cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Validating laboratory defined chronic kidney disease in the electronic health record for patients in primary care

Electronic health record (EHR) data is increasingly used to identify patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). EHR queries used to capture CKD status, identify comorbid conditions, measure awareness by providers, and track adherence to guideline-concordant processes of care have not been validated. We extracted EHR data for primary-care patients with two eGFRcreat 15-59 mL/min/1.73 m^2 at least 90 days apart. Two nephrologists manually reviewed a random sample of 50 charts to determine CKD status, associated comorbidities, and physician awareness of CKD. We also assessed the documentation of a CKD diagnosis with guideline-driven care. Complete data were available on 1767 patients with query-defined CKD of whom 822 (47%) had a CKD diagnosis in their chart. Manual chart review confirmed the CKD diagnosis in 34 or 50 (68%) patients. Agreement between the reviewers and the EHR diagnoses on the presence of comorbidities was good (κ > 0.70, p < 0.05), except for congestive heart failure, (κ = 0.45, p < 0.05). Reviewers felt the providers were aware of CKD in 23 of 34 (68%) of the confirmed CKD cases. A CKD diagnosis was associated with higher odds of guideline-driven care including CKD-specific laboratory tests and prescriptions for statins. After adjustment, CKD diagnosis documentation was not significantly associated with ACE/ARB prescription. Identifying CKD status by historical eGFRs overestimates disease prevalence. A CKD diagnosis in the patient chart was a reasonable surrogate for provider awareness of disease status, but CKD awareness remains relatively low. CKD in the patient chart was associated with higher rates of albuminuria testing and use of statins, but not use of ACE/ARB.
Targeting MOR-mGluR5 heteromers reduces bone cancer pain by activating MOR and inhibiting mGluR5.

Abstract Pain is among the most common symptoms in cancer and approximately 90% of patients experience end-stage cancer pain. The management of cancer pain is challenging due to the significant side effects associated with opioids, and novel therapeutic approaches are needed. MMG22 is a bivalent ligand containing MOR agonist and mGluR5 antagonist pharmacophores joined by a 22-atom spacer. MMG22 exhibited extraordinary analgesia following intrathecal administration in a mouse model of bone cancer pain. Here, we assessed the effectiveness of systemic administration of MMG22 in reducing cancer pain and evaluated whether MMG22 displays side effects associated with opioids. Fibrosarcoma cells were injected into and around the calcaneus bone in C3H mice. Mechanical hyperalgesia was defined as an increase in the paw withdrawal frequencies (PWFs) evoked by application of a von Frey monofilament (3.9 mN bending force) applied to the plantar surface of the hind paw Subcutaneous (s.c.), intramuscular (i.m.), and oral (p.o.) administration of MMG22 produced robust dose-dependent antihyperalgesia, whose ED50 was orders of magnitude lower than morphine. Moreover, the ED50 for MMG22 decreased with disease progression. Importantly, s.c. administration of MMG22 did not produce acute (24 h) or long-term (9 days) tolerance, was not rewarding (conditioned place preference test), and did not produce naloxone-induced precipitated withdrawal or alter motor function. A possible mechanism of action of MMG22 is discussed in terms of inhibition of spinal NMDAR via antagonism of its co-receptor, mGluR5, and concomitant activation of neuronal MOR. We suggest that MMG22 may be a powerful alternative to traditional opioids for managing cancer pain. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled ‘New Vistas in Opioid Pharmacology’.
Development of a tailored, telehealth intervention to address chronic pain and heavy drinking among people with HIV infection: integrating perspectives of patients in HIV care

Chronic pain and heavy drinking commonly co-occur and can influence the course of HIV. There have been no interventions designed to address both of these conditions among people living with HIV (PLWH), and none that have used telehealth methods. The purpose of this study was to better understand pain symptoms, patterns of alcohol use, treatment experiences, and technology use among PLWH in order to tailor a telehealth intervention that addresses these conditions. Ten participants with moderate or greater chronic pain and heavy drinking were recruited from a cohort of patients engaged in HIV-care (Boston Alcohol Research Collaborative on HIV/AIDS Cohort) and from an integrated HIV/primary care clinic at a large urban hospital. One-on-one interviews were conducted with participants to understand experiences and treatment of HIV, chronic pain, and alcohol use. Participants’ perceptions of the influence of alcohol on HIV and chronic pain were explored as was motivation to change drinking. Technology use and treatment preferences were examined in the final section of the interview. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and uploaded into NVivo® v12 software for analysis. A codebook was developed based on interviews followed by thematic analysis in which specific meanings were assigned to codes. Interviews were supplemented with Likert-response items to evaluate components of the proposed intervention. A number of themes were identified that had implications for intervention tailoring including: resilience in coping with HIV; autonomy in health care decision-making; coping with pain, stress, and emotion; understanding treatment rationale; depression and social withdrawal; motives to drink and refrain from drinking; technology use and capacity; and preference for intervention structure and style. Ratings of intervention components indicated that participants viewed each of the proposed intervention content areas as “helpful” to “very helpful”. Videoconferencing was viewed as an acceptable modality for intervention delivery. Results helped specify treatment targets and provided information about how to enhance intervention delivery. The interviews supported the view that videoconferencing is an acceptable telehealth method of addressing chronic pain and heavy drinking among PLWH.
Predictors and Outcomes of Paramedian Incisional Hernia After Anterior Spine Exposure.

