cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dichotomous metabolism of Enterococcus faecalis induced by haematin starvation modulates colonic gene expression

Enterococcus faecalis is an intestinal commensal that cannot synthesize porphyrins and only expresses a functional respiratory chain when provided with exogenous haematin. In the absence of haematin, E. faecalis reverts to fermentative metabolism and produces extracellular superoxide that can damage epithelial-cell DNA. The acute response of the colonic mucosa to haematin-starved E. faecalis was identified by gene array. E. faecalis was inoculated into murine colons using a surgical ligation model that preserved tissue architecture and homeostasis. The mucosa was exposed to haematin-starved E. faecalis and compared with a control consisting of the same strain grown with haematin. At 1 h post-inoculation, 6 mucosal genes were differentially regulated and this increased to 42 genes at 6 h. At 6 h, a highly significant biological interaction network was identified with functions that included nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signalling, apoptosis and cell-cycle regulation. Colon biopsies showed no histological abnormalities by haematoxylin and eosin staining. Immunohistochemical staining, however, detected NF-κB activation in tissue macrophages using antibodies to the nuclear localization sequence for p65 and the F4/80 marker for murine macrophages. Similarly, haematin-starved E. faecalis strongly activated NF-κB in murine macrophages in vitro. Furthermore, primary and transformed colonic epithelial cells activated the G2/M checkpoint in vitro following exposure to haematin-starved E. faecalis. Modulation of this cell-cycle checkpoint was due to extracellular superoxide produced as a result of the respiratory block in haematin-starved E. faecalis. These results demonstrate that the uniquely dichotomous metabolism of E. faecalis can significantly modulate gene expression in the colonic mucosa for pathways associated with inflammation, apoptosis and cell-cycle regulation.
Small-molecule inhibition of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase activity suppresses glycolytic flux and tumor growth

6-phosphofructo-1-kinase, a rate-limiting enzyme of glycolysis, is activated in neoplastic cells by fructose-2,6-bisphosphate (Fru-2,6-BP), a product of four 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase isozymes (PFKFB1-4). The inducible PFKFB3 isozyme is constitutively expressed by neoplastic cells and required for the high glycolytic rate and anchorage-independent growth of ras-transformed cells. We report herein the computational identification of a small-molecule inhibitor of PFKFB3, 3-(3-pyridinyl)-1-(4-pyridinyl)-2-propen-1-one (3PO), which suppresses glycolytic flux and is cytostatic to neoplastic cells. 3PO inhibits recombinant PFKFB3 activity, suppresses glucose uptake, and decreases the intracellular concentration of Fru-2,6-BP, lactate, ATP, NAD+, and NADH. 3PO markedly attenuates the proliferation of several human malignant hematopoietic and adenocarcinoma cell lines (IC50, 1.4-24 micromol/L) and is selectively cytostatic to ras-transformed human bronchial epithelial cells relative to normal human bronchial epithelial cells. The PFKFB3 enzyme is an essential molecular target of 3PO because transformed cells are rendered resistant to 3PO by ectopic expression of PFKFB3 and sensitive to 3PO by heterozygotic genomic deletion of PFKFB3. Importantly, i.p. administration of 3PO (0.07 mg/g) to tumor-bearing mice markedly reduces the intracellular concentration of Fru-2,6-BP, glucose uptake, and growth of established tumors in vivo. Taken together, these data support the clinical development of 3PO and other PFKFB3 inhibitors as chemotherapeutic agents.
Applications and prospects for AI in mechanical engineering design

Mechanical engineering design is a broad subject area covering many topics and bas influences upon many other engineering disciplines and activities. Computer support for mechanical engineering design activity has been in draughting Systems and analysis packages, but there has been little in conceptual design assistance. This paper presents a number of areas of work in which AI techniques and developments are being used, sometimes in conjunction with traditional methods, to improve the support of design. The approaches to design and design Systems are covered, along with some techniques that are used. Specifie design Systems illustrate progress, and integration issues and simultaneous engineering Systems indicate the way research is moving. Finally, discussion of the trends and future topics indicates where and how effort may be applied in the future.
The Planet Venus

This book is not so much for the space scientist looking for background material for research as it is for one interested in the history of planetary exploration. The first half (∼100 pps) is devoted to studies of Venus before the space age, starting at several hundred years BC. It is obvious from the multitude of detailed descriptions of observers' accounts that considerable library research went into this section. While sometimes tedious, this chronology of Venus research is punctuated with amusing facts. While many may know about the Velikovsky theory of the cometary origin of the planet, few may know that Lowell drew pictures of Cytherian canals similar to the canals of Mars or that Frederick the Great of Prussia proposed to name the (once suspected) satellite of Venus D'Alembert, after the mathematician. An equally amusing appendix shows the ups and downs of the rotation period of this planet with the invisible surface. Much attention is focused on early telescope observations, the ashen light, and transits of Venus. At the end of this half, one appreciates that Venus has played a fairly important role in history in the areas of religion, science, and technology.
A novel form of oxytocin in New World monkeys.

