cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Visual Culture in the Elementary-School Classroom: Moving from Box-Store Commodities to Out-of-the–Box Thinking

ABSTRACTThe goal of the action research project on visual culture is to contribute to the dialogue on the exploratory ecology vs commodity culture of the elementary school classroom. Exploratory culture, unlike commodity culture, applauds open-ended thinking, inchoate imaginings, and critical thinking with its attachment to divergent paths to resolving problems. This educational action research project moves to effect change, so as to a) understand visual culture as an educational component of teaching and learning, and b) awaken the need for the inclusion of research on visual culture in student teacher preparation. Visual culture can best be understood when preservice teachers are immersed in the classroom. The visual landscape of the walls, light, air, hallways, seating arrangements, posters, rugs, room dividers, windows, entrances and exits of the classroom and school building can all be seen as a third teacher. The action research focuses on core classroom experiences revealed through six student tea...
Avalanche assisted upconversion in Pr3+/Yb3+-doped ZBLAN glass

The author reports efficient upconversion optical pumping of the /sup 3/P levels of Pr/sup 3+/ in ZBLAN glass codoped with Yb/sup 3+/. Measurements of Pr/sup 3+/ visible emission against infrared pump intensity demonstrate the existence of an avalanche pumping process which comprises three components: radiationless energy transfer from Yb/sup 3+/ to Pr/sup 3+/, excited-state absorption in Pr/sup 3+/, and cross-relaxation between excited Pr/sup 3+/ ions and ground-state Yb/sup 3+/ ions.
Influence of depth-dependent sediment properties on the pressure reflection coefficient at normal incidence using the Biot-Stoll Model

The impact of depth-dependent geophysical parameters on the reflection coefficient is studied using the Biot-Stoll theory in porous marine sediments. The seabed is modeled as a sediment layer with depth-dependent properties on top of a homogeneous half-space, as originally proposed by Stern. Reflection coefficient, phase velocity and attenuation coefficient for the slow, fast and shear waves are computed as a function of frequency and layer thickness. The model is tested assuming normal incidence of plane acoustic waves to the sea floor, which simulates the reflection coefficient measured from classic sub-bottom profilers. Results are determined by the evaluation of boundary conditions at the water-sediment layer interface and the sediment layer-half-space interface. The wave equation is solved as a function of frequency and layer thickness using the Runge-Kutta method. All depth-dependent parameters are linked to the porosity using equations provided by Berryman, Ogushwitz, Hovem and Ingram. Mean grain diameter and porosity are obtained from the Geoclutter experiment. The porosity varies with depth, while the mean grain diameter remains constant. Results are obtained for different types of sediment, from medium size sands to silty clay, and different porosity profiles. Depending on the sediment core, the porosity varied between 32% and 70%, indicating a high water content in every sample and suspension near the top of the layer. The maximum thickness of the layer is limited to 0.5 meters. The frequency range is 100 Hz to 5 kHz. If the porosity is lower than 45%, results show that the reflection coefficient vs. frequency may be very similar for two sediments of very different mean grain diameter but of similar porosity profile. However, a large difference in porosity at any depth between two samples leads to very different reflection coefficient spectra. This work is sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, Code # ONR321CG, Dr. Tom Drake
Image matting with transductive inference

Various matting methods have been proposed to isolate objects from images by extracting alpha mattes. Although they typically work well for images with smooth regions, their ability to deal with complex or textured patterns is limited due to their inductive inference nature. In this paper we present a Transductive Matting algorithm which explicitly treats the matting task as a statistical transductive inference. Unlike previous approaches, we assume the user marked pixels do not fully capture the statistical distributions of foreground and background colors in the unknown region of the given trimap, thus new foreground and background colors are allowed to be recognized in the transductive labeling process. Quantitative comparisons show that our method achieves better results than previous methods on textured images.
Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism in Metastatic Colon Cancer Patients in the Contemporary Treatment Era: A SEER-Medicare Data Analysis

Background: The relationship between metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) is not well defined in the modern treatment era. Previous population-based studies date back to a period marked by inpatient intravenous heparin therapy and inferior survival due to paucity of therapeutic anti-cancer options, and before the advent of newer therapies including oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and anti-angiogenic treatment with bevacizumab. The objectives of this retrospective study were to examine the impact of multiple putative risk factors on VTE incidence in a large representative modern cohort of older patients with metastatic CRC. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of SEER-Medicare data on elderly patients with metastatic CRC diagnosed in 2004-2011. VTE and associated risk factors were analyzed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for sex, age at diagnosis, race, ethnicity, tumor anatomy (left/right/unknown), calendar year of diagnosis, Charlson comorbidity score, location of SEER registry and urban residence, with time-varying covariates for use of cancer therapies. Results: Of 339,778 records, 11,086 metastatic colon cancer cases were identified. 1,338 cases had VTE with a cumulative incidence of 13% at 1 year and 19% at 3 years. The mean age was 77.9 years (range 65-106). 49.7% were women and 83.5% white. 60.5% had a Charlson comorbidity score of zero at diagnosis; 6% had scores of 6-18. Significant predictors of VTE included female sex (Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.22; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.10, 1.36; P P P =0.02), right sided colon cancers (HR 1.19; CI, 1.06, 1.33 P =0.003), and current use of 5-fluorouracil (HR 1.33; CI 1.04, 1.70; P =0.02). The risk of VTE was significantly reduced when on bevacizumab (HR 0.77; CI 0.63, 0.93; P =.006), or irinotecan therapy (HR 0.59; CI 0.47, 0.75; P P =0.04). Conclusion : The higher incidence of VTE seen in right sided colon cancers may be related to biologically aggressive tumors associated with poor survival as reported in recent studies. The lower risk of VTE in older, sicker patients was unexpected and may reflect the effect of competing mortality. In this large contemporary cohort, anti-angiogenic therapy was not associated with a higher risk of VTE; the apparent protective effects of bevacizumab and irinotecan may represent treatment assignment bias. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Visualization and Progressive Schematization: Framing the Issues

