cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rationally designed nucleoside antibiotics that inhibit siderophore biosynthesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

A rationally designed nucleoside inhibitor of Mycobacterium tuberculosis growth (MIC99 = 0.19 μM) that disrupts siderophore biosynthesis was identified. The activity is due to inhibition of the adenylate-forming enzyme MbtA which is involved in biosynthesis of the mycobactins.
Collection of genomic DNA by the noninvasive mouthwash method for use in pharmacogenetic studies.

Study Objective. To determine long-term stability, quantity, and quality of genomic DNA samples collected in buccal cells by the mouthwash method, for use in pharmacogenetic studies. Design. Prospective analysis. Setting. University pharmacogenomics center in Florida and medical centers in Puerto Rico and the United States participating in a multicenter international trial. Subjects. Ten volunteers at the pharmacogenomics center and 201 participants in the ongoing multicenter clinical trial. Intervention. Stability of genomic DNA was determined by measuring DNA yield from mouthwash samples obtained from six volunteers and stored at room temperature over 90 days and from 201 clinical trial samples that were stored and shipped at room temperature. Whether DNA yield was higher with three 5–ml mouthwash rinses versus one 10–ml rinse was evaluated in four volunteers. Quality of genomic DNA was assessed on 32 randomly selected samples from the six volunteers in the stability study, by determining the success rate of DNA amplification with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and by genotyping. Measurements and Main Results. For the stability studies, the quantity of genomic DNA decreased over time with storage at room temperature (overall p<0.01), with the largest declines occurring at 60 and 90 days. Median DNA recovery at 30 and 90 days was 59% and 28% of that at baseline, respectively. Mean ± standard deviation, median, and range for recovery of genomic DNA from the 201 samples were 45.2 ± 55 μg, 25.2 μg, and 1–330 μg, respectively. Median recoveries of DNA from the one-rinse and three-rinse methods were not statistically significantly different (9.1 vs 10.5 μg). All samples were amplified successfully by PCR and genotyped, indicating quality of the DNA samples. Conclusion. The mouthwash method for collection of genomic DNA is a simple, inexpensive, and noninvasive method that poses less risk than venipuncture and may be used in a variety of settings. Genomic DNA in mouthwash is stable for prolonged periods at room temperature, and the quantity of DNA recovered from this method is more than sufficient for pharmacogenetic studies. Such an approach should be valuable to pharmacogenetic researchers and others who are conducting genetic research.
Employment Among Social Security Disability Program Beneficiaries, 1996–2007

We use linked administrative data from program and earnings records to summarize the 2007 employment rates of Social Security disability program beneficiaries at the national and state levels, as well as changes in employment since 1996. The findings provide new information on the employment activities of beneficiaries that should be useful in assessing current agency policies and providing benchmarks for ongoing demonstration projects and future return-to-work initiatives. The overall employment rate — which we define as annual earnings over $1,000 — was 12 percent in 2007. Substantial variation exists within the population. Disability Insurance beneficiaries and those younger than age 40 were much more likely to work relative to other Social Security beneficiaries. Additionally, substantial regional variation exists across states; employment rates ranged from 7 percent (West Virginia) to 23 percent (North Dakota). Moreover, we find that the employment rates among beneficiaries were sensitive to the business cycle and persistent over time.
Resource allocation scheme for QoS provisioning in microcellular networks carrying multimedia traffic

We propose a new resource allocation scheme based on the concept of resource reservation and resource renegotiation. The new scheme is aimed at improving performance with regard to new call blocking rate, handoff dropping rate, forced call termination rate, and average bandwidth use. We compare our scheme with other schemes. The performance is evaluated by using simulation. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The ``Braid'' Transformer Memory

This report describes a read-only digital computer memory which utilizes a loom to ``braid'' information into a wire harness. The memory is called a braid memory and is a variation on the type of transformer memory first described by T. L. Dimond. Such memories are useful when permanence of information is desirable. Braids for the memory described in this report were made at the rate of 213 bits/hour including connections. The use of a loom makes braid manufacture both a fast and an economical process. A number of trade-offs between speed, capacity, and component count exist; hence, braid memories with many different characteristics can be made. The memory described in this report has a capacity of 16 384 words of 16 bits each.
DESIGN FOR VARIETY: A METHODOLOGY FOR DEVELOPING PRODUCT PLATFORM ARCHITECTURES

Developing a robust, product platform architecture brings an important competitive advantage to a company. The major benefit is reduced design effort and time-to-market for future generations of the product. This paper describes a step-by-step method that aids companies in developing such a product platform architecture. Using the concept of specification "flows" within a product development project, the design for variety (DFV) method develops two indices to measure a product's architecture. The first index is the Generational Variety Index (GVI), a measure for the amount of redesign effort required for future designs of the product. The second index is the Coupling Index (CI), a measure of the coupling among the product components. The design team uses these two indices to develop a decoupled architecture that requires less design effort for follow-on products.
Stem cell transplant: an effective salvage therapy for multiple myeloma

