cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of activin A as a mediator of in vitro endometrial stromal cell decidualization via the cyclic adenosine monophosphate pathway

Abstract Objective To elucidate the regulation and role of activin A in endometrial stromal decidualization. Design In vitro model of human stromal cell decidualization with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) used to evaluate expression of activin A and to evaluate the effect of the addition of follistatin, a known activin inhibitor, on expression of the decidualized phenotype (as measured by levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 [IGFBP-1]). Setting Academic research environment. Patient(s) Four premenopausal, normally cycling subjects (age range: 32–40 years). Intervention(s) Endometrial samples were obtained from the subjects after informed consent was obtained. Endometrial stromal cells were treated with cAMP (decidualizing stimulus) and 50 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, and 200 ng/mL of follistatin for 48 hours. Main outcome measure(s) Levels of IGFBP-1 secreted from cells decidualized in the absence and presence of three different concentrations of follistatin. Result(s) Addition of follistatin, a known binding protein inhibitor of activin A, resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of IGFBP-1 secreted into conditioned medium, with the greatest decrease observed at 4 days of decidualization. Cells treated with cAMP and 50 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, and 200 ng/mL of follistatin demonstrated 67.3%, 58.6%, and 35.5%, respectively, of the IGFBP-1 levels observed with cAMP but without follistatin. Conclusion(s) These data suggest that activin A is a necessary component of the cAMP pathway leading to endometrial stromal decidualization. The role of activin A in regulating endometrial stromal decidualization and its known promotion of the invasive phenotype of the trophoblast suggest unique autocrine and paracrine interactions at the maternal/fetal interface during implantation, which might have important clinical implications for the understanding and treatment of fertility and pregnancy disorders.
Interdisciplinary core curriculum based on engineering systems

This work-in-progress report describes the development aid refinement of a triad of interdisciplinary engineering core courses based on systems analysis. Interdisciplinary courses in lumped and distributed systems, involving primarily electrical and mechanical systems with additional treatment of thermal and fluid systems, have had a long history in Dartmouth's engineering science curriculum. We are an interdisciplinary group of engineering and applied science faculty engaged in a curriculum development project to increase the multidisciplinary span of these courses to include chemical, computer, materials, and biological systems, approached from lumped, distributed and discrete systems viewpoints. This paper describes the challenges we have been experiencing in developing and teaching an introductory, interdisciplinary curriculum of this type, together with the perspectives of some of the Dartmouth students who learn engineering from a broad systems approach.
Basic Biological Sciences Reserpinization: Effects on Parotid Gland Function

Chronic reserpinization of mice and rabbits affected parotid gland function; cholinergic and β-adrenergic-stimulated amylase release were significantly reduced, and cyclic-AMP and cyclic-GMP levels were significantly elevated above control-stimulated levels. Amylase released by dibutyryl-c-AMP was also reduced, suggesting a defect in stimulus-secretion coupling subsequent to c-AMP formation.
Trade, Democracy, and the Size of the Public Sector: The Political Underpinnings of Openness

Politics remains prominently absent in the literature showing that higher levels of trade integration lead to a larger public sector. As openness increases, the state, acting as a social planner, adopts a salient role to minimize the risks of economic integration and secure social peace. Given the highly redistributive nature of both trade and fiscal policies, we claim, however, that the interaction of the international economy and domestic politics leads to three distinct political-economic equilibria. First, nations may embrace protectionist policies to shore up the welfare of key domestic sectorsNwithout engaging, therefore, in substantial public spending. Second, to maintain trade openness in democracies, policymakers develop compensation policies to muster the support of the losers of openness. Finally, given the tax burden of public compensation, pro-free trade sectors may impose an authoritarian regime to exclude (instead of buying off) their opponents. After formally stating the conditions under which each regime emerges, we test the model on a panel data of around sixty-five developing and developed nations in the period 1950Ð1990 and explore its implications through a set of key historical cases drawn from the last two centuries.
The Genetics of Lignin Biosynthesis: Connecting Genotype to Phenotype

The processes underlying lignification, which for many years have been the near-exclusive purview of chemists and biochemists, have more recently been approached using both classical forward genetic screens and targeted reverse genetic approaches such as antisense suppression, RNAi, and characterization of insertional mutants. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of lignin biosynthesis and structure, with emphasis on mutant and transgenic plants that have contributed to this knowledge. We also discuss ongoing work aimed at elucidating the relationship between lignin structure and function in vivo, as well as the phenotypic consequences arising from genetic manipulation of the lignin biosynthetic pathway.
A comparison of prognostic tumor markers obtained on image-guided breast biopsies and final surgical specimens.