Jackie (Cohort 2) was in seventh grade when she joined my Algebra 1 class to participate in a yearlong teaching experiment involving various aspects of algebraic thinking at the middle school level. Her earlier mathematical experiences had solidified for her the impression that mathematics was something that she merely followed on the basis of rules that occasionally made sense to her. Her comment in the opening epigraph came early in the fall semester when our class was exploring factoring simple polynomials initially from a visual perspective. In a follow-up activity, when I asked the class whether it was possible to factor a sum of squares, all of them said no and explained that there was no way of reconfiguring the totality of two squares having two different dimensions into a single rectangle (i.e., with no overlaps).
Dysregulation of neurotrophin signaling in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease and of Alzheimer disease in Down syndrome

Neurotrophic factors, including the members of the neurotrophin family, play important roles in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. Trophic factor signals must be transmitted over long distances from axons and dendrites to the cell bodies of neurons. A mode of signaling well suited to the challenge of robust long distance signaling is the signaling endosome. We review the biology of signaling endosomes and the "signaling endosome hypothesis". Evidence for disruption of signaling endosome function in disorders of the nervous system is also reviewed. Changes in endosome structure in Alzheimer disease (AD) and Down syndrome (DS) are present early in these disorders. Data for the APP products responsible are reviewed and the consequent changes in signaling from endosomes discussed. We conclude by pointing to the need for additional studies to explore the biology of signaling endosomes in normal neurons and to elucidate their role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration.
Using Cultural Historical Activity Theory to Uncover Praxis for Inclusive Education.

This paper explores ways in which cultural historical activity theory (CHAT) provides a useful framework for examination of reflection and action during inclusive education fieldwork. Deeper unders...
Markets for Optical Materials, Components, Accessories, Light Sources, and Detectors

Objectives 1. Analyze optical markets by studying web resources and specialized catalogs of leading optical companies. 2. Develop basic skills to search for optical components. 3. Estimate a budget for a simple optical set-up. Background Classical optical experimentalists made all their components and equipment (lenses, prisms, polarizers, mechanical holders, and even optical tables) by themselves. They spent many hours grinding and polishing a chunk of glass by hand to make a lens. As you can imagine, such an approach is time consuming and is not common today, but it brought substantial benefit to those early gurus of optics. They were able to feel, deeply and internally, all aspects of their experiments. Undoubtedly, this was one of the reasons why the classical texts on optics became classics! To familiarize you with those golden days of experimental optics, we recommend reading classical texts such as Physical Optics by Robert Wood, and Procedures in Applied Optics by John Strong. We intentionally placed these two references in the text here, instead of in the Further Reading section, to highlight the changes which experimental-based optics has made during the past few decades. The emergence of optical companies completely changed the lives of optical scientists. Instead of polishing optical surfaces for weeks, they now bypass these hurdles by ordering required optical components from an optical company, leaving more time to concentrate on optical experiments. Knowing the optical markets and having experience in finding optical components needed is a very important skill for a modern optics researcher, not to mention that it is an important life skill in general. As you may already know, optical companies have their own websites where information about their products is presented in a colorful way. Additionally, all optical companies print catalogs of their products which can be ordered free of charge. A researcher or optical engineer who has invested time, at least once, to study websites and catalogs of optical companies is considered to be significantly more skilled. Knowledge of the optical market is indispensable.
Bounds on the probability of failure of composite materials

Bounds are obtained for the cumulative distribution function of the strength of composite materials. The analysis is based on the chain-of-bundles probability model for composite strength. The bounds are computed from probabilities for the chance failure of two or more adjacent fibers in a bundle. A Weibull distribution is assumed for fiber strength, and fibers adjacent to failed fibers are subjected to overloading according to a specified load sharing rule. As the composite grows in size, the bound approaches a Weibull distribution. The Weibull shape parameter for the composite is double that for the fiber, but the scale parameter is somewhat less. Features of the limiting Weibull bound are shown to be consistent with experimental observation, though numerically the bound is quite conservative.
Towards the development of a hybrid neural-machine interface for volitional control of a powered lower limb prosthesis

