cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Water Quality & natural resource management on military training lands in Central Texas: Improved decision support via Bayesian Networks

The conservation and management of military training lands has long evolved around the unique criteria for maintaining a viable fighting force. In lieu of this primary mission, landscapes have often experienced accelerated degradation and loss of structural and functional capabilities for providing desired ecosystem services (including the basic training mission). In an effort to aid military land managers as well as anyone who makes and implements decisions for natural resource management; we support an innovative approach towards the integration of evidence and the application of diagnosis and prognosis for the decision-making process through the use of Bayesian Networks. Illustrated below is an example for utilizing Bayesian Networks in the decision support process. We utilized data and experience from ongoing efforts at the Fort Hood Military Installation to build the initial network; then integrate expert input from authors and engineers in propagating the node relationships. Through this approach, we demonstrate how military land managers can integrate varying streams of evidence, including empirical, model generated or expert opinion, into a network for decision support. The example below is developed based upon land management issues within the U.S. Army, but the process can be adapted and implemented across most all ecosystems under some form of land management.
The Next 7 Great Achievements in Pediatric Research

The "7 Great Achievements in Pediatric Research" campaign noted discoveries in the past 40 years that have improved child and adult health in the United States and around the globe. This article predicts the next 7 great pediatric research advancements, including new immunizations, cancer immunotherapy, genomic discoveries, identification of early antecedents of adult health, impact of specific social-environmental influences on biology and health, quality improvement science, and implementation and dissemination research to reduce global poverty. It is an extraordinary time of new research tools that include electronic health records, technological ability to manage big data and measure "omics," and new functional and structural imaging modalities. These tools will discern mechanisms leading to health and disease with new prevention targets and cures. This article further discusses the challenges and opportunities to accelerate these exciting pediatric research discoveries to improve the lives of children and the adults they will become.
Highly Regioselective α-Olefin Dimerization Using Zirconium and Hafnium Amine Bis(phenolate) Complexes

Five new structural analogues of a previously studied group IV amine bis(phenolate) catalyst, Zr(ONNEt2O)Bn2, have been synthesized and tested for oligomerization activity. These structural variations encompass longer alkyl groups, propyl and butyl, on the pendant amine group and two different group IV metals, zirconium and hafnium. Remarkably, all five precatalysts, combined with tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane, oligomerized 1-hexene with almost exclusive selectivity for vinylidene end-groups with a marked preference for dimer formation. The three zirconium amine bis(phenolate) catalysts produced a Schulz–Flory distribution of oligomer products whereas the product distributions of the three hafnium analogues were seen to deviate from a Schulz–Flory distribution. The possible structures for dimers and trimers have been elucidated based on end-group and active site distribution.
Getters for improved technetium containment in cementitious waste forms

A cementitious waste form, Cast Stone, is a possible candidate technology for the immobilization of low activity nuclear waste (LAW) at the Hanford site. This work focuses on the addition of getter materials to Cast Stone that can sequester Tc from the LAW, and in turn, lower Tc release from the Cast Stone. Two getters which produce different products upon sequestering Tc from LAW were tested: Sn(II) apatite (Sn-A) that removes Tc as a Tc(IV)-oxide and potassium metal sulfide (KMS-2) that removes Tc as a Tc(IV)-sulfide species, allowing for a comparison of stability of the form of Tc upon entering the waste form. The Cast Stone with KMS-2 getter had the best performance with addition equivalent to ∼0.08wt% of the total waste form mass. The observed diffusion (Dobs) of Tc decreased from 4.6±0.2×10-12cm2/s for Cast Stone that did not contain a getter to 5.4±0.4×10-13cm2/s for KMS-2 containing Cast Stone. It was found that Tc-sulfide species are more stable against re-oxidation within getter containing Cast Stone compared with Tc-oxide and is the origin of the decrease in Tc Dobs when using the KMS-2.
Socioeconomic characteristics and crash injury exposure: A case study in Florida using two-step floating catchment area method

Abstract The objective of this study is to investigate the exposure of different population groups to severe injury crash hotspots using an empirical-Gaussian two-step floating catchment area (EG-2SFCA) method based on roadway network distances and a socioeconomic-based weighting approach. This is performed by developing a special form of a crash-to-population ratio index that incorporates the severe crash hotspots relative to the locations of populations they might impact. While identifying these hotspots, four different age groups are considered: 17 and younger, 18 to 21, 22 to 64 and 65 and older. For each age group, severe crash hotspots are identified based on the roadway network and the number of severely injured crash occupants that belong to the specific age group. Using these age-specific crash hotspots and the EG-2SFCA method, communities that were exposed to elevated crash injury risk (crash injury exposure) have been identified. Furthermore, from a residential perspective, a socioeconomic analysis is conducted in order to develop a socioeconomics-based crash injury exposure measure. This measure assesses the exposure of different socioeconomic groups to the risk of being injured. Results demonstrated by applying this measure in the Tampa Bay region, FL show that different population groups are under varying risk of being injured depending on their residential location. The developed approach has the potential to be a social fairness measure able to be applied by agencies, which could enhance the well-being of communities that are subject to elevated injury risk.
What is Clinical Efficacy of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients With Cryptogenic Stroke?: A Critically Appraised Topic.