In this issue of Leukemia and Lymphoma, Fenk and colleagues describe the use of a second stem cell transplant for salvage therapy of multiple myeloma in 55 patients. Treatment-related mortality wit...
Prioritizing conservation potential of arid-land montane natural springs and associated riparian areas

Using inventory data and input from natural resource professionals, we developed a classification system that categorizes conservation potential for montane natural springs. This system contains 18 classes based on the presence of a riparian patch, wetland species, surface water, and evidence of human activity. We measured physical and biological components of 276 montane springs in the Oscura Mountains above 1450 m and the San Andres Mountains above 1300 m in southern New Mexico. Two of the 18 classes were not represented during the inventory, indicating the system applies to conditions beyond the montane springs in our study area. The class type observed most often (73 springs) had a riparian patch, perennial surface water, and human evidence. We assessed our system in relation to 13 other wetland and riparian classification systems regarding approach, area of applicability, intended users, validation, ease of use, and examination of system response. Our classification can be used to rapidly assess priority of conservation potential for isolated riparian sites, especially springs, in arid landscapes. We recommend (1) including this classification in conservation planning, (2) removing deleterious structures from high-priority sites, and (3) assessing efficiency and use of this classification scheme elsewhere.
Inhibition of MEK/ERK1/2 sensitizes lymphoma cells to sorafenib-induced apoptosis

Interactions between the multi-kinase inhibitor sorafenib and MEK1/2 inhibitors were investigated in DLBCL cells. Sorafenib (3-10 microM) triggered apoptosis in multiple GC and ABC lymphoma cells. Unexpectedly, sorafenib did not cause sustained ERK1/2 inactivation, and in SUDHL-6 and -16 cells, triggered ERK1/2 activation. Marginally toxic MEK1/2 inhibitor concentrations (5 microM PD184352) abrogated ERK1/2 activation in sorafenib-treated cells and synergistically potentiated apoptosis. MEK1 shRNA transfection also significantly increased sorafenib-mediated lethality. Sorafenib/PD184352 co-administration accelerated Mcl-1 down-regulation without up-regulating Bim(EL). Finally, ectopic Mcl-1 expression attenuated sorafenib/PD184352-mediated apoptosis. Together, these findings provide a theoretical basis for potentiating sorafenib anti-lymphoma activity by MEK1/2 inhibitors.
A comparative study of extensible routers

Motivated by the demand for routers with new capabilities, researchers have been building extensible routers that aid in the design and development of network protocols and services. This paper evaluates and compares three such systems: (1) Princeton's Scout-based Extensible Router, (2) MIT's Click router, and (3) Washington University's Router Plugins. To provide a framework in which these three systems can be studied, the paper also presents a simple model of an extensible router based on four primitive objects: queues, classifiers, forwarders, and schedulers. By composing these primitive objects it is possible to model everything from a standard, best-effort IP router to an application-level proxy. The paper also briefly discusses the role that extensible routers play in the construction of active, programmable, and overlay networks.
Patients' perceptions of a pharmacist-managed weight management clinic in a community setting

Abstract Background There have been many studies demonstrating patients' willingness to pay for medication therapy management services provided by pharmacists. There are few studies, however, evaluating the possible provision of a weight management service in the community pharmacy setting. Objectives The objectives were to (1) determine patients' knowledge of obesity and its resultant health risks, (2) determine patients' beliefs about obesity, (3) determine interest in pharmacist-delivered weight management services, and (4) identify factors associated with knowledge, beliefs, and interest in obesity and/or weight management services. Methods One thousand patients were selected from 5 community pharmacies under a single chain located within a large metropolitan area to receive a mail survey. Survey items assessed patients' knowledge of obesity and the health risks associated with it by using the Obesity Risks Knowledge Scale and the Obesity Beliefs Scale. Additional survey questions were added to measure patients' willingness to pay for a pharmacist-managed weight management clinic. Descriptive statistics and linear regression models were used in analysis of the data. Results Nearly two-thirds (62%) of respondents were classified as overweight or obese based on self-reported height and weight. Most of the respondents demonstrated an average level knowledge regarding the health risks associated with obesity. Attitudes toward obesity were commensurate with prevailing knowledge. Only a small proportion (13%) of respondents were willing to pay out of pocket for a pharmacist-delivered weight management service. Very little variance in knowledge, beliefs, or interest in pharmacist-delivered weight management services were identified. Conclusions Despite the fact that patients are aware of the health risks associated with obesity and believe it is healthier to maintain ideal body weight, most are not doing so. Additionally, most patients are not willing to pay for pharmacist-delivered weight management services. The findings can begin to assist pharmacists in developing strategies for implementation of weight management services.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in a cooperatively breeding corvid, the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos)