Currently available prosthetic devices lack the inherent inability to interpret the user's intent during locomotion. Volitional control of lower-limb prostheses has been demonstrated using electromyography (EMG)-based controllers, in which activation of the muscles of the lower-limb can be harnessed to decipher user intent. However, although robust during continuous locomotion, EMG-based systems (which rely only on peripheral nervous signaling) lack the ability to predict locomotion mode transitions (e.g., level ground to stairs, stairs to level ground) with advanced notice. In this study, we report on the electrocortical dynamics of human walking across different unconstrained walking conditions (i.e., level ground (LW), ramp ascent (RA), and stair ascent (SA)) using non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG). Additionally, the feasibility of detecting user locomotion modes (i.e., level-ground walking vs stair ascent) from EEG signals is investigated in able-bodied individuals. Subjects were instrumented for full-body mobile brain-body imaging (EEG, EMG, motion capture) while walking on an experimental gait course involving locomotion on level-ground, stairs, and ramps. A systematic EEG processing method was implemented to reduce artifacts (e.g., eye blinks/movements, muscle artifacts) and localize distinct brain sources within the EEG signal. Our results provide evidence that electrocortical amplitude modulations are correlated with the level of difficulty during locomotion tasks. Furthermore, we observe that activations in the occipital lobe appear to contain information relevant to identifying terrain transitions within the brain. This work is a step toward the development of a multimodal neural-machine Interface (NMI) that utilizes neural signaling from the brain (EEG) and muscles (EMG) signals for natural control of power prosthetic legs. This research is partly supported by NSF award IIS-1302339 and NIH award 1F99NS105210-01
A critical review of fusion systems for radiolytic conversion of inorganics to gaseous fuels

The potential of using high energy photons or nucleons for the production of synthetic fuels from inorganic resources with fusion processes is reviewed. Many types of fuels can be generated (e.g., H/sub 2/, CO, NO, O/sub 3/, H/sub 2/S, etc.) with plentiful inorganic resources; however, only H/sub 2/ and CO (considered to be most important as chemical feedstocks and fuels) were thoroughly reviewed. Radiolytic efficiencies of about 5% for H/sub 2/ production from H/sub 2/O and about 30% for CO production from CO/sub 2/ have been achieved with standard techniques. These values may be improved through basic research into chemical kinetics, steady-state radiolysis and photolysis, and into advanced areas such as separation, heterogeneous radiolysis, laser-enhanced radiolysis, electrochemical/radiolytic hybrids, and thermochemical/radiolytic hybrids. Due to potential radioactive contamination from the various interfaces, in the near term, two-stage radiolytic techniques (including formation of secondary carriers from excimers and radioisotopes) were considered most promising for producing synthetic fuels from inorganic resources. However, because of constraints imposed by current technology, these two-stage techniques appear most suitable for topping cycles. As advanced fueled reactors are developed, contamination problems are diminished, making direct radiolysis more attractive.
Role of Nef in HIV‐1 Replication and Pathogenesis

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the role of Nef in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) replication and pathogenesis. Nef is a pathogenic factor of HIV. The assessment of the role of Nef in the development of AIDS require model systems that reﬂect to a signiﬁcant degree the anatomical, developmental, and regulatory features of the human immune system under assault by HIV‐1. Relatively simple in vitro HIV‐1 infection models include peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), T cells, dendritic cell–T cell cocultures, thymic organ cultures, and tonsil cultures. Two general conclusions from investigations with these systems are (1) a positive Nef effect on viral replication is most obvious in partially activated T cells and (2) CXCR4 (X4) trophic virus is more cytopathic than CCR5 (R5) trophic virus. The investigations with the SCID‐hu model for HIV‐1 infection conﬁrmed and extended work with in vitro systems. Nef is a replication and pathogenesis factor for X4 virus, but largely a replication factor for R5 virus because these viruses is minimally pathogenic in the SCID‐hu model. The studies discussed in the chapter will help deﬁne the in vivo role of Nef in the development of acquired immunodeﬁciency syndrome (AIDS).
El movimiento verde : una exploracion socio - historica

El movimiento verde asombra a la gente hoy en dia, en particular cuando adopta la forma de partido verde y, mas auin, en su relaci6n con el partido aleman, Die Griinen, el mas importante de este tipo. Se dice que es impredecible e incapaz/sin voluntad para formular compromiso alguno con otros actores de la escena politica partidaria; por lo tanto, no esta en realidad en la politica: s61o es politico. Para un partido que se lanz6 apenas en 1981 a romper la barrera del 5%, obtuvo el 5.6% en marzo de 1983 y que luego ascendi6 al 7, al 8, y al 9% en las siguientes elecciones, esto es ya un logro que nos lleva a formular tres hip6tesis obvias sobre su futuro: continuara con su carrera meteorica: encontrara su nivel natural como un partido abajo del 10%, pero con posibilidad de mantenerse arriba del 5%; o disminuira hasta el cero de nuevo, quc para algunas personas cs el lugar a donde pertenece.1 Lo que se presenta a continuaci6n es un esfuerzo por examinar el fenomeno, dirigido, de manera particular, a lectores y escuchas de los paises del Tercer Mundo, acostumbrados a concebir la politica en terminos de fuerzas de mercado azules o rojas, protegidas por partidos conservadores, y de fuerzas estatales, con sus ideas de planificacion y redistribuci6n, portegidas por partidos socialistas; ambas pueden encontrarse en versiones democraticas y dictatoriales. Los verdes son obviamente diferentes. No son azules ni rojos, ni dictatoriales ni democraticos en el sentido parlamentario de la palabra. A pesar de su participacion en las elecciones parlamentarias, la acci6n de masas, la democracia directa, la autonomia local y la autosuficiencia estan mucho mas cerca de su corazon.
Projecting Life Onto Robots: The Effects of Cultural Factors and Design Type on Multi-Level Evaluations of Robot Anthropomorphism

