cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Charting the Evolution of Structure and Determinacy in State Sentencing and Corrections Policies 1970–2010:

This study examines state policies governing criminal sentencing and prison release decisions between 1970 and 2010. The goal is to create common definitions and operationalizations of policies to better specify state-level policy differences over time and across jurisdictions. Relying on an independent review of state codes, we define and catalogue key legislative initiatives adopted across the states, including presumptive sentences, sentencing guidelines, and the abolition of discretionary release. We argue that a set of common definitions and accounting is necessary for enhancing research on the content, adoption, and impact of policies and for assisting policymakers in the development of reform initiatives in the areas of sentencing and corrections.
Effect of Organic-Inorganic Complex Fertilizers on Yield and Economic Benefit of Fresh Kidney Bean,Cucumber and Chilli

Effect of organic-inorganic complex fertilizers application on yield and economic benefit of fresh kidney bean, cucumber and chilli was studied under the field condition.The results showed that there are highest yields in organic-in- organic complex fertilizers application among the three vegetables.Organic-inorganic complex fertilizers application could increase yield,promote characteristics of esculent parts and raise economic benefit of the three vegetables.
Coke Oven Collector Pressure Control Based on Subspace Identification

In the light of the characteristics of multi-variable,coupling and time variation of coke oven gas collector pressure, a incremental online subspace multi-variable predictive control strategy w as designed for coke oven gas collector pressure. On the basis of incremental subspace predictive control,rolling w indow subspace identification method w as introduced to design the updating strategy of subspace predictor model,and the online subspace adaptive predictive control w as realized. Online subspace identification method w as used to identify field data of coke oven gas collecting system and better predicted precision w as obtained. State space model of gas collecting system w as built based on subspace predictor model. In the condition of considering input constraints,time-varying model and disturbance,the control strategy indicated good control precision and performance for state space model of gas collector pressure.
Extending Stannyl Anion Chemistry to the Actinides: Synthesis and Characterization of a Uranium–Tin Bond

We have synthesized a rare example of a uranium(IV) stannyl (κ4-N(CH2CH2NSi(iPr)3)3U(SnMe3), 1) via transmetalation with LiSnMe3. This complex has been characterized crystallographically and shown to have a U–Sn bond length of 3.3130(3) A, substantially longer than the only other crystallographically observed U–Sn bond (3.166 A). Computational studies suggest that the U–Sn bond in 1 is highly polarized, with significant charge transfer to the stannylate ligand. We briefly discuss plausible mechanistic scenarios for the formation of 1, which may be relevant to other transmetalation processes involving heavy main group atoms. Furthermore, we demonstrate the reducing ability of [SnMe3]− in the absence of strongly donating ligands on U(IV).
The physics of protein folding

Proteins play a vital role in the structure and functioning of all forms of life. They catalyse the reactions within living systems and are responsible for signalling and communication within cells.
CREATIVITY IN LATER LIFE

Creativity is not a timebound act nor a function of chronological age. Many older individuals engage in the creative process, and creative acts can help put into place the meaning of life and the meaning of aging. Older adults participating in the arts have experienced well‐being and life satisfaction. This article discusses the role of creativity in the lives of older adults, strategies for nurturing creativity, and training programs in creativity for the elderly.
The View from the Journal

While it may feel like the end of a lengthy process, submitting a case report to a journal is usually the beginning of another long journey. Peer review can take months, and responding to peer review can be equally time consuming. Papers often go back and forth between the journal and the authors several times before finally being accepted for publication. The first part of this chapter provides a final checklist to review before proceeding with submission. Following this checklist will add a final polish to maximize the chances of acceptance. The second part of this chapter provides practical guidance to make the review and revision process as smooth as possible.
Couplings of NN(n\pi) n \geq 1

Determinations of the couplings of $N N (n \pi) (n \geq 1)$ are reported. The study is based on both a quark model of nucleon and a chiral field theory of mesons. The coupling of $N N \pi$ is predicted and is in agreement with current value. It shows that the coupling $ N N 2 \pi $ is resulted in the nature that pion is a Goldstone boson. The couplings of $N N (n \pi) (n \geq 2)$ are predicted by this approach.
The Evolution of Implant Design Decreases the Incidence of Lateral Release in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Appropriate balancing of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) using a lateral release can help to prevent patellar instability in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Contemporary total knee implant designs are characterized by enhanced trochlear geometry more similar to native knee anatomy to minimize instability and reduce utilization of a lateral release. Methods We retrospectively reviewed consecutive TKA cases from a single senior surgeon's practice with 3 successive total knee designs: the Press-Fit Condylar (PFC), the Sigma, and the ATTUNE (DePuy, Warsaw, IN). We evaluated the use of lateral release with each implant type to determine if design changes have improved patellar stability, reducing the need for lateral release. We used multivariate analysis to determine the association between implant type and lateral release, adjusting for age, sex, preoperative alignment, and bearing type. Results We evaluated 1991 records of primary TKAs performed from 1980-2015. As compared with the ATTUNE, the adjusted odds of lateral release were greater for patients receiving PFC implants (Odds ratio [OR] 6.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.85,10.49) and Sigma implants (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.26, 3.23). In addition, fixed bearing implants were associated with greater adjusted odds of lateral release (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.24, 2.62). Conclusion We found that older knee implants were associated with higher use of lateral release, with successive designs the need for lateral release to balance the PFJ decreased. Continued design improvements to match the native knee anatomy may further improve the stability of the PFJ in future designs.
Muslim immigration and religious human rights