Oxytocin is widely believed to be present and structurally identical in all placental mammals. Here, we report that multiple species of New World monkeys possess a novel form of oxytocin, [P8] oxyt...
Twenty-first-century projections of North Atlantic tropical storms from CMIP5 models

This study looks at changes in North Atlantic tropical storm occurrence in the twenty-first century, and finds that over the first half of the century, storm frequency increases were caused by radiative forcing changes, not increasing carbon dioxide. The chaotic nature of the climate system and the climate response to radiative forcing are the largest uncertainties in North Atlantic tropical storm frequency.
Role of Kinins in the Cardioprotective Effect of Preconditioning: Study of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in B2 Kinin Receptor Knockout Mice and Kininogen-Deficient Rats

Kinins acting on the B2 receptor appear to be involved in the cardioprotective effect of preconditioning on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. We tested the hypothesis that in mice lacking the gene encoding for the B2 kinin receptor (B2 knockout mice; B2-KO) as well as in rats deficient in high-molecular-weight (HMW) kininogen (Brown Norway Katholiek rats; BNK), the cardioprotective effect of preconditioning is diminished or abolished. 129SvEvTac (SV129) mice and Brown Norway rats (BN) served as controls. We confirmed that plasma HMW kininogen in BNK rats was 100-fold lower than in BN and 140-fold lower than in Sprague-Dawley rats (33+/-4 versus 1814+/-253 and 2397+/-302 ng/mL, P<.01). Each strain of mice was divided into (1) controls (without preconditioning); (2) one cycle of preconditioning (3 minutes ligation and 5 minutes reperfusion); and (3) three cycles of preconditioning. Each strain of rats was divided into (1) controls; and (2) three cycles of preconditioning. All animals were subjected to 30 minutes of ischemia and 120 minutes of reperfusion. In SV129 controls, the ratio of infarct size to risk area (IS/AR) was 55.6+/-4.6%. One and three cycles of preconditioning reduced IS/AR to 38.6+/-3.2% and 31.1+/-2.3%, respectively (P<.05 and P<.01 versus control). This protective effect was absent in B2-KO mice: IS/AR was 54.8+/-2.9% in controls, 58.5+/-3.6% with one cycle of preconditioning, and 58.5+/-3.4% with three cycles. In BN rats without preconditioning, IS/AR was 84.7+/-3.9%; preconditioning reduced it to 61.6+/-3.4% (P<.01). In BNK rats, IS/AR was 87.1+/-4.8% in controls and 84.3+/-4.1% with preconditioning. Preconditioning also prevented reperfusion arrhythmias in BN but not BNK rats. Within species, risk area, mean blood pressure, and heart rate were similar between strains. We concluded that (1) preconditioning protects the heart against ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice and rats; (2) activation of prekallikrein, which in turn generates kinins from HMW kininogen, may contribute to the effect of preconditioning; and (3) an intact kallikrein-kinin system is necessary for the cardioprotective effect of preconditioning.
Preparation and Properties of Borosilicate‐Coated Alumina Particles from Alkoxides

This paper describes the synthesis of borosilicate-coated alumina particles. Coated particles are agglomerate-free and contain up to 50 vol% coating. The ability to form uniform coatings is highly dependent upon both the solution chemistry and the control of the nucleation and growth of the borosilicate on the alumina. The coated particles show markedly improved densification compared to that of a mechanical mixture of borosilicate and alumina. These composite powders (borosilicate-coated alumina particles) are moisture-sensitive, resulting in a leached, phase-separated, boric oxide. The particles can be stabilized by further encasing the particle with a thin layer of silica.
Airborne lidar observations of canopy structure at the BOREAS tower flux sites

The Boreal Ecosystems Atmosphere Study (BOREAS) is a large-scale interdisciplinary experiment in the northern boreal forests of Canada focused on improving our understanding of the exchanges of radiative energy, sensible heat, water, CO/sub 2/ and trace gases between the boreal forest and the lower atmosphere. The spatial organization of forest canopies is an important biophysical parameter affecting these exchange processes. As a part of the BOREAS experiment, airborne lidar observations were acquired that characterize the vertical structure of the boreal forest and the topography of the underlying ground surface. The Scanning Lidar Imager of Canopies by Echo Recovery (SLICER) was used to acquire surface lidar transects across tower flux sites established within areas of relatively homogenous vegetation cover in the BOREAS Southern and Northern Study Areas (SSA and NSA). SLICER was deployed on the NASA Wallops Flight Facility C-130 during the BOREAS Summer 1996 Intensive Field Campaign. Nadir lidar transects were acquired simultaneously with Advanced Solid-state Array Spectreradiometer (ASAS) multi-angle imaging of the SSA and NSA tower sites. The SLICER transects extend outward from the towers for a distance of 10 to 30 km. The transects consist of narrow swaths nominally composed of contiguous, circular laser footprints each 8 m in diameter, with 5 footprints scanned cross-track.
Calcium channel permeation: A field in flux.