We describe 11 microsatellite loci isolated from the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), the most wide-spread cooperatively breeding bird in North America. Polymorphism at these loci ranged from four to 43 alleles, and observed heterozygosities from 0.53 to 0.92. Genetic parentage analyses using these markers will allow us to describe the mating system of this common but socially complex species, and to interpret their behavioural interactions in light of relatedness.
Very fast empirical prediction and rationalization of protein pKa values

A very fast empirical method is presented for structure-based protein pKa prediction and rationalization. The desolvation effects and intra-protein interactions, which cause variations in pKa values of protein ionizable groups, are empirically related to the positions and chemical nature of the groups proximate to the pKa sites. A computer program is written to automatically predict pKa values based on these empirical relationships within a couple of seconds. Unusual pKa values at buried active sites, which are among the most interesting protein pKa values, are predicted very well with the empirical method. A test on 233 carboxyl, 12 cysteine, 45 histidine, and 24 lysine pKa values in various proteins shows a root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) of 0.89 from experimental values. Removal of the 29 pKa values that are upper or lower limits results in an RMSD = 0.79 for the remaining 285 pKa values.
Prediction of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation by analysis of atrial premature complexes

Currently, no reliable method exists to predict the onset of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). We propose a predictor that includes an analysis of the R-R time series. The predictor uses three criteria: the number of premature atrial complexes (PAC) not followed by a regular R-R interval, runs of atrial bigeminy and trigeminy, and the length of any short run of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia. An increase in activity detected by any of these three criteria is an indication of an imminent episode of PAF. Using the Physionet database of the Computers in Cardiology 2001 Challenge, the predictor achieved a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 91%.
Toward a Theory of Practice

This paper suggests a rationale and strategy for developing a research-based body of theory, indigenous to adult education and of practical utility to practitioners in program development, pro gram...
The Unfinished Business of Sexuality Comment on Andersen

Margaret L. Andersen provides an insightful overview of the development of feminist studies in sociology and a roadmap for the future. Using her impressive history as a feminist sociologist as a backdrop, she illustrates the inroads women and gender scholarship have made into mainstream sociology. However, as a junior gender/sexuality scholar and generational product of third-wave feminism, I raise three queries to Andersen’s conceptualization. I first argue that her framing of the current status of feminist sociology downplays the challenges newer gender and sexuality scholars still face—challenges that, unfortunately, are not dissimilar to those women faced in the past. Second, illustrating the continued tension between social construction and biological determinism, I question whether we can close the chapter on the early themes of feminist studies she lays out. Finally, while I agree with Andersen that the integration of the study of sexuality is crucial to the future of feminist sociology, I see her hesitation to award sexuality similar analytic status to race, class, and gender as deeply problematic. Rather than engaging in generational boundary guarding that separates “serious” research on the political economy of sexuality from seemingly less weighty research on communities and identities, I suggest we recognize how these forms of research—and the diversity that comes from mixing the insights of feminist generations— work together to strengthen feminist sociology.
Solution to the Dirac equation in the field of a general spherically symmetric monopole

The Dirac equation in the field of a general spherically symmetric monopole that satisfies the Wilkinson-Goldhaber conditions is solved in the point limit, for fermions in arbitrary representations of the gauge group.
Social Enterprise Entity Comparison Chart

This chart provides a high-level comparison of the various types of business entities (e.g., corporations, LLCs, benefit corporations, L3Cs, etc.) that can be used for a social enterprise organization. The chart also provides an overview of the federal income tax aspects of each type of organization as well as citations (with hyperlinks) to the various state statutes.
A Visual Programming Environment for Designing User Interfaces

People have long used iconic representations to describe algorithms to other people; mechanical diagrams and procedural flowcharts are examples. But most computers require that algorithms be converted to linear strings of symbols in order to be executed, so algorithms written for computers have been restricted to symbolic representations. The current technology of personal graphics-based workstations will permit people to revert to a more natural visual or iconic mode to describe their algorithms to computers. While linear, symbolic computer languages have been studied and refined over the last 30 years, the challenge facing computer language designers today is to provide convenient and natural visual programming languages.
Trends in metastatic breast and prostate cancer - Lessons in cancer dynamics

Discordant trends in the incidence of metastatic breast and prostate cancer since the widespread implementation of early-detection efforts may reflect distinct disease dynamics or may result from the different screening strategies used.
High frequency pacing of edge localized modes by injection of lithium granules in DIII-D H-mode discharges

