cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of hypoxia on glycolysis in perfused hearts from rats and ground squirrels (Citellus lateralis)

Abstract 1. 1. Tissue levels of adenine nucleotides and selected glycotic intermediates were measured in isolated hearts from rats and squirrels during the transition from aerobiosis to anaerobiosis. 2. 2. Hypoxia elicited significant decreases in ATP and creatine phosphate with concomitant increases in ADP, AMP and inorganic phosphate. Compared to controls, the apparent activity of phosphofructokinase (PFK) increased markedly in hypoxic hearts from both species. Durong hypoxia, significantly higher PFK activity and lactate production were observed in the rat heart. 3. 3. During hypoxia, the rate of anaerobic glycolysis is greater in rat myocardial tissue. Control of glycolysis at the PFK reaction is similar in both species.
Infrared Arrays on ICE: New Opportunities for Astronomy in Antarctica

The purpose of the Center for Astrophysical Research in Antarctica is to establish and operate an astrophysical observatory at the South Pole. The advent of low-noise array detectors was a major motivation for the Center. As detectors approach fundamental limits of sensitivity, it is crucial to use them at the best possible observing sites. Instruments deployed at the South Pole will be able to take advantage of the cold, dry conditions which make the Antarctic Plateau the best site on Earth for observations at infrared and submillimeter wavelengths. Center projects will study the spatial structure of the cosmic microwave background radiation, galaxy formation in the early Universe, star and planet formation, and the physics of the interstellar medium. Initial instruments will include a 60cm telescope and near-infrared camera, an automated 1.7m telescope for mapping submillimeter line radiation from the Milky Way and nearby galaxies, and a pair of specialized telescopes which use arrays of millimeter-wavelength detectors to image the cosmic microwave background radiation at spatial scales between approximately one-quarter and twenty degrees. Later, larger telescopes will be built, allowing a larger variety of astronomical investigations, greater sensitivity to small and distant sources, and access by a larger community of users.
A NOTE ON MONETARY CONTROLS AND CAPITAL VALUES

THE POINT HAS been made in recent discussions of monetary policy that general instruments of credit controls attempt to promote stability of the economy by creating instability of capital values but that selective instruments promote stability of capital values by achieving general economic stability.' Capital values are usually defined by the discussant so as to include the present value of any asset, but, in the discussion which then follows, emphasis is placed on the present value of fixed-income instruments.2 It is the contention of this paper that to emphasize the impact of monetary policy on capital values in this restricted sense is misleading for purposes of evaluating different types of credit-control instruments; that general instruments of credit control influence capital (asset) values over a much wider range than is generally supposed; that these influences may be stabilizing as well as disruptive; and that selective credit controls, although they may contribute to general economic stability, may also cause fluctuations in capital values and hence be "shock creators as well as shock absorbers."
Nonlinear diffusion and internal voltages in conducting ferromagnetic enclosures subjected to lightning currents

The voltage inside a conducting ferromagnetic enclosure, excited by direct attachment of lightning, is determined. A nonlinear approximate model is constructed and solved analytically to model the magnetic field diffusion through the enclosure wall excited by a filament current. This model gives the internal voltage waveform (at very early times it forms a rough approximation to the solution). The solution (including the early time behavior) for an attached current carrying conductor of large radius is also given. The model is constructed by use of known nonlinear saturation front theory. The paper also considers nonnegligible magnetic flux behind the saturation front (in the saturated region), and shows that this saturated flux results in a simple additive time shift to the penetration of the front. >
Process of healing in experimental pulmonary arteriosclerosis.

SummarySlow reestablishment of patency, chiefly by recanalization, has been demonstrated in experimentally induced pulmonary arteriolar lesions in dogs, after the inciting mechanical stress is removed.
Five-year experience of a burn survivor's position as a member of the burn team at a regional burn center.

The approach to care for the burned patient has undergone a change in focus over the past 20 years with optimal outcomes including not merely survival but global physical, emotional, mental, and social rehabilitation with increased emphasis on earlier re-entry into the previous social environment. The experiences of burn survivors provide unique opportunities for outreach and support of these patients. In 2001, a position on the Burn Team was developed by the Burn Center and a staff position created for a highly motivated, self-aware, and skilled burn survivor as a Burn Support Representative (BSR). Our regional burn center treats approximately 250 inpatients and 800 outpatients with 2200 patient visits per year. Our aggressive rehabilitation team and active social work program begin planning for social reintegration the day of admission. During treatment of burns, the care team must address the major psychological and social changes which the patient and his/her support structure experience. Our burn center director, the Burn Relations Representative, and a burn survivor active in the community with a background in counseling identified the need for a burn team member to interact with the patients and families. The goal was to offer emotional support and coaching, adaptation and
Levinas and the Hippocratic Oath: A Discussion of Physician-Assisted Suicide

At least from the standpoint of contemporary cultural and ethical resources, physicians have argued eloquently and exhaustively both for and against physician-assisted suicide. If one avoids the temptation to ruthlessly simplify either position to immorality or error, then a strange dilemma arises. How is it that well educated and intelligent physicians, committed strongly and compassionately to the care of their patients, argue adamantly for opposing positions? Thus rather than simply rehashing old arguments, this essay attempts to rethink the nature of human morality as both a source and a fracturing of human rationality- and with morality, the question of human nature in the context of violence, oppression, service, and obligation. This interpretation of moral life is laid out roughly along the lines of the Jewish philosopher Emmanuel Levinas, and further clarified through a discussion of the Hippocratic Oath. These resources are then brought to bear on the specific arguments and recommendations concerning physician-assisted suicide.
Studies of the extraction of bilirubin from human amniotic fluid.

The recovery of unconjugated bilirubin from human amniotic fluid was studied using dichloromethane, chloroform/isopropanol (3:1 vol/vol), and chloroform/ methanol (3:1 vol/vol) extraction of human amniotic fluid that had been supplemented with bilirubin at various concentrations. Results were compared with those obtained with conventional chloroform extraction. Mean recoveries were found to be only 28% for chloroform and 25% for dichloromethane. When the polarity of chloroform was increased by the addition of an alcohol, the mean recovery increased to only 40% for chloroform/isopropanol and 38% for chloroform/ methanol. These results suggest that extraction methods for determination of amniotic fluid “δ OD450” (visible spectrophotometric absorbance [optical density] of bilirubin at 450 nm) tend to underestimate the result when compared with the nonextraction (direct-scan) method, on which the Liley Prognostication Chart is based. This finding should be clinically significant, particularly if extraction and direct-scan methods are used to monitor the condition of the same patient.
Ornithine Aminotransferase versus GABA Aminotransferase: Implications for the Design of New Anticancer Drugs

Ornithine aminotransferase (OAT) and γ-aminobutyric acid aminotransferase (GABA-AT) are classified under the same evolutionary subgroup and share a large portion of structural, functional, and mechanistic features. Therefore, it is not surprising that many molecules that bind to GABA-AT also bind well to OAT. Unlike GABA-AT, OAT had not been viewed as a potential therapeutic target until recently; consequently, the number of therapeutically viable molecules that target OAT is very limited. In this review the two enzymes are compared with respect to their active-site structures, catalytic and inactivation mechanisms, and selective inhibitors. Insight is offered that could aid in the design and development of new selective inhibitors of OAT for the treatment of cancer.
On the stability of liquid ridges

We consider the stability of a rectilinear liquid region whose boundary is composed of a solid cylindrical substrate of arbitrary shape and a free surface whose cross-section, in the absence of gravity, is a circular arc. The liquid–solid contact angle is a prescribed material property. A variational technique, using an energy functional, is developed that predicts the minimum wavelength for transverse instability under the action of capillarity. Conversely, certain configurations are absolutely stable and a simple stability criterion is derived. Stability is guaranteed if, for given substrate geometry and given contact angle, the unperturbed meniscus pressure is an increasing function of the liquid cross-sectional area. The analysis is applied to a variety of liquid/substrate configurations including (i) a liquid ridge with contact lines pinned to the sharp edges of a slot or groove, (ii) liquid ridges with free contact lines on flat and wedge-shaped substrates as well as substrates of circular or elliptical cross-section. Results are consistent with special cases previously treated including those that employ a slope-small-slope approximation.
Recombinational Repair of a Chromosomal DNA Double Strand Break: A Dissertation

Repairing a chromosomal DNA double strand break is essential for survival and maintenance of genomic integrity of a eukaryotic organism. The eukaryotic cell has therefore evolved intricate mechanisms to counteract all sorts of genomic insults in the context of chromatin structure. Modulating chromatin structure has been crucial and integral in regulating a number of conserved repair processes along with other fundamental genomic processes like replication and transcription. The work in this dissertation has focused on understanding the role of chromatin remodeling enzymes in the repair of a chromosomal DNA double strand break by homologous recombination. This has been approached by recapitulating the biochemical formation of recombination intermediates on chromatin in vitro. In this study, we have demonstrated that the mere packaging of DNA into nucleosomal structure does not present a barrier for successful capture of homologous DNA sequences, a central step of the biochemical pathway of recombinational repair. It is only the assembly of heterochromatin-like more complex nucleo-protein structure that presents additional constraints to this key step. And, this additional constraint can be overcome by the activities of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling enzymes. These findings have great implications for our perception of the mechanism of the recombinational repair process of a chromosomal DNA double strand break within the eukaryotic genome. TABLE OF CONTENTS Approval Page ii Dedication iii Acknowledgements iv Abstract vi Table of
Diagnostic assays for active infection with human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6).

Background Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) causes ubiquitous infection in early childhood with lifelong latency or persistence. Reactivation of HHV-6 has been associated with multiple diseases including encephalitis. Chromosomal integration of HHV-6 also occurs. Previous studies have suggested that the detection of HHV-6 DNA in plasma is an accurate marker of active viral replication.
Fragile X Premutations Are Not a Major Cause of Early Menopause

Summary Fragile X syndrome is an X-linked mental retardation condition that usually is due to a trinucleotide-repeat expansion in the FMR1 gene. Whereas full-mutation alleles (>230 repeats) lead to fragile X syndrome, premutation alleles (∼60–200 repeats) are apparently nonpenetrant. However, previous studies have suggested that female premutation carriers may have an increased incidence of premature menopause. To test this possible association, we screened for premutation alleles among 216 women with early menopause (at age
Deterministic neuron: a model for faster learning

Training in most neural network architectures are currently being done by updating the weights of the network in a way to reduce some error measures. The well-known backpropagation algorithm and some other training algorithms use this approach. Obviously, this has been very successful in mimicking the way the biological neurons do their function. But the problem of slow learning and getting trapped in local minimas of error function domain deserve serious investigation. Various models are proposed with various levels of success to get rid of these two problems. In this work, we propose a deterministic model of the neuron, that guarantees faster learning by modifying the nonlinearity associated with each neuron. Only one such neuron is required to solve the generalized N-bit parity problem. >
Should chronic heart failure patients with reduced left-ventricular ejection fraction receive angiotensin-receptor blockers?

Should chronic heart failure patients with reduced left-ventricular ejection fraction receive angiotensin-receptor blockers?
Transrectal ultrasound: diagnosis and staging of prostatic carcinoma

Abstract Transrectal ultrasound has developed into a sophisticated technology since its first clinical application, and ultrasound imaging is now widely accepted. When 7 MHz scanning was introduced in 1986, improved resolution depicted an infrastructure of the prostate that corresponded to McNeal's 1968 concept of zonal prostate anatomy. McNeal's definition of three glandular zones (i.e., transition, central, and peripheral) and one nonglandualr region (i.e., anterior fibromuscular stroma) has allowed us to identify areas of anatomic weakness through which cancer may escape the prostate. These glandular zones have sites of anatomic weakness through which cancer may easily extend to the extraprostatic space, thus affecting eventual staging. Highly accurate, easy to perform, and readily accepted by patients, strategic ultrasound-guided transrectal biopsy can accurately sample all areas within the prostate, including areas of anatomic weakness.
On the parallel complexity of model checking in the modal mu-calculus

The modal mu-calculus is an expressive logic that can be used to specify safety and liveness properties of concurrent systems represented as labeled transition systems (LTSs). We show that Model Checking in the Modal Mu-Calculus (MCMMC)-the problem of checking whether an LTS is a model of a formula of the propositional modal mu-calculus-is P-hard even for a very restrictive version of the problem involving the alternation-free fragment. In particular, MCMMC is P-hard even if the formula is fixed and alternation-free, and the LTS is deterministic, acyclic, and has fan-in and fan-out bounded by 2. The reduction used is from a restricted version of the circuit value problem known as Synchronous Alternating Monotone Fanout 2 Circuit Value Problem. Specifically, we exhibit NC-algorithms for two potentially useful versions of the problem, both of which involve alternation-free formulas containing a constant number of fixed point operators: 1) the LTS is a finite tree with bounded fan-out; and 2) the formula is A-free and the LTS is deterministic and over an action alphabet of bounded size. In the course of deriving our algorithm for 2), we give a parallel constant-time reduction from the alternation-free modal mu-calculus to Datalog. We also provide a polynomial-time reduction in the other direction thereby establishing an interesting link between the two formalisms. >
CRISPR-based adaptive immune systems

CRISPR–Cas systems are recently discovered, RNA-based immune systems that control invasions of viruses and plasmids in archaea and bacteria. Prokaryotes with CRISPR–Cas immune systems capture short invader sequences within the CRISPR loci in their genomes, and small RNAs produced from the CRISPR loci (CRISPR (cr)RNAs) guide Cas proteins to recognize and degrade (or otherwise silence) the invading nucleic acids. There are multiple variations of the pathway found among prokaryotes, each mediated by largely distinct components and mechanisms that we are only beginning to delineate. Here we will review our current understanding of the remarkable CRISPR–Cas pathways with particular attention to studies relevant to systems found in the archaea.
Aggregation-based approaches to honey-pot searching with local sensory information

We investigate the problem of searching for a hidden target in a bounded region by an autonomous agent that is only able to use limited local sensory information. We propose an aggregation-based approach to solve this problem, in which the continuous search space is partitioned into a finite collection of regions on which we define a discrete search problem. A solution to the original problem is then obtained through a refinement procedure that lifts the discrete path into a continuous one. The resulting solution is in general not optimal but one can construct bounds to gauge the cost penalty incurred.
Highly Divergent Lentiviral Tat Proteins Activate Viral Gene Expression by a Common Mechanism

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat protein (hTat) activates transcription initiated at the viral long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter by a unique mechanism requiring recruitment of the human cyclin T1 (hCycT1) cofactor to the viral TAR RNA target element. While activation of equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) gene expression by the EIAV Tat (eTat) protein appears similar in that the target element is a promoter proximal RNA, eTat shows little sequence homology to hTat, does not activate the HIV-1 LTR, and is not active in human cells that effectively support hTat function. To address whether eTat and hTat utilize similar or distinct mechanisms of action, we have cloned the equine homolog of hCycT1 (eCycT1) and examined whether it is required to mediate eTat function. Here, we report that expression of eCycT1 in human cells fully rescues eTat function and that eCycT1 and eTat form a protein complex that specifically binds to the EIAV, but not the HIV-1, TAR element. While hCycT1 is also shown to interact with eTat, the lack of eTat function in human cells is explained by the failure of the resultant protein complex to bind to EIAV TAR. Critical sequences in eCycT1 required to support eTat function are located very close to the amino terminus, i.e., distal to the HIV-1 Tat-TAR interaction motif previously identified in the hCycT1 protein. Together, these data provide a molecular explanation for the species tropism displayed by eTat and demonstrate that highly divergent lentiviral Tat proteins activate transcription from their cognate LTR promoters by essentially identical mechanisms.
Predictors of Mortality and Differences in Clinical Features among Patients with Cryptococcosis According to Immune Status

Introduction Cryptococcosis is an invasive fungal infection causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Prognostic factors are largely derived from trials conducted prior to the modern era of antifungal and potent combination antiretroviral therapies, immunosuppression, and transplantation. Data describing the clinical features and predictors of mortality in a modern cohort are needed.
Molecular and isotopic analysis of anaerobic methane-oxidizing communities in marine sediments

Convergent lines of molecular, carbon-isotopic, and phylogenetic evidence have previously indicated (Hinrichs, K.-U., Hayes, J.M., Sylva, S.P., Brewer, P.G., DeLong, E. F., 1999. Methane-consuming archaebacteria in marine sediments. Nature 398, 802–805.) that archaea are involved in the anaerobic oxidation of methane in sediments from the Eel River Basin, offshore northern California. Now, further studies of those same sediments and of sediments from a methane seep in the Santa Barbara Basin have confirmed and extended those results. Mass spectrometric and chromatographic analyses of an authentic standard of sn-2-hydroxyarchaeol (hydroxylated at C-3 in the sn-2 phytanyl moiety) have confirmed our previous, tentative identification of this compound but shown that the previously examined product was the mono-TMS, rather than di-TMS, derivative. Further analyses of ^(13)C-depleted lipids, appreciably more abundant in samples from the Santa Barbara Basin, have shown that the archaeal lipids are accompanied by two sets of products that are only slightly less depleted in ^(13)C. These are additional glycerol ethers and fatty acids. The alkyl substituents in the ethers (mostly monoethers, with some diethers) are non-isoprenoidal. The carbon-number distributions and isotopic compositions of the alkyl substituents and of the fatty acids are similar, suggesting strongly that they are produced by the same organisms. Their structures, n-alkyl and methyl-branched n-alkyl, require a bacterial rather than archaeal source. The non-isoprenoidal glycerol ethers are novel constituents in marine sediments but have been previously reported in thermophilic, sulfate- and nitrate-reducing organisms which lie near the base of the rRNA-based phylogenetic tree. Based on previous observations that the anaerobic oxidation of methane involves a net transfer of electrons from methane to sulfate, it appears likely that the non-archaeal, ^(13)C-depleted lipids are products of one or more previously unknown sulfate-reducing bacteria which grow syntrophically with the methane-utilizing archaea. Their products account for 50% of the fatty acids in the sample from the Santa Barbara Basin. At all methane-seep sites examined, the preservation of aquatic products is apparently enhanced because the methane-oxidizing consortium utilizes much of the sulfate that would otherwise be available for remineralization of materials from the water column.
A Comparison of Intimate Partner Homicide to Intimate Partner Homicide–Suicide One Hundred and Twenty-Four New Mexico Cases

The authors compare cases of female intimate partner homicide–suicide to female intimate partner homicide alone to describe risk factors and suggest prevention strategies, including strategies in the medical setting. Differences are found between the types of cases in marital relationship, age, blood alcohol, and the use of firearms. Physicians and other health care providers who treat victims of intimate partner violence and patients at risk for suicide should be aware of the interwoven risk factors within these populations. Interventions aimed at suicide prevention as well as targeted removal of firearms should be investigated as tools in the prevention of intimate partner homicide.
Parallel D-eigenvalues and parallel D-eigenvectors for linear time-varying systems

Singular behavior of PD-eigenvalues of an nth-order scalar polynomial differential operator (SPDO) /spl Dscrsub /spl alpha=/spl deltasup n/+/spl Sigmasub k=1sup nspl alphasub k/(t)/spl deltasup k/spl minus/1/, where /spl delta/=d/dt, is investigated. Main results of this paper include: (i) definition and properties of PD-eigenvectors associated with PD-eigenvalues, (ii) definitions and properties of generalized PD-eigenvectors and generalized PD-eigenvalues for singular PD-eigenvalues; (iii) application of (i) and (ii) in stability analysis of linear time-varying (LTV) systems /spl Dscrsub /spl alpha/spl lcub/y/spl rcub/=0, and (iv) application (i) and (ii) in the realization of PD-characteristic equation. The new results will have a significant impact on applications of the unified eigenvalue theory to the analysis and control of LTV control systems, and its further development. >
Perspectives on the Interaction of Plasmas With Liquid Water for Water Purification

Plasma production or plasma injection in liquid water affords one the opportunity to nonthermally inject advanced oxidation processes into water for the purpose of purification or chemical processing. Such technology could potentially revolutionize the treatment of drinking water, as well as current methods of chemical processing through the elimination of physical catalysts. Presented here is an overview of current water treatment technology, its limitations, and the future, which may feature plasma-based advanced oxidation techniques. As such, this field represents an emerging and active area of research. The role that plasma-driven water chemistry can play in addressing emerging threats to the water supply is discussed using case study examples. Limitations of conventional plasma injection approaches include limited throughput capacity, electrode erosion, and reduced process volume. At the University of Michigan, we are investigating two potential approaches designed to circumvent such issues. These include direct plasma injection using an underwater DBD plasma jet and the direct production of plasmas in isolated underwater bubbles via a pulsed electric field. These approaches are presented here, along with the results.
Do children's executive functions account for associations between early autonomy-supportive parenting and achievement through high school?

This study evaluated whether the positive association between early autonomy-supportive parenting and children's subsequent achievement is mediated by children's executive functions. Using observations of mothers' parenting from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (N = 1,306), analyses revealed that mothers' autonomy support over the first 3 years of life predicted enhanced executive functions (i.e., inhibition, delay of gratification, and sustained attention) during the year prior to kindergarten and academic achievement in elementary and high school even when mothers' warmth and cognitive stimulation, as well as other factors (e.g., children's early general cognitive skills and mothers' educational attainment) were covaried. Mediation analyses demonstrated that over and above other attributes (e.g., temperament), children's executive functions partially accounted for the association between early autonomy-supportive parenting and children's subsequent achievement.
Comparison of Spectral and Time-Stepping Approaches for Finite Element Modeling of Tidal Circulation

Time-stepping and spectral approaches are reviewed. Results of accuracy tests are reported for two spectral models, and compared with previously published time-stepping results.
Uncertain linear systems with random disturbances

In the classical setting, feedback control design of linear systems is based on a plant with fixed parameters. An uncertain linear system model which is also subject to random disturbances is analyzed. The question of robustness when random fluctuations cannot be neglected and when the noise processes are nonwhite is addressed. The asymptotic properties of the underlying system, which are related to the stability problem, are studied. >
Total colonic aganglionosis initially diagnosed in an adolescent

Abstract A 12-yr-old girl was admitted for evaluation of a 5-wk history of increasing abdominal pain. She also reported a history of constipation since birth requiring chronic laxative use. Occasional bouts of abdominal distention and vomiting resulted in dehydration necessitating hospitalization. Two previous laparotomies had identified an apparent obstructing angulation of the ascending colon. Rectal biopsy specimens obtained on this admission failed to reveal any ganglion cells. Sequential biopsy specimens of the entire colon obtained at laparotomy also failed to reveal any ganglion cells. Ganglion cells were found in the distal ileum. A total colectomy was performed. Three previously reported cases of total colonic aganglionosis initially diagnosed in older patients are reviewed. Similarities included nonspecific radiographic findings, a history of constipation since birth, and initial laparotomies revealing spurious causes of bowel obstruction.
Corruption and entrepreneurship: evidence from Brazilian municipalities

We estimate the effect of corruption on business activity in Brazilian municipalities. We employ a new measure of corruption based on data from random audits of municipal governments. Our results suggest that higher levels of corruption are generally associated with reductions in the number of business establishments. Furthermore, we find that these effects become larger over time, suggesting that corruption is particularly detrimental over the long-run. However, we also find that the effect of corruption on business activity can be insignificant or even positive conditional on institutional quality being very poor. This is consistent with the “grease the wheels” hypothesis, which argues that corruption provides entrepreneurs with means to avoid burdensome regulations and taxes.
Complex collective dynamics of active torque-driven colloids at interfaces

Abstract Modern self-assembly techniques aiming to produce complex structural order or functional diversity often rely on non-equilibrium conditions in the system. Light, electric, or magnetic fields are predominantly used to modify interaction profiles of colloidal particles during self-assembly or induce complex out-of-equilibrium dynamic ordering. The energy injection rate, properties of the environment are important control parameters that influence the outcome of active (dynamic) self-assembly. The current review is focused on a case of collective dynamics and self-assembly of particles with externally driven torques coupled to a liquid or solid interface. The complexity of interactions in such systems is further enriched by strong hydrodynamic coupling between particles. Unconventionally ordered dynamic self-assembled patterns, spontaneous symmetry breaking phenomena, self-propulsion, and collective transport have been reported in torque-driven colloids. Some of the features of the complex collective behavior and dynamic pattern formation in those active systems have been successfully captured in simulations.
Complex Syndactyly and Atypical Ectrodactyly in a Child with a Mosaic Karyotype Involving Trisomy 21 and Partial Duplication of Chromosome 21

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability and is most commonly caused by complete trisomy of chromosome 21. Correlations between specific critical regions of chromosome 21 and key DS clinical features are incompletely characterized. Ectrodactyly is not associated with DS. We report a 4-year-old Guatemalan boy with developmental delay, referred to Genetics for evaluation of complex bilateral syndactyly and ectrodactyly. Following surgery, ulnar deviation of index fingers, radial deviation of middle fingers, and fifth finger clinodactyly were present bilaterally, together with variable hypoplasia of middle and terminal phalanges of the index, middle, and ring fingers. His head was small (5 centile), with bitemporal prominence and plagiocephaly. He had upslanting palpebral fissures, protruding ears, flattened midfacial appearance, and bilateral genu varus; no syndactyly or ectrodactyly was observed in the feet. Typical DS features not seen include tongue protrusion, single palmar creases, and hypotonia. DS was not initially suspected and FGFR2 sequencing was normal. Chromosomal SNP microarray (Illumina CytoSNP 850K) supported the mosaic karyotype: 47,XY,+21[3]/47,XY,+r(21)(p11.2q21.1) [3]/46,XY[6], and defined gene content of a ring chromosome 21 derived from 21p11.2-21q21.1, sparing the DS critical region. This is a highly atypical presentation of DS, and to our knowledge there are no reports implicating candidate genes or chromosomal regions on chromosome 21 in ectrodactyly, suggesting the complex mosaic karyotype as the likely cause. The presence of a trisomic cell line and absence of isodisomy of chromosome 21 support trisomy rescue as a plausible mechanism for mosaicism.
Random causes with directed effects: the Indo-European language spread and the stochastic loss of lineages

Since the beginning, studies of Indo-European have seen it as a large phenomenon necessarily having a large, usually single cause. Yet apparent pattern can arise from chance causes that need have no great historical order. In a minimalist view, set out here as a theoretical hypothesis, the pattern of Indo-European can simply arise from a kind of social Brownian motion, in which a large pattern invents itself out of countless little perturbations between adjacent language communities
Pathobiology of incompatible RBC transfusion

The main purpose of immunohaematology is to avoid incompatible transfusion due to either naturally occurring alloantibodies (e.g., ABO) or due to acquired alloantibodies. The symptomatology of acute and chronic transfusion reactions are well described and can result in significant morbidity and/or mortality. However, what is little appreciated, and even less understood, is that the majority of incompatible transfusions result in no symptoms or measurable haemolysis despite alloantibody binding to the transfused RBCs. Indeed, even in the ABO system, incompatible transfusion given in error only results in measurable haemolysis 50% of the time. However, the absence of haemolysis does not equate to an absence of underlying biological processes. In recent years, it has become clear that during an incompatible RBC transfusion, which does not result in haemolysis, alloantibodies nevertheless bind to RBCs and then alter the RBC in ways that potentially protect from subsequent haemolysis. Such alterations include changing the target antigen without injuring the RBC (antigenic-modulation) and inducing an RBC phenotype that is resistant to haemolysis. The specifics of the above biologies and pathobiologies of incompatible transfusion will be discussed, including recent advances in our understanding of what mediates haemolysis versus lack of haemolysis despite alloantibody based incompatibility.
Histogenesis of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans: An Ultrastructural Study

Ultrastructural study of five typical lesions of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans revealed that the basic cell is fusiform and has a somewhat indented nucleus and an even distribution of cytoplasmic organelles. Fragments of basal lamina, intercellular junctions, abundant intercellular fibers, and a tendency to form cellular sheaths also were found. The tumor cells had a strong resemblance to pericytes and perineural cells, as well as marked ultrastructural similarities to neurofibroma. The authors conclude that dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans arises from a primitive fibroblastic cell with a "sheath forming cell" differentiation that has a closer relationship to the perineural cell than to the pericyte.
Direct Growth of MoS2 Microspheres on Ni Foam as a Hybrid Nanocomposite Efficient for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

MoS2 microspheres are directly grown on the conductive Ni foam and the as-obtained MoS2 -Ni electrodes exhibit highly efficient electrocatalytic performances for oxygen evolution in 1.0 m NaOH, displaying a rather low overpotential of 0.310 V at 20.0 mA cm(-2) , a high current density, good cyclic stability, and excellent flexibility.
A Case Study on the Application of PDCA Mode in Monitoring Teaching Quality in the Institutions of Higher Learning

PDCA mode is an effective way to enhance the monitoring of teaching quality.Through applying PDCA mode in Institute of Tourism,Beijing University,we have gradually improved and upgraded the quality of “students' evaluation of teaching".This case study typically embodies the four stages and eight steps in using PDCA mode for quality monitoring.
Application of Procalcitonin and Amino-terminal Portion of Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Evaluating Prognosis of Elderly Patients with Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock

Objective To explore the evaluation function of procalcitonin(PCT) and amino-terminal portion of brain natriuretic peptide(NT-proBNP) in elderly patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.Methods 96 elderly patients with severe sepsis and septic shock in our hospital were examined by PCT,NT-proBNP and cardiac ultrasound after admission,and were scored by APACHE Ⅱ.The PCT,NT-proBNP and APACHE Ⅱ scores were compared between the death group and the survival group,and between the severe sepsis group and septic shock group;The content of NT-proBNP and LVEF correlation was analyzed.Results The level of PCT,the level of NT-proBNP and APACHE Ⅱ scores in death group were significantly higher than those in survival group(P0.05);The level of PCT,the level of NT-proBNP and APACHE Ⅱ scores in severe sepsis group were significantly lower than those in septic shock group(P0.05),analysis of NT-proBNP and LVEF showed a negative correlation(r=-0.64,P0.05).Conclusion The PCT and NT-proBNP levels have a certain prognostic evaluation function for elderly patients with severe sepsis and septic shock,and high levels of PCT and NT-proBNP might suggest a poor prognosis.
The abilities and decisions of regular and irregular voters in American presidential elections

ABSTRACTWhile most of the voter turnout literature focuses on the differences between voters and nonvoters, scant attention has been paid to what separates regular voters from the “irregular voters” who move in and out of the electorate. This article shows that citizens who regularly vote will be more knowledgeable and involved in the political system than voters who turnout irregularly. In addition, the article supports the existing claim that it is easier for voters to understand social policies than economic policies. These two principles lead to the hypothesis that economic and social policy preferences will predict the decisions of regular voters while the decisions of irregular voters will be predicted by social policy preferences but not economic preferences. American National Election Studies data from 1988 to 2008 provide support for these hypotheses. Though poor economic conditions may bring irregular voters out to the polls, their ballots are cast for candidates with similar social policy prefe...
An Integrated Process Model of Performance Appraisal

While the suggestion to view judgment and ratings as separate rater activities is a noteworthy advance in performance appraisal (PA) research, little has been done to integrate findings from each o...
Abstract 1444: Docosahexaenoic acid reduces cancer cell migration may link with actin binding proteins and miRNA 17-92 cluster expressions changes

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA Metastasis and progression, reflected by higher migration and longer cell survival, are major contributing factors in making cancers the leading cause of death worldwide. Cancer cells exhibit higher migration rates and greater cell viability facilitated by actin binding protein-mediated cytoskeletal remodeling and secondary messengers (cAMP and/or cGMP) signaling. Studies have shown that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a poly unsaturated fatty acid, inhibits cancer cell metastatic phenotype. Moreover, miRNA-17∼92 cluster has been reported to be highly expressed in metastasis. Therefore, we put forward a hypothesis that DHA will induce changes in actin binding protein dynamics and miRNA-17∼92 cluster expression to inhibit cancer cell migration and viability. Non-cance (MLE12) and cancer (A549) cells were treated with 8-Br-cAMP and/or DHA for 30 min, 3h, 6h and 24h. Actin binding proteins (profilin, cofilin, vimentin and gelsolin) and miRNA-17∼92 cluster expression were analyzed by western blot and qRT PCR respectively. Cell migration was estimated by wound assay and transwell apparatus. F-actin content and actin binding proteins were measured using confocal microscopy at the leading edges of wound. Proliferation and cell viability were estimated by flow cytometer, IF using ki-67, and cleaved-caspase-3 antibodies. F-actin content, cell migration and proliferation were increased while cell viability was decreased by cAMP. DHA treatment reverses the increase in actin content and cell migration in cancer cells but not in non-cancer cells. These findings correlate with changes in actin binding protein content and miRNA 17∼92 cluster expression. Thus, DHA specifically inhibits cancer cell migration, proliferation, and viability and this effect correlates with decreases in actin binding protein levels and miRNA-17∼92 cluster expression. In conclusion, DHA supplementation suppresses cellular changes related to metastatic potential in cancer cells and could provide therapeutic potential against cancer cell metastasis. Moreover, actin binding proteins and miRNA-17∼92 cluster expression could serve as innovative therapeutic targets and biomarkers for cancer progression. Citation Format: Mehboob Ali, Kathryn M. Heyob, Lynette K. Rogers. Docosahexaenoic acid reduces cancer cell migration may link with actin binding proteins and miRNA 17-92 cluster expressions changes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 1444. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-1444
Improving Patient Outcomes and Health Care Provider Communication with a Small, Yellow Plastic Band: the Patient URinary Catheter Extraction (PURCE) Protocol©

Abstract Introduction Great efforts are being made to reduce catheter associated urinary tract infections as they increase patient morbidity and are costly to health care centers. Although various catheter associated urinary tract infection prevention initiatives exist, efficient communication between physicians and nurses continues to be a significant barrier. In an effort to enhance communication and reduce catheter associated urinary tract infections, we implemented a novel Patient URinary Catheter Extraction (PURCE) Protocol© and in this study we evaluate the utility of the PURCE Protocol. Methods The PURCE Protocol was implemented for all urology and vascular surgical patients admitted to 1 surgical specialty unit between January and December 2014 (treatment group, 901 patients). The control group consisted of urology and vascular surgical patients admitted to the same surgical specialty unit during the 12-month period (January to December 2013) before protocol implementation (926). End points included annual catheter associated urinary tract infection rates, device utilization ratio and protocol deviations. Results The majority of urology/vascular surgery patients in both groups underwent catheter placement (control 55.4% vs treatment 58.9%). The annual catheter associated urinary tract infection rate for urology/vascular surgery patients in the control group was 2.5 compared to 0.0 in the treatment group. The annual device utilization ratio increased slightly from 0.15 in the control to 0.17 in the treatment group. Within the first 6 months of implementation there were 405 patient audits and 28 protocol deviations (6.9%), and no additional deviations occurred in the last 6 months of the study. Conclusions According to our findings implementation of the PURCE Protocol led to a reduction in catheter associated urinary tract infections in a highly susceptible surgical patient population.
Current recommendations for the treatment of hypertension: are they still valid?

Recent trials have helped to clarify indications for the initial pharmacological therapy of hypertension. Both the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC VI) and World Health Organization-international Society of Hypertension (WHO-ISH) recommendations should be revised. The more recent trials indicate that: (1) diuretics and beta-blockers appear to be as effective in reducing overall morbidity/ mortality as other agents (Swedish Trial in Old Patients with Hypertension [STOP-2], United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study [UKPDS], Intervention as a Goal in Hypertension Treatment [INSIGHT], Nordic diltiazem [NORDIL]); (2) the use of an a-blocker results in more cardiovascular events, especially congestive heart failure, when compared with a diuretic (Antihypertensive Therapy and Lipid Lowering Heart Attack Trial [ALLHAT]); (3)the use of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor results in fewer myocardial infarctions and episodes of heart failure than calcium channel blockers in the elderly and in diabetic patients (Fosinopril vs. Amlodipine Cardiovascular Events Randomized Trial [FACET], Appropriate Blood Pressure Control in Diabetes [ABCD], STOP-2) - other data (Captopril Prevention Project [CAPPP]) suggest that the use of an ACE inhibitor is preferred in diabetic patients; (4) overall cardiovascular events are similar with calcium channel blockers compared with a diuretic - however, there are fewer strokes with non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (NORDIL) and a trend towards an increase in heart failure and myocardial infarctions with either a dihydropyridine or non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers compared with a diuretic (INSIGHT, NORDIL); (5) angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) will decrease proteinuria and slow progression of renal disease in type 2 diabetic patients when compared with regimens that do not include an ARB or an ACE inhibitor (Reduction of Endpoints in NIDDM with the Angiotensin II Antagonist Losartan [RENAAL], Irbesartan Type II Diabetic Nephropathy Trial [IDNT], Irbesartan Type II Diabetes with Microalbuminuria [IRMA Il]). The debate over initial therapy may be moot. High-risk hypertensive patients should probably be treated initially with combination therapy, one of which should be a diuretic. The use of diuretics and beta-blockers as well as ACE-inhibitors alone or with a diuretic should be considered as initial therapy (a change from JNCVI). Alpha-blockers should be reserved for special situations, i.e. prostatic hypertrophy (in contrast to WHO-ISH recommendations). An ACE-inhibitor or ARB, usually along with a diuretic, can be considered as preferred therapy in hypertensive diabetic patients. Some data suggest equal or greater reduction in strokes with a calcium channel blocker than other medications.
Guideline: In acute gout, steroids, NSAIDs, or low-dose colchicine recommended; lifestyle changes not supported.

Source Citation Qaseem A, Harris RP, Forciea MA. Management of acute and recurrent gout: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med. 2017;166:58-68. 27802508
Patterns of palliative care consultation among elderly cancer patients.

e17557 Background: Although the role of palliative care (PC) has expanded over the past several decades, its evolution has not been characterized at the population-based level. Methods: This study defined the patterns of PC delivery using a retrospective cohort of advanced cancer patients within the SEER-Medicare linked database. We identified 83,022 patients with metastatic breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer. We studied trends between 2000-2009 and determined patient-level and regional-level predictors of PC delivery. Results: PC consultation rates increased from 3.0% in 2000 to 12.9% in 2009, with the majority of consultations occurring in the last 4 weeks of life (77%) in the inpatient setting. The rates of PC delivery were highest in the West (7.6%) and lowest in the South (3.2%). The likelihood of PC consultation increased with decreasing numbers of regional acute care hospital beds per capita. PC consultation increased with increasing numbers of regional physicians. PC utilization decreas...