Existing research has shown that people often attribute human-like attributes to robots, which is generally known as the “anthropomorphism” phenomenon. We use the notion of “multi-dimensional anthropomorphism,” to perform a more fine-grained analysis of anthropomorphism in relation to robots in terms of several dimensions (e.g., uniquely and typically human, being alive or not, having emotions or not). Additionally, we expand on existing work, which has mostly focused on organism-based robot designs, by including object-based robot designs in our study of robot anthropomorphism. The results of an online survey study with 775 U.S. (393) and Chinese (382) participants show how people's personal characteristics (e.g., nationality) affect their perceptions of the anthropomorphism of robots, and how such perceptions differ between organism- and object-based robot designs. The effect on people's multi-dimensional anthropomorphism perceptions suggests new design implications for robotic technologies.
Nursing Interventions and Education Lead to Quality Outcomes in Transplant and Cellular Therapy Patients

Topic Significance & Study Purpose/Background/Rationale There are significant risks associated with central line associated blood stream infections (CLABSI), catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), Clostridium difficile (C. diff) and falls in the transplant and cellular therapy population. Our hospital has a nursing-led shared governance program. Each nurse is involved in one of four unit-based councils that focus on Evidence-based Practice, Development, Quality, and Research. Quality Council focuses on monitoring initiatives implemented to improve patient care of the transplant and cellular therapy (BMT) patient population. This is done primarily through audits to ensure patient safety and quality outcomes. Nurse and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) education is planned and implemented by Development Council when new initiatives require education and when re-education is needed to meet desired outcomes. Quality and Development councils on the BMT unit have most recently focused on interventions regarding prevention of CLABSI, CAUTI, C. diff, and falls. Methods, Intervention, & Analysis To decrease CLABSI and CAUTI, daily CHG bathing was implemented with CNA education and ownership over daily compliance. Mirror cling hand hygiene instructions were placed on the bathroom mirrors to remind patients of proper technique. This unit initiated the Buddy System for central line dressing changes to prevent CLABSI. This provides accountability for nursing staff ensuring proper technique is being followed by allowing for a "sterile nurse" and a "clean nurse." Fall prevention interventions include reviewing a fall contract with patients on admission, signs encouraging patients to call for assistance, and a post-fall patient interview. Findings & Interpretation CLABSI rates decreased by 50% in the first six months after implementing the Buddy System and CHG bathing. There was a slight increase in infections during the spring of 2018. It was found through nursing audits that patients were often noncompliant with CHG bathing with minimal staff follow-up. Re-education with teach-back was completed with staff on how to more effectively teach patients the importance and correct technique of CHG bathing. CLABSI infections decreased by 50% after re-education and remain low. CAUTI numbers on the unit have remained at zero for 28 months. C. diff has remained low during the past eight months. Fall rates have decreased with no major or moderate injuries in over 24 months. Discussion & Implications Including staff RNs and CNAs in the development and implementation of quality-related interventions and education can have a significant impact in improving patient outcomes including CLABSI, CAUTI, C. diff and falls.
Chip-Firing Games and Critical Groups

In this note we introduce a finite abelian group that can be associated with any finite connected graph. This group can be defined in an elementary combinatorial way in terms of chip-firing operations, and has been an object of interest in combinatorics, algebraic geometry, statistical physics, and several other areas of mathematics. We will begin with basic definitions and examples and develop a number of properties that can be derived by looking at this group from different angles. Throughout, we will give exercises, some of which are straightforward and some of which are open questions. We will also highlight some of the many contributions to this area made by undergraduate students.
Differential susceptibility to reduced dopamine in SNc versus VTA in a mouse Tyrosine hydroxylase KO model of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson9s Disease (PD), is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting both cognitive and motor functions. It is characterized by decreased brain dopamine (DA) and a selective and progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), whereas dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) show reduced vulnerability. The majority of animal models of PD are genetic lesion or neurotoxin exposure models that lead to death of dopaminergic neurons. Here we use a DAT:TH KO mouse model that by inactivation of the tyrosine hydroxylase ( Th ) gene in dopamine transporter-expressing neurons, causes selective depletion of striatal dopamine without affecting DA neuron survival. We analyzed transcriptome responses to decreased DA in both pre- and post-synaptic dopaminergic brain regions of DAT:TH KO animals. None of the post-synaptic regions analyzed - Dorsal Striatum, Ventral Striatum and Prefrontal Cortex - show an overall change in transcriptome as a function of DA deficiency. This suggests that the broad striatal transcriptional changes in neurodegeneration-based PD models are not direct effects of DA depletion, but are rather a result of DA neuronal death. However, we find a number of dopaminergic genes differentially expressed in SNc, and to a lesser extent in VTA, as a function of DA deficiency, providing evidence for a DA-dependent feedback loop. Of particular interest, expression of Nr4a2 , a crucial transcription factor maintaining DA neuron identity, is significantly decreased in SNc, but not VTA, of DAT:TH KO mice. Unexpectedly, we find that half of DAT:TH KO animals show near-normal levels of Th transcription, and also display an overall transcript expression pattern more similar to wild type animals than to the remaining DAT:TH KO mice. These animals could represent recruitment of a pathway attempting to compensate for dopamine loss.
Synthetic Anti-Xa Drugs Can Be Used for Parenteral Anticoagulation but Not Fondaparinux.