Abstract Background: This study was initiated to determine whether tumor markers obtained on image-guided breast biopsy specimens provide accurate prognostic information for women with invasive breast cancer. Methods: Prognostic tumor markers on preoperative image-guided biopsy and final surgical specimens were compared in 44 patients with invasive breast cancer. Results: Progesterone receptor (PR) discordance was 18%. In 87% of PR discordant cases, the image-guided biopsy was positive and the final specimen was negative ( P = 0.03). Tumor grade was discordant in 36% of patients Discordance for estrogen receptor (ER) = 2%; MIB-1 = 18%; Her2/neu = 9%; EGFR=10%; p53=9%; and bcl-2 = 0%. The discordance for these markers was random and did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: Image-guided core needle biopsies provide reliable information for the majority of prognostic tumor makers. A positive progesterone receptor is significantly more likely to be determined by core biopsy rather than the final surgical specimen. Tumor grade should be based upon the final surgical specimen whenever possible.
Heritability of Intramammary Infections at First Parturition and Relationships with Sire Transmitting Abilities for Somatic Cell Score, Udder Type Traits, Productive Life, and Protein Yield

The objective of this study was to determine the relationships among daughter intramammary infections at first parturition and sire transmitting abilities for somatic cell score, udder type traits, productive life, and protein yield. Quarter milk samples from 958 daughters (in eight Pennsylvania herds and one Nebraska herd) of 182 Holstein sires were collected within a few days of first calving and cultured to determine intramammary infection status. A total of 446 cows had intramammary infections in 835 quarters at first parturition. Incidence of intramammary infections at first parturition and the proportion of quarters infected per cow were regressed on age at first calving, days in milk at sample collection, herd-season of calving (a classification variable), and sire transmitting abilities taken one at a time. Linear effects, non-linear effects, and odds ratios were estimated for sire transmitting abilities. Separate, preplanned analyses were conducted on data from one herd that gave all heifers an intramammary antibiotic infusion in each quarter 30 d prior to the expected calving date. Separate analyses were also conducted on dependent variables that considered intramammary infections at first parturition from: all organisms, coagulase-negative staphylococci, coliform species, streptococci other than Streptococcus agalactiae, and the most common environmental organisms (coliform species and streptococci other than Streptococcus agalactiae). Daughters of sires that transmit the lowest somatic cell score had the fewest intramammary infections at first parturition. Daughters of sires that transmit longer productive life, shorter teats, and closely spaced front teats had fewer intramammary infections at first parturition. Selection for lower somatic cell score, longer productive life, shorter teats, or closely spaced front teats may reduce the incidence of intramammary infections at first parturition.
Energy Intake and Response to Infection with Influenza

Influenza is a worldwide public health concern, particularly with emerging new strains of influenza to which vaccines are ineffective, limited, or unavailable. In addition, the relationship between adequate nutrition and immune function has been repeatedly demonstrated. Mouse models provide strong evidence that energy extremes, including energy restriction (ER) and diet-induced obesity (DIO), have deleterious effects on the immune response to influenza infection. Both ER and DIO mice demonstrate increased susceptibility and mortality to influenza infection. The effects of ER are more pronounced during innate responses to influenza infection, whereas the effects of DIO are evidenced during innate and adaptive responses to both primary and secondary infection. There are striking similarities between ER and DIO during influenza infection, including impaired natural killer cell function and altered inflammation. Future studies must develop effective nutritional paradigms to offset the effects of these energy extremes on the immune response to an acute infection.
Muscle fatty acid composition and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances of broilers fed different cultivars of sorghum

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the production parameters, muscle fatty acid composition, and lipid stability of birds fed four different cultivars of sorghum. Experiment 1 used ruby red and valpo red, and Experiment 2 used kinsman and mason cultivars of sorghum. The basal diet was a corn, soy, and flax meal, and sorghum cultivars were substituted at 10 or 5% in Experiments 1 and 2. No significant difference was observed for BW, feed consumption or feed efficiency (P > 0.05). The total lipids were reduced (P < 0.05) in the leg muscle of broilers fed the mason cultivar. The TBA-reactive substances (TBARS) were lower (P < 0.05) in the leg muscle of birds fed the mason cultivar when compared to kinsman or control diet. The content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were higher (P < 0.05) in the breast and leg muscles of birds fed ruby red, kinsman, and mason cultivars of sorghum.
Intraoperative Hemolysis: The Initial Manifestation of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency

Unexpected intraoperative hemolysis suggestive of a hemolytic transfusion reaction was the initial clinical manifestation of Mediterranean type glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency in a 50-year-old Indian man. There was no evidence for immune mediated hemolysis since no unexpected RBC antibodies were found, and results of the direct antiglobulin test remained negative. Analysis of preoperative blood specimens demonstrated complete absence of G-6-PD activity. No etiologic agent clearly associated with G-6-PD hemolysis could be identified. Testing for G-6-PD deficiency should be considered when unexpected hemolysis occurs intraoperatively. ( Arch Intern Med 140:845-846, 1980)
Thiolation Controls Cytoplasmic tRNA Stability and Acts as a Negative Determinant for tRNA Editing in Mitochondria