BACKGROUND Adults with cryptogenic stroke often undergo transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) because this is the gold-standard for evaluation of potential proximal sources of emboli. The risks of performing this invasive test must be weighed against its clinical efficacy and limitations, determined by the rate of positive findings, and the impact on clinical outcome for the patient. OBJECTIVE To critically appraise current evidence regarding the rate of positive TEE findings in cryptogenic stroke patients, and analyze the implications of these findings on management decisions and outcomes. METHODS The objective was addressed through the development of a structured, critically appraised topic. We incorporated a clinical scenario, background information, a structured question, literature search strategy, critical appraisal, results, evidence summary, commentary, and bottom line conclusions. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, a medical librarian, and vascular neurology and cardiology content experts. RESULTS TEE commonly identifies abnormalities, including aorta atherosclerosis in 51%, patent foramen ovale in 43%, and atrial septal aneurysm in 13% of patients. Findings such as left-sided chamber thrombus or intracardiac tumor that definitively warrant a change in management by guideline-supported use of anticoagulation are less common, occurring in ∼3% of patients. CONCLUSIONS TEE identifies potential causal sources of embolus in patients with cryptogenic stroke that leads to changes in management and outcomes at least 3% of the time. Other findings, particularly aorta atherosclerosis, are identified much more commonly but the causal link to stroke is uncertain, thus changes in management in these cases is variable and data describing resulting outcomes are lacking.
Tunnel Vision: Insights from Biochemical and Biophysical Studies

The ribosomal exit tunnel is a specialized microenvironment where peptide transit, folding, targeting, cofactor recruitment, and degradation of the nascent peptide occur in accordance with the chemistry of the nascent peptide and the needs of the cell. The physicochemical properties of the tunnel hosting a nascent chain underlie these functions. The dimensions of the tunnel dictate a tight squeeze for peptide, water, and dissolved ions, which has energetic consequences for elongation and folding of the nascent peptide. We consider here tunnel electrostatic potentials, confined water, peptide side chains, and the impact of these factors on tunnel–peptide interactions. We also discuss peptide folding in the tunnel, movement of the peptide along and through the tunnel, and regional discrimination along the tunnel. Whereas detailed processes at the peptidyl-transferase center and ribosome intersubunit motions have been the major focus for the past decade, the relatively unexplored biophysics and chemistry of the tunnel are likely to be the next coming-of-age story. This chapter is intended to help launch this exploration.
Racial disparity in late mortality among older early-stage breast cancer survivors (BCS).

10041Background: Over 40% of all breast cancer (BC) is diagnosed in women age > 65y; majority will survive the initial diagnosis (dx), especially those with stage 0/1 disease. While disease biology...
Inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy: management of a disease flare or remission

Purpose of reviewRoughly half of the nearly 1.6 million people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are women of reproductive age. Caring for women with IBD who are also pregnant can be challenging, particularly if with a disease flare or in remission, as there are special considerations needed.Rec
Photoacoustic imaging of the uterine cervix to assess collagen and water content changes in murine pregnancy

The uterine cervix plays a central role in the maintenance of pregnancy and in the process of parturition. Cervical remodeling involves dramatic changes in extracellular matrix composition and, in particular, of collagen and water content during cervical ripening (a term that describes the anatomical, biochemical, and physiologic changes in preparation for labor). Untimely cervical ripening in early gestation predisposes to preterm labor and delivery, the leading cause of infant death worldwide. Inadequate ripening of the cervix is associated with failure of induction or prolonged labor. The current approach to evaluate the state of the cervix relies on digital examination and sonographic examination. Herein, we present a novel imaging method that combines ultrasound (US) and photoacoustic (PA) techniques to evaluate cervical remodeling by assessing the relative collagen and water content of this organ. The method was tested in vitro in extracted collagen phantoms and ex vivo in murine cervical tissues that were collected in mid-pregnancy and at term. We report, for the first time, that our imaging approach provides information about the molecular changes in the cervix at different gestational ages. There was a strong correlation between the results of PA imaging and the histological assessment of the uterine cervix over the course of gestation. These findings suggest that PA imaging is a powerful method to assess the biochemical composition of the cervix and open avenues to non-invasively investigate the composition of this organ, which is essential for reproductive success.
Anterior and Posterior Mediastinum Leiomyomas Arising From the Parietal Pleura.