Large-scale migration of Muslims into Europe and North America and subsequent debates over bans on Muslim migration, headscarves, and mosque construction draw into sharp relief unresolved tensions within the contemporary human rights regime. A legacy of the post-1945 state system, the contemporary human rights regime is poorly equipped for dealing with the religious freedoms of Muslim immigrants and contributes to the political turbulence surrounding immigrants and asylum-seekers in Europe and North America. To what extent does mass migration to Europe reveal gaps in protections of religious freedom under the contemporary international human rights regime? What might these gaps tell us about the human rights regime itself? The notion of contradictions in the rights regime sheds light on the ironic situation where European politicians appropriate the language of human rights to justify potentially illiberal immigration controls.
Submodular Optimization for Voltage Control

Voltage instability occurs when a power system is unable to meet the reactive power demand, and is typically corrected by switching on additional reactive power devices such as capacitor banks. Real-time monitoring and communication technologies can potentially improve voltage stability by enabling the rapid detection of low voltages and the implementation of corrective actions. These corrective actions, however, will only be effective in restoring stability if they are chosen in a timely, scalable manner. In this paper, we propose a submodular optimization approach for designing a control strategy that prevents voltage instability. Our key insight is that the voltage deviation from the desired level is a supermodular function of the set of reactive power injections that are employed, leading to computationally efficient control algorithms for stabilization with provable optimality guarantees. This submodular control framework is tested on the IEEE 300-bus transmission system.
Effect of the US-Mexico border region in cardiovascular mortality: ecological time trend analysis of Mexican border and non-border municipalities from 1998 to 2012.

An array of risk factors has been associated with cardiovascular diseases, and developing nations are becoming disproportionately affected by such diseases. Cardiovascular diseases have been reported to be highly prevalent in the Mexican population, but local mortality data is poor. The Mexican side of the US-Mexico border has a culture that is closely related to a developed nation and therefore may share the same risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. We wanted to explore if there was higher cardiovascular mortality in the border region of Mexico compared to the rest of the nation. We conducted a population based cross-sectional time series analysis to estimate the effects of education, insurance and municipal size in Mexican border (n = 38) and non-border municipalities (n = 2360) and its association with cardiovascular age-adjusted mortality rates between the years 1998–2012. We used a mixed effect linear model with random effect estimation and repeated measurements to compare the main outcome variable (mortality rate), the covariates (education, insurance and population size) and the geographic delimiter (border/non-border). Mortality due to cardiovascular disease was consistently higher in the municipalities along the US-Mexico border, showing a difference of 78 · 5 (95% CI 58 · 7-98 · 3, p < 0 · 001) more cardiovascular deaths after adjusting for covariates. Larger municipal size and higher education levels showed a reduction in cardiovascular mortality of 12 · 6 (95% CI 11 · 4-13 · 8, p < 0 · 001) deaths and 8 · 6 (95% CI 5 · 5-11 · 8, p < 0 · 001) deaths respectively. Insurance coverage showed an increase in cardiovascular mortality of 3 · 6 (95% CI 3 · 1-4 · 0, p < 0 · 001) deaths per decile point increase. There was an increase in cardiovascular mortality of 0 · 3 (95% CI −0 · 001-0 · 6, p = 0 · 050) deaths per year increase in the non-border but a yearly reduction of 2 · 9 (95% CI 0 · 75-5.0, p = 0 · 008) deaths in the border over the time period of 1998–2012. We observed that the Mexican side of the US-Mexico border region is disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease mortality as compared to the non-border region of Mexico. This was not explained by education, population density, or insurance coverage. Proximity to the US culture and related diet and habits can be explanations of the increasing mortality trend.
EDUCAÇÃO E TECNOLOGIA: CONTRADIÇÕES E SUPERAÇÕES NO CAMPO DA POLÍTICA EDUCACIONAL

O artigo reflete sobre a contradicao existente na educacao brasileira entre os indicadores que apontam fragilidades e, ao mesmo tempo, sinalizam para os ganhos com maior investimento em educacao. Perpassa pelo contraste entre a baixa qualidade da educacao basica, os possiveis impactos da tecnologia na educacao e as possibilidades de uma melhor relacao entre professores e alunos. Atraves da analise da politica educacional, o artigo aponta para uma aparente dificuldade de dialogo entre a forma de produzir conhecimento na comunidade escolar e a forma de produzir conhecimento nas comunidades desenvolvedoras de Software Livre . O artigo estrutura-se em duas partes, na primeira desenvolve as contradicoes entre a educacao e a tecnologia; na segunda apresenta uma experiencia docente realizada em um curso do PRONATEC com o objetivo de pensar na possibilidade de organizar um caminho que aproxime o modo de fazer dos tecnologos do modo de fazer dos professores.
Dog-handler team as a detection system for explosives: a tail to be told