A newly installed Lithium Granule Injector (LGI) was used to pace edge localized modes (ELM) in DIII-D. ELM pacing efficiency was studied injecting lithium granules of nominal diameter 0.3–0.9 mm, speed of 50–120 m s−1 and average injection rates up to 100 Hz for 0.9 mm granules and up to 700 Hz for 0.3 mm granules. The efficiency of ELM triggering was found to depend strongly on size of the injected granules, with triggering efficiency close to 100% obtained with 0.9 mm diameter granules, lower with smaller sizes, and weakly depending on granule velocity. Robust ELM pacing was demonstrated in ITER-like plasmas for the entire shot length, at ELM frequencies 3–5 times larger than the 'natural' ELM frequency observed in reference discharges. Within the range of ELM frequencies obtained, the peak ELM heat flux at the outer strike point was reduced with increasing pacing frequency. The peak heat flux reduction at the inner strike point appears to saturate at high pacing frequency. Lithium was found in the plasma core, with a concurrent reduction of metallic impurities and carbon. Overall, high frequency ELM pacing using the lithium granule injection appears to be compatible with both H-mode energy confinement and attractive H-mode pedestal characteristics, but further assessment is needed to determine whether the projected heat flux reduction required for ITER can be met.
The effect of body orientation on judgments of human visual attention in western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla).

The ability to appreciate the attentional states of others is an important element used in discerning the presence of Theory of Mind in an individual. Whether primates are able to recognize attention, and further, use such information to predict behavior, remains contentious. In this study, six western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) were tested under different conditions that aimed to investigate not only their understanding of what a human experimenter sees, but also what information they use to make these judgments. In all experiments the gorillas selected between two human experimenters, one who could see them and one who could not. In Experiment 1 the gorillas’ performance was significantly above chance in conditions where they judged body orientation, head orientation, and eyes. Experiment 2 showed that the gorillas’ initial judgments of attention may be based on body orientation rather than facial cues. Experiment 3 demonstrated that the gorillas were better able to utilize facial cues in some conditions, when these cues were paired with a more neutral body orientation. These findings suggest that the gorillas are using a hierarchical approach to determining visual attention, by making an immediate decision based on the most salient cue— body orientation. However, when body orientation is more ambiguous their ability to judge the less prominent cues of the face and eyes does improve.
Studies of the Vertical Distribution of the Clover Root Borer in Roots of Red Clover in Relation to Progression of the Season

Red clover roots were sampled periodically from a first-harvest-year field, cut into ½-inch segments starting at the top of each root, and examined for numbers of the clover root borer, Hylastinus obscurus (Marsh.) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae). For the period June 12 to October 12, 1957, the seasonal average depths were: larvae, 0.76 inch; pupae, 0.84 inch; and adults, taken after the first callow individual appeared, 0.82 inch. The pooled average depth of these stages increased in a linear manner as the season progressed. Using head-capsule width as a criterion of size, the depth of larvae collected on August 22 was directly proportional to their size. Temperature appeared not to be a controlling factor for the depth at which the combined stages were found. In the absence of a temperature effect, maturity seemed to be the factor that had the greatest influence on the depth at which larvae were located.
Asymptotic Solutions for Electroosmotic Flow in Two-Dimensional Charged Micro- and Nano-Channels

In this work the electroosmotic flow in a rectangular channel such that the channel height is comparable to its width is examined. Much of the previous work on the electroosmotic flow in a channel has been for the case where the channel width is much greater than the channel height and the flow is essentially one-dimensional and depends only on channel height. We consider a mixture of water or another neutral solvent and a salt compound such as sodium chloride for which the ionic species are entirely dissociated; we consider solutions with two and three ionic species. Analytical results are produced for the case where the channel height is much greater than the electric double layer(EDL)(microchannel) using the Method of Matched Asymptotic expansions. Both symmetric and nonsymmetric velocity, potential and mole fraction distributions are considered, unlike previous work on this problem.
Hydrolysis of Hyaluronic Acid of Human Joint Fluid in vivo.

There is present in joint fluid a polysaccharide which Meyer1 had named hyaluronic acid. This polysaccharide is believed to be the substance which is responsible for the increased viscosity of synovial fluid. One may obtain a rough estimate of the amount of polysaccharide present in the joint fluid from the relative viscosity of the fluid. A specific enzyme which hydrolyzes this polysaccharide has been recovered from bacterial filtrates and from various animal organs.2 The enzyme has been shown to have many properties, similar to the spreading factor of Duran-Reynals.3, 4 The enzyme has been found to be active in vitro and so an attempt was made to determine its activity in vivo. In the experiments to be reported here the enzyme was injected directly into the joint space.Methods. Four patients were taken by chance as they were seen in the clinic or hospital. The enzyme was concentrated by Dr. Karl Meyer, who kindly furnished us with the material. It was derived from bulls' testes. An aqueous solution of t...
Osteoporosis--extent and cause of the disease.

