cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the low birthweight paradox using sibling data with implications for the classification of low birthweight.

Background We examined the birthweight threshold for increased odds of neonatal death among second births based on their elder sibling's birthweight category. Methods This population-based cohort study included 190 575 women who delivered their first two non-anomalous singleton live births in Missouri (1989-2005). We examined the birthweight distribution and neonatal mortality curves of second births whose elder sibling had low versus adequate/high birthweight. We determined the optimal cut-off point for the classification of low birthweight among infants in each group based on the Youden index. Results Infants whose elder sibling had low birthweight had a lower mean birthweight and a higher percentage of low birthweight infants versus those whose elder sibling had adequate/high birthweight, but low birthweight infants in the former group had a lower rate of neonatal mortality. Upon standardizing the birthweight distribution to a Z-scale, neonatal mortality rates became comparable between the two groups at every rescaled birthweight for Z-scores ≥-3.7. The optimal cut-off point for low birthweight was 2500 and 3000 g among infants whose elder sibling had low and adequate/high birthweight, respectively. Conclusions Using sibling data for the classification of LBW may enable the identification of average-sized infants who may be at increased risk of neonatal mortality.
Metal Transport in Ore Fluids by Organic Ligand Complexation

The association of organic matter with ore minerals, gangue, and host rock in many low- to moderate-temperature ore deposits has been known for many years. As a reductant or oxidant, organic matter may function as an active ore-forming agent up to magmatic temperatures, however, most other roles for organic matter, including metal complexation, are limited to less than about 200 °C.
Kinetics of the reaction O + ClO yields Cl + O2

The kinetics of the reaction O + ClO yields Cl + O2 (k1) were studied by using resonance fluorescence to monitor the decay of O atoms which had been generated from the laser photolysis of ClO. A discharge flow system was used to generate the ClO and its concentration was measured directly by multipass absorption spectrometry. The results are k1(298) = (4.2 + or -0.8) x 10 to the -11th cu cm/s (including systematic errors) with E/R determined to lie in the range + or - 200 K. The literature data are reviewed and a composite value of k1(T) = 6.0 x 10 to the -11th exp-(100/T) is recommended for stratospheric modeling calculations. The atmospheric implications of the revised rate constant are discussed briefly.
Drug Abuse: Predisposition and Vulnerability

The only drug for which a genetic predisposition has substantial scientific support is alcohol. The twin studies done in Scandanavia and the United States convince most investigators that certain alcoholics possess a trait that makes them more susceptible to overdrinking. Whether this is a psychological or a physiological burden is unclear.
Interval cryotherapy decreases fatigue during repeated weight lifting.

Abstract Objective: To investigate the effect of icing the arm and shoulder between weight-pulling sets on work, velocity, and power. Design and Setting: I used a 1 × 2 factorial, random, counterbalanced design in which each participant pulled 75‰ of his 1-repetition maximum on 2 separate days. The individuals pulled the weight 22 times for each set as fast as possible, then either iced (cryotherapy) or placed towels over their arms and shoulders for 3 minutes, and then rested 4.5 minutes at room temperature. The sets continued until the participants could not complete 22 pulls without stopping. Subjects: Ten male members of a private athletic club, who weight lift on a regular basis, volunteered to participate in the study. Measurements: Work was determined by the number of arm-pull sets completed before fatigue, velocity was measured by the time to complete each set, and power was determined by dividing work by velocity. Velocity and power were analyzed in 3 ways: first to fourth sets (88 pulls), matched sets (167.2 pulls), and all sets (191.4 cryotherapy and 167.2 towel pulls), using analysis of covariance with the base set as the covariate. Results: Cryotherapy between sets resulted in a significantly greater number of total joules and arm pulls when compared with the towel treatment. Velocity was significantly faster for the first to fourth sets, matched sets, and all sets when subjects received intermittent cryotherapy. Power also was significantly higher for the first to fourth sets and matched sets. The all-sets comparison consisted of 14.5‰ more cryotherapy arm pulls. Conclusions: Interval cryotherapy between weight-pulling sets is associated with increased work, velocity, and power.
Anger, Silence, and Secrecy

Silence, or perhaps more accurately, secrecy, is an integral part of any addiction. The very complex issues and emotions on “either side” of the tobacco issue unfortunately often disintegrate into a volatile, angry discussion of rights and choice, discourses that do not take into account the intricacies of the issues at hand.
Transitive properties: a spatial econometric analysis of new business creation around transit

This paper evaluates the relationship between transit station proximity and new business creation in five US regions with varying levels of maturity in rail transit development and/or entrepreneuri...
Vitamin D Status Modifies the Response to Indoor Particulate Matter in Obese Urban Children with Asthma.