Targeting at the level of factor Xa and/or prothrombinase complex by synthetic anti-Xa agents such as JTV-803 (Akros Pharma, Princeton, NJ), DX-9065a (Daiichi Pharmaceuticals, Tokyo, Japan), and Fondaparinux (Sanofi-Synthelabo, Toulouse, France) represents an important approach in anticoagulant therapy. Factor Xa is an essential component of the prothrombinase complex and leads to the generation of thrombin. Synthetic heparin pentasaccharide, Fondaparinux (Arixtra®) has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis in patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgeries. There is a rapid stride in the development of newer synthetic inhibitors of factor Xa such as DX-9065a, and JTV-803 in various thrombotic indications. In order to evaluate the parenteral anticoagulant potential of these synthetic factor Xa inhibitors, we used the Hemochron (celite) activated clotting time (ACT) assay. DX-9065a at a final concentration of 5 and 10 μg/ml increased the ACTs to 250 and 300 seconds, respectively. Similar anticoagulant potential was noticed with JTV-803. These findings suggest that these agents may be useful as parenteral anticoagulants during interventional cardiologic procedures, surgical anticoagulation and for the prevention of vascular access occlusion. Fondaparinux requiring antithrombin (AT) for its anticoagulant effect does not increase the celite ACT to the extent as other synthetic factor Xa inhibitors. Fondaparinux even at a final concentration of 100 μg/ml increase the ACT to about 200 seconds and hence are not suitable to be used as parenteral anticoagulants. The concentrations of JTV-803, DX-9065a and fondaparinux required to increase the ACT to near 250 seconds are 6.2, 5 and 125 μg/ml, respectively. While fondaparinux is AT-dependent, the synthetic anti-Xa agents are AT-independent in their actions. The antithrombin sparing effect of direct anti-Xa agents may contribute to an additional anticoagulant effect as reflected by increased ACT levels. Furthermore, there are some other advantages of direct anti-Xa agents when compared to fondaparinux. While direct anti-Xa agents may be used for patients with AT deficiency, fondaparinux being AT-dependent, may not. The inhibition of the clot-bound and prothrombinase-bound factor Xa are additional advantages of direct Xa inhibitors when compared to fondaparinux. Fondaparinux being AT-dependent and upon complexation with AT is not capable of inhibiting the clot-bound factor Xa. Oral Xa inhibitors are being developed and when available patients may have an ideal transition from a parenteral anti-Xa agent to an oral Xa inhibitor. The results clearly suggest that synthetic factor Xa inhibitors except fondaparinux may be used as parenteral anticoagulants. Large-scale clinical studies are warranted to evaluate these findings.
Polar Thermoplastics with Tunable Physical Properties Enabled by the Stereoselective Copolymerization of Vinyl Ethers

A series of isotactic, semicrystalline vinyl ether copolymers (up to 94% meso diads) were synthesized using a chiral BINOL-based phosphoric acid in combination with a titanium Lewis acid. This stereoselective cationic polymerization enabled the systematic tuning of both glass transition (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) in copolymers derived from alkyl vinyl ethers (i.e., ethyl, butyl, isobutyl). Additionally, a vinyl ether comonomer bearing an acyl-protected alcohol was utilized as a platform for postfunctionalization. Copolymers containing the masked alcohols were shown to undergo deprotection and subsequent coupling with a desired acid chloride. Collectively, these results highlight the diverse material properties and expanded chemical space accessible through stereoselective cationic polymerization mediated by a chiral anion.
Percutaneous Closure of the Patent Foramen Ovale on Right Ventricular Mechanical Circulatory Support.