Osteoporosis is a common disorder producing an estimated 1.3 million fractures a year in the United States (1). It is characterized by low bone mass and fractures of the hip, spine, distal radius, pelvis, and proximal humerus (2). Fractures of the vertebrae are probably the most common of this group (3), but may be relatively asymptomatic in many cases. However, these vertebral fractures do produce deformity and cause pain for some individuals and in 1984 accounted for over 160,000 physician office visits and over 5 million days of restricted activity (4). Fractures of the hip are the most costly from a public health standpoint. It was estimated in 1984 that over 240,000 occurred in the United States (5). This number will increase as the population ages, doubling or tripling by the year 2050. The cost was estimated at 7.3 billion dollars in 1984 (6) and continues to rise. Hip fracture is associated with a 5–20% reduction in expected survival and half of the victims are unable to walk independently afterwa...
GEOLOGY IN SHORELINE ENGINEERING AND ITS APPLICATION TO MASSACHUSETTS BEACH PROBLEMS

At the outset I wish to make it clear that I am presenting this subject as a geologist, and not as a coastal engineer. I stand only on the fringe of that area of engineering science, and it would be presumptuous of me to discuss techniques of shoreline engineering. On the other hand, analysis of geologic processes that have molded and are now molding the shoreline furnishes basic terrane data of importance in the solution of coastal problems. As a geologist, then, perhaps I may properly point out the pertinency of geology to these problems, and indicate the kinds of appropriate data that are within the province of the geologist to explore and interpret. More or less an observer on the sidelines, I have for some time been impressed by the intricacies of the problems involved in coastal engineering projects. Such engineering is, of course, highly scientific and technological. But it seems to me that it is also somewhat of an art, for it is strongly tempered by experience, and the success of a calculated solution to a problem is often anxiously awaited by the engineer when the project is completed. There seems to be less of the sliderule certainty that characterizes the planning and design of a bridge. Will the sea-wall, the jetty, or the offshore breakwater, for examples, accomplish the intended results? Sometimes they do not because of some unrealized factors. Such factors are often obscure geologic conditions - unrecognized because the geologic regimens along shores seem to be very delicately balanced with respect to several factors, and to be sensitive to even slight interferences, despite the massiveness of the natural forces that are at work. The geologic history of the coast, translated to the present, together with minutiae of existing geologic features may demonstrate such obscure factors. It behooves the engineer, therefore, to seek the offices of geologic sciences. Perhaps at this point I may be pardoned to related digression if - to employ the vernacular - I "get something off my chest".
Modeling and Simulation of Mechanic System

It introduces a common procession of modeling and simulation of mechanic system by a missile ejection mechanism.Using currently brief and practical model establishment software(SolidWorks),it builds the model of ejection mechanism and simulates with currently popular Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical System(ADAMS).Based on analysis of experimentation results and constantly revising,it finally gets the perfect physical prototype of ejection mechanism.
The straw swim-up: a simple method to evaluate the effects of additives, media, or toxicants on sperm motility *

We describe a new method for evaluating potential toxicants, spermicides, and motility enhancers. Cryopreservation straws filled with media plus additive are emersed below the surface of an unprocessed donor ejaculate. After incubation, the sperm found within the first 4 cm of the straw are expelled and analyzed. The effects of media containing glycerol and albumin were examined. Survivability and sperm migration into the media occur independently and can be differentiated in this assay. This method allows for the use of unprocessed semen and includes an evaluation of the semen and media interaction.
Evaluation of the CellTrak Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis System in comparison to the Cellsoft System to measure human sperm hyperactivation

Objective To measure and compare sperm hyperactivation (HA) and associated motility parameters using the CellTrak (Motion Analysis Corporation, Santa Rosa, CA) and Cellsoft (Cryo Resources, New York, NY) Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) Systems. The accuracy of the CellTrak system also was assessed by repeated measurements of the same sample. Setting A university-affiliated tertiary care center. Patients Normal healthy volunteers. Main Outcome Measures We assessed sperm motion parameters and HA. Results The measurements of percent spermatozoa with star and/or transitional pattern of HA showed high within-sample variations, especially in samples showing low levels of percent spermatozoa with HA. This was due to the comparatively low numbers of hyperactivated spermatozoa that were present and counted in a sample. Excellent agreement between the two systems was observed for all parameters except for measurements of curvilinear velocity, percent spermatozoa with star-spin hyperactivity, and percent spermatozoa with transitional hyperactivity. The difference might be due to CellTrak's higher level of accuracy in determining velocity. Conclusions The CellTrak system effectively measures human sperm HA provided adequate numbers of motile spermatozoa are analyzed. Although it suffers from the same limitations common to all CASA systems, it is more accurate than the Cellsoft system.
Leptin in the Anterior Piriform Cortex Affects Food Intake in Rats