Background Indoor fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) is linked to asthma morbidity; however, whether vitamin D status influences individual susceptibility to airborne exposures is unclear. Objective We aimed to determine if vitamin D modifies the effects of indoor PM2.5 on asthma symptoms in urban children. Methods A total of 120 children aged 5 to 12 years with physician-diagnosed asthma were evaluated at baseline and every 3 months for 9 months. Indoor PM2.5, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OH D) levels, and asthma symptoms were simultaneously assessed at each time point. Adjusting for confounders, generalized estimating equations assessed the 3-way interaction effects of 25-OH D, obesity, and PM on asthma symptoms. Results Children were of mean (standard deviation [SD]) age 9.7 (2.2) years, 36% were obese, and 95% self-reported black race. Mean (SD) PM2.5 indoor exposure was 38.2 (42.9) μg/m3 and 25-OH D was 19.1 (7.5) ng/mL. Three-way interaction models demonstrated significantly greater PM2.5-associated effects on daytime asthma symptoms only among obese children with low 25-OH D levels (odds ratio [OR]PM2.5 = 1.26, P = .049 at vitamin D = 15.5 ng/mL, increasingly stronger PM effects at levels 52.5 μg/m3) among obese children. Conclusions Among obese urban children with asthma, low individual 25-OH D enhanced adverse respiratory effects associated with indoor PM2.5. In high PM2.5 environments, 25-OH D was protective against asthma symptoms. Optimizing vitamin D status in children may help reduce asthma morbidity driven by indoor air pollution.
Flow Rate and Raspberry Pi-Based Paper Microfluidic Blood Coagulation Assay Device

Monitoring blood coagulation in response to an anticoagulant (heparin) and its reversal agent (protamine) is essential during and after surgery, especially with cardiopulmonary bypass. A current clinical standard is the use of activated clotting time, where the mechanical movement of a plunger through a whole blood-filled channel is monitored to evaluate the endpoint time of coagulation. As a rapid, simple, low-volume, and cost-effective alternative, we have developed a paper microfluidic assay and Raspberry Pi-based device with the aim of quantifying the extent of blood coagulation in response to varying doses of heparin and protamine. The flow rate of blood through the paper microfluidic channel is automatically monitored using the Python-coded edge detection algorithm. For each set of the assay, 8- $ \mu \text{L}$ of fresh human whole blood (untreated and undiluted) from human subjects is loaded onto each of eight sample pads, which have been preloaded with varying amounts of heparin or protamine. The total assay time is 3–5 min including the time for sample loading and incubation.
Case Presentation: Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation and Subsequent Transplantation in the Setting of Lymphoma

MF was a 35-year-old, married, nulliparous female who presented to her primary physician with shortness of breath, dry cough, night sweats, and chest discomfort. Her chest X-ray revealed a 10 cm, right anterior, mediastinal mass and PET/CT demonstrated pancreatic and liver infiltration. US-guided biopsy of the large mediastinal mass revealed findings consistent with a mediastinal, large, B-cell lymphoma. She was hospitalized given her significant shortness of breath, and it was recommended that she undergo chemotherapy immediately with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone, and rituximab (R-CHOP). She refused chemotherapy initially because she was very concerned about the effects on her future fertility. A fertility preservation consultation was requested and MF was informed of the moderate risk of infertility and ovarian failure related to this chemotherapeutic regimen at her age. Options for fertility preservation were discussed including embryo cryopreservation, oocyte cryopreservation, ovarian cryopreservation, and ovarian suppression with GnRH agonists. Given the severity of her respiratory symptoms, it was recommended that she proceed with chemotherapy immediately and not delay therapy to undergo ovarian stimulation. Instead, she was interested in undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation after one cycle of chemotherapy was complete. Ovarian reserve testing was performed prior to chemotherapy exposure, and her anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) was noted to be 0.3 ng/mL at that time. She subsequently was treated with R-CHOP. After her first cycle of chemotherapy, she was counseled extensively about ovarian tissue cryopreservation and was enrolled in an IRB-approved experimental ovarian tissue cryopreservation protocol at our institution. A laparoscopic right ovarian cortical biopsy was performed. During this procedure, approximately 1/3 of the ovarian cortex was removed from the left ovary, dissected into small fragments, and cryopreserved using a slow freeze technique utilized by the Oncofertility Consortium. She experienced no complications and subsequently completed a total of six cycles of R-CHOP and mantle radiation.
Invisible Sculpture, Latent Violence, and Monumental Parody in Mädchen in Uniform

According to Robert Musil, the modern monument is characterized by invisibility. Remediated in film, monuments have tended to recede still further from critics’ and viewers’ attention. A similar va...
A new reporting approach for journalistic impact: Bringing together investigative reporting and solutions journalism:

Investigative reporting identifies social problems and names people in power who should be held accountable. Solutions journalism is an evidence-based reporting approach that covers credible respon...
"Narration," an Atypical Catatonic Speech Symptom: A Case Report.