Kinetoplastids encode a single nuclear tryptophanyl tRNA that contains a CCA anticodon able to decode the UGG codons used in cytoplasmic protein synthesis but cannot decode the mitochondrial UGA codons. Following mitochondrial import, this problem is circumvented in Trypanosoma brucei by specifically editing the tRNATrp anticodon to UCA, which can now decode the predominant mitochondrial UGA tryptophan codons. This tRNA also undergoes an unusual thiolation at position 33 of the anticodon loop, the only known modification at U33 in any tRNA. In other organisms, tRNA thiolation is mediated by the cysteine desulfurase, Nfs1 (IscS). However, T. brucei encodes two Nfs homologues, one cytoplasmic and the other mitochondrial. We show by a combination of RNA interference and Northern and Western analyses that the mitochondria-targeted TbNfs, and not TbNfs-like protein, is essential for thiolation of both cytosolic and mitochondrial tRNAs. Given the exclusive mitochondrial localization of TbNfs, how it mediates thiolation in the cytoplasm remains unclear. Furthermore, thiolation specifically affects thiolated tRNA stability in the cytoplasm but more surprisingly acts as a negative determinant for the essential C to U editing in T. brucei. This provides a first line of evidence for mitochondrial C to U editing regulation in this system.
On r.e. and co-r.e. vector spaces with nonextendible bases

The concern of this paper is with recursively enumerable and co-recursively enumerable subspaces of a recursively presented vector space VOO over a (finite or infinite) recursive field F which is defined in [6] to consist of a recursive subset U of the natural numbers N and operations of vector addition and scalar multiplication which are partial recursive and under which V. becomes a vector space. Throughout this paper, we will identify V. with N, say via some fixed Gddel numbering, and assume VO. is infinite dimensional and has a dependence algorithm, i.e., there is a uniform effective procedure which determines whether or not any given n-tuple Vo ...IVv,-, from V., is linearly dependent. Various properties of V. and its subspaces have been studied by Dekker [1], Guhl [3], Metakides and Nerode [6], Kalantari and Retzlaff [4], and the author [7]. Given a subspace W of V., we say W is r.e. (co-r.e.) if W( V. W) is an r.e. subset of N and write dim(V) for the dimension of V. Given subspaces V, Wof V., V + W will denote the weak sum of V and W and if V n M = {0} (where 0 is the zero vector of V.), we write V G W instead of V + W. If W : V, we write W mod V for the quotient space. An independent set A c V_ is extendible if there is an r.e. independent set I :DA such that I A is infinite and A is nonextendible if it is not the case An is extendible. A r.e. subspace Mc V. is maximal if dim(V. mod M) = 0 and for any r.e. subspace W M either dim(W mod M) < xo or dim(V. mod W) < co. The first constructions of maximal subspaces are found in [6] where it is shown there are maximal subspaces with extendible bases and there are maximal subspaces with no extendible basis. Kalantari and Retzlaff [4] introduced a stronger notion than a maximal subspace saying an r.e. subspace W of V,, is super-maximal if for any r.e. subspace W M either dim(W mod M) < oo or W = V.. They constructed a super-maximal subspace and showed that there are subspaces which are maximal but not super-maximal thus providing examples of maximal subspaces with different automorphism types with respect to Y(VO.), the lattice of r.e. subspaces of V. under intersection and weak sum. In ?2, we show that the construction of [4] may be modified to produce super-maximal subspaces in every nonzero r.e. degree which contrasts a result of Martin [5] that an r.e. degree a is a degree of a maximal set iff a is high. (See ?0 for the definitions of maximal set and high degree.) Also, in ?2, we show that there are co-r.e. subspaces V1 and V2 of V,, such that (i) there are r.e. subspaces M1 and W1 such that W1 G V1 = V. = Ml @ V1 and M1 is super-maximal and W1 is not maximal and (ii) there are r.e. subspaces M2 and W2 such that W2 @ V2 = V. = M2 3 V2 and M2 is super-maximal and
CD4+ T cells in the pathogenesis of murine ocular toxoplasmosis.

The role of CD4+ T cells in the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis was investigated in murine models utilizing inbred C57BL/6 mice deficient either in CD4+, CD8+, or B cells (μMT). Severe necrosis and inflammation with replicating parasites were observed in the eyes of control mice after primary ocular infection, and near-normal histology with few tachyzoites was observed in the eyes of mice immunized intraperitoneally with the avirulent ts-4 strain followed by intraocular challenge with the RH strain of Toxoplasma gondii. In contrast, mild inflammation without evidence of necrosis associated with increased parasite burdens were observed in the eyes of CD4 knockout (KO) mice after both primary ocular infection and challenge with RH tachyzoites. CD8 KO mice, as well as μMT mice, demonstrated increased ocular necrosis in response to either primary ocular infection or challenge. The parasite burden was increased in the eyes of both CD8 KO and μMT mice in which the parasite load was even higher. As expected, there were no increases in the levels of immunoglobulin G in serum or aqueous humor in μMT mice, and there was no increase in the levels of gamma interferon and tumor necrosis factor alpha in the sera of CD4 KO mice after both infection and challenge. These results suggest that the ocular inflammatory response to the parasite is mediated primarily by the CD4+-T-cell response. CD8+ T cells and B cells may play an important role in limiting tachyzoite proliferation in the eyes. Mice deficient in CD8+ CD4+ T cells or B cells exhibit diminished vaccine-induced resistance and increased ocular parasite burden after challenge.
Student Use of Technology in Class: Engaged or Unplugged?.