Abstract Background Anterior exposures for lumbar spine surgery are increasingly common for treating various spinal pathologies. A retroperitoneal approach via a paramedian incision has grown rapidly in popularity, but little is known about the risk of incisional hernia development with this technique. We sought to assess the incidence of paramedian incisional hernia development and identify risk factors that are associated with occurrence. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who underwent anterior lumbar spine exposure by a paramedian approach between 2012 and 2017 at a single, tertiary medical center. The primary outcome was the development of postoperative paramedian incisional hernia. Results Of the 735 patients included in the study, 445 (60.5%) were women, and the mean (standard deviation) age of all patients was 60 y (12.4). Nearly all (97.4%) paramedian approaches were performed with a vascular surgeon present. Median follow-up time was 10 mo (interquartile range 3.5-19.9). Postoperative paramedian hernia developed in 20 patients (2.7%), of which 14 underwent repair. The mean (standard deviation) size of the hernia was 13.5 cm (5.5); 9 of 14 (64%) were repaired with synthetic mesh, whereas 3 of 14 (21%) required bowel resection. On multivariate analysis, risk factors associated with hernia development were male gender (0.045), higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class (0.039), history of abdominal surgery (P = 0.013), and postoperative intensive care unit admission (P = 0.02). Conclusions A paramedian approach for anterior lumbar spine exposure resulted in a low rate of incisional hernia with minimal morbidity. Surgeons involved in these collaborative procedures should consider the risk factors that predispose patients to develop these hernias.
Beyond the Classroom: The Protective Role of Student–Teacher Relationships on Parenting Stress

Caregivers are influential in young children’s lives. As most children spend time in care outside of the home, it is critical to examine the interplay between parents and schools and how they influence children's development. The current study examined the spillover of student–teacher relationship quality to the home environment, namely, parenting stress. Student–teacher relationship quality, parenting stress, child negative affect, and parental depressive symptoms were assessed in 112 triads of preschoolers, teachers, and parents. Results suggested student–teacher conflict related to higher parenting stress across all levels of negative affect, when controlling for depressive symptoms, child age, and child gender. For student–teacher closeness, associations depended on child negative affect; for children with high negative affect, increased student–teacher closeness related to lower parenting stress, but for children with low negative affect, there was no association. Findings highlight the protective role of close student–teacher relationships for children and parents and have implications for how teachers and their communication with families may positively impact parents and families.
Comprehensive review of pericardial diseases using different imaging modalities

Pericardial abnormalities are common cardiovascular disease entity, which are encountered in various clinical settings. Imaging plays an integral role in evaluation of pericardial abnormalities. The appropriate use of multiple imaging modalities is crucial to initiate the diagnosis and guide the referring providers to establish a management plan. Echocardiography (echo) is the initial imaging modality of choice. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are complementary imaging tools with better tissue characterization. Pericardial abnormalities include pericardial effusion, pericarditis, pericardial constriction, tamponade, pneumopericardium, pericardial rupture, fistulas, congenital abnormalities, and pericardial tumors. Pericardial effusion is a common clinical entity, where there is accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac. Pericarditis can be acute, incessant, chronic, or recurrent. Pericardial thickening or enhancement are the main CT findings in acute pericarditis. Pericardial constriction results into diastolic heart failure. Differentiating constrictive pericarditis from restrictive cardiomyopathy is important, since these conditions can present with similar clinical and hemodynamic findings and both have different management. Right atrial or right ventricular compression by the pericardial sac contents should raise the suspicion for tamponade. Immediate pericardiocentesis to release the elevated intra-pericardial pressure can be lifesaving. Pericardial rupture is a serious condition that can occur after trauma and can lead to cardiac herniation. The main purpose of this article is to do a comprehensive review of the imaging appearance of pericardial diseases on different imaging modalities and establish a structured diagnostic approach for pericardial diseases to appropriately guide management.
The relationship between Parkinson's disease symptoms and caregiver quality of life.

Objective Caregivers for individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) can experience high burden, which underlies the importance of examining the needs of caregivers to be able to support them in the caregiving role. The current study aims to assess the relationships among PD symptoms and four measures of caregiver quality of life (QOL; i.e., personal and social activities, anxiety and depression, self-care, and strain). Method Data from 181 caregiver/care recipient dyads (N = 362) were collected at a multidisciplinary PD clinic in a public, academic medical center in the southeastern United States at the time of the care recipient's first neuropsychological evaluation. Results All PD symptoms were positively correlated with each other, as were all forms of caregiver QOL, and all PD symptoms were associated with each measure of caregiver QOL. A series of regressions suggested that demographics and PD symptoms predicted all four types of caregiver QOL, explaining 33% of the variance in caregiver personal and social activities, 24% in anxiety and depression, 28% in self-care, and 36% in strain. Female caregivers and those who provided care to male care recipients generally had worse QOL. Greater PD-related symptoms including difficulties with mobility, decreased emotional well-being, and greater nonmotor functioning impairment were unique predictors of reduced caregiver QOL. Conclusions PD symptoms are robustly related to caregiver QOL, with mobility and nonmotor symptoms as the primary drivers of this relationship. Interventions for PD caregivers should include strategies for managing mobility and nonmotor symptoms, as well as their QOL effects on caregivers. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
A quantum algorithm for model independent searches for new physics