Abstract Catatonia is a term first put forth by Karl Kahlbaum in his 1874 monograph, Die Katatonie oder das Spannungsirresein, in which he described patients experiencing a syndrome with prominent mood and motor abnormalities. The motor findings of immobility, stupor, rigidity, catalepsy, and negativism are typically the most commonly seen. Among the several catatonic symptoms identified, an important subset affecting speech exists: logorrhea, verbigeration, mutism, and echolalia. There is a dearth of literature regarding catatonia speech symptoms, and to our knowledge a specific type of catatonic speech symptom which we shall call “narration” has never been described before. In this paper, we present a case in which a man with bipolar disorder developed catatonia with prominent motor symptoms, and a peculiar speech symptom of narrating the sequence of events that he perceived around him. We will discuss the work up for his case and his management using benzodiazepines. The paper will also present a focused summary of the literature on catatonic speech symptoms. Our case is a reminder for clinicians to be aware of and observant for peculiar speech features of catatonia, as this can lead to consideration of effective treatment with benzodiazepines or ECT.
Evaluating the capacity ratio and prelithiation strategies for extending cyclability in porous silicon composite anodes and lithium iron phosphate cathodes for high capacity lithium-ion batteries

Abstract Silicon-based composites are considered a promising anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high theoretical capacity of 3579 mAh/g at room temperature. However, when paired with conventional cathode materials, silicon-based full-cells perform poorly due to an unbalanced capacity ratio (N/P ratio) between the anode and the cathode. Their performance is further diminished by the irreversible Li+ losses in the silicon-based anode associated with the continuous volume expansion during cycling. To address these issues, we implement various N/P ratios and cycling strategies in a silicon-based anode and track the occurrence of lithium plating. A porous silicon-carbon (PSi-C) based composite anode is paired with a lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) cathode to investigate the effects of different N/P ratios in full-cell batteries. Based on these results, the optimal N/P ratio is tested using a three-electrode cell to monitor the anode and cathode voltages (versus reference electrode, Li) simultaneously in full-cell cycling and to detect lithium plating. Contrary to expectation, no lithium plating is observed at the optimized N/P ratio of 0.8. Finally, prelithiation strategies, such as contact treatment on the PSi-C anode with Li metal and precycling of the PSi-C anode against a lithium foil counter electrode, are performed to compensate for the initial lithium losses. When the PSi-C anode is cycled 5.5 times (5 full cycles and follow by 1 lithiation process) against lithium metal and then assembled with an oversized LFP cathode, the full-cell battery achieves 1000 mAh/(g-anode) for over 500 cycles. These results further validate the use of silicon-based anodes in full-cell LIBs by providing new assembly strategies and techniques to significantly improve stability and cycling performance.
Low incidence of significant valvar insufficiency following retrograde aortic radiofrequency catheter ablation in young patients.

The incidence of significant valvar insufficiency at late (>6 month) follow-up was retrospectively evaluated in 27 young patients (age 4.0–18.0 years) undergoing 29 ablation procedures via the retrograde aortic approach for left-sided accessory connections in whom pre-ablation and post-ablation echocardiograms were available for review. Valvar insufficiency was graded using color flow techniques as absent, trivial, mild, moderate, or severe by blinded reviewers. Ablation was acutely successful via the retrograde approach in 25 of 29 procedures among these 27 patients. Successful ablation was ultimately achieved in all 27 patients. At baseline, 7 patients had evidence of trivial or mild mitral insufficiency, and no patient had aortic insufficiency. Three patients had evidence of impaired left ventricular systolic performance in the presence of manifest pre-excitation. At follow-up, pre-existing mitral insufficiency resolved in 5/7 patients, and persisted in 2 patients. New mitral insufficiency was evident in 3 patients, and new aortic insufficiency was transiently evident in 1 patient following ablation (all trivial). Institutional experience (mean rank 10 cases vs. 33 cases, p < .0005), and lower patient weight (29.7 vs. 56.3 kilograms, p = .01) were the only factors associated with the development of new valvar insufficiency. Valvar insufficiency could not be detected by careful auscultation in any patient and was deemed clinically insignificant in all patients. We conclude that ablation of left-sided accessory connections can be performed via the retrograde aortic approach without creating clinically significant valvar insufficiency.
Developmental Expression of Transforming Growth Factor Induced Protein Promotes NF-Kappa-B Mediated Angiogenesis During Postnatal Lung Development