In recent years, there has been a great deal of discussion about the need for student engagement and a meaningful connection in the classroom. With the advent of cell phones, computers and the Internet, students are more connected to, and, at the same time, more disconnected from each other than ever before. We are living in the age of exponential change and technological convergence where forms of technology speak to each other. The omnipresent cell phone is a mini-computer and according to futurist Ray Kurzweil, “What now fits in your pocket 25 years from now will fit into a blood cell and will again be millions of times more cost effective.” (Greene, 2010) A survey of 211 undergraduates was conducted in an effort to determine whether student use of technology in the classroom enhances engagement or encourages disconnection. The results are discussed and suggestions are proposed.
Branch-and-bound strategies for dynamic programming

This paper shows how branch-and-bound methods can be used to reduce storage and, possibly, computational requirements in discrete dynamic programs. Relaxations and fathoming criteria are used to identify and to eliminate states whose corresponding subpolicies could not lead to optimal policies. The general dynamic programming/branch-and-bound approach is applied to the traveling-salesman problem and the nonlinear knapsack problem. Our computational experience demonstrates that the hybrid approach yields dramatic savings in both computer storage and computational requirements.
A Four-Year Longitudinal Investigation of the Social Skills and Behavior Problems of Students with Learning Disabilities

This longitudinal, prospective study investigated the social skills and behavior problems of three groups of students (10 students per group) from kindergarten through third grade: learning disabilities (LD), low achievement (LA), and average/high achievement (A/HA). Social skills and behavior problem rating scales were completed by teachers on all students during kindergarten through third grade. Students in the LD and LA group exhibited significantly lower social skills and higher levels of behavior problems than their A/HA peers, but no significant differences for either measure were found between the LD and LA groups. Scores on the cooperating/responding factor of the social skills rating scale increased over time, but scores on the outgoing/initiating factor of the social skills rating scale did not change significantly over time. Discussion focused on the finding that students in the LD and LA groups did not differ significantly on social skills or behavior problems over time, though both groups dem...
Genetic and molecular characterization of capsular polysaccharide biosynthesis in Streptococcus pneumoniae type 3

To achieve a better understanding of the genetics of capsular polysaccharide synthesis in Streptococcus pneumoniae, we have identified and characterized mutants deficient in type 3 capsule production. We identified a clone that restored encapsulation in one of our mutants and in a mutant deficient in UDP-glucose dehydrogenase. By hybridization, we developed a chromosomal map of the type 3-specific region and identified a flanking region containing DNA common to all capsule types examined. Insertion mutations were used to identify chromosomal loci required for capsule synthesis, and to map transcription within the region. Using non-destructive insertions linked to type-specific genes of type 2, 3, or 5, we were able to select for the transformation of all necessary genes specific for capsule type. Our data provide molecular evidence to show that all the type-specific genes are linked in a cassette and can be transferred as a unit during transformation.
Langmuir slip-Langmuir sorption permeability model of shale

Abstract Darcy law has been widely used in high permeability formations; however, it fails to realistically describe different flow processes other than the viscous flow. Several permeability models have been developed to describe gas flow in shale nanopores due to various processes, and relevant processes other than viscous flow include Knudsen diffusion, slip flow and desorption. To include these processes, all the current models need some empirical coefficients which are not easily available for shale formations. We propose a permeability model that – (1) does away with the shortcomings of Maxwell slip condition, (2) uses readily available Langmuir sorption data to determine slip coefficient for gas flow, and (3) includes the higher-order slip effects on gas flow. This model also includes the effect of pore enlargement due to pressure-depletion sorption. Our model, represented by a single analytical equation depends only on pore size, pressure, and Langmuir sorption isotherm data of shale sample. We validated our model using a set of in-house detailed experimental data on Eagle Ford shale samples and also using data from the literature on shale gas permeability versus pore pressure measurements for helium and methane. We also used our model to calculate gas production from a well-reservoir system and compared the results with previously developed models. Our model also predicts the onset and the contribution of sorption to gas production from a shale well.
Out of the Ivory Tower: Does Education Connect to the Clinical Experience?

Date Presented 4/16/2015 Students’ perceptions of academic preparation and fieldwork indicate a clear disconnect that can lead to student frustration. Teachers and clinicians need to work together to support Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) Standard C.1.1 and to provide fieldwork that is in sync with classroom education and that enhances student outcomes. This study sought to determine the connection between students’ perceptions of occupational therapy academic preparation and clinical experiences, particularly Level I experiences.
Revival of BASIC Programs.