We propose a novel quantum technique to search for unmodelled anomalies in multi-dimensional binned collider data. We propose to associate an Ising lattice spin site with each bin, with the Ising Hamiltonian suitably constructed from the observed data and a corresponding theoretical expectation. In order to capture spatially correlated anomalies in the data, we introduce spin-spin interactions between neighboring sites, as well as self-interactions. The ground state energy of the resulting Ising Hamiltonian can be used as a new test statistic, which can be computed either classically or via adiabatic quantum optimization. We demonstrate that our test statistic outperforms some of the most commonly used goodness-of-fit tests. The new approach greatly reduces the look-elsewhere effect by exploiting the typical differences between statistical noise and genuine new physics signals.
Fooling Gaussian PTFs via local hyperconcentration

We give a pseudorandom generator that fools degree-d polynomial threshold functions over n-dimensional Gaussian space with seed length d O(logd) · logn. All previous generators had a seed length with at least a 2 d dependence on d. The key new ingredient is our Local Hyperconcentration Theorem, which shows that every degree-d Gaussian polynomial is hyperconcentrated almost everywhere at scale d −O(logd).
A feasibility study to estimate optimal rigid-body registration using combinatorial rigid registration optimization (CORRO).

Purpose Clinical image pairs provide the most realistic test data for image registration evaluation. However, the optimal registration is unknown. Using combinatorial rigid registration optimization (CORRO) we demonstrate a method to estimate the optimal alignment for rigid-registration of clinical image pairs. Methods Expert selected landmark pairs were selected for each CT/CBCT image pair for six cases representing head and neck, thoracic, and pelvic anatomic regions. Combination subsets of a k number of landmark pairs (k-combination set) were generated without repeat to form a large set of k-combination sets (k-set) for k = 4,8,12. The rigid transformation between the image pairs was calculated for each k-combination set. The mean and standard deviation of these transformations were used to derive final registration for each k-set. Results The standard deviation of registration output decreased as the k-size increased for all cases. The joint entropy evaluated for each k-set of each case was smaller than those from two commercially available registration programs indicating a stronger correlation between the image pair after CORRO was used. A joint histogram plot of all three algorithms showed high correlation between them. As further proof of the efficacy of CORRO the joint entropy of each member of 30 000 k-combination sets in k = 4 were calculated for one of the thoracic cases. The minimum joint entropy was found to exist at the estimated mean of registration indicating CORRO converges to the optimal rigid-registration results. Conclusions We have developed a methodology called CORRO that allows us to estimate optimal alignment for rigid-registration of clinical image pairs using a large set landmark point. The results for the rigid-body registration have been shown to be comparable to results from commercially available algorithms for all six cases. CORRO can serve as an excellent tool that can be used to test and validate rigid registration algorithms.
Repeated encoding fosters retention of perceptual detail in visual recognition memory

In a 2014 issue of Learning & Memory, Reagh and Yassa proposed that repeated encoding leads to semanticization and loss of perceptual detail in memory. We presented object images one or three times and tested recognition of targets and corresponding similar lures. Correct lure rejections after one in comparison to three exposures were more frequently associated with corresponding target misses, suggesting that higher lure rejections after one exposure reflect memory failure rather than perceptual fidelity. Signal detection theory analysis showed that three exposures improved lure-old discriminations. Thus, repeated encoding fosters rather than hinders retention of perceptual detail in visual recognition memory.
Efficacy of human-simulated exposures of meropenem/vaborbactam and meropenem against OXA-48 β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales in the neutropenic murine thigh infection model.

