cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cellular Response to Trypanosoma cruzi Infection Induces Secretion of Defensin α-1, Which Damages the Flagellum, Neutralizes Trypanosome Motility, and Inhibits Infection

Human defensins play a fundamental role in the initiation of innate immune responses to some microbial pathogens. Here we show that colonic epithelial model HCT116 cells respond to Trypanosoma cruzi infection by secreting defensin α-1, which reduces infection. We also report the early effects of defensin α-1 on invasive trypomastigotes that involve damage of the flagellar structure to inhibit parasite motility and reduce cellular infection. Short exposure of defensin α-1 to trypomastigotes shows that defensin α-1 binds to the flagellum, resulting in flagellar membrane and axoneme alterations, followed by breaking of the flagellar membrane connected to the trypanosome body, leading to detachment and release of the parasite flagellum. In addition, defensin α-1 induces a significant reduction in parasite motility in a peptide concentration-dependent manner, which is abrogated by anti-defensin α-1 IgG. Preincubation of trypomastigotes with a concentration of defensin α-1 that inhibits 50% trypanosome motility significantly reduced cellular infection by 80%. Thus, human defensin α-1 is an innate immune molecule that is secreted by HCT116 cells in response to T. cruzi infection, inhibits T. cruzi motility, and plays an important role in reducing cellular infection. This is the first report showing a novel cellular innate immune response to a human parasite by secretion of defensin α-1, which neutralizes the motility of a human parasite to reduce cellular infection. The mode of activity of human defensin α-1 against T. cruzi and its function may provide insights for the development of new antiparasitic strategies.
Well-Aligned In-situ Formed Open-End Carbon Nanotube for Device and Assembly Applications

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been proposed for applications in microelectronic applications, especially for electrical interconnects, thermal management, and nanodevices, due to their excellent electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. In this paper, we reported a simple process to achieve simultaneous CNT growth and opening of the CNT ends, while keeping alignment of the original CNT films/arrays. The addition of relatively low reactivity oxidizing agents (water) into the reaction furnace enables the feasibility. We proposed using novel CNT transfer technology, enabled by open-ended CNTs, to circumvent the high carbon nanotube (CNT) growth temperature and poor adhesion with the substrates that currently plague CNT implementation. The process is featured with separation of high-temperature CNT growth and low-temperature CNT device assembly. Field emission testing of the as-assembled CNT devices is in a good agreement with the Fowler-Nordheim (FN) equation, with a field enhancement factor of 4540.
THE ENTOMOPHAGA GRYLLI (FRESENIUS) BATKO SPECIES COMPLEX: ITS BIOLOGY, ECOLOGY, AND USE FOR BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PEST GRASSHOPPERS

The biology, ecology, disease etiology, and biological control potential of different members of the Entomophaga grylli species complex are discussed. This complex is represented by several pathotypes that include members that produce both conidia and resting spores within a single season, and members that produce only resting spores. This complex is known as a major pathogen of acridids from most areas of the world where populations of these insects are found, including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. Pathogens from this species complex commonly cause disease epizootics in their host populations and are known to reduce significantly outbreaks of grasshoppers, particularly following periods of rain or high humidity. Specific factors that either limit or enhance disease processes and host mortality are discussed in relation to both epizootiology and biological control programmes. Recent biological control efforts are discussed and the potential of using members of the E. grylli species complex in both augmentation and introduction programmes is considered.
A sex-linked allele, autosomal modifiers and temperature-dependence appear to regulate melanism in male mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki)

About 1% of male mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) express melanic (mottled-black) body coloration, which differs dramatically from the wild-type, silvery-gray coloration. Here, I report on the genetic inheritance pattern of melanic coloration, which indicates Y-linkage, and at least one autosomal modifier. Phenotypic expression of melanism is also affected by temperature. Expression is constitutive (temperature insensitive) in some populations, inducible (temperature sensitive) in others. Constitutive and inducible expression occur among geographically proximal populations. However, males from any single population demonstrate the same constitutive or inducible expression pattern as one another. The F1 males from inter-population crosses demonstrate temperature-related expression patterns like their sires'. As well, the sex ratio of melanic males' progeny differs among populations. Here, inter-population crosses demonstrate a sex-ratio bias in the same direction as intra-population crosses of the sire population. About 20% of the male progeny of melanic sires express the wild-type phenotype. These silver F1 males sire only silver offspring, suggestive of loss of the melanin gene in F1 males from crossover between sex chromosomes, or control by additional modifiers, or involvement of additional factors. In nature, melanic males persist at very low frequencies. The data collected here on heritability indicate that genetic factors contribute to the rarity of melanic male mosquitofish.
A Socio-Legal Ethnography of the Right to Refuse Dangerous Work