The dog-handler team as an explosive detection system is critically reviewed. The probable means of detection, olfaction or the sense of smell, is described to understand how sensitive and selective the dog-handler team can be. The empirical and experimental data available at this time regarding the means by which the teams are selected, trained, deployed, and maintained are presented and evaluated. The dog-handler team is recognized as a very effective system for detection of explosives with considerable potential for improvement. The need for more valid data relating to the mechanisms of detection, of training, and of selection are expressed and explained. Potential means of improving the system are proposed.
Michael J. Murray and Mathew Forstater, eds.: The Job Guarantee: Toward True Full Employment

For the reader that is curious about the idea of a “job guarantee” – alternatively called “employer of last resort” or “public service employment” – this book is a good place to start. Although it ...
Engineering sulfur storage in maize seed proteins without apparent yield loss.

Abstract Sulfur assimilation may limit the pool of methionine and cysteine available for incorporation into zeins, the major seed storage proteins in maize. This hypothesis was tested by producing transgenic maize with deregulated sulfate reduction capacity achieved through leaf-specific expression of the Escherichia coli enzyme 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate reductase (EcPAPR) that resulted in higher methionine accumulation in seeds. The transgenic kernels have higher expression of the methionine-rich 10-kDa δ-zein and total protein sulfur without reduction of other zeins. This overall increase in the expression of the S-rich zeins describes a facet of regulation of these proteins under enhanced sulfur assimilation. Transgenic line PE5 accumulates 57.6% more kernel methionine than the high-methionine inbred line B101. In feeding trials with chicks, PE5 maize promotes significant weight gain compared with nontransgenic kernels. Therefore, increased source strength can improve the nutritional value of maize without apparent yield loss and may significantly reduce the cost of feed supplementation.
Abstract 18039: Resource Utilization for Initial Hospitalization in Pediatric Heart Transplantation in the United States

Background: Pediatric heart transplantation (HT) is resource intensive. Event driven pediatric HT databases do not capture data on resource use. The objective of this study was to evaluate resource utilization and identify associated factors during initial hospitalization for pediatric HT in a large multi-institutional cohort. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective cohort study using the PHIS database (43 US children’s hospitals) of children ≤ 19 years of age who underwent HT between 1/07 and 7/13. Data collected: Demographic variables including site, payer, distance and time to center, clinical pre and post-transplant variables, mortality, cost and charge. Total length of stay (LOS) and charge for initial hospitalization were used as surrogates for resource use. Charges were inflation adjusted to 2013 $. Gamma regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors associated with resource use. Results: Of 1629 subjects, 54% were male, and the median age at HT was 5 years (IQR 0-13). The median total and ICU LOS were 51 (IQR: 23-98) and 23 (IQR: 9-58) days respectively, and mortality occurred in 82 (5%). Total charge and cost for hospitalization were $852,713 ($464,900-$1,609,300) and $383,600 ($214,900-$681,000) respectively. Factors associated with resource use on multivariate analysis are shown in Table 1. Younger age, lower center volume, southern region, and comorbidities prior to HT were associated with higher resource use. In later years, costs increased despite shorter LOS. Conclusions: This large multicenter study provides novel insight into factors associated with resource use in pediatric HT that cannot be assessed in alternative event driven transplant databases. Peri-transplant morbidities are associated with increased cost and LOS. Reducing costs in line with LOS will improve health care value. Regional and center volume differences need further investigation for optimizing value-based care and efficient use of scarce resources.
Sleep duration, timing, variability and measures of adiposity among 8‐ to 12‐year‐old children with obesity

Objectives Sleep disruption in laboratory studies increases adiposity and decreases glucose tolerance. However, few epidemiological studies have used objective measures of sleep. This study aims to assess associations between sleep duration, timing and regularity with measures of adiposity. Methods This is a cross-sectional study of 188 children with obesity (age: 10.50 ± 1.39 years; body mass index: 29.24 ± 5.04 kg m-2). Nightly sleep duration, bedtime and wake time were measured by multiple-day actigraphy and parent reports. Per cent overweight (per cent over median body mass index for age and sex) was chosen as the primary measure of obesity status. Objective measures of height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood lipids, glucose, insulin, glycated haemoglobin and C-reactive protein were obtained. Television screen time and total caloric intake were assessed via parent questionnaire. Results Each hour later in weekday bedtime was associated with an additional 6.17 per cent overweight (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.42-10.92). Each hour greater in day-to-day variability in weekday bedtime and weekday wake time was associated with an additional 10.20 (95% CI: 0.50-19.91) and 10.02 (95% CI: 1.55-18.50) per cent overweight, respectively. Associations were similar after controlling for other obesity-related behaviours (television screen time, total caloric intake and physical activity.). Conclusions Among children with obesity, later bedtime and greater variability in bedtime and wake time are associated with greater adiposity, independent of other obesity-related behaviours. Early bedtime and wake time and consistent day-to-day sleep timing may be strategies to reduce adiposity in high-risk children.
Analyzing the Impact of the Liquor Industry's Lifting of the Ban on Broadcast Advertising