Objectives Despite vaborbactam lacking inhibitory activity against OXA-48, approximately a third of OXA-48-harbouring Enterobacterales test susceptible to meropenem/vaborbactam due to its higher breakpoint than meropenem alone. The present study evaluated the efficacy of human-simulated exposures of meropenem/vaborbactam against OXA-48-harbouring Enterobacterales in the neutropenic murine thigh model. Methods Twenty-six isolates [OXA-48 (n = 24) and KPC (n = 2)] were evaluated. MICs were conducted in triplicate per CLSI. Mice received human-simulated regimens of meropenem/vaborbactam, meropenem or vehicle for 24 h. Mice were inoculated with ∼1 × 107 cfu/mL in each thigh 2 h prior to dosing and both thighs were harvested at 24 h. Efficacy was assessed using mean log10 cfu/thigh at 24 h and the achievement of 1 log10 reduction relative to 0 h control as an established surrogate marker predictive of success for serious infections. Results Meropenem/vaborbactam MICs ranged from 1 to 64 mg/L. The mean inoculum at 0 h was 5.77 ± 0.26 compared with 8.26 ± 1.53 for controls at 24 h. As anticipated for KPCs, meropenem/vaborbactam resulted in enhanced mean ± SD change in bacterial density (-1.10 ± 0.26), compared with meropenem (1.45 ± 0.88). Vaborbactam did not enhance mean ± SD change against OXA-48 isolates compared with meropenem (-0.44 ± 1.29 and -0.43 ± 1.36, respectively). For OXA-48-harbouring isolates with meropenem/vaborbactam MICs ≥16 (n = 5), 8 (n = 5), 4 (n = 9) and ≤2 (n = 5) mg/L, 0%, 0%, 44% and 60% of isolates achieved the target reduction ≥1 log10 with either agent, respectively. Conclusions These data highlight that meropenem/vaborbactam and meropenem humanized exposures in vivo resulted in similar, albeit poor, activity against OXA-48-producing Enterobacterales despite susceptible MICs per EUCAST and CLSI interpretation. As a result, caution is warranted when treating meropenem/vaborbactam-susceptible Enterobacterales without a genotypic profile.
Support for a nicotine reduction policy among participants enrolled in a 20-week trial of very low nicotine content cigarettes.

Abstract Introduction The Food and Drug Administration is considering a policy to drastically reduce the allowable nicotine content of cigarettes. The current study examined whether the policy implementation approach, i.e., either immediately reducing nicotine content to very low levels or gradually reducing nicotine content over an extended period, influences policy support among people who smoke cigarettes. Methods Adults who smoked daily were randomly assigned (double-blind) to an immediate nicotine reduction condition (0.4 mg/g nicotine cigarettes), a gradual nicotine reduction condition (15.5 to 0.4 mg/g), or a control condition (15.5 mg/g) for 20 weeks. Participants were asked if they would “support or oppose a law that reduced the amount of nicotine in cigarettes, to make cigarettes less addictive.” Logistic regression analyses assessed if policy support was affected by treatment condition, demographic covariates, interest in quitting, and subjective cigarette effects. Results At Week 20 (N = 957 completers), 60.4% of participants supported the policy, 17.4% opposed, and 22.2% responded “Don’t know.” Policy support did not differ by treatment condition. Support was greater among those interested in quitting (OR = 3.37, 95% CI = 2.49, 4.55). Support was lower among males (OR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.37, 0.67), those with greater dependence scores (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.86, 0.99) and participants aged 18–24 (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.28, 0.99). No other covariates were associated with policy support. Conclusions The majority of participants supported a nicotine reduction policy. The implementation approach, immediate or gradual reduction, did not affect policy support. Participants interested in quitting smoking were more likely to support a nicotine reduction policy.
Developing understanding of mathematical modeling in secondary teacher preparation

This study examines the evolution of 11 prospective teachers’ understanding of mathematical modeling through the implementation of a modeling module within a curriculum course in a secondary teacher preparation program. While the prospective teachers had not previously taken a course on mathematical modeling, they will be expected to include modeling as part of the school curriculum under current state standards. The module consisted of readings, analysis of the Common Core State Standards, carefully designed modeling activities, individual and group work, discussion, presentations, and reflections. The results show that while most prospective teachers had misconceived definitions of mathematical modeling prior to the module, they developed the correct understanding of modeling as an iterative process involving making assumptions and validating conclusions connected to everyday situations. The study reveals how the prospective teachers translated the modeling cycle into practice in the context of a carefully designed open-ended problem and the strong connections between modeling activities and promoting mathematical practices.
Personal Reflection: "Joy Ride" with SoTL Practice: The Investigation of the Effectiveness of Assistive Technology Course Contents on Student Learning.

This reflection is based on my project that investigated the impact of new course content on student learning of basic knowledge and attitudes toward various assistive technology (AT) devices and services using multiple measures in an introductory-level course in a special education program at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. Through this project, I experienced an unexpected paradigm shift, realized a strong connection between teaching and research, and launched my journey to practice the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). Practicing SoTL allowed me to constantly reflect on my own teaching and model effective teaching practices I preach to current and future teachers of students with disabilities.
Reconstructing Science: Discovery and Experiment

Science transforms itself by more or less continuously reworking its previous results and techniques. To miss the dynamical, self-reconstructive nature of scientific work is to miss the extent to which scientific inquiry is a bootstrap affair. I shall call non-reconstructive views of science single-pass or one-pass models of scientific inquiry. Here are some examples of reconstruction.
Approaches to Fungal Genome Annotation

Fungal genome annotation is the starting point for analysis of genome content. This generally involves the application of diverse methods to identify features on a genome assembly such as protein-coding and non-coding genes, repeats and transposable elements, and pseudogenes. Here we describe tools and methods leveraged for eukaryotic genome annotation with a focus on the annotation of fungal nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. We highlight the application of the latest technologies and tools to improve the quality of predicted gene sets. The Broad Institute eukaryotic genome annotation pipeline is described as one example of how such methods and tools are integrated into a sequencing center's production genome annotation environment.
Music by ear: an interactive system to teach old-time fiddle

