of the chronic SDH membrane in a separate patient that required surgery revealed rich neovascularization with many capillaries and few small arterioles. CONCLUSION MMA embolization could present a minimally invasive and low-risk initial treatment alternative to surgery for symptomatic chronic SDH when clinically appropriate.
A folded wireless network-on-chip using graphene based THz-band antennas

1 Long distance data communication over multi-hop wireline paths in conventional Network-on-Chips (NoCs) cause high-energy consumption and degradation in performance. Many emerging interconnect technologies such as 3D integration, photonic, Radio Frequency (RF), and wireless interconnects have been envisioned to alleviate the issues of a metal/dielectric interconnect system. To satisfy the increasing demand for high speed and low power interconnects, THz Wireless NoC (WiNoC) enabled with high-speed direct links between distant cores is desired. In this paper, we present an innovative approach to enable a THz WiNoC with low power wireless devices operating in the THz bands such as graphene based antennas. The novelty of this work is that we propose a torus like folding by using THz band links instead of global wires. With cycle accurate system-level simulations, we demonstrate that they are able to provide significant gains in performance and energy-efficiency in on-chip data transfer in NoC based multicore chips.
Enterprise 2.0 Management and Social Issues

The nature of the enterprise and working is rapidly changing. Recognizing the enabling competitive advantage of new social and participative technologies will transform the enterprise. Web 2.0 is the foundation of the new Enterprise 2.0. By accessing the right information at the right time, Enterprise 2.0, through a web of interconnected applications, services, and devices, provides capabilities for employees to be more competitive and productive and for customers to be more engaged and loyal. Enterprise 2.0 CIO management issues include unauthorized use of enterprise services and technologies, the integration of a myriad of technologies, and potential compliance and security implications. This paper describes an ongoing case study evaluating a conceptual framework exploring relationships among three Enterprise 2.0 dimensions: technology tools and capabilities, employee and customer applications, and how user-generated content leads to business value. It is expected that this qualitative study will also identify new IT culture and policies.
Promoting Cultural Responsivity and Student Engagement through Double Check Coaching of Classroom Teachers: An Efficacy Study.

Abstract This article presents findings from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) testing the impact of a novel coaching approach utilized as one element of the Double Check cultural responsivity and student engagement model. The RCT included 158 elementary and middle school teachers randomized to receive coaching or serve as comparisons; all participating teachers were exposed to school-wide professional development activities. Pre–post nonexperimental comparisons indicated improvements in self-reported culturally responsive behavior management and self-efficacy for teachers in both conditions following professional development exposure. With regard to the experimental findings, trained observers recorded significantly more proactive behavior management and anticipation of student problems by teachers, higher student cooperation, less student noncooperation, and fewer disruptive behaviors in classrooms led by coached teachers relative to comparison teachers. Taken together, the findings suggest the potent...
How to feed the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) gastrointestinal tract

Rabbits are found in virtually every country in the world, providing protein, fiber, animal research, and companionship (third to dogs and cats). Because of an ability to utilize low-grain and high- roughage diets, they have the potential to be a future protein source. Classified as an herbivorous nonrumi- nant, rabbits have a simple, noncompartmentalized stomach along with an enlarged cecum and colon inhab- ited by a microbial population (primarily Bacteroides). Rabbits practice coprophagy, which enhances strate- gies of high feed intake (65 to 80 g/kg BW) and fast feed transit time (19 h), allowing rabbits to meet nutritional requirements. Coprophagy also increases protein di- gestibility (50 vs 75-80% for alfalfa). Feces are excreted on a circadian rhythm, and data indicate that the inter- nal cycle differs when shifting from ad libitum to re- stricted feeding. Microbes digest cellulose (14% in rab- bits vs 44% in cattle) in the hindgut of the rabbit, but the contribution of amino acids from microbial protein is thought to be minimal. Lysine and methionine may be limited in traditional diets, and urea is not utilized. Acetate is the primary microbial VFA, with more buty- rate than propionate. Unlike ruminants, more VFA are
Stigma, Stereotypes and Resilience Identities: The Relationship Between Identity Processes and Resilience Processes Among Black American Adolescents

In the United States, the experience of race—as a social construction—is an important cultural context to be considered in understanding resilience among black children and youth. Their normative developmental changes and challenges are complicated by their experiences as members of a socially constructed racial group and the associated racial disparities in social and economic outcomes (e.g., education, employment, wealth, standards of beauty and attractiveness, etc.). These disparities are the result of longstanding, collective racialized socio-historical experiences of blacks in the United States. Collectively, their individual, family and community-level ways of “making meaning” of, and responding to, these experiences reflect various manifestations of adaptive culture—consistent, patterned and collective responses to these group-level race-based challenges. As a critical developmental and protective mechanism, intergenerational racial-ethnic socialization can influence the behaviors and identity orientations of children and youth. Using Spencer’s Phenomenological Variant of Ecological Systems Theory, the authors explore existing literature to determine how one of Ungar et al.’s Seven Tensions—identity—is shaped by American race-based societal constructions and the racial-ethnic socialization of black children and youth in the United States.
Challenges to the Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases in the Next Decade

A priority list of the major challenges in human infectious disease epidemiology for the next decade is presented in Table 8.1. The discussion in this chapter of the major items on this list is derived from several recent papers and presentations (Evans, 1985b, 1987, 1989d, 1990; Evans and Brachman, 1986; Shope and Evans, 1989).
An empirical comparison of K-SVD and GMRA for dictionary learning

The topic of constructing data-dependent dictionaries, referred to as dictionary learning, has received considerable interest in the past decade. In this work, we compare the ability of two dictionary learning algorithms, K-SVD and geometric multi-resolution analysis (GMRA), to perform image reconstruction using a fixed number of coefficients. K-SVD is an algorithm originating from the compressive sensing community and relies on optimization techniques. GMRA is a multi-scale technique that is based on manifold approximation of highdimensional point clouds of data. The empirical results of this work using a synthetic dataset of images of vehicles with diversity in viewpoint and lighting show that the K-SVD algorithm exhibits better generalization reconstruction performance with respect to test images containing lighting diversity that were not present in the construction of the dictionary, while GMRA exhibits superior reconstruction on the training data.