Rationale: Pulmonary angiogenesis is a key driver of alveolarization. Our prior studies showed that nuclear factor kappa-B (NFlower case Greek kappaB) promotes pulmonary angiogenesis during early alveolarization. However, the mechanisms regulating temporal-specific NFlower case Greek kappaB activation in the pulmonary vasculature are unknown. Objectives: To identify mechanisms that activate pro-angiogenic NFlower case Greek kappaB signaling in the developing pulmonary vasculature. Methods: Proteomic analysis of the lung secretome was performed using 2D-DIGE. NFlower case Greek kappaB activation and angiogenic function was assessed in primary pulmonary endothelial cells (PEC) and TGFBI-regulated genes identified using RNA-sequencing. Alveolarization and pulmonary angiogenesis was assessed in WT and TGFBI null mice exposed to normoxia or hyperoxia. Lung TGFBI expression was determined in premature lambs supported by invasive and noninvasive respiratory support. Measurements and Main Results: Secreted factors from the early alveolar, but not the late alveolar or adult lung, promoted proliferation and migration in quiescent, adult PEC. Proteomic analysis identified transforming growth factor beta-induced protein (TGFBI) as a protein highly expressed by myofibroblasts in the early alveolar lung that promoted PEC migration by activating NFlower case Greek kappaB via lower case Greek alphavlower case Greek beta3 integrins. RNA-sequencing identified Csf3 as a TGFBI-regulated gene that enhances nitric oxide production in PEC. Loss of TGFBI in mice exaggerated the impaired pulmonary angiogenesis induced by chronic hyperoxia, and TGFBI expression was disrupted in premature lambs with impaired alveolarization. Conclusions: Our studies identify TGFBI as a developmentally-regulated protein that promotes NFkB-mediated angiogenesis during early alveolarization by enhancing nitric oxide production. We speculate that dysregulation of TGFBI expression may contribute to diseases marked by impaired alveolar and vascular growth.
C-reactive protein in gallbladder diseases: diagnostic and therapeutic insights

The gallbladder is an important component of the hepatobiliary system whose primary function is to aid in digestion of foodstuffs, excretion of drugs and facilitate removal of waste products from the body. The gall bladder is principally a storage organ for bile, chemically modified salts and acids of cholesterol which are synthesized in the liver and which function as surfactants to solubilize fatty substances of limited aqueous solubility. Any disruption in the amount or activity of bile surfactant can lead to an accumulation of insoluble molecular clumps (e.g., gallstones) that deposit in and obstruct fluid movement within the gallbladder, and which can lead to pathological congestion and tissue damage. The natural host defense response to any event that causes tissue damage is to stimulate inflammation, which non-specifically but aggressively reacts to the stimuli so to remove the cause and repair damaged tissues. The C-reactive protein (CRP) is a primarily hepatically produced serum protein whose blood levels increase within 6–10 h of any tissue-damaging event. The extent with which it increases correlates with the level of tissue damage and associated inflammation. CRP levels are reported to be of value in diagnosing acute cholecystitis severity, in predicting the outcome and prognosis of cancer-associated gallbladder resection, and in helping identify cystic structures during emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomies. As an understanding of distinctive CRP structural isoforms is evolving, its role not only as a biomarker but as regulator of both physiologic and pathophysiologic processes of inflammation may be relevant in the understanding of and treatment approaches for gallbladder-associated disease.
Potential unrealized mortality benefit of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transport-2 inhibitors: A report from the Veterans Health Administration Clinical Assessment, Reporting and Tracking program