BASIC programs can be re-written into Macros of Lotus 1-2-3Tm. This methodology may enable us to revive a lot of useful existing programs with minimum effort. The outline of the procedure is described.
A Hybrid CFD-Mathematical Model for Simulation of a MEMS Loop Heat Pipe

A Hybrid CFD-Mathematical (HyCoM) model was developed to predict the performance of a Micro Loop Heat Pipe (MLHP) as a function of input heat rate. A micro loop heat pipe is a passive two-phase heat transport device, consisting of microevaporator, microcondenser, micro-compensation chamber (CC), and liquid and vapor lines. A CFD model was incorporated into a loop solver code to identify heat leak to the CC. Two-phase pressure drop in the condenser was calculated by several two phase correlations and results were compared [2]. Capillary tube correlations [3] were used for pressure drop calculations in fluid lines. Effects of working fluid and change in geometry were studied. For a heat transport distance of 10 mm, the base model MLHP was 50mm long, 16mm wide and 1mm thick. In the base model, widths of the grooves, liquid and vapor lines, evaporator, and condenser were 55μm, 200μm, 750μm, 2mm, and 4mm respectively.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Tissue requirements in lung cancer diagnosis for tumor heterogeneity, mutational analysis and targeted therapies: initial experience with intra-operative Frozen Section Evaluation (FROSE) in bronchoscopic biopsies

Background: Recent advances in lung cancer treatment have changed the requirement for the amount and quality of biopsy specimens needed to characterize the tumor and select the best treatment. One adjunct to guide the bronchoscopist on the quality and quantity of specimens during bronchoscopic biopsies for the diagnosis of lung cancer is rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) of cytological specimens. This technique has been shown to add to the diagnostic yield of bronchoscopy when obtaining adequate specimens for molecular profiling in lung cancer. ROSE is not available at all medical centers. We describe our initial experience using intra-procedural Frozen Section Evaluation (FROSE) of bronchoscopic biopsy specimens as an alternative to ROSE. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all interventional pulmonology cases using FROSE between February and July 2015 was performed. Results analyzed to evaluate the success in obtaining adequate specimens for molecular profiling. Results: A total of 88 interventional pulmonology cases employing a frozen section in at least one site were identified. In 94.3% of cases, a definitive diagnosis of benign or malignant was made. The concordance of frozen section diagnoses of benign or malignant was 100% with final diagnoses. Thirteen of the eighty-eight cases were ultimately sent for molecular analysis. Of these, twelve of thirteen (92.3%) cases were adequate to perform all ordered molecular testing. In all cases there was sufficient tissue to perform EGFR and ALK testing. Conclusions: In medical centers where ROSE may not be available, the use of FROSE by the local pathologist can be an effective technique to obtain adequate tissue and cytological samples for the diagnosis and molecular profiling of lung cancers. Further prospective study in bronchoscopic tissue sampling techniques to obtain the optimum quantity and quality of samples for molecular profiling of lung cancers for targeted treatments is needed.
Mapping Perinatal Nursing Process Measurement Concepts to Standard Terminologies

The use of standard terminologies is an essential component for using data to inform practice and conduct research; perinatal nursing data standardization is needed. This study explored whether 76 distinct process elements important for perinatal nursing were present in four American Nurses Association-recognized standard terminologies. The 76 process elements were taken from a valid paper-based perinatal nursing process measurement tool. Using terminology-supported browsers, the elements were manually mapped to the selected terminologies by the researcher. A five-member expert panel validated 100% of the mapping findings. The majority of the process elements (n = 63, 83%) were present in SNOMED-CT, 28% (n = 21) in LOINC, 34% (n = 26) in ICNP, and 15% (n = 11) in CCC. SNOMED-CT and LOINC are terminologies currently recommended for use to facilitate interoperability in the capture of assessment and problem data in certified electronic medical records. Study results suggest that SNOMED-CT and LOINC contain perinatal nursing process elements and are useful standard terminologies to support perinatal nursing practice in electronic health records. Terminology mapping is the first step toward incorporating traditional paper-based tools into electronic systems.
Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis with Catatonia Treated by Plasmapheresis

The case of a 12-year-old girl with anti-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is reported by researchers from Augsburg and Bonn, Germany, and Oxford, UK.
The analysis of outbreaks of mumps of epidemiology of two primary schools of Shenzhen

Objective To provide the scientific basis for setting scientific, effective prevention and control strategy by analyzing feature and difference of outbreaks of mumps of epidemiology of two primary schools of Shenzhen. Methods Two certain primary schools of Dapeng New District of Shenzhen city broke out mumps from May 2013 to July 2013, the whole school was selected as the research objects, and respectively school A( 24 classes, 1210 cases of students) and school B(27 classes, 1274 cases of students), the difference of epidemiology of two primary schools was compared. Results The analysis found out the incidence of mumps of school A was 4.30%,the portion of infectious cases of classes was 54.17%, they were all higher than 1.73% and 29.63% of School B, there was significant difference(P 0.05);The analysis showed the students of school A occurred the disease whose average ages were age(11.2±1.1), school B age(9.34±1.0), the difference had statistical significance(P 0.05);The difference of comparison of children with the disease on the vaccination rate was not significant(P 0.05).But the occurrence of epidemic situation, vaccine emergency vaccination rate of school B was significant higher than that of school A, the difference had statistical significance(P 0.05). Conclusion Primary school was one of the main places of mumps outbreak, before the outbreak of epidemic situation of peak season, for susceptible population, the corresponding vaccination inoculation is given prevention and control measures, at the same time, the monitoring of mumps is strengthened, it can reduce the amount of people who are infected, it has positive significance to reduce and contain outbreak of epidemic situation, it is worth valuing by the relevant prevention and control department.
People’s Park again: on the end and ends of public space:

This paper uses three recent struggles over public space in California’s East Bay (Berkeley and Oakland) to critically interrogate the ‘end of public space’ thesis. Developing a historical analysis...
Study on oral health related quality of life and psychological problems of BMS patients

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral health-related quality of life(OHRQoL) and the psychological burden of disease on BMS patients.Methods The 43 outpatients suffered from Burning Mouth Syndrome(January 2009 to November 2010) coming to the Department of Stomatology of the Fifth People's Hospital of Shenzhen were asked to complete oral health-specific questionnaires(Chinese version of Oral Health Impact Profile,OHIP-14),Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS),and sociodemographic was collected.Results A median value of 11.20 were observed for general patients subjects,while BMS patients has a median value of 21.25.BMS patients were significantly suffered in the domain of psychological discomfort,psychological disability,physical pain,functions limitation.A relationship between OHRQoL and Burning Mouth Syndrome was observed(rs=0.265,rs=0.271).Conclusion Administration of specific questionnaires provides a detailed picture of the impact of BMS on patients,which adds information that may be useful in clinical practice.
Inhibition of tyrosine phenol‑lyase by tyrosine homologues

We have designed, synthesized, and evaluated tyrosine homologues and their O-methyl derivatives as potential inhibitors for tyrosine phenol lyase (TPL, E.C. 4.1.99.2). Recently, we reported that homologues of tryptophan are potent inhibitors of tryptophan indole-lyase (tryptophanase, TIL, E.C. 4.1.99.1), with K i values in the low µM range (Do et al. Arch Biochem Biophys 560:20-26, 2014). As the structure and mechanism for TPL is very similar to that of TIL, we postulated that tyrosine homologues could also be potent inhibitors of TPL. However, we have found that homotyrosine, bishomotyrosine, and their corresponding O-methyl derivatives are competitive inhibitors of TPL, which exhibit K i values in the range of 0.8-1.5 mM. Thus, these compounds are not potent inhibitors, but instead bind with affinities similar to common amino acids, such as phenylalanine or methionine. Pre-steady-state kinetic data were very similar for all compounds tested and demonstrated the formation of an equilibrating mixture of aldimine and quinonoid intermediates upon binding. Interestingly, we also observed a blue-shift for the absorbance peak of external aldimine complexes of all tyrosine homologues, suggesting possible strain at the active site due to accommodating the elongated side chains.
Nothing Changes—It All Remains the Same: Modern Capital Punishment (Human Sacrifice by a Different Name)

The author takes a critical look at the question, "Is capital punishment a good or bad idea?" Beginning with the premise of an unquestioned, infallible executioner working within a culture whose morality allows for the execution of other human beings, the author ignores the tangent questions of the morality of the death penalty and the possibility of convicting and executing the innocent. This article traverses the historical precedence of public executions and ritual sacrifices in ancient Roman, Mayan, Christian, Aztec, and European societies, as well as within the Catholic Church. In showing the similarities between ritualistic sacrifices and the ritual of capital punishment, it becomes clear that only the definition of the protected class has changed throughout history. Resultantly, capital punishment still primarily affects the poor and powerless. The author concludes that it has always been society's political or religious leadership which has defined its morality, thereby providing the framework under which the execution of human beings is not only tolerated, but found to be perfectly reasonable and moral by the masses.
Institutional evolution of Missouri river management

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America and flows from the semi-arid western states to the relatively moist Midwest. An integrated system of large reservoirs, constructed in the mid-20th century, provides important water storage, hydroelectricity and flood control benefits. This system has been managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers which has traditionally followed its original mandate to support navigation and flood control. As water uses and societal values have evolved, the management of the river has slowly evolved. And the Army Corps of Engineers has adopted adaptive management to incorporate biological uncertainties into its decision-making. Other evolution, including the incorporation of economic incentives into water management, has failed to occur.
On Demand and Relevance: Transnational American Studies in the Middle East and North Africa

‘Anniversary’ is both an awkward and an inevitable term to use when marking the time that has passed since the January 25 Revolution in Egypt, which began five years ago in 2011. As we write, many ...
Charles Darwin and ideology: Rethinking the Darwinian revolution

This short paper critiques the idea of any coherent Darwinian ideology. Charles Darwin himself did not adopt any obvious ideology, except perhaps that of anti-slavery. However, his published work, and that of other evolutionists, led to the emergence of social Darwinism. Herbert Spencer’s role in fostering social Darwinism, and the rise of eugenics, are briefly described. The connection, if any, between the historical figure of Darwin and the social movement that bears his name is discussed. While Darwin’s On the origin of species or The descent of man can hardly account for all the racial stereotyping, nationalism, or political bigotry seen in the half century after his death, there can be no denying the impact of his work in providing an authoritative biological backing for eugenics, colonial belligerence, and western notions of racial superiority.
Quantitation of Acetaldehyde-DNA Adducts: Biomarkers of Alcohol Consumption