Using evidence from available academic studies, the author provides insight into three issues of the liquor advertising policy debate: (1) Will hard liquor advertising increase hard liquor consumpt...
Effect of Torsional Ground Motions on Floor Acceleration Response in Flexible SMRF Buildings

This study investigates the effect of torsional components of the ground motions (TGM) on the floor acceleration response of flexible special moment-resisting frame (SMRF) buildings. For this purpo...
Aminomethyl Transfer (Mannich) Reactions Between an O-Triethylsilylated Hemiaminal and Anilines, RnC6H5−nNH2 Leading to New Diamines, Triamines, Imines, or 1,3,5-Triazines Dependent upon Substituent R

The reactions of the Mannich reagent Et3 SiOCH2 NMe2 (1) with a variety of anilines (mono-substituted RC6 H4 NH2 , R=H, 4-CN, 4-NO2 , 4-Ph, 4-Me, 4-MeO, 4-Me2 N; di-substituted R2 C6 H3 NH2 , R2 =3,5-(CH3 )2 , 3,5-(CF3 )2 ; tri-substituted R3 C6 H2 NH2 , R3 =3,5-Me2 -4-Br and a "super bulky" aniline (Ar*NH2 ) [Ar*=2,6-bis(diphenylmethyl)-4-tert-butylphenyl]) led to the formation of a range of products dependent upon the substituent. With electron-withdrawing substituents, previously unknown diamines, RC6 H4 NH(CH2 NMe2 ) [R=CN (2 a), NO2 (2 b)] and R2 C6 H3 NH(CH2 NMe2 ) [R2 =3,5-(CF3 )2 (2 c)] were formed. Further reaction of 2 a, b, c with 1 yielded the corresponding triamines RC6 H4 N(CH2 NMe2 )2 (R=CN (3 a), NO2 (3 b) and R2 C6 H3 N(CH2 NMe2 )2 , R2 =3,5-(CF3 )2 (3 c). The new polyamines were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, and for 2 a, 2 c, and 3 c, by single crystal XRD. In the case of electron-donating groups, R=4-OMe, 4-NMe2 , 4-Me, 3,5-Me2 , 3,5-Me2 -4-Br, and for R=4-Ph, the reactions with 1 immediately led to the formation of the related 1,3,5-triazines, R=4-MeO (5 a), 4-Me2 N (5 b), 4-Me (5 c), 3,5-Me2 (5 d), 3,5-Me2 -4-Br (5 e), 4-Ph (5 f), 4-Cl (5 g). The "super bulky" aniline rapidly produced a single product, namely the corresponding imine Ar*N=CH2 (4) which was also characterized by single crystal XRD. Imine 4 is both thermally and oxidatively stable. All reactions are very fast, thus based upon the presence of Si we are tempted to denote the reactions of 1 as examples of "Silick" chemistry.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of conformationally constrained bicyclic and tricyclic balanol analogues as inhibitors of protein kinase C

Abstract A series of conformationally constrained bicyclic (20–25 and 28) and tricyclic (26 and 27) balanol analogues was prepared and evaluated as inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC). Of special interest are bicyclic balanol analogues 20 and 24 and the tricyclic analogue 26, which not only retain the nanomolar activity for most PKC isozymes, but also display good selectivity over c-AMP dependent protein kinase (PKA).
Health reform under the patient protection and Affordable Care Act: characteristics of exchange-based health insurance enrollees

ABSTRACTThe Affordable Care Act (ACA) reformed and expanded healthcare coverage with an exchange-based health insurance program. While millions of Americans have benefited from enrollment in ACA ma...
5G and intelligence medicine—how the next generation of wireless technology will reconstruct healthcare?

Despite intensive efforts, there are still enormous challenges in provision of healthcare services to the increasing aging population. Recent observations have raised concerns regarding the soaring costs of healthcare, the imbalance of medical resources, inefficient healthcare system administration, and inconvenient medical experiences. However, cutting-edge technologies are being developed to meet these challenges, including, but not limited to, Internet of Things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence, and 5G wireless transmission technology to improve the patient experience and healthcare service quality, while cutting the total cost attributable to healthcare. This is not an unrealistic fantasy, as these emerging technologies are beginning to impact and reconstruct healthcare in subtle ways. Although the technologies mentioned above are integrated, in this review we take a brief look at cases focusing on the application of 5G wireless transmission technology in healthcare. We also highlight the potential pitfalls to availability of 5G technologies.
Psychological outcomes affect functional outcomes in patients with severe pelvic ring fractures.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the correlation between post-traumatic functional and psychological outcomes in patients with severe pelvic ring injuries. Methods Forty-four patients who sustained a completely unstable pelvic ring injury (Tile C, AO/OTA 61C) treated in our institution from 2012 to 2017 were included. A telephone interview was performed in 16 of 44 patients to evaluate pelvic functionality, using the Majeed pelvic score, and psychological evaluation, using Hamilton anxiety and depression rating scales. Results The mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 27 ± 12, and mean GCS at presentation was 13 ± 4. Average time from trauma to interview was 3 years (range, 1–5 years). Mean Majeed pelvic score was 67 ± 22. Majeed sub-scores were pain 19 ± 9, work 10 ± 7, sitting 8 ± 2, sexual intercourse 3 ± 2, walking aids 11 ± 2, gait unaided 9 ± 2, walking distance 8 ± 3. Mean depression and anxiety scores were 16 ± 12 and 17 ± 14, respectively. Significant correlations were observed between functional and psychological outcomes (P Conclusion Lower functional outcomes in patients with Tile C pelvic injuries were correlated with more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety. We recommend that providers consider and treat patients’ mental health condition during posttraumatic recovery.
Clinical Applications of European Adolescent Assessment Research.