A 72-year-old male patient was found with enlarged nodes in the anterior and posterior mediastinum on screening imaging studies of the chest. The anterior node appeared as a single cystic lesion without significant metabolic activity on scintigraphy images. The posterior node was a single solid lesion in the lower left periesophageal space above the diaphragmatic crura with moderate metabolic uptake. Endoscopic ultrasound allowed a transesophageal endosonography–guided fine needle aspiration of the posterior node. The anterior lesion was sampled via percutaneous transthoracic approach. Biopsy revealed aggregates of mesenchymal cells with spindle nuclei; immunohistochemistry confirmed two primary leiomyomas of the mediastinum.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound in a Child with Chest Wall Pain and Rib Osteomyelitis.

Abstract Background Diagnosis of acute osteomyelitis in young children can be challenging due to the lack of specific clinical signs and symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent complications and to improve long-term prognosis and reduce the need for operative intervention. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may be a useful tool to detect early changes associated with osteomyelitis. Case Report A 26-month-old boy presented with 6 days of fever and 3 days of focal pain over the right anterior lower ribs without swelling, erythema, or bony deformity, and negative chest x-ray study. A POCUS was performed by the ultrasound fellows and revealed deep soft tissue swelling, periosteal elevation, and increased vascular flow with color Doppler. The patient was admitted to the pediatric service with infectious disease consultation and started on antibiotics. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of a right seventh anterior rib osteomyelitis, and the patient subsequently improved and was discharged home. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? In this case, the use of POCUS in the emergency department heightened the suspicion for acute osteomyelitis in a rare location and guided early diagnosis and treatment.
Female Rank-and-File Accounting Employees and Internal Control Quality

We use proprietary data on rank-and-file employees from a large sample to document a negative relation between the percentage of female rank-and-file accounting employees and firms’ propensity for internal control weaknesses. This relation is curvilinear. The effect is strong when female accountants are underrepresented, while the effect attenuates when gender diversity exceeds parity. We also find that a firm’s ineffective internal control predicts the future turnover of male rank-and-file accountants. Our study is the first to provide evidence that gender plays an important role at the level of rank-and-file employees in determining internal control quality.
Grammatical Gender Marking: The Gender Roles Mirror

This paper highlights the advantages of grammatical gender marking in capturing gender roles in society. Grammatical gender marking is a relatively new method that improves upon the previous methodology of survey-based cultural dimensions, which are susceptible to severe endogeneity problems caused by current socio-economic conditions. Conversely, linguistic structures regarding gender are stable features of a language’s grammar, making them exogenous to current socio-economic forces. Academics can use grammatical gender marking as a quantitative dimension for use in empirical research; practitioners can use it to identify the gender roles affecting foreigner counterparts and host societies.
Electrophysiological Evidence of Early Cortical Sensitivity to Human Conspecific Mimic Voice as a Distinct Category of Natural Sound.

Purpose From an anthropological perspective of hominin communication, the human auditory system likely evolved to enable special sensitivity to sounds produced by the vocal tracts of human conspeci...
Soft Start-up Scheme for Weak AC Grid Dominated MTDC Networks

HVDC transmission is considered as an economical alternative for HVAC transmission at higher voltage levels for long distances due to bulk power carrying capability of cost-effective DC cables. The developments in the AC/DC converters, such as MMC, have made a remarkable contribution to the growth of the HVDC systems. This paper investigates soft start-up strategies for the MTDC networks, consisting of weak (SCR<3) or very weak AC grids (SCR<2). Conventional energization of an MTDC grid through pre-insertion resistors causes high surge energy and power losses. Thus, this paper adopts a two-level converter and frequency controller to provide soft energization to the DC grid, preventing high inrush current and high transients in the weak terminals. Theoretical analysis of an average large-signal model of each converter, along with its control structure, is depicted in detail. The proposed soft start-up scheme and the dynamic characteristics of the MTDC network are carried out on the RTDS.
Mathematical modeling of endothelial network

Abstract Endothelial cells comprise the innermost lining of all blood and lymphatic vessels. Typically, in vertebrates, the vasculature extends to all corners of the body. The endothelium is not a mere layer of cells like a “parchment paper,” rather it actively participates in a multitude of physiological functions such as modulation of vasomotor tone, monitoring blood fluidity, regulating transfer of water, nutrients and leukocytes across the vascular wall, regulating innate and acquired immunity, and angiogenesis. The endothelium plays a crucial role in a plethora of diseases both as a primary determinant of pathophysiology or in a secondary role as a result of collateral damage. Although much is known about how the endothelium functions, there exists a considerable gap in a “bench-to-bedside” understanding in the field of endothelial biomedicine. While endothelium is well established to be a major participant in vascular disease, a clear and concrete understanding of endothelium in health and diseases extends beyond its role in atherosclerosis.
When planning meets reality: COVID-19 interpandemic survey of Michigan Nursing Homes.