Abstract Right ventricular infarction can precipitate severe right-to-left shunting and refractory hypoxia from a previously dormant patent foramen ovale. Right ventricle mechanical circulatory support and patent foramen ovale closure can play a crucial role in the treatment of hypoxia and right ventricular recovery. We report a case of successful percutaneous patent foramen ovale closure on right ventricle mechanical circulatory support in a patient with right ventricular shock. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.)
Chapter 3 – Amino Acids

Publisher Summary Variations among amino acid sequences are responsible for defining proteins. Small variations create a family of proteins such as the myosins; greater variations create different proteins altogether. As distinctions among proteins can be slight, it can be difficult to determine if two proteins from different tissues are the same. Different versions of the same protein are synthesized at different times for different purposes, that is, they come from different genes and may have one or two amino acid changes. All amino acids, except glycine, have at least one asymmetric carbon atom. A few amino acids, the aromatic amino acids—phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan—have an ultraviolet (UV) absorption. The absorptions of proteins and amino acids can be characterized by the wavelength of maximum absorption and an intensity factor. Amino acids can be classified by their side chain chemistry. The aliphatic hydrocarbons do not have reactive side chains. Each amino acid has an isoelectric point that is a reflection of the individual pK values of the reactive group.
Autocrine C-peptide protects INS1 β cells against palmitic acid-induced oxidative stress in peroxisomes by inducing catalase.

Aims C-peptide, produced by pancreatic β cells and co-secreted in the bloodstream with insulin, has antioxidant properties in glucose- and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-exposed INS1 β cells. Palmitic acid, the most physiologically abundant long-chain free fatty acid in humans, is metabolized in peroxisomes of β cells accumulating H2O2 that can lead to oxidative stress. Here, we tested the hypothesis that C-peptide protects β cells from palmitic acid-induced stress by lowering peroxisomal H2O2. Materials and methods We exposed INS1 β cells to palmitic acid and C-peptide in the setting of increasing glucose concentration and tested for changes in parameters of stress and death. To study the ability of C-peptide to lower peroxisomal H2O2, we engineered an INS1 β cell line stably expressing the peroxisomal-targeted H2O2 sensor HyPer, whose fluorescence increases with cellular H2O2. An INS1 β cell line stably expressing a live-cell fluorescent catalase reporter was used to detect changes in catalase gene expression. Results C-peptide protects INS1 β cells from the combined effect of palmitic acid and glucose by reducing peroxisomal H2O2 to baseline levels and increasing expression of catalase. Conclusions In conditions of glucolipotoxicity, C-peptide increases catalase expression and reduces peroxisomal oxidative stress and death of INS1 β cells. Maintenance of C-peptide secretion is a pro-survival requisite for β cells in adverse conditions. Loss of C-peptide secretion would render β cells more vulnerable to stress and death leading to secretory dysfunction and diabetes.
Osteoporosis, Vertebral Compression Fractures, and Vertebral Cement Augmentation

At present, it is estimated that osteoporosis affects 10 million older adults in the United States, 80% of whom are women. In addition, there are a further 18 million individuals living with osteopenia. Worldwide, approximately 9 million fractures occur as a direct result of osteoporosis. The most common locations of these fragility fractures include the hip, distal radius, and vertebral body in the thoracic and lumbar spine. The lifetime risk of an osteoporotic fracture is between 30% and 40% in the developed world for women and about 10–15% for men. Osteoporosis in and of itself is not a surgical condition and can be treated with a variety of medical interventions ranging from calcium and vitamin D supplementation to disease-modulating agents. Nonoperative treatment is the preferred course of care for most VCFs. Immediate treatment centers around analgesia and activity modification. Bracing may be used as an adjunct for pain control. Operative intervention is used sparingly for VCFs. Open surgical procedures are reserved for cases of neurologic compromise, frank instability in the setting of a VCF, or severe deformity. There is, however, a more widely accepted role for cement augmentation.
Role of Imaging in Prostate Artery Embolization.

Abstract Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition affecting elderly men and leading to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment option performed by interventional radiologists, which is emerging as a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgical options in the management of men with LUTS. A detailed understanding of pelvic arterial anatomy, its variations and anastomosis is imperative to perform this procedure safely and to achieve desired treatment outcomes. Advanced imaging techniques which include fluoroscopy, subtraction angiography and cone-beam computed tomography have become standard practice when performing PAE. In this article, the authors focus on the role of imaging in preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative settings while planning and performing prostate artery embolization.
A Unique Case of Cavum Veli Interpositum Hemorrhage in an Adult (P5.3-044)

Objective: To present a unique case of post traumatic delayed intracerebral hemorrhage in Cavum Veli Interpositum (CVI) in an adult male on antithrombotics. Background: It has been previously shown that delayed traumatic intraventricular hemorrhage in the evolution of injury has a relatively high occurrence and is associated with increased mortality. But is has never been described in a potential space called CVI in adults. Very few cases have been reported about the pathologies like empyema and cyst in CVI in pediatric population. The CVI along with the cavum vergae (CV) and cavum septum pellucidum (CSP) is a persistence of the embryological fluid-filled space between the leaflets of the septum pellucidum and is a common anatomical variant. The CVI is the posterior extension of the CSP, lying anterior to the splenium of the corpus callosum, but it may exist independently. The CV, CVI and CSP usually close in the 6th week in utero but may persist in 30% of term infants and 15% of adults. Design/Methods: An 80 year old ambidextrous male was admitted after an unwitnessed fall under the influence of alcohol who sustained multiple facial fractures. He was on aspirin and apixaban. Urgent non-contrast Ct head was without any hemorrhage. On day four, he had sudden onset of confusion, memory loss, limb shaking with intention, diplopia and truncal instability. The symptoms lasted for an hour with self-resolution. Repeat non-contrast CT head showed hemorrhage in the CVI. Results: MRI brain with and without contrast on day four showed collection of intraventricular hemorrhage just anterior to the splenium of the corpus callosum which demonstrated a triangular configuration. Intraventricular blood products seemed to be confined within the potential space of the CVI. Conclusions: We are reporting a unique case of isolated CVI hemorrhage in an adult patient, who briefly worsened but ultimately had a good functional outcome. Disclosure: Dr. Kaur has nothing to disclose. Dr. Goswami has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shafqat has nothing to disclose. Dr. Alshammari has nothing to disclose. Dr. Marks has nothing to disclose.
Robust quadratic assignment problem with budgeted uncertain flows