Leptin administered intracerebroventricularly (ICV) or intrahypothalamically inhibits food intake (FI), however, to our knowledge the effects of leptin administration have only been examined in one extrahypothalamic site (dorsal raphe nucleus). Our objectives were t. (1) determine the FI effects of leptin administration into the anterior piriform cortex (APC), an area linked to the control of FI in amino acid (AA) deficiency, (2) examine leptin action during short term anorexia that develops in response to AA deficiency. Bilateral injections of leptin (0.25 μ) into the APC suppressed FI of a balanced diet between 6 and 12 h by 36% (p < 0.01) and over the first 12 and 24 h by 15% (p < 0.05). Bilateral administration of leptin (0.1 μg) inhibited FI between 12 and 24 h by approximately 48% (p < 0.05) on a threonine-imbalanced diet without significantly affecting FI on a threonine-corrected diet. The increase of plasma leptin concentrations in response to feeding a threonine-basal diet was greater than that following an AA imbalanced diet, suggesting that suppression of FI by an AA imbalanced diet is not mediated by an increase of leptin. Our results suggest that (1) administration of leptin into a brain area outside the hypothalamus suppresses FI, and (2) leptin is unlikely to play a selective role in the short term anorectic response to AA deficiency. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that endogenous leptin can act within the APC to modulate FI.
High temperature ultralow water content carbon dioxide-in-water foam stabilized with viscoelastic zwitterionic surfactants.

Abstract Ultralow water content carbon dioxide-in-water (C/W) foams with gas phase volume fractions (ϕ) above 0.95 (that is
A Randomized Trial of the Effectiveness of Using Incentives to Reinforce Parolee Attendance in Community Addiction Treatment: Impact on Post-Treatment Outcomes

This study was a randomized effectiveness trial of the use of incentives to improve treatment retention and post-treatment outcomes among parolees in community treatment. Parolees entering communit...
Managing Technical Performance Margins to Control Earth and Space Science Instrument Costs

Abstract:Design margins are additional resources carried in technical performance parameters to account for uncertainties in designs. Margins are traditionally derived and allocated based upon historical experience as opposed to quantitative methods, jeopardizing the development of low-cost, space-based instruments. This article examines 62 instruments, assessing the interrelationships between pre-launch and actual launch margins, and utilizes multiple linear regression to examine margins and actual launch costs. Findings confirm use of margins above suggested industry standards in implementing space-based instruments, impacting affordability. Results provide a methodology to detect deficiencies or excesses in performance parameters, which can be used in making trade-offs to reduce cost growth.
7.2 Bone Cement

Total joint replacement is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Bone cement revolutionized the fixation of artificial joints. This chapter presents an overview of the mechanical properties and behaviors of poly(methyl methacrylate) bone cement. The success of a cemented artificial joint depends on the integrity of the bone cement, which in turn depends on the mechanical properties. The factors that affect the mechanical properties can include those internal to the bone cement such as the chemical formulation or type of radiopacifier, and those external to the bone cement such as mixing technique and initial temperature of the components. In this chapter, we review not only the investigations to measure the properties, but also the efforts to change and improve bone cement. The success of cemented total joints may be improved by improving the mechanical reliability of the bone cement.
Design and Processing of Alumina Plate Composites for Ballistic Nacre Alumina Structures

Nacre is a hierarchical multi-composite matrix consisting of mineral plate-like structures stacked up similar to brick and mortar. When impacted with a projectile this type of structure is expected to reduce the overall shock loading into the system as well as projectile velocity as a consequence of variations in structural stiffness between the composite plates and the organic interlayers. Bio-mimicked nacre derived from alumina as the base ceramic is also shown to have increased fracture toughness over an alumina monolith. One challenge to building the nacre alumina structure is the design and processing of the composite mineral plates which should be comprised of roughly 90-95% nano-filler and 5-10% organic binder. In order for these plates to accurately mimic the nacre mineral plates they must also emulate aspect ratios on the order of 1:10 to 1:20. This paper will discuss the design and processing of nacre-alumina plates for studies into the impact behavior of nacre composites.
It's Time to Confront Student Mental Health Issues Associated with Smartphones and Social Media.

An increased focus on overall student health and wellness is one of the more recent evolutions in higher education. Pharmacy and other health professions colleges in particular have recognized that well-being is important for students preparing for high-stress health care careers. This awareness has
Modern Radiopharmaceutical Dosimetry Should Include Robust Biodistribution Reporting