Our learning module is a virtual, interactive training environment designed to guide learners through the stages of learning to play the old-time fiddle. Students are placed in mastery oriented learning situations that reflect informal, historical settings where students learn music as part of a community. In our design, students benefit from just-in-time interactions while developing their identity within a community of practice. This presentation highlights our needs assessment, design solutions, and our system's functionality.
Conjugation and the Escherichia coli Paradigm

The discovery of the process of conjugation in prokaryotes was due to one of the most fortuitous experimental designs in recent scientific history. Many other scientists had tried to demonstrate conjugation and had failed. Nevertheless, Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum, working at Yale University, chose to make another attempt using a common laboratory strain of bacteria, Escherichia coli K-12, as their experimental system. They also decided to test only a few isolates of the strain. By chance, they chose not only one of the few organisms that readily undergoes conjugation, but also a fertile strain of that organism. In so doing they started an extremely fruitful branch of bacterial genetic research. E. coli remains the standard conjugation system to which all others are initially compared. This chapter presents the E. coli conjugation system. Several alternative conjugation systems are discussed in Chapter 12.
Pilomotor seizures: a video case report

Piloerection is a rare ictal manifestation usually associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. We present video and electrographic documentation of pilomotor seizures in a 75-year-old man with left temporal lobe epilepsy and remote herpes zoster encephalitis. In general, piloerection is most often localised to the temporal lobe. Unilateral piloerection is usually associated with an ipsilateral ictal onset. Bilateral piloerection has a less certain lateralising value, although earlier reports suggest left hemispheric predominance [Published with videosequences].
Immunogenicity of hepatitis B virus vaccine (Heptavax-B)--response of healthy adults.

Abstract We vaccinated 30 healthy adults who were susceptible to hepatitis B virus with 20 μg of Merck Sharp & Dohme vaccine at zero, one and six months and measured their antibody (anti-HBs) response weekly for four weeks and monthly for at least seven months. A month following the first dose 40% had antibodies and 90% were positive for anti-HBs a month following the second dose. The third dose raised the response rate to 93.3% but its major effect was to substantially raise the titer of virtually all of the vaccinees. Two persons had no antibody response to vaccination and four others were hyporesponders. No complications or significant side effects were observed.
INTERACTION OF ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO IN LARYNGEAL CANCER

Both alcohol and tobacco use are accepted risk factors for laryngeal cancer. The authors used case-control data from previous studies to estimate the value of a previously proposed index of interaction between these two risk factors. In addition to the weighting procedure over exposure categories that was previously proposed for estimating a summary index, they applied maximum-likelihood techniques to facilitate the estimation. Overall, they found moderate synergy between alcohol and tobacco in increasing the risk of laryngeal cancer, in that exposure to both factors increased the risk about 50% more than the increase predicted if the effects of tobacco and alcohol were simply additive.
Predictors affecting personal health information management skills.

Objectives: This study investigated major factors affecting personal health records (PHRs) management skills associated with survey respondents’ health information management related activities.Methods: A self-report survey was used to assess individuals’ personal characteristics, health knowledge, PHR skills, and activities. Factors underlying respondents' current PHR-related activities were derived using principal component analysis (PCA). Scale scores were calculated based on the results of the PCA, and hierarchical linear regression analyses were used to identify respondent characteristics associated with the scale scores. Internal consistency of the derived scale scores was assessed with Cronbach’s α.Results: Among personal health information activities surveyed (N = 578 respondents), the four extracted factors were subsequently grouped and labeled as: collecting skills (Cronbach’s α = 0.906), searching skills (Cronbach’s α = 0.837), sharing skills (Cronbach’s α = 0.763), and implementing skills (Cro...
An Experimental Study on the Effect of Gravitational Orientation on Flow Boiling of Water in 1054×197μm Parallel Minichannels

Microchannels and minichannels are being considered for high heat flux applications under microgravity environment in space missions. An experimental study is undertaken to determine the effect of gravitational orientation on flow boiling characteristics of water in a set of six parallel minichannels, each 1054 μm wide by 197 μm deep and 63.5 mm long with a hydraulic diameter of 333 μm. Three orientations-horizontal, vertical downflow, and vertical upflow-are investigated under identical operating conditions of heal and mass fluxes. High-speed images are obtained to reveal the detailed two-phase flow structure and liquid-vapor interactions
Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common of cyanotic congenital heart diseases. In this chapter essential background information regarding etiology, clinical presentation, and treatment options in TOF are presented. The main focus is on imaging adult TOF, discussing the full spectrum of image modalities with special attention for CT and MRI. Findings in TOF, late outcome aspects, follow-up of complications, and the role of imaging in guiding therapy are discussed.
Planetary core dynamics and convective heat transfer scaling

In this article, analysis of a compilation of recent core dynamics models focuses on the properties of non-magnetic rotating convection. Numerical simulations and laboratory experiments are shown to agree qualitatively in cases with similar control parameter values. Small-scale convection columns interact with the spherical shell to generate larger-scale zonal flows. Comparing quantitative results, heat transfer data is compiled from eight recent studies of core convection. The data are plotted in terms of Nusselt and Rayleigh numbers, Nu and Ra, and also in terms of diffusivity-free, modified Nusselt and flux Rayleigh numbers, Nu* and . Based on the compiled results, it appears that an asymptotic scaling law for heat transfer in planetary core convection models has yet to be determined. Numerical modeling results support a scaling law (equivalently, Nu∼Ra 1.2), which is likely to be affected by the Nu*– onset scaling. In contrast, laboratory experiments, which reach more extreme parameter values, support...
Differential susceptibility to oxidant exposure in inbred strains of mice: Nitrogen dioxide versus ozone

The contribution of genetic background to the pathogenesis of airway responses to environmental agents including air pollutants is becoming increasingly clear. Characterization of genetic mechanisms of response to these agents may assist in the identification of susceptible individuals and populations. The primary objective of this investigation was to utilize inbred strains of mice to determine (1) whether there was significant genetic contribution in susceptibility to lung injury and inflammation induced by single and repeated acute exposures to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and (2) whether similar genetic factors control sus- ceptibility to lung injury induced by NO2 and another oxidant, ozone (O3). Nine strains of inbred mice (male, 5-6 wk) were studied: 129/ J, A/ J, AKR/ J, BALB/ cJ, C3H/ HeJ, C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, SJL/J, and SWR/J. Each was exposed for 3 h to filtered air (controls) or 15 ppm NO2, and cellular inflammation, epithelial injury, and cytotoxicity were measured 2, 6, and 24 h thereafter. NO2 expos...
Changes in muscle T2 relaxation properties following spinal cord injury and locomotor training

Magnetic resonance (MR) is frequently used to study structural and biochemical properties of skeletal muscle. Changes in proton transverse relaxation (T2) properties have been used to study muscle cellular damage, as well as muscle activation during exercise protocols. In this study, we implemented MR imaging to characterize the T2 relaxation properties of rat hindlimb muscles following spinal cord injury (SCI) and locomotor training. After moderate midthoracic contusion SCI, Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to either treadmill training, cycle training or an untrained group. T2 weighted images were obtained and mean muscle T2 times were calculated in the tibialis anterior, soleus, and gastrocnemius (GAS) muscles at pre-injury as well as at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-injury. Following SCI, hindlimb muscles in untrained animals showed a significant increase in muscle T2, with the most dramatic shift (+5.46 ms) observed in soleus muscle at 1 week post-SCI. Subsequently, all muscle groups showed a spontaneous recovery in muscle T2 with normalized T2 values in the GAS and tibilias anterior muscles at 4 weeks and the soleus at 12 weeks post-SCI. Both training paradigms, treadmill and cycling training, accelerated the recovery of soleus muscle T2. As a result, soleus muscle T2 recovered back to pre-injury values within 3 weeks of training in both training groups. Finally, in vitro histological assessments of rat skeletal muscles demonstrated that there was no apparent muscle injury in any of the muscles studied at 1 week post-SCI.
Differences between cyclosporin A and tacrolimus in organ transplantation

In addition to their effect on the TCR-mediated signal transduction, both CyA and tacrolimus affect a wide variety of other biological processes, including induction of cell exocytosis and side effects. Although calcineurin has been implicated directly or indirectly in many of these processes, it seems plausible that the mechanisms by which these two drugs exert their full immunosuppressive activity are not necessarily the same. The cellular and molecular networks under differential immunosuppression by these two drugs remain to be explored. However, considering that investigations in this area are still ongoing, the answers will undoubtedly be available in the not too distant future.
The production of unequal risk in hazardscapes: An explanatory frame applied to disaster at the US–Mexico border

Abstract This paper advances understanding of how unequal risks to environmental hazards are generated. Marginalization is the best known explanation for the production of risk. The concept of marginalization was elaborated through studies of hazards in the global South and connotes how social inequalities constrain livelihood options of less powerful social groups. Thus, marginal groups are pressured to degrade landscapes and occupy hazardous environments while they experience decreased capacities to cope with environmental change. This paper directs analytical attention beyond the material to include the discursive realm and demonstrates that the production of unequal risk is contingent upon how hazards are differentially perceived, represented, and contested in social spaces. Findings from a flood disaster case study in the El Paso (US)–Ciudad Juarez (Mexico) border metropolis highlight how hegemonic discourses reinforce material processes of marginalization in flood-prone social spaces. Findings also reveal how socially-powerful geographical groups of people have harnessed institutional resources in their efforts to externalize risks and capitalize on environmental opportunities in some flood-prone areas. The concept of facilitation is used to explain the material-discursive production of socially-elite, flood-prone spaces. Facilitation clarifies how powerful groups are provided privileged access to institutional resources in their pursuit of environmental rewards, contributing to unjust socioenvironmental outcomes. In conclusion, I outline key aspects of how unequal risks are materially and discursively (re)produced within hazardscapes through relational processes of marginalization/facilitation.
Optimization of two- and three-link snakelike locomotion