The right to refuse unsafe work and the 'internal responsibility system' represent a fundamental shift in ideology over how workplace health and safety is governed. Using qualitative data, I provide a grounded critique of this shift and demonstrate that the right to refuse is continually evolving through its everyday application; the local definition of what constitutes risk is constantly being negotiated. Even when workers do not formally use this right to deal with a hazard they still, nonetheless, engage in the local construction of how this safety right is conceptualized, defined, and exercised.
Melas, Stroke-Like Episodes and Ketogenic Diet

Investigators at University of Toronto and McMaster University, Canada, report a 22-year-old woman with multiple episodes of status epilepticus and migratory cortical stroke-like lesions.
Autobiography as Anti-Biography: The Case of Twain vs. Paine

(1987). Autobiography as Anti-Biography: The Case of Twain vs. Paine. a/b: Auto/Biography Studies: Vol. 3, No. 3, pp. 13-20.
A framework for understanding leadership and individual requisite complexity

This paper examines the relation of individual perceptual, conscious, and self-regulatory processes to the generation of requisite complexity in formal and informal leaders. Requisite complexity is a complex adaptive systems concept that pertains to the ability of a system to adjust to the requirements of a changing environment by achieving equivalent levels of complexity. We maintain that requisite complexity has both static and dynamic aspects that involve four domains (general, social, self, and affective complexity), with each being more or less important for leaders depending upon the task requirements they face. Dynamic complexity draws on these static components and also creates new aspects of complexity through the interaction of mental processes. The implications of these issues for understanding leader adaptation and development are also discussed.
3D Motions of Iron in Six‐Coordinate {FeNO}7 Hemes by Nuclear Resonance Vibration Spectroscopy

The vibrational spectrum of a six-coordinate nitrosyl iron porphyrinate, monoclinic [Fe(TpFPP)(1-MeIm)(NO)] (TpFPP=tetra-para-fluorophenylporphyrin; 1-MeIm=1-methylimidazole), has been studied by oriented single-crystal nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy (NRVS). The crystal was oriented to give spectra perpendicular to the porphyrin plane and two in-plane spectra perpendicular or parallel to the projection of the FeNO plane. These enable assignment of the FeNO bending and stretching modes. The measurements reveal that the two in-plane spectra have substantial differences that result from the strongly bonded axial NO ligand. The direction of the in-plane iron motion is found to be largely parallel and perpendicular to the projection of the bent FeNO on the porphyrin plane. The out-of-plane Fe-N-O stretching and bending modes are strongly mixed with each other, as well as with porphyrin ligand modes. The stretch is mixed with v50 as was also observed for dioxygen complexes. The frequency of the assigned stretching mode of eight Fe-X-O (X=N, C, and O) complexes is correlated with the Fe-XO bond lengths. The nature of highest frequency band at ≈560 cm(-1) has also been examined in two additional new derivatives. Previously assigned as the Fe-NO stretch (by resonance Raman), it is better described as the bend, as the motion of the central nitrogen atom of the FeNO group is very large. There is significant mixing of this mode. The results emphasize the importance of mode mixing; the extent of mixing must be related to the peripheral phenyl substituents.
Saving Elephants in Africa – Concept to Reality through Experiential Engineering Design

The purpose of this work is to provide undergraduate seniors in engineering 1) the opportunity to work on an industry/externally sponsored project and 2) provide an outside the classroom learning experience. Here we discuss each of these aspects as it relates to a single project, specifically working to save African elephants from unnecessary slaughter. We will address each of these separately in “Industry and Education” (where the focus will be on the developing the industry relationship and then fostering it during the lifetime of the project) and “Experiences outside the classroom” (where the focus will be on the learning experience of the students in the field). The main results are that 1) industry sponsor commitment to the project is the number driver for overall success of the project and 2) an in-the-field educational experience is invaluable for the students to learn the real world pressures of time constraints and developing real-time contingency plans to successfully complete project goals. In conclusion, we discuss how an external sponsor, committed to interacting with the team and an “outside the classroom” learning experience coupled with good mentoring from the faculty provide an experience that closely parallels a real-life work experience for the students. http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/HEAd15.2015.350
Stabilized Suspensions of Monkey Kidney Cells Suitable for Intercontinental Shipment.

SummaryA method for stabilizing cell suspensions prepared by trypsinization of monkey kidneys is described. Such suspensions prepared in India and shipped to the United States were found to produce cultures useful for the propagation of poliovirus and the production of complement-fixing antigens.
A high-speed photodetector for telecom, ethernet, and FTTH applications in zero-change CMOS process

A high-speed photodetector based on absorption by the defect states in transistor gate polysilicon is demonstrated with 0.14–0.2 A/W responsively in 1310–1610 nm and 10 GHz bandwidth in an unmodified 45 nm SOI CMOS process.
The effect of explicit online comment moderation on three spiral of silence outcomes