Radiopharmaceutical dosimetry is an important area of nuclear medicine, and its advances have the potential to affect imaging and radiotherapy development and application protocols. Dosimetry is a computationally intensive, assumption-based process, and not all dosimetry is created equal. In this brief communication, we present biodistribution measurements as a valuable part of radiopharmaceutical dosimetry that is worthy of robust documentation. Biodistribution data are routinely collected in every dosimetry case and are integral to the subsequent dosimetry calculations. Standard documentation of these data may help us understand the value and limitations of our dosimetry estimates, identify errors, resolve discrepancies, and enable the reproducibility of results. We may also recognize that the modern digital landscape provides both opportunity and motivation to usher in the evolution of standards in our field. Ultimately, these steps may improve the current generally poor acceptance of dosimetry procedures by clinicians.
Reduced Stroke After Transcatheter Patent Foramen Ovale Closure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Abstract Background Recent randomized control trials (RCTs) have suggested benefit with transcatheter patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure plus antiplatelet therapy over medical treatment alone for secondary stroke prevention. Material and Methods Data sources: we searched PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE from the inception until November 10, 2017 for RCTs comparing TPFO closure to medical therapy in patients with a PFO and a history of cryptogenic stroke. Results Five RCTs with 3,627 patients (TPFO closure = 1,829 versus medical therapy =1,798) were included. There was a decreased number of post-TPFO closure strokes compared to the medical therapy arm; 53 versus 80 strokes (odds ratio [OR] = 0.61, CI: 0.39-0.94, P = 0.03, I2 = 17%). Transient ischemic attacks occurred in 43 patients after TPFO closure versus 60 patients in the medical therapy group (OR = 0.80, CI: 0.53-1.19, P = 0.26, I2 = 0%). There was a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation in the TPFO closure group, which occurred in 75 patients, compared to 12 patients in the medical therapy group (OR = 5.23, CI: 2.17-12.59, P = 0.0002, I2 = 43%). There was a trend toward a decreased number of neuropsychiatric events in the TPFO closure closure group compared to the medical therapy group; 42 versus 67 neuropsychiatric events (OR = 0.71, CI: 0.48-1.06, P = 0.09, I2 = 0%). Conclusions TPFO closure plus antiplatelet therapy is superior to medical therapy in patients with a PFO and cryptogenic stroke. PFO closure is associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation and a trend toward reduced neuropsychiatric events.
Releasing the tether: Weight normalization following corrective spinal fusion in cerebral palsy

PURPOSE Feeding difficulties are common among patients with cerebral palsy (CP) and neuromuscular (NM) scoliosis. We theorize that posterior spinal fusion (PSF) reduces intra-abdominal pressure, resulting in improved feeding and subsequent weight gain. We hypothesized that, among nonambulatory patients with CP and NM scoliosis, we would observe significant gain in weight following PSF. METHODS Fifty subjects with nonambulatory CP who underwent PSF for NM scoliosis were included. Age and weight were recorded for the preoperative year; on the day of surgery; and at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up. Weights were converted to weight percentiles using CP-specific growth charts. The weight percentile distributions were compared between time points using descriptive statistics as well as regression analysis. RESULTS The average change in weight from the day of surgery to 2-year follow-up was +3.4 percentiles. Patients who started out under the 50th percentile gained an average of 17.3 percentiles in the first year after PSF ( p = 0.009). Regression analysis showed that patients with baseline weight <50th percentile tended to gain in weight percentile over the first postoperative year ( β = 1.990, p = 0.001). No trend was present among this group prior to surgery ( p = 0.692) or during the second postoperative year ( p = 0.945). No trends were noted prior to or after surgery for patients with baseline weights ≥50th percentile. No significant association was observed between curve severity (measured by preoperative Cobb angle) and weight change. CONCLUSIONS This series is the first to document significant weight gain after PSF for NM scoliosis, supporting the theory that spinal correction improves digestive function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic level II.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF HEPATIC MIXED-FUNCTION OXIDASES - WARFARIN METABOLISM AS A PROBE

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the development of hepatic mixed-function oxidases-warfarin metabolism as a probe. The hepatic mixed-function oxidase system plays a major role in the expression of the toxic effects of xenobiotic agents during intrauterine development. Clinical observation suggests that the human neonate has an impaired ability to metabolize drugs. Therefore, low levels of drug metabolism are seen throughout gestation in fetuses of lower mammals. The chapter describes a study in which the development of the mixed-function oxidase system was investigated. In addition to making quantitative measurements of cytochrome P-450, cytochrome b5, and NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase, the high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay of R– and S–warfarin metabolites was utilized to assess the activity of cytochrome P-450 in fetal and young rat pups of post-conceptual ages 17 to 54 days. Metabolism of warfarin by cytochrome P-450 yields 6-, 7-, 8-, 4-, and benzylic-hydroxywarfarin and dehydrowarfarin. The enantiomeric forms R– and S–warfarin undergo stereoselective hydroxylations. The relative formation rates of the warfarin metabolites are altered by prior induction of microsomal cytochromes P-450, indicating that a number of different forms of cytochrome P-450 are involved in the metabolism.
Interviewing: An Insider’s Insight into Learning

Interviewing is often thought of as a research tool, but by shifting focus, teachers can use “interviewing” to support two important classroom goals: clarifying student understanding, and in turn providing students with opportunities to organize more meaningful structures of understanding. We provide an operational definition for levels of understanding and a hierarchical framework (similar to Robbie Case’s developmental framework) for evaluating changes in student understanding during the interview process. From a very different perspective, the student’s insights are viewed from the brain’s central organizational principle; brains learn about patterns in the world in order to make reliable predictions about its environment. Thus, new insights are new patterns that students recognize and can test against reality within carefully constructed classroom activities or during the interview process. Pattern recognition and changes in neural activity offer an additional dimension for understanding the dynamic interaction between the teacher/interviewer and the student, which we also explore in detail.
Expression of the antioxidant geneNKEF in the central nervous system