Abstract We consider a generalization of the classical quadratic assignment problem, where material flows between facilities are uncertain, and belong to a budgeted uncertainty set. The objective is to find a robust solution under all possible scenarios in the given uncertainty set. We present an exact quadratic formulation as a robust counterpart and develop an equivalent mixed integer programming model for it. To solve the proposed model for large-scale instances, we also develop two different heuristics based on 2-Opt local search and tabu search algorithms. We discuss performance of these methods and the quality of robust solutions through extensive computational experiments.
Hurwitz-type bound, knot surgery, and smooth {\mathbb{S }}^1-four-manifolds

In this paper we prove several related results concerning smooth \(\mathbb{Z }_p\) or \(\mathbb{S }^1\) actions on \(4\)-manifolds. We show that there exists an infinite sequence of smooth \(4\)-manifolds \(X_n\), \(n\ge 2\), which have the same integral homology and intersection form and the same Seiberg-Witten invariant, such that each \(X_n\) supports no smooth \(\mathbb{S }^1\)-actions but admits a smooth \(\mathbb{Z }_n\)-action. In order to construct such manifolds, we devise a method for annihilating smooth \(\mathbb{S }^1\)-actions on \(4\)-manifolds using Fintushel-Stern knot surgery, and apply it to the Kodaira-Thurston manifold in an equivariant setting. Finally, the method for annihilating smooth \(\mathbb{S }^1\)-actions relies on a new obstruction we derived in this paper for existence of smooth \(\mathbb{S }^1\)-actions on a \(4\)-manifold: the fundamental group of a smooth \(\mathbb{S }^1\)-four-manifold with nonzero Seiberg-Witten invariant must have infinite center. We also include a discussion on various analogous or related results in the literature, including locally linear actions or smooth actions in dimensions other than four.
Investigation of Timing to Switch Control Mode in Powered Knee Prostheses during Task Transitions.

Current powered prosthetic legs require switching control modes according to the task the user is performing (e.g. level-ground walking, stair climbing, walking on slopes, etc.). To allow prosthesis users safely and seamlessly transition between tasks, it is critical to determine when to switch the prosthesis control mode during task transitions. Our previous study defined critical timings for different types of task transitions in ambulation; however, it is unknown whether it is the unique timing that allows safe and seamless transitions. The goals of this study were to (1) systematically investigate the effects of mode switch timing on the prosthesis user’s performance in task transitions, and (2) identify appropriate timing to switch the prosthesis control mode so that the users can seamlessly transition between different locomotion tasks. Five able-bodied (AB) and two transfemoral (TF) amputee subjects were tested as they wore a powered knee prosthesis. The prosthesis control mode was switched manually at various times while the subjects performed different types of task transitions. The subjects’ task transition performances were evaluated by their walking balance and success in performing seamless task transitions. The results demonstrated that there existed a time window within which switching the prosthesis control mode neither interrupted the subjects’ task transitions nor disturbed their walking balance. Therefore, the results suggested the control mode switching of a lower limb prosthesis can be triggered within an appropriate time window instead of a specific timing or an individual phase. In addition, a generalized criterion to determine the appropriate mode switch timing was proposed. The outcomes of this study could provide important guidance for future designs of neurally controlled powered knee prostheses that are safe and reliable to use.
Biochemical studies on inositol. IX. D-Inositol 1-phosphate as intermediate in the biosynthesis of inositol from glucose 6-phosphate, and characteristics of two reactions in this biosynthesis.

Abstract At least two enzymatic steps have been shown to participate in the biosynthesis of inositol from glucose 6-phosphate. The first one, catalyzed by glucose-6-P cyclase, leads to the formation of d-inositol-1-P and has an absolute requirement for diphosphopyridine nucleotide. NH4+ accelerates the rate of this reaction 5-fold. In the second step, catalyzed by a phosphatase, d-inositol-1-P is hydrolyzed to inositol and inorganic orthophosphate. Mg++ ions are necessary for this reaction. The inositol phosphate formed in the cyclase reaction was isolated by ion exchange chromatography and was identified as d-inositol-1-P by paper chromatography, its molar ratio of inositol to phosphorus, and its specific optical rotation.
Spin transport of electrons through quantum wires with a spatially modulated Rashba spin-orbit interaction

We study ballistic transport of spin-polarized electrons through quantum wires in which the Rashba spin-orbit interaction (SOI) is spatially modulated. Subband mixing, due to SOI, between the two lowest subbands is taken into account. Simplified approximate expressions for the transmission are obtained for electron energies close to the bottom of the first subband and near the value for which anticrossing of the two lowest subbands occurs. In structures with periodically varied SOI strength, square-wave modulation on the spin transmission is found when only one subband is occupied and its possible application to the spin transistor is discussed. When two subbands are occupied the transmission is strongly affected by the existence of SOI interfaces as well as by the subband mixing.
Curvularia lunata, a New Source of Cytochalasin B.

A biologically active metabolite was found in crude extracts of Curvularia lunata (Wakker) Boedijn (ATCC 34690) isolated from decayed tissues of litchi fruit (Litchi chinensis Sonn.). The fungus was grown on a shredded wheat-yeast extract-sucrose medium, and cultures were extracted with chloroform after 3 weeks of growth at 21°C. Chloroform extracts were toxic to day-old cockerels and caused abnormal distortion of wheat coleoptile segments. The major toxin had a 50% lethal dose of 700 mg/kg (oral dose) and was a colorless crystalline material with a melting point of 218°C. Elemental and high-resolution mass spectral analyses indicated a formula of C29H37NO5 and a molecular weight of 479.62. The crystalline preparation was identified as 97% cytochalasin B and 3% cytochalasin A. The yield of cytochalasin B from C. lunata cultures grown on 4.5 kg of shredded wheat and 9 liters of yeast extract-sucrose medium was 6.24 g of purified material.
Diversity of the Human Allergen-Specific T Cell Repertoire Associated with Distinct Skin Test Reactions: Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity-Associated Major Epitopes Induce Th1- and Th2-Dominated Responses

Distinct immune responses in humans to the Trichophyton rubrum Ag, Tri r 2, are associated with different patterns of T cell epitope recognition based on in vitro proliferation to peptides derived from this 29-kDa protein. Specifically, the amino-terminal immunodominant epitope, peptide 5 (P5), stimulates strong T cell proliferative responses in subjects with delayed (DTH), but not immediate (IH) hypersensitivity skin tests. Evidence of a role for cytokines or changes in epitope recognition over time was examined in responses to Trichophyton using primary PBMC cultures established from seven IH and seven DTH subjects. Responses stimulated by Tri r 2 were dominated by the Th1 cytokine IFN-γ (IFN-γ:IL-5 ≥ 4:1) in five DTH subjects, even in the presence of Th2-dominated responses (IFN-γ:IL-5 ≤ 3:1) to a subset of major epitopes. Paradoxically, P5 induced IL-5 and IL-10 production in DTH, but not IH subjects (p = 0.003 (IL-5), p = 0.024 (IL-10)), with no significant difference in IFN-γ levels between the two groups. In cultures from IH responders, no IL-5 was measurable after stimulation with P6 and P7 (as well as P5); this region of the molecule was shown previously to stimulate markedly reduced T cell proliferation in these individuals. Repeat proliferation assays confirmed no change in the pattern of peptide recognition after ≥20 mo in IH or DTH subjects. We conclude that T cell repertoires associated with distinct immune responses to Tri r 2 can be distinguished based on Th2 cytokine induction by DTH-associated major epitopes localizing to the amino-terminal region of the molecule.
Novel aspects of iron sulfur cluster biosynthesis in sulfate reducing bacteria (768.17)

Iron sulfur (FeS) cluster containing proteins are involved in processes targeted by environmentally relevant stressors. These stress conditions, for sulfate reducing bacteria (SRBs) such as Desulfo...
Bacterial Attachment to a Specific Wound Site as an Essential Stage in Tumor Initiation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens

The number of tumors initiated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B6 on primary pinto bean leaves was decreased when cells of an avirulent strain (IIBNV6) were included in the inoculum. With sufficient B6 cells to initiate ca. 50% of the maximal number of tumors per leaf, inhibition was detected at a 1:1 ratio of B6 to IIBNV6 cells and increased linearly with the logarithm of the number of IIBNV6. Varying the number of B6 in the presence of a constant number of IIBNV6 or varying the number of both, while maintaining a constant ratio of B6 to IIBNV6, showed that the inhibition was a function of the absolute concentration of each cell type. The data fit a one-particle dose response curve, which indicates that a single IIBNV6 cell can prevent tumor initiation by a single B6 cell. Inhibition was obtained with mixed inocula and when the addition of IIBNV6 preceded B6, but not when B6 preceded IIBNV6. Heat-inactivated IIBNV6 inhibited, as did ultraviolet or heat-inactivated B6. Several unrelated bacteria and certain strains of Agrobacterium failed to inhibit, whereas other related strains gave inhibition. Attachment of IIBNV6 to a specific would site, thus excluding B6 from the site, is proposed to account for these data. A specific complementary binding of a virulent bacterium to a host wound site exposed by the inoculation procedure is suggested as an essential early event in the crown-gall tumor initiation process.