In 1955, Alan Hodgkin and Richard Keynes published a study whose intent was to answer a rather technical question, but whose result triggered the modern analysis of ion channel permeation ([Hodgkin and Keynes, 1955][1]). They aimed to determine whether the K+ fluxes in giant axons followed the “
Special populations: Treatment resistant mood disorders

Mood disorders are highly prevalent throughout the United States, and high rates of relapse, recurrence, and treatment failure lead to treatment resistance. This article will review the available literature and treatment recommendations for treatment resistant mood disorders in special populations including: geriatrics, children and adolescents, pregnancy, and comorbid substance use disorders.
Clinical Reasoning: An 83-year-old woman with acute right-sided weakness and chest pressure

An 83-year-old right-handed woman presented to the emergency department with right arm and leg weakness. The patient had been feeling well until 1 hour before arrival when she noted that her right hand became clumsy while typing. When she tried to stand, she found that she could not walk because of right leg weakness. The patient denied other complaints until specifically asked about chest pain or pressure. Accompanying her weakness was a moderate-severity sensation of chest pressure without pain or shortness of breath. Because of her symptoms, she called a friend who took her to the emergency department.
The Dodd-Frank Act Five Years Later: Are We Freer?

This congressional testimony summarizes the effects on consumers and the economy of Dodd-Frank, the Durbin Amendment the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and other government regulations (such as the CARD Act of 2009) enacted in the wake of the recent financial crisis. The testimony notes that the combined effect of these laws and regulations has resulted in higher bank fees, a dramatic reduction in access to free checking, an increase in the number of unbanked consumers, a dramatic reduction in access to credit cards for low-income consumers, and continued low access to mortgages, especially among lower-income and higher-risk borrowers. In addition, because of the crushing and disproportionate burden of Dodd-Frank’s regulations on smaller banks, the law has promoted consolidation of the banking industry and forced many smaller banks to exit certain product markets, especially mortgages. This combined effect has reduced choice and competition for consumers. Finally, the lack of democratic accountability over the CFPB has resulted in an agency defined by bureaucratic overreach, resulting in an invasive and reckless data-mining project and assertion over many industries and products that stand outside of the agency’s authorized jurisdiction.
Household Socioeconomic and Demographic Correlates of Cryptosporidium Seropositivity in the United States.

Background Cryptosporidium are parasitic protozoa that infect humans, domestic animals, and wildlife globally. In the United States, cryptosporidiosis occurs in an estimated 750,000 persons annually, and is primarily caused by either of the Cryptosporidium parvum genotypes 1 and 2, exposure to which occurs through ingestion of food or water contaminated with oocytes shed from infected hosts. Although most cryptosporidiosis cases are caused by genotype 1 and are of human origin, the zoonotic sources of genotype 2, such as livestock, are increasingly recognized as important for understanding human disease patterns. Social inequality could mediate patterns of human exposure and infection by placing individuals in environments where food or water contamination and livestock contact is high or through reducing the availability of educational and sanitary resources required to avoid exposure. Methodology/Principal Findings We here analyzed data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2000, and related seropositivity to Cryptosporidium parvum to correlates of social inequality at the household and individual scale. After accounting for the complex sampling design of NHANES and confounding by individual demographics and household conditions, we found impaired household food adequacy was associated with greater odds of Cryptosporidium seropositivity. Additionally, we identified individuals of non-white race and ethnicity and those born outside the United States as having significantly greater risk than white, domestic-born counterparts. Furthermore, we provide suggestive evidence for direct effects of family wealth on Cryptosporidium seropositivity, in that persons from low-income households and from families close to the poverty threshold had elevated odds of seropositivity relative to those in high-income families and in households far above the poverty line. Conclusions/Significance These results refute assertions that cryptosporidiosis in the United States is independent of social marginalization and poverty, and carry implications for targeted public health interventions for Cryptosporidium infection in resource-poor groups. Future longitudinal and multilevel studies are necessary to elucidate the complex interactions between ecological factors, social inequality, and Cryptosporidium dynamics.
The Pricing of When-Issued Common Shares: The Paradox Resolved

There are seldom "Law of One Price" (LOP) violations observed in U.S. equity markets due to the high degree of efficiency of these markets. There is, however, one LOP violation in equity markets that has been identified but never resolved - the pricing of when-issued stock. This study revisits the when-issued pricing paradox and extends previous analyses by examining the "economic value" implications of when-issued trading. Employing transactions data, this study correctly documents the mispricing of when- issued shares. A model of the supply and demand for when- issued share liquidity is offered as a possible explanation of the when-issued price premium. In this model the market maker, responding to net long demand for when-issued share liquidity, requires compensation for the adverse inventory effects that result from taking a net short position in when-issued shares. The compensation comes in the form of a premium of when-issued prices over the underlying share prices.
Role of d‐amino acid oxidase in the production of kynurenine pathway metabolites from d‐tryptophan in mice

The kynurenine pathway (KP), the major catabolic route of the essential amino acid l-tryptophan (l-TRP), contains several neuroactive compounds, including kynurenic acid, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), and quinolinic acid (QUIN). The role of the d-enantiomer (d-TRP) in KP metabolism has received little attention so far. d-TRP can be converted to l-TRP by d-amino acid oxidase, and the same enzyme can produce d-kynurenine, a known bioprecursor of KYNA. To analyze these complex metabolic events systematically in vivo, we injected mice with d-TRP (300 mg/kg, i.p.) and examined KP metabolism in the absence or presence of the d-amino acid oxidase inhibitor 3-methylpyrazole-5-carboxylic acid (MPC; 100 mg/kg, i.p.,). After 90 min, newly formed l-TRP was recovered in plasma, liver, forebrain, and cerebellum, and MPC prevented its neosynthesis in all tissues. In the same animals, de novo production of d-kynurenine from d-TRP was also observed, but was much higher in the periphery than in the brain. d-TRP administration raised KYNA, 3-HK, and QUIN levels in all tissues examined, and KYNA production from d-TRP was significantly reduced after pre-treatment with MPC. These results indicate that catabolic routes other than those classically ascribed to l-TRP and l-kynurenine can account for the synthesis of KYNA, 3-HK and QUINin vivo. The essential amino acid l-tryptophan is catabolized via the kynurenine pathway (KP). We explored the role of the d-enantiomer in KP metabolism in mice in vivo. We report that d-tryptophan is metabolized in both brain and periphery and converted to KP metabolites, including d-kynurenine and l-kynurenine, kynurenic acid, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and quinolinic acid. Pharmacological experiments confirm the involvement of d-amino acid oxidase in these processes. Our results indicate that this enzyme participates in the synthesis of KP metabolites from d-tryptophan.
Acquired lymphangiectasia (lymphangioma circumscriptum) of the vulva: Clinicopathologic study of 11 patients from a single institution and 67 from the literature

Background Acquired lymphangiectasia of the vulva (ALV) is a rare condition thought to be secondary to pelvic lymphatic obstruction. Although benign, this entity often occurs after previous malignancy and can be confused with conditions such as genital warts. We sought to clarify the clinicopathologic features of ALV by studying affected patients from our institution and from the existing literature. Methods We reviewed retrospectively the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of patients with ALV from our institution and performed an extensive literature search to identify all published cases of ALV. Results Eleven patients with ALV were identified from our institution. Three patients had Crohn disease, three had malignancies involving the pelvic region (rectal adenocarcinoma, cervical carcinoma, endometrial carcinoma), and three (two with pelvic malignancy) had previous radiation therapy. One patient had Proteus syndrome. Of 67 distinct cases of ALV identified in the literature, 41 (61%) had a history of malignancy. Conclusions In any acquired or clinically unusual lymphatic process in the skin and soft tissues, a lesion or obstructive process of the draining lymphatics should be investigated.
Multifunctional Molecular and Polymeric Materials for Nonlinear Optics and Photonics

Molecular units in natural systems are multifunctional in that they exhibit more than one functionalities. This is nature’s way of economizing and being efficient. For many technological applications, there is a need for synthetic multifunctional materials which simultaneously exhibit many necessary physical and chemical properties. By appropriate modification of structures both at the molecular and bulk levels, one can incorporate such multifunctionality in molecular and polymeric systems. Our research program focuses on investigations of multifunctional materials for applications in photonics. Photonics describes the emerging new technology in which a photon instead of an electron is used to acquire, process, store and transmit information.
Prognostic Significance of Preoperative Thrombocytosis in Patients With Endometrial Carcinoma in an Inner-City Population

Introduction: Thrombocytosis is present in a wide range of malignancies, with a reported incidence of 10% to 57%. Several reports have documented thrombocytosis at the time of diagnosis as a poor prognostic indicator. Our study is the first report evaluating the role of preoperative thrombocytosis and its association with survival in a predominantly African American and Caribbean American urban population. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 99 consecutive patients treated for endometrial carcinoma at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Seventy-seven patients were deemed eligible for the study, and the following clinicopathologic characteristics were recorded from their medical records: age, stage, grade, histological subtype, presence of lymphovascular space invasion, depth of myometrial invasion, intrauterine tumor volume, preoperative prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, platelet count, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The data were analyzed using Spearman and Pearson correlations, Student t test, χ2 test, and Fisher exact test. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier tables, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazard model. The 2-tailed value of P Results: Fourteen (18.2%) of 77 patients exhibited thrombocytosis (platelet count, >400 × 109/L). Patients with advanced disease (stages III-IV) had a significantly higher mean preoperative platelet count (359 ± 23.8 × 109/L) in comparison with patients with localized disease (stages I-II, 283 ± 14.3 × 109/L, P = 0.005). The median PFS among patients with stages III and IV without preoperative thrombocytosis was 15.0 ± 4.8 months (n = 21) and with thrombocytosis was 3.0 ± 1.4 months (n = 8, P = 0.032). The median OS in patients without thrombocytosis was 24.0 ± 4.5 months (n = 21) and in patients with thrombocytosis was 7.0 ± 3.8 months (n = 8, P = 0.015). Multivariate analysis was performed using log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model. The only variables that retained independent prognostic significance were stage (hazards ratio, 3.268; P = 0.040) and preoperative thrombocytosis (hazards ratio, 1.714 per 100 platelets; P = 0.030). Among patients with localized disease, preoperative thrombocytosis was not associated with worsened OS or PFS. Conclusions: Our data indicate that preoperative thrombocytosis among high-risk inner-city patients with stages III to IV endometrial cancer is an independent prognostic indicator. This is the first such report in a predominantly African American and Caribbean American population. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of thrombocytosis in malignancy. Association of thrombocytosis and aggressive tumor behavior warrants investigation of antiplatelet therapy and its effect on outcome.
The clinical application and effect evaluation of home-made duct occluder in patent ductus arteriosus

Objectives To evaluate the cli nical application and effect of transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) by using the home-made Xinjian duct occluder Methods From June, 2000 to July, 2002, 182 patients (63 male, 119 female) underwent attempted transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus by using the Xinjian duct occluder at a median age of 5 23 years (range 0 3 to 16) and a median weight of 17 09 kg (range 5 to 50) The mean PDA diameter in the narrowest segment was 4 30 mm (range 1 32 to 9 00) The delivery sheath was 6 to 10 F The median operation time was 73 31 min (range 45 to 135), and the median fluoroscopy time was 7 09 min (range 2 60 to 26 90) Follow-up evaluation was performed with color flow mapping immediately, at 24 h, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after closure, respectively Results The Xinjian device was successfully placed in all 182 cases Angiography showed immediate closure in 109 patients (59 89%), small residual shunt in 30, and trace shunt in 43 At 24 h, color Doppler revealed complete closure in 163 patients Only 8 patients still had a residual shunt after 1 month A residual shunt was observed in 4 at 3 months and 6 months, 2 at 1 year, 1 at 2 years There were no severe complications Conclusions Transcatheter closure of PDA using the home-made Xinjian occluder is a safe and effective method The Xinjian occluder could replace the imported product in the closure of PDA
Design and Application of Ventilation Machine Assembly Workers in Coal Mine

Analysis of fan assembly process, the vertical assembly of more than 4 meters in height, the safety of operation, the existence of security risks, a blower assembly special tooling design in view of this situation, the tool uses the horizontal assembly, greatly reduces the difficulty and intensity of work,improve work efficiency.
WORKING PRINCIPLE AND KINEMATICS ANALYSIS OF 7NB MUD BUMP

Oil and nature gas exploration and development is going on in the regions in the adverse circumstances and the geological complex condition. For this reason, the mud pump is asked to reduce the weight and volume, to improve its structure and to raise the efficiency to adapt to various adverse circumstances and conditions. In this paper, the 7NB mud pump, a new mud pump, was described. Moving equations and computation models of the 7NB were established on the basis of studyingits structure and working principal. The kinematics of the new mud pump was analyzed. It provided the theoretical supports for the improving structure of the mud pump.
Impact of Undergraduate Tablet PC Use on Retention in STEM Majors

Educational institutions face unrelenting pressure to incorporate the latest technology into their classrooms. U.S. higher education has been adopting computers to augment the in-class learning experience. Anecdotally, computers (PC and Mac architectures) and tablet devices (iPads, smartphones, and tablet PCs) have been used in a myriad of settings for interactive polling as means to increase student participation and engagement. To date, other uses of computers and tablet devices have taken hold in project-focused or problem solving-oriented small classes rather than in large lecture classes. Undergraduate mathematics classes seem to be a natural fit for introducing tablet devices as many students find it easier to handwrite mathematical notation than to use a keyboard. This study investigates the impact of a tablet PC implementation in undergraduate college algebra and trigonometry (CAT) on student performance and retention in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors. This longitudinal project explores the effect of Tablet PC use in an important gateway course for freshmen who intend to major in a STEM field. Five important metrics were assessed: class attendance, class performance, instructor evaluation, retention in STEM, and persistence to graduation. The CAT course was taught by the same instructor as a conventional CAT lecture class from 2005 to 2007 using the same textbook, secure exams, and grading rubric. This structure provides a reasonably well-controlled setting in which to assess the impact of tablet PCs on retention in STEM.
Broadband pendulum energy harvester