Free radicals and the oxidative stress they impose can cause serious injury in the nervous system and contribute to pathology associated with a wide variety of degenerative and traumatic disorders. In this study, we examined the expression of an antioxidant defense gene,nkef, in human tissue and isolated populations of rat brain cells using Western and Northern blot analysis. NKEF protein was expressed in human brain, liver, kidney, muscle, and lung. The human endothelial cell line ECV expressed a 25-kDa band in addition to the 22-kDa band normally observed. In the central nervous system, a 22-kDa NKEF band was present in cortical gray and white matter, hippocampus, cerebellum, and spinal cord in roughly similar amounts. Expression of NKEF-A and NKEF-B subtypes was evaluated by Northern analysis of cultured cell types from embryonic rat brain. Astrocyte and microglia expressed both 22- and 25-kDa bands, whereas cortical neurons and oligodendrocytes contained only the 22-kDa protein band. Northern blot analysis of these cell types revealed low levels of NKEF-A message in neurons and oligodendrocytes, and relatively low levels of NKEF-B in microglia. Differential expression of these antioxidant defense genes may contribute to the selective vulnerability of brain cell types to specific kinds of oxidative stress.
Principles and Boundaries of Fact-checking: Journalists’ Perceptions

This study examines journalists’ perceptions of fact-checking, a growing journalistic activity focused on assessing the veracity of public claims. Professional journalists working on fact-checking ...
Outcomes After Transarterial Embolization of Neuroendocrine Tumor Liver Metastases Using Spherical Particles of Different Sizes.

To evaluate initial response and overall survival of neuroendocrine tumor (NET) liver metastases initially treated with transarterial embolization (TAE) using spherical particles of different sizes. A single-institution retrospective review was performed of 160 patients with NET liver metastases initially treated with TAE using < 100 µm (n = 77) or only ≥ 100 µm (n = 83) spherical particles. For each patient, we evaluated: initial response by mRECIST, time to progression, overall survival, complications, primary site, tumor grade and degree of differentiation, volume of liver disease, extrahepatic disease, NET-related symptoms, comorbidities, Child–Pugh score, performance status, lobar versus selective embolization, and arteriovenous shunting. Initial response was higher for TAE using particles < 100 versus TAE using only particles ≥ 100 μm (64 vs 42%, p = 0.007). Multivariate logistic regression showed that use of particles < 100 μm and liver < 50% replaced with tumor were independent predictors of a better initial response rate. There was no difference in major or minor complications between the two particle size groups. Median overall survival after TAE was 55 months for well- to moderately differentiated NET and 13 months for poorly differentiated or undifferentiated NET. There was no significant difference in survival between TAE patients treated with < 100 versus only ≥ 100-μm particles. NET patients treated with TAE using particles < 100 μm had better initial response, but the same overall survival, compared to TAE using only particles ≥ 100 μm.
2D trees

Most modern programming languages, like Java and C# contain extensive libraries of data structures. Even if a data structure isn't implemented in a library, a quick Google search often returns hundreds or thousands of hits. For these reasons, asking students to implement a standard data structure is becoming a thing of the past. Instead, it is necessary to find data structures closely related to the standard ones, but different enough that students find programming them fun and meaningful. 2D trees provide one such example.
Comparative studies of palladium and copper-catalysed γ-arylation of silyloxy furans with diaryliodonium salts

Abstract The γ-arylation of substituted silyl-activated butenolides has been studied using a broad scope of unsymmetrical hypervalent diaryliodonium salts via a palladium- or copper-catalysed coupling reaction, yielding interesting reactivity trends. The mild catalytic conditions and coupling partner variability provide access to synthetically useful building blocks toward the pursuit of aryl-lactone containing natural products and allows for facile diversification.
OUTCOMES OF MICRA LEADLESS PACEMAKER IMPLANTATION WITH UNINTERRUPTED ANTICOAGULATION

Implantation of the MICRA Leadless pacemaker requires use of a large (27 French) introducer, a large radius blunt delivery system and device fixation to the myocardium via nitinol tines. While prior studies have proven the safety of this procedure, it is unclear whether performing this procedure
Atypical Café‐au‐Lait Macules in a Patient with Koolen‐de Vries Syndrome (17q21.31 Microdeletion Syndrome)

Koolen-de Vries syndrome (KdVS), also referred to as the 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by developmental delay, typical facial dysmorphism, and congenital defects. Associated anomalies include many cutaneous findings. Here, we report a 17-year-old boy with KdVS (17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome) who presented with diffuse freckling and multiple pigmented lesions, found to be most consistent with atypical cafe-au-lait macules (CALMs) on biopsy. We review the cutaneous findings commonly associated with KdVS (17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome) and propose the addition of diffuse freckling and atypical CALMs, histologically similar to those that may be found in neurofibromatosis type 1, to the cutaneous findings associated with KdVS (17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome).