cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Laboratory investigation of using acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) for asphalt modification

Abstract This investigation examines the modification effect of using two types of acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) in asphalt binder at various concentration levels. The effects of AESO on rheological performance of neat asphalt binder were evaluated by employing rotational viscosity (RV), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) tests. The results indicate that AESO has positive softening effects on decreasing the stiffness of asphalt binder, thereby reduces viscosity and lowers mixing and compaction temperatures. Moreover, laboratory produced AESO (LabAESO) performs superior to commercial available AESO (ComAESO) in terms of low temperature properties and fatigue life at the same concentration level and shows no separation. These findings suggest that a sufficiently high level of LabAESO is necessary in asphalt modification to dramatically affect rheological properties, and therefore enhance the neat asphalt binder’s resistance to fatigue damage at intermediate temperatures and thermal cracking for cold regions pavement applications. Overall, LabAESO shows the potential to be used in asphalt modification with desirable performance improvement, and economic and environmental benefits.
Photochemical C–C Bond Formation in Luminescent Zirconium Complexes with CNN Pincer Ligands

The complexes Zr(HCNN)2 and Zr(MeCNN)2 were prepared via reaction of the ligand precursors 2-phenyl-6-(5-methyl-3-phenyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)pyridine, H2HCNN, and 2-(3,5-dimethyl-phenyl)-6-(5-methyl-3-phenyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)pyridine, H2MeCNN, with tetrabenzyl zirconium. Both complexes are photoluminescent upon excitation with visible light and exhibit remarkably long emission lifetimes of tens to hundreds of microseconds in solution at room temperature. The nature of the emissive state was investigated using density functional theory, which allowed the assignment as a predominantly intraligand triplet state with significant ligand-to-metal charge transfer contributions (3IL/3LMCT). Electrochemical studies revealed two fully reversible one-electron reductions for each complex and an additional reversible oxidative EC process for the more sterically protected complex Zr(MeCNN)2. On the basis of the optical and electrochemical properties, the utility of the two zirconium complexes as photosensitizers for photoredo...
Low T-cell subsets prior to development of virus-associated cancer in HIV-seronegative men who have sex with men

Immunological parameters that influence susceptibility to virus-associated cancers in HIV-seronegative individuals are unclear. We conducted a case–control cohort study of immunological parameters associated with development of incident virus-associated cancers among 532 HIV-seronegative men who have sex with men (MSM) enrolled in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) with median (IQR) 21 (8–26) years of follow-up. Thirty-two incident virus-associated cancers (anal cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, liver cancer, other cancers with etiologies linked to human papillomavirus, Epstein–Barr virus, hepatitis B virus, or human herpesvirus-8) were identified among 3,408 HIV-seronegative men in the MACS during 1984–2010. Cases were matched for demographics, smoking, and follow-up to 500 controls without cancer. Mixed-effects and Cox regression models were used to examine associations between nadir or recent CD4, CD8, and white blood cell (WBC) counts or CD4:CD8 ratios and subsequent diagnosis of virus-associated cancers. Men with incident virus-associated cancers had lower CD4 and WBC counts over a 6-year window prior to diagnosis compared to men without cancer (p = 0.001 and 0.03, respectively). Low CD4 cell count and nadir, CD4 count-nadir differential, and CD4:CD8 ratio nadir were associated with increased 2-year risk of incident virus-associated cancers in models adjusted for demographics and smoking (hazard ratios 1.2–1.3 per 100 or 0.1 unit decrease, respectively; p < 0.01). Other associated factors included heavy smoking and past or current hepatitis B virus infection. These findings show that low CD4 cell counts, CD4 nadir, and CD4:CD8 cell ratios are independent predictors for subsequent risk of virus-associated cancers in HIV-seronegative MSM.
Synthesis of stable azide and alkyne functionalized phosphoramidite nucleosides.

Abstract The use of CuAAC chemistry to crosslink and stabilize oligonucleotides has been limited by the incompatibility of azides with the phosphoramidites used in automated oligonucleotide synthesis. Herein we report optimized reaction conditions to synthesize azide derivatives of thymidine and cytidine phosphoramidites. Investigation of the stability of the novel phosphoramidites using 31P NMR at room temperature showed less than 10% degradation after 6 h. The azide modified thymidine was successfully utilized as an internal modifier in the standard phosphoramidite synthesis of a DNA sequence. The synthesized azide and alkyne derivatives of pyrimidines will allow efficient incorporation of azide and alkyne click pairs into nucleic acids, thus widening the applicability of click chemistry in investigating the chemistry of nucleic acids.
(291) Resolution of Brachial Plexus Neuritis from Post-Herpetic Neuralgia by Serial Brachial Plexus Blocks with Steroid

Post herpetic neuralgia refers to pain persisting beyond four months from the onset of the initial herpes zoster rash and is results from acute neural inflammation with residual sensitization and pain. There is scarce literature consisting of a few case reports of confirmed brachial neuritis secondary to zoster reactivation. We present a case of a 92-year-old female with history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, macular degeneration, breast cancer and transient ischemic attach who presented to her primary care provider with sudden onset pain in the left thumb and forearm. One week later a rash and blisters developed in the area of pain and she was quickly started on a course of Valtrex. She subsequently developed a flail arm and wrist drop. MRI confirmed brachial plexitis. Upon presentation to our clinic the weakness had mostly resolved and the patient was taking gabapentin 600mg three times daily, tramadol 50mg hours and a lidocaine patch, none of which were effective in controlling her pain which was stated to average 9/10 at best and 10/10 at worst. Given that she had MRI confirmed brachial plexitis, we elected for a series of three brachial plexus blocks using local anesthetic and steroids. We performed two interscalene blocks with 10mg of dexamethasone and an axillary block for the third. The patient had very good results and subsequently returned to her primary care for further management.
Tight bending of the Ndc80 complex provides intrinsic regulation of its binding to microtubules

Regulation of the outer kinetochore complex Ndc80 is essential to ensure correct kinetochore-microtubule attachments during mitosis. Here, we present a novel mechanism of regulation that is intrinsic to its structure; tight bending of the Ndc80 complex inhibits its microtubule binding. Using single molecule Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET), we show that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ndc80 complex can fluctuate between straight and bent forms, and that binding of the complex to microtubules selects for straightened forms. The loop region of the complex enables its bent conformation, as deletion of the loop promotes straightening. In addition, the kinetochore complex MIND enhances microtubule binding by opposing the tightly bent, auto-inhibited conformation of the Ndc80 complex. We suggest that prior to its assembly at the kinetochore, the Ndc80 complex interchanges between bent (auto-inhibited) and open conformations. Once assembled, its association with MIND stabilizes the Ndc80 complex in a straightened form for higher affinity microtubule binding.
Big-Game Hunting: Protein, Fat, or Politics?

I have pulled together a variety of information concerning protein as a nutrient, focusing particularly on protein’s costs and potentially undesirable effects when consumed in large amounts. Intakes of protein (plant and animal combined) above about ∼200–250 g per day can lead to weight loss, lethargy, and weakness, and, if sustained long enough, death. Such intakes can also be detrimental, even toxic, to the fetus and nursing newborn, lowering birth weight and increasing the chances of cognitive disorders, morbidity, and perinatal mortality. Because of its high-specific dynamic action (SDA), protein is also an inefficient way to provide energy to the body, whether for general metabolic needs or specifically for fueling the brain. It is also not the ideal nutrient for brain growth, which requires considerable inputs of fatty acids, particularly the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Aside from brain, the meat and organs from wild ungulates, African or otherwise, are limited, costly, and inefficient sources of DHA (see data in Crawford et al. 1969; Cordain et al. 2001, 2002b).
Reducing food loss and waste: Setting a Global Action Agenda

How is the world going to feed nearly 10 billion people while also advancing economic development and meeting the challenge of climate change? This has become one of the paramount questions of our time. Reducing food loss and waste is part of the answer. Tackling the issue of food loss and waste can generate a “triple win.” Reductions can save money for farmers, companies, and households. Wasting less food means we can feed more people. And reductions can alleviate pressure on climate, as well as on water and land.
Necessity the Mother of Invention: Australian and Eritrean Early Childhood Educators Sharing Skills and Experiences.

Australian and Eritrean early childhood educators are working together to establish early childhood education in Eritrea. Eritrea, in East Africa, devastated by a 30-year war and severe droughts, i...
Evaluation of the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program

ABSTRACT Background There is conflicting evidence about whether the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program (HRRP) is associated with an increase in mortality. Methods In a cohort of Medicare beneficiaries hospitalized with heart failure (HF), we compared two published approaches to evaluating the association of HRRP and risk-adjusted 30-day mortality, including changes in average mortality across periods and changes in slope of monthly mortality rates across discrete periods. We also tested various methods with simulated data that was designed with an inflection in mortality. Results We identified 4,313,523 hospitalizations for HF, 1,788,219 for AMI, and 3,758,111 for pneumonia. Monthly slope-change models identified an increase in mortality for HF and pneumonia in the pre-HRRP period (P Conclusion A national policy incentivizing efforts to reduce readmission did not increase the risk of mortality.
Examining Teacher Characteristics, School Conditions, and Attrition Rates at the Intersection of School Choice and Rural Education

While prior research has examined teachers in rural schools and teachers in charter schools, there has been little research into the intersection of rural and charter schools. Using nationally repr...
Dietary Fructose Intake and Hippocampal Structure and Connectivity during Childhood

In rodent literature, there is evidence that excessive fructose consumption during development has a detrimental impact on hippocampal structure and function. In this study of 103 children ages 7-11 years old, we investigated whether dietary fructose intake was related to alterations in hippocampal volume and connectivity in humans. To examine if these associations were specific to fructose or were related to dietary sugars intake in general, we explored relationships between dietary intake of added sugars and the monosaccharide, glucose, on the same brain measures. We found that increased dietary intake of fructose, measured as a percentage of total calories, was associated with both an increase in the volume of the CA2/3 subfield of the right hippocampus and increased axial, radial, and mean diffusivity in the prefrontal connections of the right cingulum. These findings are consistent with the idea that increased fructose consumption during childhood may be associated with an inflammatory process, and/or decreases or delays in myelination and/or pruning. Increased habitual consumption of glucose or added sugar in general were associated with an increased volume of right CA2/3, but not with any changes in the connectivity of the hippocampus. These findings support animal data suggesting that higher dietary intake of added sugars, particularly fructose, are associated with alterations in hippocampal structure and connectivity during childhood.
Oral and intestinal bacterial exotoxins: Potential linked to carcinogenesis

Growing evidence suggests that imbalances in resident microbes (dysbiosis) can promote chronic inflammation, immune-subversion, and production of carcinogenic metabolites, thus leading to neoplasia. Yet, evidence to support a direct link of individual bacteria species to human sporadic cancer is still limited. This chapter focuses on several emerging bacterial toxins that have recently been characterized for their potential oncogenic properties toward human orodigestive cancer and the presence of which in human tissue samples has been documented. These include cytolethal distending toxins produced by various members of gamma and epsilon Proteobacteria, Dentilisin from mammalian oral Treponema, Pasteurella multocida toxin, two Fusobacterial toxins, FadA and Fap2, Bacteroides fragilis toxin, colibactin, cytotoxic necrotizing factors and α-hemolysin from Escherichia coli, and Salmonella enterica AvrA. It was clear that these bacterial toxins have biological activities to induce several hallmarks of cancer. Some toxins directly interact with DNA or chromosomes leading to their breakdowns, causing mutations and genome instability, and others modulate cell proliferation, replication and death and facilitate immune evasion and tumor invasion, prying specific oncogene and tumor suppressor pathways, such as p53 and β-catenin/Wnt. In addition, most bacterial toxins control tumor-promoting inflammation in complex and diverse mechanisms. Despite growing laboratory evidence to support oncogenic potential of selected bacterial toxins, we need more direct evidence from human studies and mechanistic data from physiologically relevant experimental animal models, which can reflect chronic infection in vivo, as well as take bacterial-bacterial interactions among microbiome into consideration.
In situ synchrotron pair distribution function analysis to monitor synthetic pathways under electromagnetic excitation

Electromagnetic (EM) fields, specifically microwave radiation (MWR), can significantly influence the synthesis of ceramic oxide materials and promote rapid, low-temperature growth. However, the mechanisms by which EM fields affect the phase formation process are not well understood. A major limitation to increasing this understanding has been the lack of information regarding dynamic changes in local atomic structure during MWR exposure compared to conventional hydrothermal synthesis routes. Here, we utilize in situ synchrotron X-ray pair distribution function (PDF) analysis to monitor MWR-assisted SnO2 nanoparticle synthesis. A clear impact of the EM field is demonstrated, with MWR inducing changes in nearest neighbor distances and peaks in oxygen atomic displacement that do not occur during synthesis without MWR exposure. The observed local structural disorder serves as a precursor to rapid rutile SnO2 nanoparticle crystallization, suggesting that EM field-assisted growth is mediated by changes to the oxygen sublattice. These findings further our understanding of the mechanisms underlying MWR-assisted synthesis and represent a step towards utilizing EM fields to engineer tailored atomic structures for a broad range of applications.
Introduction to the Monograph

Recently, increased attention has been given in the media and trade journals to the relationship between a country’s performance in the industrial sector and its success in the international marketplace. It has been generally observed that future excellence in manufacturing and industrial automation is essential to improving quality and competitiveness in the industrial sector. An important factor in providing the technological base necessary to achieve this excellence is the development of advanced industrial control systems. As more sophisticated control strategies are developed for practical systems (such as robotic manipulators, motion control systems, and process control systems), it will be possible for the manufacturing and industrial control industries to reduce production costs and increase their competitiveness.
Operative Technique of Donor Organ Procurement for En Bloc Heart-liver Transplantation.

Combined heart-liver transplant is an emerging option for patients with indications for heart transplantation and otherwise prohibitive hepatic dysfunction. Heart-liver transplantation is particularly relevant for patients with single ventricle physiology who often develop Fontan-associated liver disease and fibrosis. While only performed at a limited number of centers, several approaches to combined heart-liver transplantation have been described. The en bloc technique offers several potential advantages over the traditional sequential technique. Specifically, en bloc heart-liver transplantation may allow improved hemodynamics, decreased bleeding, reduced liver allograft ischemic time, and may result in reduced rates of graft dysfunction. Here we describe our center's en bloc heart-liver procurement technique in detail, with the aim of allowing broader use and standardization of this technique. Supplemental Visual Abstract; http://links.lww.com/TP/C147.
Telerheumatology: before, during, and after a global pandemic.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In early 2020, the COVID-19 global pandemic shifted most healthcare to remote delivery methods to protect patients, clinicians, and hospital staff. Such remote care delivery methods include the use of telehealth technologies including clinical video telehealth or telephone visits. Prior to this, research on the acceptability, feasibility, and efficacy of telehealth applied to rheumatology, or telerheumatology, has been limited. RECENT FINDINGS: Telerheumatology visits were found to be noninferior to in-person visits and are often more time and cost effective for patients. Clinicians and patients both noted the lack of a physical exam in telehealth visits and patients missed the opportunity to have lab work done or other diagnostic tests they are afforded with in-person visits. Overall, patients and clinicians had positive attitudes toward the use of telerheumatology and agreed on its usefulness, even beyond the pandemic. SUMMARY: Although telerheumatology has the potential to expand the reach of rheumatology practice, some of the most vulnerable patients still lack the most basic resources required for a telehealth visit. As the literature on telerheumatology continues to expand, attention should be paid to health equity, the digital divide, as well as patient preferences in order to foster true shared decision-making over telehealth.
Who Stays at Home? The Politics of Social Distancing in Brazil, Mexico, and the United States during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Context Reductions in population mobility can mitigate virus transmission and, in turn, disease-related mortality. But do social distancing policies in response to COVID-19 actually change population behavior and, if so, what political, socioeconomic, and epidemiological factors condition this policy effect? Methods We leverage subnational variation in the stringency and timing of state-issued social distancing policies to test their effects on population mobility from March to December 2020 across 109 states in Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. We also explore how conventional explanations of compliance, including political trust, socioeconomic resources, health risks, and partisanship, modify these policy effects. Findings In Brazil and the U.S., mandatory stay-at-home orders and workplace closures jointly reduced mobility, especially early in the pandemic. In Mexico, where federal government intervention created greater policy uniformity across states, workplace closures produced the most consistent reduction in mobility. Conventional explanations of compliance perform well in the U.S. but not in Brazil and Mexico, with the exception of socioeconomic resources. Conclusions In addition to new directions for future research on the politics of compliance, the article offers insights for policymakers about which public health measures are likely to elicit compliance. Our finding that the efficacy of workplace closures at reducing population mobility increases with levels of socioeconomic development suggests that cash transfers, economic stimulus packages, and other policies that mitigate the financial burdens of the pandemic may help reduce population mobility by decreasing the costs of staying at home.
The Benefits of Doula Support for Women Who Are Pregnant in Prison and Their Newborns

This study describes the characteristics and perinatal outcomes of 67 women who were pregnant in Minnesota’s only state prison for women and who received one-on-one doula support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. Participants reported on their demographic and incarceration-related characteristics; history of physical and mental health; and satisfaction with the program and time with their baby. Doulas recorded frequency and type of contact with women, labor and birth outcomes, and their perceptions of the time women spent with their babies. In addition, women provided open-ended responses about time spent with their babies. Program participants were disproportionately women of color, had limited educational attainment, and experienced high rates of physical and mental health problems. Despite these risks, they had healthy newborns in terms of gestational age and birthweight, and a majority were delivered vaginally. Although women were generally satisfied with the time spent with their babies, open-ended responses indicated a desire for more time with their newborns, as well as the emotional pain of being separated from them. Results indicate that doula care is an innovative intervention in this carceral context and has the potential to benefit the health of women in prison and their newborns.
3. Refrigerant and System Properties

Packed with information on the servicing and retrofitting of air-conditioning refrigerant systems so that shops and technicians can meet federal regulations, satisfy customers, and prevent damage to the environment. The second edition of the Automotive Air-Conditioning Refrigerant Service Guide was written to provide the latest information to automotive air-conditioning service professionals in order to help them comply with federal certification requirements and prevent damage to the environment. With an emphasis on proper recovery and recycling techniques for both R-12 and R-134a, as well as the proper retrofitting of R-12 systems to R-134a, the book will serve as a valuable instructional tool and resource for technicians. Chapters cover: General Safety and Service Precautions; Refrigerant and System Properties; Equipment for the Extraction-only of Refrigerant and Equipment for the Recycling of Refrigerant; Service Procedure for the Containment of Automotive Air-Conditioning Refrigerants; Retrofitting CFC-12 (R-12) Mobile Air-Conditioning Systems to HFC-134a (R-134a).
Describing Transfers Originating Out-of-Facility for Nursing Home Residents.

Abstract Objectives Potentially avoidable hospitalizations are harmful to nursing home residents. Despite extensive care transitions research, no studies have described transfers originating outside the nursing home (eg, visiting family members or at a dialysis center). This article describes 82 out-of-facility (community) transfers and compares them to transfers originating within the nursing home (direct transfers). Design Secondary data analysis with multivariable model for community transfer risk factors. Setting and Participants Eighty-two community transfers and 1362 transfers originating in the nursing home, involving 870 residents enrolled in the OPTIMISTIC demonstration project between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2016. Methods Transfers were compared using data from the Minimum Data Set and root cause analyses performed at time of transfer. Multivariable associations were assessed at the transfer level to define risk factors for community transfers. Project nurses collected data on community transfers to inform a root cause analysis. Results Residents with community transfers were younger (74.4 years vs 78.2 years), with lower prevalence of cognitive impairment (44.8% vs 70.3%) and higher rates of heart failure (38.7% vs 23.3%) than residents with direct transfers. Community transfers were more likely due to cardiovascular illness (31.2% vs 8.7%), whereas less likely to be for cognitive, behavioral, and psychiatric concerns (11.7% vs 22.7%). Nearly half (46%) of community transfers originated at dialysis centers. Residents transferred outside the nursing home were less likely to have documented limitations to care such as a do not resuscitate code status. Communication during community transfers was identified on root cause analyses as a potential area for improvement. Conclusions and Implications Community transfers were more likely to occur in younger residents with higher rates of cardiovascular disease and lower rates of cognitive impairment. Improved communication between nursing home staff and outside providers as well as more extensive advance care planning for residents with cardiovascular disease may reduce community transfers.
Summaries of harms in systematic reviews are unreliable Paper 3: Given the same data sources, systematic reviews of gabapentin have different results for harms.

Abstract Objective : In this methodologic study (Part 2 of 2), we examined the overlap in sources of evidence and the corresponding results for harms in systematic reviews for gabapentin. Study Design & Setting : We extracted all citations referenced as sources of evidence for harms of gabapentin from 70 systematic reviews, as well as the harms assessed and numerical results. We assessed consistency of harms between pairs of reviews with a high degree of overlap in sources of evidence (>50%) as determined by corrected covered area (CCA). Results : We found 514 reports cited across 70 included reviews. Most reports (244/514, 48%) were not cited in more than one review. Among 18 pairs of reviews, we found reviews had differences in which harms were assessed and their choice to meta-analyze estimates or present descriptive summaries. When a specific harm was meta-analyzed in a pair of reviews, we found similar effect estimates. Conclusion : Differences in harms results across reviews can occur because the choice of harms is driven by reviewer preferences, rather than standardized approaches to selecting harms for assessment. A paradigm shift is needed in the current approach to synthesizing harms.
Interferon gamma runs interference on persistent COVID-19.

COVID-19 represents a collection of disease endotypes stemming from infection with SARS-CoV-2 and thus requires precision medicine approaches to target specific viral variants and stages of illness. In this issue, van Laarhoven et al.1 describe five immunocompromised patients with prolonged COVID-19 successfully treated with interferon gamma (IFNγ).
Corrective Osteotomy-Distal Radius

If union with deformity occurs at the distal radius, it can be of sufficient magnitude to cause an unacceptable deformity or loss of function. Sometimes the problem is confined to the radiocarpal joint. In these instances, it is important to restore radial length and distal radial angulation in both the anteroposterior and lateral planes. Adequate joint congruity must be present before corrective osteotomy. Otherwise, such an effort is likely to be in vain because of posttraumatic or degenerative arthritis.
3D Kinematic Gait Analysis in Mucopolysaccharidoses (P4.333)

OBJECTIVE: To identify abnormalities of gait and their correlations with the phenotype severity in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) disorders. BACKGROUND: MPS are a group of lysosomal storage disorders caused by specific enzyme deficiencies. Impaired mobility is frequently seen in MPS. The 6-minute walk test, which has been used for MPS clinical trials, measures endurance and is not directly related to variables of gait. A three-dimensional gait analysis of kinematic variables (3D gait kinematics) could be an efficient, non-invasive quantitative method for describing features of gait. Compared to the walk test, it would be more suitable for evaluating MPS and other pediatric populations. DESIGN/METHODS: MPS patients are being recruited from the study entitled, Longitudinal Studies of Brain Structure and Function in MPS Disorders (Lysosomal Disease Network - U54NS065768). The presence of walking difficulties was assessed in 52 MPSI, 17 MPSII and 8 MPSVI subjects. In the initial (and ongoing) recruitment for 3D gait kinematics we are recruiting MPS and normal control subjects. Eight electromagnetic markers, which are secured to the lower limbs and two back regions, transmit signals to four receivers located next to a 6-meter walkway. Angular displacements of the joints, stride length, step width, and velocity along the desired path are computed. RESULTS: Walking difficulties were reported in the MPS subjects: in MPSI 32 out of 52 (62%), in MPSII 8 out of 17 (47%), MPSVI 3 out of 8 (38%). The 3D gait kinematics are being analyzed and statistical tests for differences between MPS and control subjects will be done. CONCLUSIONS: Walking difficulties are present in MPS disorders, with the highest incidence in MPSI, followed by MPSII and then MPSVI. We hypothesize that the 3D gait kinematic analyses will provide quantitative data that describe the impaired gait pattern in MPS and will be sensitive to disease severity. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis has the potential for identifying outcome measures that could be used in future clinical trials. Disclosure: Dr. Nestrasil has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fuller has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ahmed has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shapiro has received personal compensation for activities with Genzyme Corp. Dr. Anderson has nothing to disclose.
Weight Change Trajectories After Incident Lower-Limb Amputation

Abstract Objective To characterize weight change after amputation by identifying typical weight trajectories in men with incident lower-limb amputation (LLA) and describing characteristics associated with each trajectory. Design Retrospective cohort study and analyzed using group-based trajectory modeling. Setting Administrative data. Participants Veterans who were men (N=759), living in the Northwest United States, and who had an incident toe, foot, or leg amputation between 1997 and 2008 and at least 18 months of amputation-free survival thereafter. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Postamputation weight and body mass index change. Results The mean weight at baseline was 91.6±24kg (202±53lb), and average follow-up was 2.4 years. We identified 4 trajectory groups for weight change: weight loss (13%), stable weight (47%), slow weight gain (33%), and rapid weight gain (7%). Men with a toe or foot amputation most frequently were assigned to the stable weight group (58%), whereas men with transtibial or transfemoral amputations were most commonly assigned to the slow weight gain group (42% each). Men who died during follow-up were more likely to be assigned to the weight loss group (24%) than men who did not die (11%). Conclusions We identified distinct weight change trajectories that represent heterogeneity in weight change after LLA. An improved understanding of factors predictive of weight gain or loss in people with LLA may help better target rehabilitation and prosthetic prescription. Additional research is needed to fully understand the relation between weight change and health status after amputation.
The Insulin Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Substrate p58/53 and the Insulin Receptor Are Components of CNS Synapses

The synapse is the primary locus of cell-cell communication in the nervous system. It is now clear that the synapse incorporates diverse cell signaling modalities in addition to classical neurotransmission. Here we show that two components of the insulin pathway are localized at CNS synapses, where they are components of the postsynaptic density (PSD). An immunochemical screen revealed that polypeptides of 58 and 53 kDa (p58/53) were highly enriched in PSD fractions from rat cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum. These polypeptides were purified and microsequenced, revealing that p58/53 is identical to the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase substrate p58/53 (IRSp53). Our analysis of IRSp58/53 mRNA suggests that within rat brain there is one coding region for IRSp58 and IRSp53; we find no evidence of alternative splicing. We demonstrate that IRSp58/53 is expressed in the synapse-rich molecular layer of the cerebellum and is highly concentrated at the synapses of cultured hippocampal neurons, where it co-localizes with the insulin receptor. Together, these data suggest that insulin signaling may play a role at CNS synapses.
Injurious Loading of Articular Cartilage Compromises Chondrocyte Respiratory Function

Objective To determine whether repeatedly overloading healthy cartilage disrupts mitochondrial function in a manner similar to that associated with osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. Methods We exposed normal articular cartilage on bovine osteochondral explants to 1 day or 7 consecutive days of cyclic axial compression (0.25 MPa or 1.0 MPa at 0.5 Hz for 3 hours) and evaluated the effects on chondrocyte viability, ATP concentration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, indicators of oxidative stress, respiration, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Results Neither 0.25 MPa nor 1.0 MPa of cyclic compression caused extensive chondrocyte death, macroscopic tissue damage, or overt changes in stress-strain behavior. After 1 day of loading, differences in respiratory activities between the 0.25 MPa and 1.0 MPa groups were minimal; however, after 7 days of loading, respiratory activity and ATP levels were suppressed in the 1.0 MPa group relative to the 0.25 MPa group, an effect prevented by pretreatment with 10 mM N-acetylcysteine. These changes were accompanied by increased proton leakage and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as by increased ROS formation, as indicated by dihydroethidium staining and glutathione oxidation. Conclusion Repeated overloading leads to chondrocyte oxidant-dependent mitochondrial dysfunction. This mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to destabilization of cartilage during various stages of OA in distinct ways by disrupting chondrocyte anabolic responses to mechanical stimuli.
The association of selected climatic factors with natural alimentary parasites of the dog

In an effort to define the effects of the natural climate on the infection rates of canine alimentary parasites, a fecal flotation examination for alimentary parasites was performed on 2093 domesticated dogs during a 15-month period at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Concurrently, 15 climatic variables were collected for comparison with the frequency of parasitism. The frequency of natural mono- and multi-infections with coccidia (Isospora spp.), ascarids (Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina), hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum), and whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) was determined and used to evaluate the randomness of multi-infections. In comparing parasitisms with the climatic factors, a complex bioclimatic relationship was found. The relationship was dependent on the parasitic agent(s) and the relative time frame. Natural climatic conditions influenced the ability of Isospora spp. to multi-infect hosts and strongly influenced the infection rate of Ancylostoma caninum. The study suggests that there is a bioclimatic interaction involving both the canine host and the parasite's extra-host life stages.
Anatomical and mechanical changes following repetitive eccentric exertions.

Abstract Background . Submaximal eccentric exertions occur occupationally when rapidly rising tool-generated forces exceed the operator's capacity to react against them. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of short duration repetitive submaximal eccentric forearm exertions at levels comparable to industrial power hand tool use on dynamic mechanical properties (stiffness, effective mass and damping) and on forearm edema. Methods . This study investigated changes following short term repetitive submaximal eccentric exertions comparable to occupational levels. Eight male participants exercised eccentrically for 30min at 50% of isometric maximum voluntary contraction forearm supination in a posture and loading similar to power hand tool use in the workplace. Dynamic mechanical properties (stiffness, effective mass and damping) of the upper limb were measured before, immediately following, and daily for three days after the activity. An MRI scan to assess edema was also performed for five of the participants before, on day one and day three following the activity. Findings. Mechanical stiffness decreased 51% ( P P =0.052) immediately following eccentric exercise. Average isometric strength also decreased 42% immediately following exercise ( P r =0.56) or effective mass ( r =0.30). The exercised arms had a 360% increase ( P T 2 relaxation time difference, a quantifiable measure of edema, one day after exercise while the non-exercised arms had no significant changes. Interpretation. Changes in both T 2 relaxation time, indicative of edema, and forearm mechanical properties, were observed following short duration submaximal repetitive exercise. If similar changes in dynamic mechanical properties of the upper extremity occur following repetitive submaximal eccentric activity in the workplace, they could negatively impact the ability of the arm to react to rapid forceful loading during repetitive industrial work activities and increase mechanical loading of the upper limb
Rubidium as a Marking Agent for the Hickory Shuckworm Cydia caryana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Low pressure trunk injection of an aqueous solution of rubidium chloride into mature pecan trees, at rates of 0, 100, and 200 g per tree, labeled pecan shucks and feeding hickory shuckworms, Cydia caryana (Fitch), with rubidium. Rubidium was detectable by atomic absorption spectroscopy in individual larvae and adults at significantly different levels which did not overlap those in the untreated tree. An ichneumonid parasite of shuckworm larvae also accumulated high levels of rubidium, indicating the movement of rubidium in the food chain.
Dislocation motion in superconductors

The strain rate sensitivity of the flow stress of pure Pb crystals was measured at 4.2$sup 0$K. It was found that the effects of changing the strain rate on the flow stress is much more pronounced when the crystal is deformed in the normal state than when the crystal is deformed in the superconducting state. (JRD)
The radiation of sound by the instability waves of a compressible plane turbulent shear layer

The problem of acoustic radiation generated by instability waves of a compressible plane turbulent shear layer is solved. The solution provided is valid up to the acoustic far-field region. It represents a significant improvement over the solution obtained by classical hydrodynamic-stability theory which is essentially a local solution with the acoustic radiation suppressed. The basic instability-wave solution which is valid in the shear layer and the near-field region is constructed in terms of an asymptotic expansion using the method of multiple scales. This solution accounts for the effects of the slightly divergent mean flow. It is shown that the multiple-scales asymptotic expansion is not uniformly valid far from the shear layer. Continuation of this solution into the entire upper half-plane is described. The extended solution enables the near- and far-field pressure fluctuations associated with the instability wave to be determined. Numerical results show that the directivity pattern of acoustic radiation into the stationary medium peaks at 20 degrees to the axis of the shear layer in the downstream direction for supersonic flows. This agrees qualitatively with the observed noise-directivity patterns of supersonic jets.
Dynamics and Control of the UNCC/MIT Sub-Atomic Measuring Machine

Abstract This paper reports on the design, modeling, implementation, and experimental results for the control of our Sub-Atomic Measuring Machine (SAMM), which has been jointly developed by UNC-Charlotte and MIT. This machine is intended for measuring features on planar substrates with a work volume of 25 mm × 25 mm × 100 μm, with subatomic resolution. The machine uses four linear motors to control motion in six degrees of freedom and provide magnetic suspension. We derive the commutation law for these linear motors based on a least self-heating condition. We also present modeling of the stage motion in six degrees-of-freedom and our controller design using state-space methods. The experimentally-demonstrated RMS stage positioning noise is 0.12 nm in x , 0.082 nm in y , 1.45 nm in z , 22 nrad in θ x , 18 nrad in θ y , and 2.7 nrad in θ z over a 25 second measurement.
Principled Optimization Frameworks for Query Reformulation of Database Queries

Traditional databases have traditionally supported the Boolean retrieval model, where a query returns all tuples that match the selection conditions specified -- no more and no less. Such a query model is often inconvenient for naive users conducting searches that are often exploratory in nature, since the user may not have a complete idea, or a firm opinion of what she may be looking for. This is especially relevant in the context of the Deep Web, which offers a plethora of searchable data sources such as electronic products, transportation choices, apparel, investment options, etc. Users often encounter two types of problems: (a) they may under-specify the items of interest, and find too many items satisfying the given conditions (the many answers problem), or (b) they may over-specify the items of interest, and find no item in the source satisfying all the provided conditions (the empty answer problem).In this talk, I discuss our recent efforts in developing techniques for iterative "query reformulation" by which the system guides the user in a systematic way through several small steps, where each step suggests slight query modifications, until the query reaches a form that generates desirable answers. Our proposed approaches for suggesting query reformulations are driven by novel probabilistic frameworks based on optimizing a wide variety of application-dependent objective functions.
Increased "malic enzyme" activity during adaptation to a low protein diet.

Abstract Liver “malic enzyme” activity has been observed to increase rapidly starting at an early stage during adaptation to a low protein diet in the young rat. The enzymic activity remains elevated up to 33 days after initiation of a low protein diet. Other NADPH generating enzymes, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and DL-isocitrate dehydrogenase, do not show increased activities under the same conditions.
Comparison of oil and phytosterol levels in germplasm accessions of corn, teosinte, and Job's tears.

Seeds of 49 accessions of corn (Zea mays ssp. mays), 9 accessions of teosinte (Zea species that are thought to be ancestors and probable progenitors to corn), and 3 accessions of Job's tears (Coix lacryma), obtained from a germplasm repository, were ground and extracted with hexane. Whole kernel oil yields and levels of four phytonutrients (free phytosterols, fatty acyl phytosterol esters, ferulate phytosterol esters, and γ-tocopherol) in the oils were measured. Among the seeds tested, oil yields ranged from 2.19 to 4.83 wt %, the levels of ferulate phytosterol esters in the oil ranged from 0.047 to 0.839 wt %, the levels of free phytosterols in the oil ranged from 0.54 to 1.28 wt %, the levels of phytosterol fatty acyl esters in the oil ranged from 0.76 to 3.09 wt %, the levels of total phytosterols in the oil ranged from 1.40 to 4.38 wt %, and the levels of γ-tocopherol in the oil ranged from 0.023 to 0.127 wt %. In general, higher levels of all three phytosterol classes were observed in seed oils from ...
Connexin43 with a cytoplasmic loop deletion inhibits the function of several connexins.

Connexins (Cx) form gap junction channels mediating direct intercellular communication. To study the role of amino acids within the cytoplasmic loop, we produced a recombinant adenovirus containing Cx43 with a deletion of amino acids 130–136 (Cx43del130–136). Cx43del130–136 expressed alone in HeLa cells localized within the cytoplasm and did not allow transfer of ions, neurobiotin or Lucifer yellow. When co-expressed with wild type Cx43, Cx43del130–136 blocked electrical coupling and transfer of neurobiotin or Lucifer yellow. Cx43del130–136 and Cx43 co-localized by immunofluorescence and were co-purified from Triton X-100-solubilized cell extracts. Intercellular transfer mediated by Cx37 and Cx45 (but not Cx26 or Cx40) was inhibited when co-expressed with Cx43del130–136. Cx43del130–136 co-localized with Cx37, Cx40, or Cx45, but not Cx26. These data suggest that Cx43del130–136 produces connexin-specific inhibition of intercellular communication through formation of heteromeric connexons that are non-functional and/or retained in the cytoplasm.
EM vs MM: A case study

The celebrated expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm is one of the most widely used optimization methods in statistics. In recent years it has been realized that EM algorithm is a special case of the more general minorization-maximization (MM) principle. Both algorithms create a surrogate function in the first (E or M) step that is maximized in the second M step. This two step process always drives the objective function uphill and is iterated until the parameters converge. The two algorithms differ in the way the surrogate function is constructed. The expectation step of the EM algorithm relies on calculating conditional expectations, while the minorization step of the MM algorithm builds on crafty use of inequalities. For many problems, EM and MM derivations yield the same algorithm. This expository note walks through the construction of both algorithms for estimating the parameters of the Dirichlet-Multinomial distribution. This particular case is of interest because EM and MM derivations lead to two different algorithms with completely distinct operating characteristics. The EM algorithm converges quickly but involves solving a nontrivial maximization problem in the M step. In contrast the MM updates are extremely simple but converge slowly. An EM-MM hybrid algorithm is derived which shows faster convergence than the MM algorithm in certain parameter regimes. The local convergence rates of the three algorithms are studied theoretically from the unifying MM point of view and also compared on numerical examples.
Alternating current electrode polarization

This article summarizes principles of alternating current electrode polarization. The importance of alternating current electrode polarization in biological impedance studies is discussed. The following topics are treated in detail: Definition of Electrode Polarization Impedance; Linearity and Superpositioning Principle; Frequency Dependence of Electrode Impedance; Preparation of Electrodes (Optimal current density for platinum black application, Stability of electrode impedance, Cell design for platinization purposes, Aging and cleaning of electrodes); Effect of Electrode Polarization on Biological Impedances; Effects of Biological Matter on Electrode Polarization; Techniques to Correct for Electrode Polarization (Electrode distance variation technique, Large electrode distance, Graphical technique, Substitution technique, Frequency variation technique, Four-electrode technique); Transient Response of Electrodes; Microelectrodes.