A novel electromagnetic pendulum energy harvester with mechanical motion rectifier (MMR) is proposed and investigated in this paper. MMR is a mechanism which rectifies the bidirectional swing motion of the pendulum into unidirectional rotation of the generator by using two one-way clutches in the gear system. In this paper, two prototypes of pendulum energy harvester with MMR and without MMR are designed and fabricated. The dynamic model of the proposed MMR pendulum energy harvester is established by considering the engagement and disengagement of the one way clutches. The simulation results show that the proposed MMR pendulum energy harvester has a larger output power at high frequencies comparing with non-MMR pendulum energy harvester which benefits from the disengagement of one-way clutch during pendulum vibration. Moreover, the proposed MMR pendulum energy harvester is broadband compare with non-MMR pendulum energy harvester, especially when the equivalent inertia is large. An experiment is also conducted to compare the energy harvesting performance of these two prototypes. A flywheel is attached at the end of the generator to make the disengagement more significant. The experiment results also verify that MMR pendulum energy harvester is broadband and has a larger output power at high frequency over the non-MMR pendulum energy harvester.
Narrow ridge GaSb-based cascade diode lasers fabricated by methane–hydrogen reactive ion etching

GaSb-based type-I quantum wells cascade diode lasers with nearly diffraction limited output beam were fabricated using methane–hydrogen dry etching plasma process. Rapid thermal annealing was shown to be a necessary step to reverse the effect of hydrogen plasma on conductivity of AlGaAsSb cladding alloy. Annealed two-step narrow ridge lasers confined both optical field and current in lateral direction and demonstrated operating voltage, threshold current density and slope efficiency comparable to those of reference wide ridge devices.
Effects of stressful life events on cerebral white matter hyperintensity progression

Objective Exposure to stressful events is associated with both occurrence of depression and also vascular disease. The objective of this study was to determine whether higher levels of stress exposure was related to measures of pathological brain aging, specifically white matter hyperintensity volumes, in older adults with and without depression. Methods The sample included 130 depressed and 110 never-depressed older adults aged 60 years or older enrolled in a longitudinal study at an academic medical center. Participants completed clinical assessments, assessment of stressful event exposure and perceived stress, and magnetic resonance imaging at baseline and after 2 years. Analyses examined both cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between stress measures and white matter hyperintensity volumes. Results There were no statistically significant relationships observed between cross-sectional baseline stress measures and either baseline hyperintensity volume or 2-year change in hyperintensity volume. However, after controlling for demographic variables and baseline measures, change in stressor exposure was associated with change in hyperintensity volumes. In this analysis, increased stressor exposure was associated with greater increases in white matter hyperintensity volume, while reductions in stressor exposure were associated with less increase in hyperintensity volume. This relationship did not significantly differ based on the presence of either depression or medical comorbidities. Conclusions This work adds to a growing literature associating exposure to stressful events in later life with more rapid pathological brain aging. Work is needed to understand the physiological mechanisms by which stress exposure has this effect and examine whether stress reduction techniques may modify these observed outcomes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitochondrial dynamics and respiration within cells with increased open pore cytoskeletal meshes

The cytoskeletal architecture directly affects the morphology, motility, and tensional homeostasis of the cell. In addition, the cytoskeleton is important for mitosis, intracellular traffic, organelle motility, and even cellular respiration. The organelle responsible for a majority of the energy conversion for the cell, the mitochondrion, has a dependence on the cytoskeleton for mobility and function. In previous studies, we established that cytoskeletal inhibitors altered the movement of the mitochondria, their morphology, and their respiration in human dermal fibroblasts. Here, we use this protocol to investigate applicability of power law diffusion to describe mitochondrial locomotion, assessment of rates of fission and fusion in healthy and diseased cells, and differences in mitochondria locomotion in more open networks either in response to cytoskeletal destabilizers or by cell line. We found that mitochondria within fibrosarcoma cells and within fibroblast cells treated with an actin-destabilizing toxin resulted in increased net travel, increased average velocity, and increased diffusion of mitochondria when compared to control fibroblasts. Although the mitochondria within the fibrosarcoma travel further than mitochondria within their healthy counterparts, fibroblasts, the dependence on mitochondria for respiration is much lower with higher rates ofhydrogen peroxide production and was confirmed using the OROBOROS O2K. We also found that rates of fission and fusion of the mitochondria equilibrate despite significant alteration of the cytoskeleton. Rates ranged from 15% to 25%, where the highest rates were observed within the fibrosarcoma cell line. This result is interesting because the fibrosarcoma cell line does not have increased respiration metrics including when compared to fibroblast. Mitochondria travel further, faster, and have an increase in percent mitochondria splitting or joining while not dependent on the mitochondria for a majority of its energy production. This study illustrates the complex interaction between mitochondrial movement and respiration through the disruption of the cytoskeleton.
Aiming for Maximum Tracking Accuracy in Repetitive Control Systems

Feedback control systems can have reasonably good performance executing a desired trajectory, but only for frequencies up to the bandwidth of the control system. They never offer perfect tracking of an arbitrary desired trajectory. Repetitive control designs controllers to adjust the command to a feedback system aiming to converge to zero tracking error for any desired trajectory of a known period. It also aims to produce zero error in the presence of a periodic disturbance of known period. The ideal of zero tracking error is unusual in control and also challenging. This paper gives an overview of the methods preferred by the author to approach as closely as possible to this performance ideal.
Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair Using the Edge-to-Edge Clip

Percutaneous intervention for mitral valve (MV) disease has been established as an alternative to open surgical MV repair in patients with prohibitive surgical risk. Multiple percutaneous approaches have been described and are in various stages of development. Edge-to-edge leaflet plication with the MitraClip (Abbott, Menlo Park, CA) is currently the only Food and Drug Administration-approved device specifically for primary or degenerative lesions. Use of the edge-to-edge clip for secondary mitral regurgitation is currently under investigation and may result in expanded indications. Echocardiography has significantly increased our understanding of the anatomy of the MV and provided us with the ability to classify and quantify the associated mitral regurgitation. For percutaneous interventions of the MV, transesophageal echocardiography imaging is used for patient screening, intraprocedural guidance, and confirmation of the result. Optimal outcomes require the echocardiographer and the proceduralist to have a thorough understanding of intra-atrial septal and MV anatomy, as well as an appreciation for the key points and potential pitfalls of each of the procedural steps. With increasing experience, more complex valvular pathology can be successfully percutaneously treated. In addition to two-dimensional echocardiography, advances in three-dimensional echocardiography and fusion imaging will continue to support the refinement of current technologies, the expansion of clinical applications, and the development of novel devices.
Getting to know you: Associations between judge and target personality with personality judgment accuracy during a dyadic social interaction task

Abstract This research investigates the association between judge's and target's personality and personality judgment accuracy. Participants (N = 466) completed personality testing, a social interaction task with a partner, and then rated their partner's personality. Participants initially interacted together for 3 min and then in 1 of 3 interaction conditions (interpersonal closeness, competition, cooperation) for 45 min. Personality judgment accuracy was quantified by the convergence between self-reported and rater-reported personality at each time point. We evaluated the association between information quantity (i.e., time), information quality (i.e., social context), and personality on accuracy. Results indicate a) accuracy improved over time, b) participants in the interpersonal closeness condition were most accurate, and c) judge's agreeableness was positively associated and target's extraversion was negatively associated with accuracy. Findings indicate information quantity and quality influence how personality-relevant information is acquired from other people and some personality traits are associated with personality judgment accuracy.
Delineating the Role of Serum Immunoglobulin Titers in Burn Patients at High Risk for Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is common in the population and reactivation of latent infection often occurs in times of physiologic stress, including postburn injury. Active HSV infection complicates burn injury recovery and increases morbidity. A retrospective chart review of high-risk burn patients (≥20%TBSA and/or facial burns) who had screening HSV immunoglobulin titers drawn from 2015 to 2018 was conducted. Titer levels and morbidity-related outcomes were compared between patients who developed active infection and those who did not. Fifty-six patients had serum HSV titers measured. Twenty-nine patients (52%) developed clinical signs of HSV infection, almost all of which (97%) suffered facial burns. Titers were ordered on median hospital day 1.5 (0.00-4.0) and infection occurred on day 8.0 (2.0-16). Median HSV-1,2 IgM titers were significantly increased in patients who developed clinically active HSV infection (0.71 [0.44-1.1] vs 0.52 [0.34-0.74], P = .02). Median HSV-1 IgG (P = .65) and HSV-2 IgG titers (P = .97) were not different between groups. Patients who developed active infection had a comparable hospital length of stay (27 [9.5-40] days vs 20 [8.0-28] days, P = .17) and ICU length of stay (26 [13-49] days vs 19 [11-27] days, P = .09) to those who did not develop infection. There was no difference in mortality. Increased HSV-1 and 2 IgM screening levels were associated with an increased risk of developing active HSV infection, and offer a specific screening modality in high-risk patients. Elevated IgM titers warrant further consideration for administration of HSV prophylaxis, as earlier intervention may prevent infection onset and minimize morbidity.
Examining racial/ethnic disparities in school discipline in the context of student-reported behavior infractions

Abstract Although traditional methodologies of measuring racial/ethnic disparities in the use of exclusionary discipline have provided overwhelming evidence that students of color are far more likely than White students to experience exclusionary punishment, studies using these methods have been criticized for not accounting for students' general patterns of behavior, and also for not examining the extent to which students disproportionately receive non-exclusionary consequences (e.g., warnings). The current study examined both exclusionary and non-exclusionary forms of discipline for disproportionality, using a traditional percentage method as well as binary logistic regression to estimate the impact of students' self-reported number, frequency, and engagement in particular behavior infractions on the odds that students would also report one or more suspensions, office referrals, personal warnings from a teacher, or warnings about their behavior sent home. Engagement in particular behaviors had differential impact for African American vs. White students on the odds of receiving behavioral warnings, with African American students being less likely to be warned than their White peers. The current study demonstrates both the presence of disproportionality in non-exclusionary discipline as well as evidence that African American students experience escalated consequences (e.g., lower likelihood of receiving a warning) for infractions when they also engage in certain behaviors, even if those behaviors are not the direct cause for discipline. By maintaining differential consequences for behavior infractions committed by African American students vs. White students, schools can mirror racialized differences in policing and the criminal justice system, and through their role as agents of socialization, normalize such unequal systems for youth.
Evaluating the Endangered Species Act: Trends in Mega-Petitions, Judicial Review, and Budget Constraints Reveal a Costly Dilemma for Species Conservation

The year 2013 called for a celebration in recognition of thenfortieth anniversary of the Endangered Species Act (ESA or Act).nIn 1973, President Nixon signed the ESA into effect, acknowledgingnthe growing concern that naturalnresources in the United Statesnwere deteriorating.nWhile signing the Act, President Nixonnstressed:nNothing is more priceless and more worthy of preservationnthan the rich array of animal life with which our country has been...
P24 Exploration of Graduate Students’ Experience in a Flipped Course Using Learning Reflections

Objective To evaluate graduate students’ experience in a flipped advanced metabolism course using periodic learning reflections. Use of Theory or Research Although flipped learning seems to be beneficial for student learning, many studies comparing the flipped classroom to traditional lecture-based courses have focused on exam scores. This is not likely indicative of deeper level learning or how a student experiences the flipped classroom throughout the semester. Target Audience Two cohorts of graduate students (n = 17) in an advanced metabolism course that utilized a flipped learning approach during the fall 2017 and 2018 semesters were recruited. Program Description Students prepared for class by watching online videos and reading a textbook. In class, students worked in teams to apply material, in which the teacher served as a guide. Evaluation Methods Each student completed eight structured learning reflections throughout the semester. After the course ended, content analysis was applied to the learning reflections at each time point by two investigators. Themes were developed for each time point. Results Themes from the reflections aligned with the Staged Self-Directed Learning Model. At the beginning of the semester, students were motivated to learn (stage 2), but were frustrated with the time needed for preparation. Resistance to flipped learning peaked at week four of the semester and students reverted to being teacher-centered learners (stage 1). By the end of the semester, students continued to progress to involved learners (stage 3), and eventually self-directed learners (stage 4). Conclusions Even though students reported they were better self-directed learners at the end of the semester, it seems that students may have trouble with the flipped learning format during the first half of the semester. Because students reported feeling frustrated and anxious, instructors may need to adopt more scaffolding techniques with students initially. Funding None.
Identification of Minerals in Leaves of 14 Apple Rootstocks in Stool Bed Condition

Very little is known about the mineral composition in the leaves of apple (Malus) rootstocks. Hence, in this study, variations in mineral composition were investigated among fourteen apple rootstocks (P.16, P.22, M.9, B.469, O.3, Mac.9, M.26, Pi.80, M.7, M.2, B.118, MM.11, M.25 and A.2) which have different growth vigor on a loamy soil in the stool bed conditions. Nitrogen (N) was determined by Kjeldahl method. Phosphorus (P) was analyzed using vanadate molybdate colorimetric method. Potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) concentrations were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES). The study results showed that the differences in mineral contents in leaves among apple rootstock genotypes were statistically significant. No problems were found in achieving adequate leaf N, P and Fe uptake of any rootstock. However, it was found to be lack of the K, Ca, Mg and Mn uptake in the majority of the rootstocks. Mac.9 rootstock, followed by B.469, showed high performance with in regard to the uptake of K, Ca and Mg. In general, the uptake of Fe, Ca and Mg of dwarf and semi-dwarf rootstocks were higher than those of vigorous rootstocks. Consequently, P.19, B.469, Mac.9 and M.26 rootstocks had adequate performances in the uptake of all macro and micro elements examined.