This study investigates the effect of news sites’ explicit online comment moderation policies on spiral of silence (SOS) outcome variables. It advances the methodological understanding of SOS research by comparing the traditional willingness-to-share variable to more direct measures of attitudes. The results of two studies show that a one-sided editorial and comments generally silenced the opposition, particularly when participants were asked to provide their own comment. This finding suggests that open-ended comments may best measure SOS effects. With the inclusion of explicit comment moderation, however, participants were less likely to agree with the editorial as evidenced by their closed-ended attitudes.
Die Wirkung von Fasten auf die Bilirubinaufnahme durch die isoliert perfundierte Leber

Ein Anstieg des unkonjugierten Serumbilirubins bei Nahrungsentzug ist bei Menschen, Ratten und Pferden beschrieben worden [1,4]. Als Ursache fur diese unkonjugierte Hyperbilirubinamie werden gesteigerte Bilirubinproduktion, eine kompetetive Hemmung der Bilirubinaufnahme in die Leber durch andere organische Anionen, wie zum Beispiel freie Fettsauren, oder verminderte Ausscheidung von Bilirubin diskutiert. In den vorliegenden Versuchen wurden 3H-Bilirubinaufnahmekinetiken in der isoliert perfundierten Leber von 48 Std lang gefasteten oder ad libitum gefutterten Ratten bestimmt. Mogliche physiologische Variable wie zum Beispiel Leberdurchblutung, zirkulierende Hormone oder freie Fettsauren konnen in diesem Versuchsaufbau kontrolliert werden.
An Update Survey of Bulk Tank Milk Quality in Vermont.

Quality of Vermont bulk tank milk was first surveyed in 1985 as part of a statewide milk quality enhancement program. In a second survey conducted in 1990, bulk tank milk from 1,971 farms was sampled and tested for standard plate count, bacterial type and species distribution, and somatic cell count. Test results from 1,203 duplicate bulk tank milk samples were compared between five Vermont milk processors and the University of Vermont Quality Milk Research Laboratory. Arithmetic mean standard plate count conducted by processors was 2.3 × 104 CFU/ml in 1990 compared with 3.0 × 104 CFU/ml in 1985 (Geometric mean went from 1.3 × 104 CFU/ml in 1985 to 1.1 × 104 CFU/ml in 1990). Trypticase blood-esculin agar was used at the Quality Milk Research Laboratory to determine distribution of bacteria types and species. Comparison of results with a 1985 survey appeared to demonstrate a reduction in the percentage of farms with Streptococcus agalactiae from 47% to 32%. Frequency of other organisms increased with the majority being environmental organisms. Arithmetic mean total raw bacteria count on blood agar was 1.9 × 104 CFU/ml. Correlation between standard plate count and blood agar raw bacteria count was low. Arithmetic mean somatic cell count appeared to decline from 5.4 × 105 cells/ml in 1985 to 3.4 × 105 cells/ml in 1990 (Geometric mean went from 4.1 × 105 cells/ml in 1985 to 2.9 × 105 cells/ml in 1990). Correlation between somatic cell counts conducted by milk processors and the Quality Milk Research Laboratory was high.
A critical review of the ability of biological treatment systems to remove chlorinated organics discharged by the paper industry

One of the principal problems facing the pulp and paper industry is the discharge of chlorinated organics into the environment. The fate of chlorinated organics produced during pulp bleaching with chlorine-based compounds in waste-water treatment systems is critically examined. Aerobic and anaerobic processes are capable of removing chlorinated organics to varying degrees of efficiency. However, the mechanism by which this removal occurs has not been identified precisely
2-phenylglycerol : crystal structure and conformational considerations pertaining to formation of its related oxetane

2-Phenylglycerol has been crystallized, structurally characterized, and its related conformations considered by ab initio calculations at the HF/6-31G* level. C9H12O3. $$ \frac{1}{2} $$ H2O, P21,a = 5.8786(1), b = 28.6605(7), c = 10.5553(3) A, β = 90.187 (1)° at 100(1) K, Z = 8, R = 0.0424 for 5913 unique observed reflections. The asymmetric unit contains four molecules of the title compound and two molecules of water. The structures are characterized by extensive intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The packing is dominated by a hydrophilic hydrogen bonded layer with the hydrophobic phenyl rings forming a herringbone packed intermediate layer. Computational studies suggest that an increase in energy of about 13 kcal/mol can provide for significant conformational flexibility, including the traversal of an orientation that is appropriately aligned with the reaction trajectory needed for closure to the oxetane. Progression along this reaction coordinate, however, will probably require at least another 15 kcal/mol in the gas phase in order to bring the two SN2 species into a proximity which approaches that of the oxetane's C-O bond distance.
Target Geolocation for Agricultural Applications via an Octorotor

Abstract: In this paper, an orthographic projection based Kalman filter is designed to estimate the location of identified targets for use in disease detection applications for strawberry trees or other shallow crops. The process model and measurement model are formulated, relating the global target position to its corresponding image pixel, taking into account assumptions pertinent to a typical strawberry orchard. An octorotor is custom-designed and built, and expected to carry a spectral camera in hover flight. The camera producing the images of the target is stabilized by a gimbal. An orthographic projection model is adopted here because of the shallow depth of the crop when compared to the camera altitude. This projection approach leads to a Kalman filter design. Firstly, the approach is tested through simulation. Secondly, it is validated in an ad-hoc experiment using a recorded video taken by the octorotor.
Uranium Dioxide: Properties and Nuclear Applications

(1962). Uranium Dioxide: Properties and Nuclear Applications. Nuclear Science and Engineering: Vol. 14, No. 3, pp. 319-320.
"Working With Others, Working With Different Nations: Human Capital and International Teamwork"

This study reveals the importance of international human capital in the context of multinational teams. Utilizing the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a unique research setting in which pla...
Nutritional risk factors predict severe acute graft-versus-host disease and early mortality in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Background Malnutrition is a pro-inflammatory state, yet data on nutritional risk factors and development of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) are extremely limited. Procedure We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of pediatric patients up to age 21 years who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia from January 2011 to September 2014 to determine whether malnutrition was associated with development of aGVHD and early mortality. We identified body mass index (BMI) percentile and serum albumin levels as potential markers of malnutrition and defined two composite nutritional risk variables as any of the following: albumin < 2.8 g/dl, weight loss ≥10% from baseline, and low BMI [<25th (NUT25) or <5th percentile (NUT5)]. Nutritional markers and GVHD grade were assessed at baseline, 30, 60, and 90 days post-HSCT, and patients were censored upon development of GVHD. Results BMI <25th or <5th percentile, NUT25, and NUT5 at the beginning of any 30-day period predicted a three- to fourfold risk of developing of severe (grade III–IV) aGVHD in the subsequent 30 days in models adjusted for age, sex, donor source, and degree of human leukocyte antigen matching. Mortality at day 100 was low, but NUT25 risk at baseline conferred an increased risk of death (7.9% vs. 1%, P = 0.035). Conclusions Malnutrition is a targetable risk factor in pediatric HSCT; prospective trials are needed to investigate this relationship further and identify effective nutritional interventions.
The Coronary Costs of Choosing a Small Business Career

Psychosocial variables, characterized by the well-known “Type A” behavior pattern, have recently been implicated in conjunction with coronary heart disease (CHD). This study identifies the incidenc...
Orbital enucleation implants: biomaterials and design

New biomaterials and design evolutions have improved rehabilitation, and reduced complication rates after enucleation. This evolution of thought and practice is the subject of this chapter. Topics covered include: orbital anatomy and physiology after enucleation, the current state of knowledge on implant motility, developments in the use of porous implants, and considerations for pediatric enucleation. A comprehensive review of implant types, in relation to implant motility and biocompatibility, is included.
Treatment of Mycobacterium abscessus Complex

Of the nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) causing lung disease, members of the Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABc) present a formidable obstacle to successful management. This challenge starts from a poorly understood pathogenesis, continues with complicated subspecies variation in treatment response, and extends to the multidrug-resistant nature of these organisms. The disease often necessitates the use of intravenous therapy, toxic drug combinations, and, in some cases, lung resection. Like many NTMs, MABc treatment requires prolonged therapy with multiple medications, and pulmonary disease in some subspecies can be impossible to eradicate or cure. This disease also represents a frequent and unique problem in certain populations, including cystic fibrosis and lung transplant recipients, and providers who manage such patients should be familiar with how MABc disease influences management. Because of the rising prevalence of the MABc, especially in patients with complicated underlying pulmonary disease, it is increasingly necessary for infectious diseases and pulmonary medicine clinicians to understand the unique aspects of MABc management and understand when to obtain expert consultation in the care of these patients.
Generation of a stochastic binary field that fits a given heterogeneity power spectrum

Incomplete binary mixing of two components can form a heterogeneous assemblage in space. The heterogeneity power spectrum of the assemblage can be frequently obtained. However, it is unknown if a stochastic binary field exists to generate the observed spectrum. We propose a novel and powerful constructive procedure for this purpose. The procedure allows us not only to test whether certain binary mixing is feasible but also to tightly constrain the properties of the mixing components and the modal proportion. The method should find wide applications in many branches of geosciences.
An avian influenza virus A(H7N9) reassortant that recently emerged in the United States with low pathogenic phenotype does not efficiently infect swine.

In 2017, outbreaks of low and highly pathogenic avian H7N9 viruses were reported in four States in the United States. In total, over 270 000 birds died or were culled, causing significant economic loss. The potential for avian-to-swine transmission of the U.S. avian H7N9 was unknown. In an experimental challenge in swine using a representative low pathogenic H7N9 (A/chicken/Tennessee/17-007431-3/2017; LPAI TN/17) isolated from these events, no infectious virus in the upper and minimal virus in the lower respiratory tract was detected, nor was lung pathology or evidence of transmission in pigs observed, indicating that the virus cannot efficiently infect swine.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Despite the myriad of available treatments, a substantial subset of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are not able to achieve a prolonged disease-free interval with conventional chemotherapy or targeted agents. For these patients, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation remains an option for consolidative or curative treatment. Additionally, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy has emerged for patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell lymphomas. Published studies vary widely in their selected approach to transplant and cellular therapies. This review summarizes available data related to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Expansion of the Porous Solid Na2Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·9H2O: Enhanced Ion-Exchange Capacity in Na2Zn3[Re6Se8(CN)6]2·24H2O

A technique for increasing the porosity in solid structures by replacing octahedral metal ions with hexanuclear cluster cores is extended with the expansion of the ion-exchange material Na2Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·9H2O. At high relative cluster concentrations, the reaction between [Zn(H2O)6]2+ and Na4[Re6Se8(CN)6] produces Na2Zn3[Re6Se8(CN)6]2·24H2O (1), a compound exhibiting a porous three-dimensional framework isotypic with that of Na2Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·9H2O. Its framework is characterized by hexagonal bipyramidal cages, each enclosing two Na+ ions and 24 water molecules in a volume of 1340 A3more than triple the volume of the cages in the original structure. The expanded cavities and framework openings in compound 1 are shown to facilitate absorption of larger cationic complexes, specifically [M(H2O)6]n+ (M = Mg2+, Cr3+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Zn2+) and [Cr(en)3]3+, via exchange for the Na+ ions. Indeed, when the preparation of 1 is attempted using a slight excess of the zinc reactant, [Zn(H2O)6]2+ incorporates instead of Na+, l...
A Case for Leadership Development in Nursing Practice

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) (2011) report, 'The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health,' was inspired by a vision to strengthen nursing leadership to help transform health care. Paralleling the IOM report, a core belief of the American Nephrology Nurses Association is to provide nurses with leadership opportunities, and encourage nurses to seize opportunities to develop and polish their leadership skills. This article discusses 'The Leadership Challenge' as one model for leadership development that can propel individuals, including nurses, toward exemplary leadership. The article presents the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership within 'The Leadership Challenge' as an effective evidence-based path to achieving the extraordinary.
Observation of Radiation Diffusion Heat Transfer in Microscale Membranes

Radiation diffusion was investigated as a heat transfer mechanism in highly absorbing microscale graphite. A 50$\mu$m thick graphite sheet was heated by a 1064 nm Nd:YAG continuous wave (CW) laser with optical intensities of 10 kW/cm2 and 20 kW/cm2. Extremely high temperatures (i.e., $\geq$2000 K) were achieved on the graphite sheet within miliseconds, which were measured by a two-color pyrometer. The recorded temperatures were later compared with numerical solutions of differential heat conduction equation. A close match was found between numerical and experimental results only when radiation diffusion was incorporated in the thermal conductivity along with the lattice vibration.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Aortopathy

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease is a common valvular malformation found in 1–2% of the general population and is the underlying cause of aortic valve surgery in up to one third of patients in the United States. It is associated with nonvalvular cardiovascular abnormalities, such as aortic coarctation and dilatation of the ascending aorta and aortic sinuses. In general, surgical patients with BAV are younger than patients with tricuspid aortic valves undergoing aortic valve replacement. Similarly, ascending aortopathy associated with BAV becomes manifest at an earlier age than in patients with degenerative aortic disease. This chapter focuses on the current knowledge regarding the BAV and associated aortopathy.
Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm presenting as appendiceal intussusception in a 16 year old male

Abstract Appendiceal mucinous neoplasms are rare in pediatric patients. We report a case of a 16-year old male who presented with abdominal pain with concern for appendiceal mucocele. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed an incarcerated appendiceal intussusception into the cecum secondary to low grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN), a tumor often found in older adults. Complete resection was achieved through laparoscopic ileocecectomy, and the patient recovered uneventfully and did not require adjuvant therapy. Classification and appropriate management of appendiceal neoplasms is still widely debated for adult patients, and there are even fewer recommendations on management of pediatric cases in the literature. We review current appendiceal neoplasm classification systems and describe the need for consensus on the treatment and surveillance of pediatric appendiceal neoplasms.
ARRHYTHMOGENIC RIGHT VENTRICULAR CARDIOMYOPATHY: AN UNDERRECOGNIZED TIME BOMB

ARVC is an inherited cardiomyopathy that remains underdiagnosed. Reported prevalence is as high as 1 in 2000. [1] Patients are often asymptomatic, presenting with arrythmias or sudden cardiac death (SCD). A 31 year old male presented with palpitations. EKG showed ventricular tachycardia with left
Emerging therapies in genodermatoses.

Abstract The human genome project yielded a compendium of genetic material that has allowed rapid advancement both in the technique of whole exome sequencing and also in the ability to identify single gene defects. The next generation of genetics has investigated how these genes interact in the development of disease, identifying pathways of illness and end organ tissue abnormal development. From the knowledge of single genes and pathways of genodermatosis development arises the opportunity to produce genetic therapies. This contribution reviews some of the exciting, emerging genetic therapies in genodermatoses.
Utilization, Yield, and Accuracy of the FilmArray Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel with Diagnostic Stewardship and Testing Algorithm.

The impact of diagnostic stewardship and testing algorithms on the utilization and performance of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel has received limited investigation. We performed a retrospective single-center cohort study assessing all individuals with suspected ME between February 2017 and April 2019 for whom the ME panel was ordered. Testing was restricted to patients with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis. Positive ME panel results were confirmed before reporting through correlation with direct staining (Gram and calcofluor white) and CSF cryptococcal antigen or by repeat ME panel testing. Outcomes included the ME panel test utilization rate, negative predictive value of nonpleocytic CSF samples, test yield and false-positivity rate, and time to appropriate deescalation of acyclovir. Restricting testing to pleocytic CSF samples reduced ME panel utilization by 42.7% (263 versus 459 tests performed) and increased the test yield by 61.8% (18.6% versus 11.5% positivity rate; P < 0.01) with the application of criteria. The negative predictive values of a normal CSF white blood cell (WBC) count for ME panel targets were 100% (195/195) for nonviral targets and 98.0% (192/196) overall. All pathogens detected in nonpleocytic CSF samples were herpesviruses. The application of a selective testing algorithm based on repeat testing of nonviral targets avoided 75% (3/4) of false-positive results without generating false-negative results. The introduction of the ME panel reduced the duration of acyclovir treatment from an average of 66 h (standard deviation [SD], 43 h) to 46 h (SD, 36 h) (P = 0.03). The implementation of the ME panel with restriction criteria and a selective testing algorithm for nonviral targets optimizes its utilization, yield, and accuracy.
Redox States of Protein Cysteines in Pathways of Protein Turnover and Cytoskeleton Dynamics Are Changed with Aging and Reversed by Slc7a11 Restoration in Mouse Lung Fibroblasts.

Slc7a11 is the key component of system Xc-, an antiporter that imports cystine (CySS) and exports glutamate. It plays an important role in cellular defense against oxidative stress because cysteine (Cys), reduced from CySS, is used for and limits the synthesis of glutathione (GSH). We have shown that downregulation of Slc7a11 is responsible for oxidation of extracellular Cys/CySS redox potential in lung fibroblasts from old mice. However, how age-related change of Slc7a11 expression affects the intracellular redox environment of mouse lung fibroblasts remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of aging on the redox states of intracellular proteins and to examine whether Slc7a11 contributes to the age-dependent effects. Iodoacetyl Tandem Mass Tags were used to differentially label reduced and oxidized forms of Cys residues in primary lung fibroblasts from young and old mice, as well as old fibroblasts transfected with Slc7a11. The ratio of oxidized/reduced forms (i.e., redox state) of a Cys residue was determined via multiplexed tandem mass spectrometry. Redox states of 151 proteins were different in old fibroblasts compared to young fibroblasts. Slc7a11 overexpression restored redox states of 104 (69%) of these proteins. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) showed that age-dependent Slc7a11-responsive proteins were involved in pathways of protein translation initiation, ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated degradation, and integrin-cytoskeleton-associated signaling. Gene ontology analysis showed cell adhesion, protein translation, and organization of actin cytoskeleton were among the top enriched terms for biological process. Protein-protein interaction network demonstrated the interactions between components of the three enriched pathways predicted by IPA. Follow-up experiments confirmed that proteasome activity was lower in old cells than in young cells and that upregulation of Slc7a11 expression by sulforaphane restored this activity. This study finds that aging results in changes of redox states of proteins involved in protein turnover and cytoskeleton dynamics, and that upregulating Slc7a11 can partially restore the redox states of these proteins.
What We’ve Managed to Transcribe Thus Far: Lessons from the Blythe Owen Letter Transcription Project

In 2016, the music librarian at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI launched a project to transcribe approximately 2,000 letters by twentieth-century American composer Blythe Owen into typed,...
In Vivo Experimental and Analytical Studies for Bevacizumab Diffusion Coefficient Measurement in the Rabbit Vitreous Humor

In order to measure the effective diffusion coefficient D of Bevacizumab (Avastin, Genentech) in the vitreous humor, a new technique is developed based on the "contour method" and in vivo optical coherence tomography measurements. After injection of Bevacizumab-fluorescein conjugated compound solution into the rabbit eye, the contours of drug concentration distribution at the subsurface of injection were tracked over time. The 2D contours were extrapolated to 3D contours using reasonable assumptions and a numerically integrated analytical model was developed for the theoretical contours for the irregularly shaped drug distribution in the experimental result. By floating the diffusion coefficient, different theoretical contours were constructed and the least-squares best fit to the experimental contours was performed at each time point to get the best fit solution. The approach generated consistent diffusion coefficient values based on the experiments on four rabbit eyes over a period of 3 h each, which gave D=1.2±0.6×10-6 cm2/s , and the corresponding theoretical contours matched well with the experimental contours. The quantitative measurement of concentration using optical coherence tomography and fluorescein labeling gives a new approach for the "noncontact" in vivo drug distribution measurement within vitreous.
Attention need not always apply: Mind wandering impedes explicit but not implicit sequence learning

According to the attentional resources account, mind wandering (or "task-unrelated thought") is thought to compete with a focal task for attentional resources. Here, we tested two key predictions of this account: First, that mind wandering should not interfere with performance on a task that does not require attentional resources; second, that as task requirements become automatized, performance should improve and depth of mind wandering should increase. Here, we used a serial reaction time task with implicit- and explicit-learning groups to test these predictions. Providing novel evidence for the attentional resource account's first prediction, results indicated that depth of mind wandering was negatively associated with learning in the explicit, but not the implicit, group, indicating that mind wandering is associated with impaired explicit, but not implicit, learning. Corroborating the attention resource account's second prediction, we also found that, overall, performance improved while at the same time depth of mind wandering increased. From an implicit-learning perspective, these results are consistent with the claim that explicit learning is impaired under attentional load, but implicit learning is not. Data, analysis code, manuscript preparation code, and pre-print available at osf.io/qzry7/.
Fuel molecular structure effect on soot mobility size in premixed C6 hydrocarbon flames

Abstract Soot formation in premixed laminar flames is examined for a canonical set of flames burning C6 hydrocarbon fuels. Particle mobility size and flame temperature measurements are complemented by flame structure calculations using detailed flame chemistry. Specifically, the evolution of the detailed soot particle size distribution (PSDF) is compared for n-hexane, n-hexene, 2-methylpentane, cyclohexane and benzene at a carbon-to-oxygen ratio of 0.69 and maximum flame temperature of 1800 K. Under this constraint, the overall sooting process is comparable as evidenced by similar time resolved bimodal PSDF. However, the first inception of particles and the persistence of nucleation-sized particles with time are depend upon the structure of the parent fuel. For the given conditions, the fastest onset of soot is observed in cyclohexane and benzene flames and the observed evolution of the PSDF also shows that nucleation-sized particles disappear sooner in cyclohexane and benzene flames. Flame structure computations incorporating detailed chemistry show a clear connection between the early onset of soot particles as fuel specific routes to PAH formation are predicted in the pre-flame region of the cyclohexane and benzene flames. These observations illustrate the impact of alkane, alkene, cycloalkane and aromatic fuel structure on soot formation in premixed flames. Analysis of soot particle morphology by atomic force microscopy indicates that most of size distribution is composed of aggregates. Simple aggregate mobility diameter analysis shows the spherical assumption taken to interpret the mobility diameter does not impact the PSDF number density result but the inferred volume fraction for aggregates deviates by up to an order of magnitude depending on the morphology assumptions adopted.
So Similar, yet So Different: Comparing the US GAAP and IFRS Experience at Eliciting Greater Transparency on Pension Asset Disclosures

We examine whether (and to what extent) accounting regulation intended to improve disclosure can lead to higher disclosure quality in the absence of a change in preparer incentives. We exploit a sequence of two similar regulatory changes, one under US GAAP and the other under IFRS, which have one key difference — while both changes mandate improvements to the disclosure of pension asset allocation, only the latter removes preparer incentives to disclose opaquely (by eliminating a key reporting assumption–the expected rate of return on pension assets or ERR, which can be more effectively manipulated if asset allocation remains opaque). We construct two difference-in-difference research designs to examine the difference in disclosure outcomes between these two changes. We find that the IFRS disclosure standard is effective at improving pension asset transparency as intended, whereas the US standard — which only mandates better disclosure while leaving unchanged preparers’ incentives to disclose or obfuscate — is not as effective at improving pension asset transparency. Our findings suggest that accounting standards are more effective at improving financial reporting quality when standards are designed so as to minimize the incentives built in to report favorable accounting numbers.
Treatment of Allosensitized Patients Receiving Allogeneic Transplantation

Donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) are a major cause of engraftment failure in patients receiving haploidentical stem cell transplantation (HaploSCT). Effective treatments are needed for these patients who often have no other donor options and/or are in need to proceed urgently to transplantation. We studied a multimodality treatment with alternate day plasma exchange, rituximab, intravenous gamma globulin (IvIg) and an irradiated donor buffy coat for patients with DSA at two institutions. Thirty-seven patients with a median age of 51 years were treated with this desensitization protocol. Treatment outcomes were compared with a control group of HaploSCT patients without DSA (N=345). Majority of patients in the DSA group were females (83.8% vs. 37.1% in controls, p 20,000 MFI and with persistent C1q+ after desensitization had a significantly lower engraftment rate, resulted in a significantly higher non-relapse mortality (NRM) and worse overall survival (OS) than controls whereas graft outcome and survivals of patients with initial DSA <20,000 MFI and those with negative C1q after treatment were comparable with controls. In conclusion, treatment with plasma exchange, rituximab, IvIg and donor buffy coat is effective in promoting engraftment in patients with DSA up to 20,000 MFI.
LOCAL MUSICIANS BUILDING GLOBAL AUDIENCES

This paper builds upon existing work regarding the social contexts of interactive on-line content creation. Through an ethnographic examination of local-level music production and distribution in two American college towns, I demonstrate how musicians cultivate audiences through social capital that is exchanged both on-line and off-line. Active social networking is crucial to their music distribution and promotion. Through digital file sharing and social networking sites, musicians mobilize bonded social capital around their image and music. However, they have difficulty bridging the networks they cultivate with a broader audience, despite their desire to do so. This paper concludes with a sketch of the possibilities for musicians to develop bridging social capital, noting that new media industries capitalize on this desire, turning producers of on-line content into consumers of on-line media content and services. By employing a framework of social networks and social capital, this paper contributes more ...
Mechanisms and management of retinopathy of prematurity

n engl j med 368;12 nejm.org march 21, 2013 1161 ing.2,3 Antibiotic dosing is of particular concern because of variations in the administration of prolonged intermittent renal-replacement therapy and variations in solute clearance on and off therapy. Rigorous evaluation of prolonged intermittent renal-replacement therapy as compared with continuous renal-replacement therapy is needed before prolonged intermittent renal-replacement therapy can be accepted as the better method.4
Chapter 39 Non-standard analysis with applications to economics

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an introduction to nonstandard analysis and surveys its applications in mathematical economics. Nonstandard analysis is a mathematical technique, which has been widely used in diverse areas in pure and applied mathematics, including probability theory, mathematical physics, and functional analysis. It is used to formalize most areas of modern mathematics, including real and complex analysis, measure theory, probability theory, functional analysis, and point set topology; algebra is less amenable to nonstandard treatments, but even there significant applications have been found. The primary goal is to provide a careful development of nonstandard methodology in sufficient detail to allow using it in diverse areas in mathematical economics. This requires a careful study of the nonstandard treatment of real analysis, measure theory, and topological spaces. To accommodate this extended treatment of methodology the survey of work to date using nonstandard methods in mathematical economics is briefly reviewed in the chapter.
Teaching with Practicals and Labs

Over the last 50 years, medical education has seen an increase in time devoted to didactic teaching and a significant decline in the amount of time devoted to laboratory teaching and learning. The reasons for this are multifaceted, and the end result is not only unfortunate but ignores sound educational and learning theory. We hope that the fact that you are reading this chapter indicates your interest in reversing this trend and that you will find the information helpful as you incorporate laboratory exercises into your teaching repertoire.
Towards a Framework for Efficient Management of Potentially Conflicting Database Updates

A new approach to identifying and managing potential conflict between long-duration, cooperative database updates is presented. A loose taxonomy of mechanisms for identifying potential conflict is sketched, and a family of mechanisms based on the use of ‘delta values’ (in the sense of the Heraclitus paradigm) is described. The paper is quite preliminary and philosophical — while we present a position, we expect that a primary contribution of the paper is to stimulate discussion about this important area.
The incentive implications of incomplete insurance: The multiplicative case☆

Abstract When states of nature are not completely verifiable and payments in a Pareto efficient insurance scheme contribute multiplicatively to wealth, the insured may be better off in the insured against event, depending upon the behavior of relative risk aversion.
Endoscopic lumbar discectomy under local anesthesia may be an alternative to microdiscectomy: A single centre's experience using the far lateral approach.

Abstract Objectives Since the turn of the century, minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly widespread. Discectomy surgery has evolved from wide open to microscopic and now endoscopic. This study aims to demonstrate that transforaminal endoscopic discectomy is an alternative and safe approach for degenerative disk surgery. Patients and methods Two year retrospective assessments of patients who underwent transforaminal endoscopic discectomy at a tertiary neurosurgical center in the United Kingdom by a single surgeon. Under strict confidentiality, data was collected from online patient data and PACS systems. Patient feedback was achieved using phone call follow up and clinic appointments. Standard statistical analysis was performed. Results 201 patients had endoscopic discectomy and the mean age was 41 years. Male:female ratio was 1.3:1.0. Mean time of onset of symptoms was 5.5 months and the most common level was L4/5 (53%). All endoscopic discectomies were performed under local anesthesia. Theater time was on average 110 min. 10 patients were lost to follow up. 95% of patients were discharged within 7 h post operatively. Visual acuity score of the pain dropped from an average of 7/10 pre-operatively to 0–1/10 in 95% of patients two weeks post operatively. 87% patients went back to their normal daily activities within two weeks. There were no cases of CSF leak, hematoma formation or wound infection. 1% of patients developed a nerve root injury. 6% of patients had recurrent herniation and require microdiscectomy. Conclusion Endoscopic discectomy can be an alternative approach to microdiscectomy. While it can take more expertise to perform endoscopic discectomy, our data shows that the far lateral endoscopic discectomy using the TESSYS technique has comparable outcomes to microdiscectomy.