We analyze two- and three-link planar snakelike locomotion and optimize the motion for efficiency. The locomoting system consists of two or three identical inextensible links connected via hinge joints, and the angles between the links are actuated as prescribed periodic functions of time. An essential feature of snake locomotion is frictional anisotropy: The forward, backward, and transverse coefficients of friction differ. The dynamics are studied analytically and numerically for small and large amplitudes of the internal angles. Efficiency is defined as the ratio between distance traveled and the energy expended within one period, i.e., the inverse of the cost of locomotion. The optimal set of coefficients of friction to maximize efficiency consists of a large backward coefficient of friction and a small transverse coefficient of friction, compared to the forward coefficient of friction. For the two-link case with a symmetrical motion, efficiency is maximized when the internal angle amplitude is approximately π/2 for a sufficiently large transverse coefficient. For the three-link case, the efficiency-maximizing paths are triangles in the parameter space of internal angles.
Building exact computation sequences

Exact computation sequences are sequences of the form 〈L0, A0〉 →S1 〈L1, A1〉 ⋯ →Sn 〈Ln, ∅〉, where L0 is a free algebra, A0 is a set of conditional equations over L0, Si is a ‘step function’, Li = Si(Li−1), and Ai = Si(Ai−1). Each step function is the top-down reduction extesion of a set of confluent and noetherian rewrite rules. These sequences are used in solving the word problem for free algebras, since for any pair of terms t1, t2 ϵ L0, t1=A0 t2 iff Sn ∘ Sn−1 ∘ ⋯ ∘ S1(t1) = Sn ∘ Sn−1(t2). We analyze properties of exact comput sequences such as: determining the relation between the sets 〈Li-1, Ai−1〉 and Si, and the output pair 〈Li, Ai〉, and we present criteria for choosing the equations Ei in 〈Li−1, Ai−1〉 which are used to generate the reductions Si. We also give examples showing how to construct exact computation sequences for several axiom systems by applying the properties and the criteria presented in the article.
On the aggregation of a calcium precipitable glycoprotein from human submaxillary saliva

Abstract A calcium precipitable glycoprotein isolated from human submaxillary saliva was found to contain five covalently-linked phosphate groups per monomer (mol. wt. 11 000). The glycoprotein exists as a dimer in aqueous solution and in the presence of Ca2+ it aggregates due to reduction of the electrostatic charges and changes in the conformation of the glycoprotein.
REACTIONS OF ALTERNATE SUBSTRATES DEMONSTRATE STEREOELECTRONIC CONTROL OF REACTIVITY IN DIALKYLGLYCINE DECARBOXYLASE

Kinetic and product analyses of the reactions of dialkylglycine decarboxylase with several alternative substrates are presented. Rate constants for the reactions of amino and keto acids of several substrates decrease logarithmically with increasing side-chain size. Conversely, kcat for l-amino acid decarboxylation increases with side-chain size. These and other data confirm a proposed model for three binding subsites in the active site. In this model, bond making and breaking in both the decarboxylation and transamination half-reactions occurs at the “A” subsite, which maintains the scissile bond aligned with the p orbitals of the conjugated aldimine and thus maximizes stereoelectronic effects. This strongly supports the proposal by Dunathan (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 55, 712−716) that PLP-dependent enzymes can largely control reaction specificity by specific orientation about Cα in the external aldimine intermediate. The “B” subsite can accept either an alkyl or a carboxylate group, while the “C” sub...
Physiological aspects of the regulation of extracellular enzymes ofphanerochaete chrysosporiwn

The formation and decay of lignolytic enzymes, along with the generation of other extracellular metabolites in submerged cultures ofPhanerochaete chrysosporium, were studied under different physiological conditions. Whereas lignin peroxidase (LiP) was detectable only in a narrow range of O2 tension and nitrogen concentration, manganese peroxidase (MnP) reached considerable levels over a broad range. The decay of LiP and MnP activities under lignolytic conditions paralleled that of heme and total proteins. The conditions that decrease or suppress LiP or MnP activities resulted in high levels of extracellular protease activity and/or polysaccharides.
Transcriptional regulation of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-5 by prostaglandin E2 in osteoblast cells.

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding protein-5 (IGFBP-5) is an autocrine and paracrine factor that modulates the effects of IGFs. We examined the mechanisms that regulate IGFBP-5 synthesis by PGE2 in osteoblast-enriched cells from fetal rat calvaria (Ob cells). PGE2 at 1 microM for 2-8 h increased IGFBP-5 heterogeneous nuclear RNA levels and did not change the half-life of IGFBP-5 messenger RNA in Ob cells, suggesting that PGE2 stimulates IGFBP-5 transcription. To analyze the elements responsible for this effect, regions of the mouse IGFBP-5 promoter from -2695 to +120 bp were ligated into pGL-2-basic and transiently transfected into Ob cells. PGE2 caused a time- and dose-dependent increase in IGFBP-5 promoter activity. Further analysis revealed two potential PGE2-responsive regions in the -2695 to -1470 and the -989 to -332 fragments. The effect of PGE2 on IGFBP-5 messenger RNA and heterogeneous nuclear RNA levels was mimicked by forskolin and inhibited by the PKA inhibitor H-89, suggesting that part...
Sporangium Discharge in Pilobolus: A Photographic Study

Stages in the discharge of sporangia by the fungus, Pilobolus kleinii, were photographed by means of a high-speed electronic flash triggered by a photocell. The photographs confirm that the sporangium is propelled by a jet of cell sap. The jet is deflected from the sporangium and attains a considerable length before it breaks into droplets.
Is There a Minimal Chemical Mechanism Underlying Classical Avrami-Erofe’ev Treatments of Phase-Transformation Kinetic Data?