BACKGROUND: Nursing home (NH) populations have borne the brunt of morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. We surveyed Michigan NHs to evaluate preparedness, staffing, testing, and adaptations to these challenges. METHODS: Interpandemic survey responses were collected May 1-12, 2020. We used Pearson's Chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression to evaluate relationships. RESULTS: Of 452 Michigan NHs contacted via e-mail, 145 (32.1%) opened the survey and of these, 143 (98.6%) responded. Sixty-eight percent of respondents indicated their response plan addressed most issues. NHs reported receiving rapidly changing guidance from many sources. Two-thirds reported shortages of personal protective equipment and other supplies. Half (50%) lacked sufficient testing resources with only 36% able to test residents and staff with suspected COVID-19. A majority (55%) experienced staffing shortages. Sixty-three percent experienced resignations, with front-line clinical staff more likely to resign, particularly in facilities caring for COVID-19 patients (P < .001). Facilities adapted quickly, creating COVID-19 units (78%) to care for patients on site. To reduce isolation, NHs facilitated communication via phone calls (98%), videoconferencing (96%), and window visits (81%). A majority continued to provide requisite therapies (90%). CONCLUSIONS: NHs experienced shortages of resources, testing supplies, and staffing challenges. COVID-19 in the facility was a key predictor of staff resignations. Facilities relied on rapidly changing, often conflicting advice from multiple sources, suggesting high-yield areas of improvement.
Long-term outcomes following surgical repair of coronary artery fistula in adults.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY Coronary artery fistula (CAF) is a relatively rare cardiac anomaly. We investigated long-term outcomes following surgical repair of CAF in adults. METHODS We retrospectively investigated 13 consecutive patients undergoing surgical repair of CAF in our institution between 2008 and 2019 (67.3 ± 10.4 years old, 38% male). CAF types were coronary artery-pulmonary artery fistula (77%), coronary artery-coronary sinus fistula (15%), and both (8%). CAFs originated from the left coronary artery (38%), right coronary artery (8%), and bilateral coronary arteries (38%). Pulmonary and systemic flow (Qp/Qs) was measured in seven patients (54%), with a mean value of 1.52. Seven patients underwent surgery for CAFs alone, and others simultaneously underwent surgery for comorbid cardiac diseases. RESULTS All procedures were conducted under cardiopulmonary bypass. Surgical procedures were direct epicardial ligation of fistula (92%), direct closure of CAF through pulmonary artery incision (38%), direct closure of CAF through coronary sinus incision (8%), or patch closure of CAF through coronary artery incision (8%). Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy showed asymptomatic myocardial ischemia in the right coronary area after surgery in one patient. There were no deaths perioperatively or during follow-up (mean: 66.6 months). There were no coronary or other CAF-related events. CONCLUSIONS Several anatomical variations in CAF were observed which coexist with cardiac disease. Long-term outcomes following surgical repair were satisfactory, and the concurrent intervention of CAFs during surgery for comorbid cardiac disease is useful to prevent future complications related CAFs in adults.
Parent-of-origin effects propagate through networks to shape metabolic traits

Parent-of-origin effects are unexpectedly common in complex traits, including metabolic and neurological diseases. Parent-of-origin effects can be modified by the environment, but the architecture of these gene-by-environmental effects on phenotypes remains to be unraveled. Previously, quantitative trait loci (QTL) showing context-specific parent-of-origin effects on metabolic traits were mapped in the F16 generation of an advanced intercross between LG/J and SM/J inbred mice. However, these QTL were not enriched for known imprinted genes, suggesting another mechanism is needed to explain these parent-of-origin effects phenomena. We propose that non-imprinted genes can generate complex parent-of-origin effects on metabolic traits through interactions with imprinted genes. Here, we employ data from mouse populations at different levels of intercrossing (F0, F1, F2, F16) of the LG/J and SM/J inbred mouse lines to test this hypothesis. Using multiple populations and incorporating genetic, genomic, and physiological data, we leverage orthogonal evidence to identify networks of genes through which parent-of-origin effects propagate. We identify a network comprised of 3 imprinted and 6 non-imprinted genes that show parent-of-origin effects. This epistatic network forms a nutritional responsive pathway and the genes comprising it jointly serve cellular functions associated with growth. We focus on 2 genes, Nnat and F2r, whose interaction associates with serum glucose levels across generations in high fat-fed females. Single-cell RNAseq reveals that Nnat and F2r are negatively correlated in pre-adipocytes along an adipogenic trajectory, a result that is consistent with our observations in bulk white adipose tissue.
The Latino Education Crisis: The Consequences of Failed Social Policies, by Patricia Gándara and Frances Contreras

In The Latino Education Crisis: The Consequences of Failed Social Policies, authors Patricia Gandara and Frances Contreras build a compelling argument that a range of policies enacted in the United...
Heart rate variability as a predictor of autonomic dysfunction in patients awaiting liver transplantation.