DNA adduct measurements provide valuable information about DNA damage associated with exposure to specifi c genotoxicants. N 2 -Ethylidene-dGuo, the major DNA adduct formed upon reaction of acetaldehyde with DNA, has been used to investigate mechanisms of alcohol carcinogenesis focusing on the effects of acetaldehyde, the primary metabolite of ethanol. N 2 -Ethylidene-dGuo is stable in DNA, but it easily degrades when released as a nucleoside. A liquid-chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry-selected reaction monitoring (LC-ESI-MS/MS-SRM) method for the analysis of N 2 -Ethylidene-dGuo as its reduced form N 2 -ethyl-dGuo has been developed. This assay is based on addition of the reducing agent NaBH 3 CN to the DNA before hydrolysis and on the use of a 15 N-labeled analog of N 2 -ethyl-dGuo as an internal standard. The addition of the reducing agent and internal standard are followed by enzymatic hydrolysis and sample purifi cation and enrichment. This chapter provides detailed step-by-step information on the analysis of N 2 -ethyl-dGuo in DNA by LC-ESI-MS/MS-SRM. The protocol described easily can be applied to DNA isolated from different tissues and cell types and on DNA amounts as low as 5–10 μg.
Is frailty a relevant concept in SLE

Objective In geriatric populations, frailty is associated with poor health outcomes, including mortality. Frailty has not been examined in lupus, although components of the phenotype seem relevant. Methods Women with lupus (n=152) participated in research visits in 2008–2009. Frailty was assessed by Fried9s frailty phenotype criteria: low weight/unintentional weight loss, slow gait (4-m walk using sex and height criteria), weakness (grip strength using gender and body mass index criteria), exhaustion (2 specific questions) and inactivity (from physical activity questionnaire). Women accumulating 3+ components were classified as ‘frail’, one or two components as ‘prefrail’, and none as ‘robust’. Physical function (36-item Short Form (SF-36) Physical Functioning subscale and Valued Life Activities disability scale), cognitive function (from a 12-test battery) and mortality were examined as outcomes. Mortality was determined as of December 2015. Multiple regression analyses examined concurrent and 2-year function controlling for age, lupus duration, race/ethnicity, glucocorticoid use, obesity, self-reported disease activity and damage and, for longitudinal analyses, baseline function. Mortality analyses controlled for age, lupus duration and baseline disease damage scores. Results Mean age was 48 (±12) years, mean lupus duration was 16 (±9) years. 20% of the sample was classified as frail and 50% as prefrail. Frail women had significantly worse physical functioning than both robust and prefrail women and were more likely to have cognitive impairment. Frail women were also more likely to experience declines in functioning and onset of cognitive impairment. Mortality rates were significantly higher in the frail group (frail 19.4%; prefrail 3.9%; robust 2.3%). Odds (95% CI) of death for frail women were elevated, even after adjusting for age, lupus duration and baseline disease damage (5.9 (0.6 to 57.1)). Conclusions Prevalence of frailty in this sample of women with lupus was higher than in samples of older adults. Frailty was associated with poor physical and cognitive function, functional declines and mortality.
Assessing Carcinogenic Risk Resulting from Complex Mixtures

The evaluation of carcinogenic risks from complex mixtures, in contrast to pure substances, adds a dimension of uncertainty to a situation already frought with uncertainties and complexities.s. The uncertainties of evaluating complex mixtures are likely to be lost in the overall uncertainties of the risk assessment process. There is considerable controversy about the risk assessment of carcinogenic substances these days. Some liken the assessment of carcinogenic risks to the theater, in that a willing suspension of disbelief is required. To others, like myself, the assessment of carcinogenic risks reflects Mark Twain’s definition of work: “It is something which a body is obliged to do.” I believe that the risk assessment of carcinogens is something that one is obliged to do in a regulatory setting in order to make regulatory judgements in as rational a manner as possible. The responsibility of those doing the risk assessment is to make the most sensible use of current science, paying proper regard to cautioning those who are making the decisions about the uncertainties in the process.
A Multisclae Probabilisitc Framework to Model Early Steps in Tumor Metastasis

Tumor metastasis is the leading cause of nearly all cancer related deaths. While several experimental and computational studies have addressed individual stages of the complex metastasis process, a comprehensive systems- biology model that links various stages of metas- tasis has not been put forth as of yet. In this pa- per we discuss the formulation and application of such a model that utilizes basic principles of cell biology, physics and mechanics to study the mi- gratory patterns of tumor cells as they move from the parent tumor site to the connective tissue via the basement membrane. The model is first of its kind in capturing the essential early features of metastasis in a single simulation and shows good agreement with recent experimental studies.
Reducing Obesity by Taxing Soft Drinks: Tax Salience and Firms’ Strategic Responses:

Abstract In the fight against obesity governments have pursued various policies to increase soda prices in the hope of discouraging consumption. Previous studies examining the efficacy of taxing sodas have generalized sales taxes to other taxes and assumed that imposing a tax is as salient as imposing a direct price hike. In this research, the authors recognize that most consumers do not pay much attention to how taxes differ in application. As such, the authors disassociate effects of sales taxes on soda demand from direct price increases, estimate pass-through rates of excise taxes in the soda market, and compare the efficacy of the two taxes at three tax levels. They find that, for all three tax levels, imposing an excise tax on sodas drives much steeper declines in the overall demand than a sales tax does. The findings suggest that failing to distinguish between tax types leads to a biased estimation of tax effects on reducing soda consumption. This research provides important implications to help pol...
General Conclusion. Commentary on Part II: Processing Modalities and Development of Expertise in Writing

The chapters in Part II address interwoven questions regarding the control of writing processes, their use of Working Memory resources and changes in writing processes with growing expertise. All these questions about writing have been raised in the broader context of Working Memory theories and expertise and my objective here is explicitly link the two endeavors. There are important insights to be gained in our understanding of writing by looking at the points of consensus and contrast among Working Memory theories (Miyake and Shah, 1999). At the same time, there are also useful additions to be made to the broader debates from what we now know about writing, a highly complex example of cognitive control and expertise.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of cis-methyl-phencyclidine (CIS-MPCP) as a potential antagonist of phencyclidine (PCP).

Abstract In four preparations/tests (isolated nerve, venticular strip, rotarod, and mouse acute lethality), cis-N-phenyl-4-methylcyclohexyl piperidine (cis-MPCP) was consistently less active than PCP and trans-MPCP. As expected, cis-MPCP, at 10 −4 M, which did not depress the action potential evoked on frog sciatic nerves, reduced by half both the nerve block and prolongation of relative refractory period caused by PCP. However, cis-MPCP at 10 −6 M, which by itself had little effect, failed to reduce the positive inotropic effect of PCP on the field-stimulated rat ventricular strip. Cis-MPCP also failed to decrease the ataxic effect of 6 mg/kg PCP (ED80) in the mouse rotarod test. Finally, at a dose that was neither ataxic nor lethal to mice (20 mg/kg), cis-MPCP failed to reduce the 24-hour LD 50 of PCP. These data suggest that the actions of PCP are mediated through a multiple receptor system.
Postnatal Development of the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus Under Normal and Experimental Conditions

Recent studies using [3H] thymidine autoradiography produced convincing evidence that in the development of a particular brain region the small, short-axoned cells come into existence after the larger long-axoned cells. Indeed, in an altricial rodent, the rat, the granular nerve cells of the olfactory bulb, hippocampus, cerebellum, and cochlear nucleus are formed exclusively or predominantly after birth (Altman and Das, 1965a). There are indications that these short-axoned neurons (microneurons) arise from late-forming secondary germinal matrices (like the subependymal layer of the forebrain ventricles and the external germinal layer of the cerebellar cortex), in contrast to the long-axoned neurons (macroneurons) which originate from the periventricular primary matrix, the neuroepithelium (Altman, 1969). We do not as yet have an adequate explanation of the delayed formation of microneurons but the importance of these elements in the maturation of brain functions is indicated by behavioral studies. For instance, interference with the postnatal acquisition of cerebellar granule cells by experimental means produces behavioral deficits comparable to those seen after decerebellation (Wallace and Altman, 1969a,b; Altman et al., 1971; Brunner and Altman, 1973).
Management and Analysis of Large Scientific Datasets

The method of empirical eigenfunctions Karhunen-Loeve procedure is developed within a framework suitable for dealing with large scientific datasets. It is shown that this furnishes an intrinsic representation of any given database which is always, in a well-defined mathematical sense, the optimal description. The methodology is illustrated by a variety of examples, arising out of current research and taken from pattern recognition, turbulent flow, physiology, and oceanographic flow. In each instance examples of the empirical eigenfunctions are presented.
Matei David: Improving Noam Nisan’s Generator

A pseudorandom generator famously designed by Noam Nisan underlies many results and problems about low space-bounded complexity classes. Matei David and two co-authors recently proved a promising extension of the generator, enabling one to analyze multi-pass computations in these classes.
Bacterial Infectious Disease Threat

Human disease resulting from bacterial infection is a lottery. Outbreaks can spread though like wildfire through the global human population. Global bacterial diseases including syphilis and tuberculosis have been the drivers of modern medicine from drug discovery to objective clinical trials. Bacteria can create modular genetic segments in plasmids and exploit bacteriophage in transfer of genome segments among bacteria to enable resilience. Bacteria are also able to transfer genetic material with eukaryotes including humans through a process of horizontal gene transfer. We live in an age of effective antibacterial drugs in an effort to control infection and improve survival. Recent appreciation of bacteria living in our bodies, the microbiome, illuminates complex metabolome interactions with the human host. The microbiome and the accompanying metabolites can manipulate human resilience.