We report herein our efforts to see if there is not a minimal chemical mechanism that can provide statistically equivalent fits to solid-state and other phase-transformation kinetic data classically treated by the Avrami-Erofe’ev (A-E) kinetic model or its derivatives. Doing so is an important, missing piece of attempts to fit and draw chemical insight from solid-state kinetics, as made apparent by citations and quotations from the literature which detail the presently confused state of solid-state kinetics and, especially, what those kinetics mean in terms of the underlying chemical mechanism(s). Specifically, we test herein the one available, minimalistic, chemical-mechanism-based kinetic model that is able to deconvolute nucleation from growth, a model originally developed for transition-metal nanocluster nucleation and growth in solution, A → B (rate constant k1) then A + B → 2B (rate constant k2). The two-step model tested is able to fit solid-state phase transformation kinetic data equally well in c...
ORIENTATION AND RESTRICTED ROTATION OF LOPSIDED AROMATIC LIGANDS. OCTAHEDRAL COMPLEXES DERIVED FROM CIS-RUCL2(ME2SO)4

The solution and solid state structures of two octahedral Ru(II) complexes, cis,cis,cis-RuCl(2)(Me(2)SO)(2)(py)(Me(3)Bzm) (Me(3)Bzm = 1,5,6-trimethylbenzimidazole, py = pyridine) (1) and cis,cis,cis-RuCl(2)(Me(2)SO)(2)(Me(3)Bzm)(2) (2), were compared. 2, the subject of a preliminary report, is described in more detail here. 1 has two possible geometric isomers with py trans to Cl in one (position "a") and trans to Me(2)SO in the other (position "b"), Me(3)Bzm occupying the other position in each isomer. The X-ray structure of 1 revealed that py is at "a". Since Me(3)Bzm is lopsided, each Me(3)Bzm has two possible orientations related by a rotation of approximately 180 degrees about the Ru-N3 bond; there are two possible atropisomers for each geometric isomer of 1 and four for 2. For 1, the solid state structure shows that Me(3)Bzm adopts the orientation with H2 (H on C between the two N's) pointing between the two cis Cl ligands, the same disposition as Me(3)Bzm "b" in 2 in the solid. For 1, the py signals (two broad py alpha and beta signals, a sharp gamma signal) in CDCl(3) show that py "a" is rotating on the NMR time scale and that only one atropisomer is present. This interpretation was supported by ROESY and EXSY (1)H NMR spectra. The (1)H NMR shift pattern and the NOE data can be understood best if Me(3)Bzm "b" remains primarily in the orientation found in the solid. The solution data for 1, with the nonlopsided and sterically less demanding py ligand, provide insight into the more complicated properties of 2. For 2, there is a marked dispersion of (1)H NMR signals of Me(3)Bzm "a" between the two atropisomers, which have nearly equal stability. One atropisomer is a head-to-head (HH) and the other a head-to-tail (HT) species. Me(3)Bzm "a" flips between the two species. Thus, ligand "a" is fluxional in both complexes. The dispersion of Me(3)Bzm "a" signals is due to the effect of Me(3)Bzm "b" anisotropy. For 1 and both atropisomers of 2, Me(3)Bzm "b" prefers one orientation, which appears to be the most hindered orientation. We postulate that the H2 of Me(3)Bzm "b" is electrostatically attracted to the two cis halides, accounting for this surprising result. Crystallographic details for 1 are as follows: C(19)H(29)Cl(2)N(3)O(2)RuS(2), P2(1)/c, a = 10.947(1) A, b = 9.046(1) A, c = 24.221(2) A, D(calcd) = 1.580 g cm(-)(3), Z = 4, R = 0.026 for 4627 independent reflections.
Minimal graphs with cyclic color group

Abstract We determine the minimum number of vertices an edge-colored graph must have, if its group of color preserving automorphisms is the cyclic group of order n.
Metastatic pulmonary calcification in chronic renal failure

Metastatic pulmonary calcification can be caused by a number of diseases, most common being end-stage renal disease. Most of the patients are asymptomatic, and imaging with computed tomography is useful in making a diagnosis. Demonstration of pulmonary and chest wall vessel calcification is characteristic. We report a case of a 60-year-old patient with chronic renal failure on dialysis, presenting with gradual onset dyspnea, who showed metastatic pulmonary calcification on chest imaging.