Chronic liver disease, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, has been shown to be associated with autonomic neuropathy, as well as other hemodynamic and circulatory disturbances. In a longitudinal study, the presence of autonomic neuropathy and the severity of liver disease were independent risk factors for mortality. The aim of this study was to determine whether the severity of liver disease correlated with measures of heart rate variability. We studied 21 patients being evaluated for liver transplantation to determine if severity of disease correlated with heart rate variability and compared them to seven healthy controls. Heart rate variability was determined for a series of 500 consecutive R-R intervals during quiet breathing. Standard deviation, pNN50, a marker of parasympathetic function, and approximate entropy (ApEn), a recently described measure of regularity, were calculated. Four standard tests of autonomic function were also performed. pNN50 was significantly reduced in all liver disease patients compared to controls (P < 0.05). Both standard deviation and ApEn were significantly reduced in Child’s class C patients suggesting a generalized dysfunction in cardiovascular homeostasis. ApEn was significantly lower in the nonsurvivors during follow-up than the survivors (P < 0.05). In conclusion, increasing severity of liver failure is associated with a reduction in total heart rate variability and regularity. Measurement of heart rate variability offers a simple, noninvasive means of assessing the cardiovascular and autonomic effects of liver disease, particularly in those awaiting liver transplantation.
New Strain of Yersinia enterocolitica Pathogenic for Rodents

A strain of Yersinia enterocolitica, biotype 2, serotype 8, isolated from the blood of a human patient has been found to be highly pathogenic for rodents.
Ethanol inhibits the autophosphorylation of the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor and IGF-1-mediated proliferation of 3T3 cells.

The effect of ethanol on cell proliferation was studied in Balb/c 3T3 cells and in stably transfected 3T3 cells constitutively overexpressing the human insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor (p6 cells). Ethanol inhibited growth of both cell lines when they were cultured in serum-free medium supplemented with individual growth factors, i.e. platelet-derived growth factor and IGF-1 for 3T3 cells, and IGF-1 only for p6 cells. Increases in cell number were prevented in both cell lines even when ethanol was present exclusively during the period of IGF-1 stimulation. The inhibitory effect of ethanol was concentration-dependent, with a 30% inhibition observed at 10 mM ethanol. IGF-1 receptor tyrosine autophosphorylation was completely prevented by ethanol both in intact cells and in immunopurified IGF-1 receptor preparations. The binding of IGF-1 to its receptor on intact cells was unaffected by ethanol. Ethanol also inhibited the stimulation of IGF-1 receptor autophosphorylation and the corresponding growth of p6 cells induced by IGF-2. Transcription of c-myc, c-fos, and c-jun in response to IGF-1 was inhibited by ethanol. These findings demonstrate that ethanol at low concentrations markedly inhibits IGF-1 receptor autophosphorylation and IGF-1-mediated cell growth.
Gender, Talk, TV, Hockey, and "Canadian Identity": Feminist Takes on "Television Rejection"

Abstract: A certain manner of framing totalizing critical takes on television has become common over the last few decades. It entails reference to the assumptions of cultural highbrows and of leftists contemptuous of mass popular culture. Such a framing is necessary but not sufficient. It fails to indicate the presence and significance of certain critical-popular responses to television viewing, responses related to how such viewing has figured within family circles and gender orders, and within histories of racial rule. This paper draws on representations in feminist fiction, on personal experience related to the ritual of "hockey night in Canada," and on Strikwerda and May's analysis of male friendship and intimacy to support the argument that we need to attend to critical-popular feminist takes on television rejection. They provide a way in to the consideration of issues which deserve further attention. Resume: La television a fait l'objet de critique tres reductrices tantot du point de vue de gauchistes qui meprisaitent la culture populair de masse, tatot du point de vue des partisan d'une conception elitist de la culture. Depuis quelque decennies, ces deux perspectives ont ete beaucoup critiques, et pour des bonnes raison. Cependant, ces critiques sont elles-memes devenue des lieux communs. Elles ne prennet pas en compte la presence et l'importance des reponses « critiques-populaires » a l'ecoute de la television, des reponses qui ont a voir avec la presence de la television dans le « circle familiale, » dans l'orde des genre et dans les histoires de domination raciale. Cet article s'inspire des representations tirees de la fiction feminist, de mon experience personnelle du rituel de la « soiree du hockey au Canada, » ainsi que de l'analyse faite par Strikwerda et May de l'intimite et de l'amite entre hommes. Il soutien la necessite d'une reflexion elaboree a partir d'un point de vue a la fois feministe, populaire et critique sur la television.
Transforming Strongly Sequential Rewrite Systems with Constructors for Efficient parallel Execution

Strongly sequential systems, developed by Huet and Levy [2], has formed the basis of equational programming languages. Experience with such languages so far suggests that even complex equational programs are based only on strongly sequential systems with constructors. However, these programs are not readily amenable for efficient parallel execution. This paper introduces a class of strongly sequential systems called path sequential systems. Equational programs based on path sequential systems are more natural for parallel evaluation. An algorithm for transforming any strongly sequential system with constructors into an equivalent path sequential system is described.
Molecular studies of lupus nephritis kidneys

Lupus nephritis is a devastating complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for which current therapies are insufficiently effective. Histologic evaluation of renal biopsies is a poor predictor of therapeutic response or outcome. Integrated immunologic, genomic and proteomic approaches may yield new insights into disease pathogenesis and thereby improve therapeutic strategies for lupus nephritis. Given the lack of sequential biopsies from humans, it also remains essential to study informative animal models of disease. Cross-species analyses can identify cells or pathways that are relevant to human disease and can be further studied in mouse models. Using a systems biology approach in which we compare molecular data from kidneys of three different mouse models of lupus nephritis with data from human lupus biopsies, we have found that inflammatory events escalate rapidly around the time of proteinuria onset. This is followed by hypoxia and metabolic stress, and by tubular and endothelial dysfunction. The failure of complete reversal of these abnormalities may increase the sensitivity of the kidney to further insult. We further found that renal macrophages and dendritic cells are key players in lupus nephritis both in mouse models and humans and that macrophages display a hybrid molecular profile that reflects incomplete resolution of inflammation and excessive tissue remodeling. Finally, our studies have suggested several new biomarkers for disease stage that can now be tested longitudinally in human SLE patients.
Decompressive craniectomy in pediatric patients

More frequently than adults, pediatric victims of severe traumatic brain injury experience diffuse severe cerebral edema without mass lesions. These patients require methods to reduce intracranial pressure quickly and reliably. Surgical decompression provides rapid relief of increased intracranial pressure and is an alternative to maximal medical therapy for these individuals. Based on previous trials, most of which are anecdotal but now include attempts at case controlled and cohort matched investigations, Ruf and colleagues describe a series of six pediatric patients treated with a prospectively implemented protocol of decompressive craniectomy for severe traumatic brain injury. The heterogeneous approaches presented (which include hemicraniectomy, bifrontal craniectomy, and suboccipital craniectomy) undermine the applicability of the results. However, this report, coupled with similar papers, does highlight the need for a true controlled trial of this modality to examine whether craniectomy can emerge as more than a second line option for the management of increased intracranial pressure.
Update on New Treatments for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic disorder that results in significant declines in respiratory function and a high mortality rate only a few years after diagnosis. Medical management of IPF has been attempted with various types of medications, such as immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, endothelin receptor antagonists, and anti-inflammatory drugs with less than conclusive results. However, with the approval of nintedanib and pirfenidone following the IMPULSIS-1, IMPULSIS-2, and ASCEND data, there is hope that medical therapy may be able to slow the progression of IPF and decrease the rate of acute exacerbations in this patient population.
Evaluating the accuracy of the benefit transfer method: a rural water supply application in the USA.

Due to declining federal, state, and local government budgets, there is an increasing need to analyze the benefits of government funded programs to determine where increasingly limited funds would best be spent. The benefit transfer technique is analyzed for the development of a rural water supply system and guidelines for successful benefits transfer are presented. Benefit transfer appears to provide reasonably accurate estimates of natural resource benefits if a broad based benefit model is used. The benefits-transfer-based estimates are accurate as long as a model based on data from a wide variety of conditions is used or the model is based on data from a very similar region. The wide-based data modeling approach has the greatest practical application. These findings are based upon contingent valuation data obtained from four sites in the western USA.
Advances in surgical technique for primary rectal cancer

Rectal cancer continues to produce significant morbidity and mortality, with about 41,000 new cases diagnosed per year in the United States. Recent advances in the management of rectal cancer, including the standardization of total mesorectal excision and the increasing application of neoadjuvant chemoradiation, have led to an increase in patients undergoing sphincter preservation and a decrease in the rate of local-regional tumor recurrence. This article reviews the current literature that affects the surgeon’s decisions regarding preoperative staging and operative management of the patient diagnosed with rectal cancer.
Lithium Ion Capacity of Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Paper Electrodes

The electrochemical cycling performance of high purity single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) paper electrodes has been measured vs lithium metal for a series of electrolyte solvent compositions. The addition of propylene carbonate (PC) into the conventional ethylene carbonate (EC):dimethyl carbonate (DMC) cosolvent mixture enabled a reversible lithium ion capacity of 520 mAh/g for high purity SWCNTs. The free-standing SWCNT electrode (absent of polymer binder or metal substrate support) with this electrolyte combination demonstrates enhanced cycleability, retaining >95% of the initial capacity after 10 cycles. The first cycle hysteresis, common in these materials, is shown to vary dramatically with solvent selection and illustrates the importance of the solid−electrolyte−interface (SEI) formation on SWCNT capacity. The effect of galvanostatic charge rate (i.e., C-rate) on lithium ion capacity shows a 2× improvement [in capacity per current] over reported values for conventional graphite anode materials. The...
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION REFORM IN FLORIDA: Why Did Two Innovative Return to Work Programs Fail?