This article discusses clinical applications of three empirical articles published in the present issue of JPA, all focused on adolescent assessment in European countries. Both adolescent and non-A...
Imperial Architecture in Rome from the Flavians through the Antonines

The end of Julio-Claudian rule, marked by the violent death of Nero and followed by a year of turmoil and civil war, was uncommonly like its turbulent beginning. In a little over a year, four emperors ascended to the throne, mainly through overt military support. Three of the contenders – Galba, Otho, and Vitellus – ruled only a matter of months before they were dethroned and murdered by legions favoring their own leader for the top job. The fourth, Vespasian, the commander of the army in Palestine, was proclaimed emperor by his troops in 69 ce . At the age of sixty, a seasoned and popular soldier, he was able to bring order and normalcy after a period of struggle, and gained the support of the Senate, the army, and the people. Followed by his two sons, Titus and Domitian, Vespasian established the Flavian dynasty that ruled Rome and her expanding empire until 96 ce , a little over one-quarter of a century.
A 200 nanoseconds all-atom simulation of the pH-dependent EF loop transition in bovine β-lactoglobulin. The role of the orientation of the E89 side chain.

In silico molecular dynamics (MD) using crystallographic and NMR data was used to simulate the effects of the protonation state of E89 on the pH-dependent conformational rearrangement of the EF loo...
Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Aging and Heart Failure.

This review summarizes sex-related changes in the heart and vasculature that occur with aging, both in the presence and absence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In the presence of CVD risk factors and/or overt CVD, sex-specific changes in the number of cardiomyocytes, extent of the myocardial extracellular matrix, and myocellular hypertrophy promote unique patterns of LV remodeling in men and women. In addition, age- and sex-specific vascular stiffening is also well established, driven by changes in endothelial dysfunction, elastin–collagen content, microvascular dysfunction, and neurohormonal signaling. Together, these changes in LV chamber geometry and morphology, coupled with heightened vascular stiffness, appear to drive both age-related increases in systolic function and declines in diastolic function, particularly in postmenopausal women. Accordingly, estrogen has been implicated as a key mediator, given its direct vasodilating properties, association with nitric oxide excretion, and involvement in myocellular Ca2+ handling, mitochondrial energy production, and oxidative stress. The culmination of the abovementioned sex-specific cardiac and vascular changes across the lifespan provides important insight into heart failure development, particularly of the preserved ejection fraction variety, while offering promise for future preventive strategies and therapeutic approaches.
A Rare and Severe Presentation of Henoch-Schönlein Purpura in an Adolescent With Crescentic Glomerulonephritis, Arrhythmia, Acute Gastrointestinal Bleed, and Neurological Complications.

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a childhood vasculitis disorder that involves the skin, joints, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and kidneys. It is related to immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody deposition in small blood vessels. HSP is a self-limiting disorder, but its morbidity is primarily associated with renal involvement. GI pathologies like intussusception, gastritis, duodenitis, ileitis, or ulcer have been reported to be associated with this disease. However, cardiac and neurological complications are rarely reported. We present the case of a 16-year-old, previously healthy male who was diagnosed with HSP after presenting with a non-blanching purpuric rash in the lower extremities. The patient also had joint and abdominal pain, and swelling in the extremities. There was renal dysfunction at presentation with blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 67 mg/dL and serum creatinine of 1.9 mg/dL. The serum albumin was low at 2 g/dL, and the patient had nephrotic range proteinuria. Urine microscopy showed red blood cell casts. A renal biopsy was performed, which showed IgA deposition in glomeruli. He was started on intravenous (IV) pulse methylprednisolone and was later prescribed oral steroids. Four weeks after the treatment initiation, he presented with syncope and acute anemia (hemoglobin of 3.5 g/dL). The fecal occult blood was positive. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was not suggestive of gastritis, duodenitis, or ulcer. The pill-cam capsule endoscopy revealed GI bleeding from the terminal ileum near Meckel's diverticulum. He subsequently required blood transfusions, and the bleeding eventually improved with symptomatic management. Six weeks after treatment initiation, he presented with dizziness and palpitations. The EKG showed the presence of atrial fibrillation, and he had an episode of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia on telemetry. Arrhythmia was diagnosed secondary to HSP cardiac vasculitis, and we initiated treatment with metoprolol and amiodarone. Seven weeks after the initial treatment, he had neurological clinical findings of proximal muscle weakness, tremors, and upper and lower extremity clonus. A second renal biopsy was then performed due to the presence of persistently elevated serum creatinine, which showed 75% of glomeruli with cellular crescents. He was treated with IV cyclophosphamide. Subsequently, the renal function improved. There were no other GI, cardiac, or neurological complications after six months of follow-up. The presentation of HSP can be more severe in adolescents, and they need to be closely monitored for GI, cardiac, renal, and neurological complications after the disease occurrence. Bleeding from Meckel's diverticulum or an episode of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia with HSP has not been previously reported to our knowledge. Arrhythmia is an exceptionally unusual occurrence in HSP, and it is usually treated with anti-arrhythmic drugs and intensification of the immunosuppressive regimen.
Role of nearshore benthic algae in the Lake Michigan silica cycle.

Si cycling is linked with processes from global carbon sequestration to community composition and is especially important in aquatic ecosystems. Lake Michigan has seen dramatic fluctuations in dissolved silica (dSi) over several decades, which have been examined in the context of planktonic processes (diatom blooms), but the role of benthic organisms (macroalgae and their epiphytes) in Si cycling have not been explored. To assess significance of nearshore benthic algae in Si dynamics, we assembled dSi data from an offshore site sampled since the late 1980’s, and sampled off three Milwaukee beaches during 2005–19. Using colorimetric assays and alkaline digestion, we measured dSi, biogenic silica in particulate suspended material (pSi) and biogenic silica in benthic macroalgae (Cladophora) and epiphytic diatoms (bSi). Offshore, dSi increased about 1 μM per year from 25 μM in the late 1980’s to nearly 40 μM in 2019. Nearshore dSi fluctuated dramatically annually, from near zero to concentrations similar to offshore. Both Cladophora and its epiphytes contained significant bSi, reaching up to 30% of dry mass (300 mg Si g dry mass-1) of the assemblage in summer. Microscopic analyses including localization with a Si-specific-stain and X-ray microanalysis showed bSi in epiphytic diatom cells walls, but the nature and localization of Si in macroalgae remained unclear. A simple model was developed estimating Si demand of algae using the areal macroalgal biomass, growth rates inferred from P-content, and bSi content, and comparing Si demand with dSi available in the water column. This indicated that 7–70% of the dSi in water overlying nearshore benthic algal beds could be removed per day. Key elements of the Si cycle, including which organisms sequester bSi and how rapidly Si is recycled, remain unclear. This work has implications for coastal marine waters where large macroalgal biomass accumulates but bSi content is virtually unknown.
Address to Beijing International Radiation Symposium

Mr. Zou, Professor Ye, Dr. Lenoble, participants and guests, I am honored to have been invited to address this distinguished group of leading atmospheric scientists at the Beijing International Radiation Symposium. I am also especially pleased to do so because it gives me cause to return to this beautiful country and to see once again my many good friends in China and, on this occasion, to meet with friends from distant lands.
Optimal groundwater remediation design using an Adaptive Neural Network Genetic Algorithm

[1] Large-scale water resources optimization often involves using time-consuming simulation models to evaluate potential water resource designs or calibrate parameter values. Approximation models have been proposed for improving computational efficiency of the optimization. In most instances, multiple simulation runs have been done prior to the optimization, which are then used to fit an approximate model that is used during the optimization. This paper demonstrates that this approach can lead to suboptimal solutions and proposes a dynamic modeling approach, called Adaptive Neural Network Genetic Algorithm (ANGA), in which artificial neural networks are adaptively and automatically trained directly within a genetic algorithm (GA) to replace the time-consuming water resource simulation models. A dynamic learning approach is proposed to periodically sample new solutions both to update the ANNs and to correct the GA's convergence. Different configurations of ANGA were tested on a hypothetical groundwater remediation design case, and then the best configuration was applied to a field-scale case. In these applications, ANGA saved 85–90% percent of the simulation model calls with no loss in accuracy of the optimal solutions. These results show that the method has substantial promise for reducing computational effort associated with large-scale water resources optimization.
PP2Cγ: a human protein phosphatase with a unique acidic domain1

We have cloned a novel cDNA from human skeletal muscle which encodes a protein phosphatase with a unique acidic domain. It is 34% identical to mammalian PP2Cα and PP2Cβ, and we call it PP2Cγ. It more closely resembles PP2Cs from Paramecium tetraurelia and Schizosaccharomyces pombe than mammalian PP2Cs. Northern blot analysis shows that PP2Cγ is widely expressed, and is most abundant in testis, skeletal muscle, and heart. Like known PP2Cs, recombinant PP2Cγ requires Mg2+ or Mn2+ for activity. Unlike any other known phosphatase, PP2Cγ has a highly acidic domain: 75% of the 54 residues are glutamate or aspartate.
From vision to learning: Effectiveness measures of Christian school boards

This exploratory study investigated the effectiveness of Christian School boards, as perceived by its members, and examined patterns and characteristics that describe internal board activities. The study employed a quantitative survey research design that revealed areas of strength and areas of growth for Christian School board operations. Board effectiveness was measured in accordance with Smoley's (1999) Model for Effective School Boards. The research focused on four questions: (a) What are the background characteristics of Christian School board members? (b) What patterns exist in the Christian School board effectiveness ratings of school board members, presidents, and school administrators? (c) Are there mean differences between the ratings of Christian School board members, presidents, and school administrators? and (d) What are some of the factors (e.g. role on the board, school characteristics, and board member characteristics) that predict school board effectiveness ratings? Data were collected through an online survey of 37 Christian School boards in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The survey was completed by 217 school board members, school board presidents, and school administrators. The analysis of the demographic data revealed that Christian School boards are primarily comprised of welleducated, White, middle-aged men from business and/or professional backgrounds. Internal school board activities data revealed that Christian School boards perceive themselves to be highly effective at making rational decisions and moderately effective at connecting to the community. The data also revealed that, when compared to Smoley's (1999) Model for School Board Effectiveness, Christian School board self-perceptions fell short in the areas of functioning as a group, exercising authority, working toward board improvement, and acting strategically. The difference was particularly pronounced in the area of working toward board improvement. The research findings suggest implications for the work of Christian School boards, namely the vociferous need to diligently examine internal board activities and their effect on external outcomes. Future studies should center on the demographic representation on the board and the benefits of professional development directed to the school board itself. Attention to these implications and recommendations will contribute to strengthening the internal work of the Christian School board and, ultimately, student achievement.
Fractal Analysis: Revisiting Pollock's Drip Paintings

Arising from: R. P. Taylor, A. P. Micolich and D. Jonas Nature , 422; 1999 Taylor et al. reply We investigate the contentions that Jackson Pollock's drip paintings are fractals produced by the artist's Levy distributed motion and that fractal analysis may be used to authenticate works of uncertain provenance1,2,3,4,5. We find that the paintings exhibit fractal characteristics over too small a range to be usefully considered as fractal; their limited fractal characteristics are easily generated without Levy motion, both by freehand drawing and gaussian random motion. Several problems must therefore be addressed before fractal analysis can be used to authenticate paintings1.
Scalable Link-Based Relay Selection for Anonymous Routing

The performance of an anonymous path can be described using many network metrics --- e.g., bandwidth, latency, jitter, loss, etc. However, existing relay selection algorithms have focused exclusively on producing paths with high bandwidth. In contrast to traditional node-based path techniques in which relay selection is biased by relays' node-characteristics (i.e., bandwidth), this paper presents the case for link-based path generation in which relay selection is weighted in favor of the highest performing links. Link-based relay selection supports more flexible routing, enabling anonymous paths with low latency, jitter, and loss, in addition to high bandwidth. Link-based approaches are also more secure than node-based techniques, eliminating "hotspots" in the network that attract a disproportionate amount of traffic. For example, misbehaving relays cannot advertise themselves as "low-latency" nodes to attract traffic, since latency has meaning only when measured between two endpoints. We argue that link-based path selection is practical for certain anonymity networks, and describe mechanisms for efficiently storing and disseminating link information.
The Effect of Varying Levels of Hay and Corn Silage Consumption on Total Digestible Nutrient Intake and Milk Production

High-producing cows under usual herd management practice rarely attain their maximum milk production. In addition to various environmental factors that may have a bearing on lactation, the cow's feed intake and production are limited in most herds by the character of the feed or the policy of the owner. The very highest production can be obtained only by very liberal feeding of concentrates, and this practice may be both uneconomical and injurious to the cow. The digestive system of the cow is well equipped to handle large amounts of relatively inexpensive roughages, and the most efficient feeding practice depends on encouraging maximum roughage consumption. This experiment was conducted to determine the effeet on total nutrient intake resulting from three levels of corn silage feeding when hays of two different qualities were fed ad libitum. Very little has been done in the way of determining an exact level at which corn silage should be fed to produce the best response in roughage intake and milk production. In 1888 a feeding trial was reported by the Maine E'xperiment Station (1), where cows receiving timothy hay as their sole roughage increased their milk yield when part of the hay was replaced by corn silage. Since then there have been many trials at experiment stations indicating that the combination of silage and hay improved milk production when compared with hay as the only roughage. However, some trials showed no advantage from silage feeding when hay of satisfactory quality was liberally fed. Many of the trials dealt principally with the economical aspects of using silage, lViost noteworthy were those of White and Pra t t (7). Ten trials with corn silage at various stages of maturi ty were conducted. In the latest of these trials a heavy silage feeding level was found to be of no more advantage than
Effect of Acetaldehyde on Sp1 Binding and Activation of the Mouse α2(I) Collagen Promoter

Abstract Acetaldehyde activates the mouse α 2 (I) collagen promoter and this effect is mediated in part by increased binding of nuclear factor I (NF-I). Additional mechanisms may exist since deletions in the promoter upstream to the NF-I binding site prevented enhancement by acetaldehyde. Three adjacent areas of binding by nuclear proteins from activated hepatic stellate cells were identified at −568 to −554 (region 1), −542 to −518 (region 2), and −473 to −453 (region 3) of the promoter using DNase I protection analyses. Multiple DNA–protein complexes were formed in electrophoretic mobility shift assays with oligonucleotide probes specifying the three regions. Sp1 and NF-I bound to all three regions, while Sp3 bound to region 2. Acetaldehyde decreased nuclear protein binding to all three regions. Mutations of regions 1, 2, and 3 reduced basal activity of the promoter and inhibited acetaldehyde stimulation in transfected stellate cells. Acetaldehyde inhibited the stimulatory effect of the Sp1 vector pPacSp1 on the promoter in transfected Drosophila cells. In conclusion, three regions of Sp1 binding were identified and are required for optimal activity of the α 2 (I) collagen promoter. Sp1 is required for basal activity of the α 2 (I) collagen promoter; however, the enhancing effect of acetaldehyde on the promoter is not mediated by Sp1.
Osteoporotic Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures are one of the most common injuries in the elderly and their incidence is anticipated to increase over the next 20 years. Appropriate management of ankle fractures in this population requires an understanding of the issues unique to the elderly. Osteoporosis must be considered when counseling patients about their ankle fracture. Good outcomes can be achieved with surgical fixation of ankle fractures in the elderly. Postoperative complications are higher in patients with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, and in patients who smoke. This article reviews how to evaluate and treat ankle fractures in elderly patients with osteoporosis, evaluates the outcomes, and discusses surgical techniques.
Relay selection and scaling law in destination assisted physical layer secrecy systems

A distributed wireless network with one source, one destination, one eavesdropper and multiple Decode-and-Forward (DF) relays is investigated. A two-slot cooperative relaying scheme is considered, in which relays help the source transmit to the destination while keeping the message as secret as possible from the eavesdropper. To prevent the system becoming interference limited, a destination assisted jamming scheme is used, i.e., the destination transmits a jamming signal rather than listening to the source. Several relay selection methods are proposed to let the system benefit from increase of the number of relays. With the proposed transmission scheme, the system secrecy rate is shown to outperform the methods in literature and maintain a scaling law of the achievable secrecy rate of log 2 (1 + P 0 over 8 log K) −1.6252, where K is the number of relays and P 0 is the total transmit power.
Motor neuropathy with multifocal conduction block

Our present understanding of the syndromes of CIDP and MMN is insufficient to separate them clearly. I believe that MMN is simply a multifocal, predominantly motor variant of CIDP. Furthermore, the highly touted resemblance of MMN to MND has been exaggerated; these syndromes are only superficially similar and can readily be distinguished on clinical and electrophysiologic grounds. MMN is rare but is probably more common than initially believed; certainly, the literature is replete with reports of cases. Further studies are needed to clarify fully the relationship between CIDP and MMN and the role of glycolipid antibodies in MMN and other motor syndromes.
Allenic thioester hydration activity of beef liver crotonase

Abstract The conversion of 3-decynoyl- N -acetylcysteamine to 2,3-decadienoyl- N -acetylcysteamine catalyzed by a homogeneous mammalian liver enzyme has recently been described (F. M. Miesowicz and K. E. Bloch, Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 65 , 331 (1975). The allenic thioester product, however, does not accumulate in crude liver extracts suggesting that it undergoes further enzymatic transformation. Evidence is presented here that crotonase (enoyl Coenzyme A hydratase) catalyzes the hydration of allenic thioesters to the corresponding β-keto thioesters which are normal intermediates in the β-oxidation of fatty acids.
Temperature and the Galapagos marine iguana—Insights inso reptilian thermoregulation

Abstract 1. 1. Marine iguanas regulate core temperature under increasing thermal loads. Regulation correlates with behavior. 2. 2. Elevated basking (EB) is initiated within a narrow range of body temperatures ( T b ). The principal exteroreceptor for adjusting body attitude appears to be the eyes. 3. 3. Panting can be induced when EB is prevented but occurs at a higher T b than was encountered under field conditions. Panting is an effective mechanism for stabilizing T b . 4. 4. EB minimizes radiant heating but cannot account for stability of T b under successively warmer conditions. Creation of a ventrally located heat sink and associated cardiovascular changes allow construction of a model which deficits the animal as a regulated “heat shunt”. 5. 5. Night cooling rate is attenuated by aggregating. 6. 6. Immature animals regulate T b by vertical shuttling in the thermal gradients of crevices. 7. 7. Major thermoregulatory interactants are discussed.
A Kinetic Approach to Characterize the Electrostatic Environments of Thiol Groups in Proteins

Abstract In this study, we synthesized a zwitterionic DTNB derivative, 5-(2-aminoethyl)-dithio-2-nitrobenzoate (ADNB), and characterized its reactions with several cationic, anionic, and neutral thiols. Reactions with ADNB, unlike those with DTNB, are relatively insensitive to electrostatic environments and ionic strengths. At relatively low ionic strength, rate ratios, k ADNB / k DTNB , varied from 0.22 for reactions with low-molecular-weight cationic thiols to 3.0 for those with low-molecular-weight anionic thiols. A k ADNB / k DTNB ratio of ∼200 for Cys-34 of BSA appears to reflect a very anionic environment. k ADNB / k DTNB ratios of ∼6 and ∼1, respectively, for canine and equine serum albumins, which have Glu-82 → Asp and Glu-82 → Ala substitutions suggest Glu-82 is the most important anionic residues affecting the reactivity of Cys-34 in BSA. k ADNB / k DTNB ratios appear to be useful for characterizing electrostatic environments of thiol groups in proteins.