Why do well-intentioned public policies sometimes fail? This research examines the failure of two Florida workers’ compensation reforms intended to help previously injured employees return to work: the obligation to rehire program and the preferred worker program. Interviews conducted with Floridians involved in workers‘compensation reform are examined to find out why these two programs failed. The disappointing outcome of the obligation to rehire and preferred worker programs can be tied to the dominance of business groups in state policymaking, the failure to provide a proper incentive and enforcement system, and the inability to foresee the consequences of reform because of policy and environmental complexity.
An Approach to Homotopy and Degree Theory

Spawned by Scarf's pioneering work on the calculation of fixed points, an entire new field in mathematical programming has emerged. A wide array of problems that can be posed as fixed point problems, such as problems involving equilibria, games, systems of equations, global optimization, and structural mechanics, have come into the purview of these new constructive techniques. Underlying these techniques are certain mathematical concepts from differential topology, more specifically degree theory Brouwer and homotopies. Usually, the mathematical machinery required for these concepts necessitates a keen familiarity with piecewise linear and/or differential topology. In this paper, the development is made by following the paths arising from an ordinary differential equation. The differential equation results from Cramer's rule for linear equations. The applicability and ease of our approach are shown by obtaining simple proofs of theorems in differential topology.
Resistance of Dollard Red Clover to the Pea Aphid, Macrosiphum pisi

Plants of the Dollard variety of red clover, Trifolium pratense L., were more resistant to the pea aphid, Macrosiphum pisi (Harris), than plants of the Wegener variety. Resistance in Dollard was owing to nonpreference and antibiosis. This resistance to aphids appeared to explain a much lower incidence of virus in Dollard than in Wegener when these varieties were grown under field conditions at St. Paul, Minnesota. When the mosaic and pea stunt viruses were inoculated mechanically, Dollard was just as susceptible as Wegener. Breeding red clover for resistance to aphids may be a more successful approach than trying to breed for resistance to virus diseases.
Percutaneous Lung Tumor Ablation

Percutaneous thermal ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for primary or secondary malignancies of the lung. Currently, 3 different modalities are available: radiofrequency, microwave, and cryoablation. Radiofrequency ablation remains to date the most developed although the other 2 modalities have their own distinct advantages. Percutaneous ablation can be used for treatment of stage 1 and 2 non-small cell lung carcinoma either alone or in combination with other therapies. Specifically, their noninvasive nature allows them to be used on patients who are otherwise deemed nonoperable. Percutaneous ablation can also be used to treat stage 3a non-small cell lung carcinoma in carefully selected patients. With nonlung primaries, percutaneous ablation can be used to control limited pulmonary metastasis, recurrences after alternative treatments, or to provide pain relief. Although the long-term data for percutaneous ablation is still being investigated, their noninvasive nature and efficacy will ensure their viability and evolution in the future. In this article we review the indications for percutaneous ablation, evaluation of the potential patient, an overview of the ablation options currently available, procedural details, potential complications, and expected results and follow-up.
Long-term outcomes of septal reduction for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Background Surgical myectomy and alcohol septal ablation (ASA) aim to decrease left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Outcome of myectomy beyond 10 years has rarely been described. We describe 20 years of follow-up of surgical myectomy and 5 years of follow-up for ASA performed for obstructive HCM. Methods We studied 171 patients who underwent myectomy for symptomatic LVOT obstruction between 1972 and 2006. In addition, we studied 52 patients who underwent ASA for the same indication and who declined surgery. Follow-up of New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, echocardiographic data, and vital status were obtained from patient records. Mortality rates were compared with expected mortality rates of age- and sex-matched populations. Results Surgical myectomy improved NYHA class (2.74 ± 0.65 to 1.54 ± 0.74, p < 0.001), reduced resting gradient (67.4 ± 43.4 mmHg to 11.2 ± 16.4 mmHg, p < 0.001), and inducible LVOT gradient (98.1 ± 34.7 mmHg to 33.6 ± 34.9 mmHg, p < 0.001). Similarly, ASA improved functional class (2.99 ± 0.35 to 1.5 ± 0.74, p < 0.001), resting gradient (67.1 ± 26.9 mmHg to 23.9 ± 29.4 mmHg, p < 0.001) and provoked gradient (104.4 ± 34.9 mmHg to 35.5 ± 38.6 mmHg, p < 0.001). Survival after myectomy at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of follow-up was 92.9%, 81.1%, 68.9%, and 47.5%, respectively. Of note, long-term survival after myectomy was lower than for the general population [standardized mortality ratio (SMR) = 1.40, p < 0.005], but still compared favorably with historical data from non-operated HCM patients. Survival after ASA at 2 and 5 years was 97.8% and 94.7%, respectively. Short-term (5 year) survival after ASA (SMR = 0.61, p = 0.48) was comparable to that of the general population. Conclusion Long-term follow-up of septal reduction strategies in obstructive HCM reveals that surgical myectomy and ASA are effective for symptom relief and LVOT gradient reduction and are associated with favorable survival. While overall prognosis for the community HCM population is similar to the general population, the need for surgical myectomy may identify a sub-group with poorer long-term prognosis. We await long-term outcomes of more extensive myectomy approaches adopted in the past 10 years at major institutions.
An Exploding Star in Motion

A recently discovered supernova, designated SN 1993J, has been imaged with exceptional resolution with a sensitive array of radiotelescopes. As Chevalier discusses in his Perspective, the imaging results reported by Marcaide et al. in this issue (p. 1475) directly show the expansion of a highly symmetrical spherical shock wave. Variations in radio emission around the expanding shell may enable astronomers to learn more about these very energetic explosions.
Work in progress — Implementation and research of Mastery learning at an HBCU

While studying a Mastery approach for learning Engineering Circuit Analysis at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMA), early findings suggested that the approach improved the performance and retention of all students, with particularly dramatic results for women and minorities. However, because the number of women and minority students at UMA is small, we have decided to study the implementation of Mastery at an HBCU, specifically the College of Engineering at the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT), one of the nation's premier engineering schools with a predominantly African American student population. In this Work-in-Progress, we will summarize the features of Mastery learning that make it difficult, but attractive, to implement. We will also review the results for women and minority students at UMA. Then we will describe the recent trends in retention and graduation rates at NCAT that led the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department there to radically change how Circuit Analysis is taught. Finally, we will provide an overview of the research plan we have developed for studying the implementation of Mastery learning.
The effect of suspended particles on Jeans' criterion for gravitational instability

The effect that the proper inclusion of suspended particles has on Jeans' criterion for the self-gravitational instability of an adiabatic gas cloud is examined by formulating the appropriate model system, introducing particular physically plausible equations of state and constitutive relations, performing a linear stability analysis of a uniformly expanding exact solution to these governing equations, and exploiting the fact that there exists a natural small material parameter for this problem given by the ratio of the number density for the particles to that for the gas. The main result of this investigation is the derivation of an altered criterion, approximated closely by the Jeans' length for the particles alone, which can reduce Jeans' original critical wavelength for the instability of the pure gas substantially. It is shown that the existing discrepancy between Jeans' theoretical prediction and actual observational data relevant to the Andromeda nebula M31 can be accounted for by this new criterion, assuming suspended particles of a reasonable grain size and distribution to be present.
CO laser-induced cooling of the conduction electrons in n-InSb

Abstract Laser-induced cooling of the conduction electrons in n-InSb is observed for CO laser photon energies near the bandgap (229–234 meV). This cooling is caused by a new mechanism which we call cold electron photo-injection (CEPI) produced by the simultaneous application of a non-ohmic dc electric field and the CO radiation. The results show that absorption near the bandgap is strongly influenced by two acceptor levels located at ~3 and ~8 meV above the valence band edge.
Slow Conformational Changes of the Inorganic Pyrophosphatase from Bakers' Yeast Induced by Divalent Metal Ions

A study of the role of divalent metal ions, in particular of Mg2+ and Mn2+ in the reaction of the inorganic pyrophosphatase of bakers' yeast has been carried out. It is shown that the free metal ions compete with each other for the same metal binding site. Binding to this site causes reversible conformational changes of the enzyme as indicated by the kinetics. This assumption is in agreement with significant alterations in the circular dichroism spectrum. In the presence of inorganic pyrophosphate the changes of the enzyme are slow enough to be followed kinetically over a period of minutes. Other possibilities for a slow transition of the enzyme velocity which might exist according to the hysteretic enzyme concept of Frieden could be rejected. To explain the experimental data a kinetic scheme is proposed. The results show that, the metal ions affect, the hydrolysis at the substrate site through a conformational change of the protein.
A valence force field for aliphatic sulfur compounds: Dithiaalkanes

Abstract To obtain reliable vibrational assignments for use in statistical thermodynamic calculations for dithiaalkanes, the valence force field reported earlier for alkanethiols and thiaalkanes was extended to include the dithiaalkanes. The six additional force constants involved in the potential function of the dithiaalkanes were evaluated from observed wavenumbers of the following four molecules: 2,3-dithiabutane, 2,3-dithiapentane, 3,4-dithiahexane, and 2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3,4-dithiahexane. The mean deviation of the calculated wave-numbers from the observed ones is 12.3 cm −1 or 1.1%, only slightly larger than for the alkanethiols and thiaalkanes. Previous assignments for the four investigated molecules were critically examined in the course of the molecular vibrational analysis and revised as necessary, and the probable conformations in which they can exist are presented and discussed.