Aim To assess the unrealized potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) or sodium-glucose co-transport-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use to reduce mortality in veterans with type 2 diabetes (T2D), coronary artery disease (CAD), and other characteristics congruent with clinical trial cohorts that established the efficacy of these agents. Methods Veterans with T2D and CAD on angiography in 2014 who were untreated with either a GLP-1RA or a SGLT2i were assessed for key eligibility criteria of the LEADER (GLP-1RA) and EMPA-REG OUTCOME (SGLT2i) trials. Trial hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for all-cause death were applied to deaths observed in veterans through 2018 to estimate the potential benefit of GLP-1RA or SGLT2i use. Results Median observation was 4.3 years. Of 15 987 veterans with T2D and CAD, 1186 (7.4%) were excluded for GLP-1RA or SGLT2i treatment, and 1386 lacked glycated haemoglobin measurement. Of the remaining 13 415 patients, 4103 (30.1%) and 5313 (39.6%) fulfilled the key criteria for the LEADER and EMPA-REG OUTCOME trials, respectively. Death occurred in 1009 (24.6%) of LEADER-eligible patients and 1335 (25.1%) of EMPA-REG OUTCOME-eligible patients. Under treatment with liraglutide in LEADER-eligible veterans, a 3.5% (0.7%-6.2%) potential absolute mortality reduction, corresponding to 144 (28-253) fewer deaths (0.88 [0.17-1.56] per 100 person-years), might have been expected. Similarly, under treatment with empagliflozin in EMPA-REG OUTCOME-eligible veterans, a 7.9% (4.5%-10.8%) potential absolute mortality reduction, corresponding to 418 (230-573) fewer deaths (1.98 [1.14-2.72] per 100 person-years), might have been expected. Conclusions This analysis indicates unrealized opportunities to reduce mortality in selected veterans with T2D and CAD via increased GLP-1RA and SGLT2i use.
Sensing at Exceptional Points

I will introduce the concepts of parity-time (PT) symmetry and exceptional points (EPs) and discuss how they can be used as a resource for sensing. I will review some of the theoretical and experimental breakthroughs in this direction.
La malnutrición y su relación en el desarrollo cognitivo en niños de la primera infancia

La alimentacion durante la gestacion y en los primeros anos de vida es fundamental para el desarrollo fisico, psicologico, social y cognitivo de los ninos, por lo que se puede asumir que la funcion cognoscitiva de los ninos en la primera infancia y su rendimiento intelectual, estan relacionados con su historia nutricional. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la malnutricion y su relacion en el desarrollo cognitivo en ninos de la primera infancia mediante un estudio de revision bibliografica contribuyendo al desarrollo fisico e intelectual de los infantes. Se desarrollo una investigacion de tipo descriptivo, enfoque cualitativo y metodos como el deductivo-inductivo y el metodo historico logico y de analisis documental. De acuerdo con los resultados de los diferentes estudios analizados sobre la malnutricion y su relacion con el desarrollo cognitivo se evidencia que la malnutricion sea esta por deficit o por exceso los efectos en la primera infancia son negativos impidiendo el normal desarrollo conductual y cognitivo, repercutiendo en el rendimiento escolar y la salud disminuyendo su capacidad potencial para enfrentarse al mundo productivo. Concluyendo La malnutricion en la primera infancia conlleva a efectos negativos en el desarrollo conductual y cognitivo, con bajo rendimiento escolar limitando sus capacidades para enfrentarse a la vida. malnutrition, cognitive development, early years, academic performance.
Oral Temperature of Noninfected Hospitalized Patients.

This study describes oral temperatures in a large sample of nonsurgical inpatients without infections to inform evaluation of fever in the hospital.
AI4Assembly A Human-Robot Collaboration Assembly Application with AI Support

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can help to greatly improve the usability and performance of an application. Over the last few years, many approaches have been presented on how AI technologies can improve individual steps in an assembly application that uses human-robot collaboration. This paper presents a concept for an AI supported human-robot collaboration for an assembly application, in which the AI components extend and improve the assembly application in all areas and not just individual steps. This includes the setup of a new assembly sequence as well as the subsequent execution of the assembly. The implemented concept is also compared against the same application with a lower degree of automation.
Target volume definition for staple line recurrences of non-small cell lung cancer

Background: Staple line (SL) recurrences of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are commonly treated with radiotherapy (RT), but the target volume definition — whole SL versus focused on recurrence — is unclear. The aim of the study was to determine the appropriate target volume for RT of SL recurrences. Materials and methods: Twenty-two consecutive patients (20 stage I, 2 stage II) treated with salvage RT for SL recurrences were retrospectively analyzed. Imaging features at the time of SL recurrence were evaluated to guide target volume definition. Results: Surgery : All patients had complete tumor resection (wedge resection in 10 (45%) and lobectomy in 12 (55%) patients). 14 (64%) patients had risk factors for recurrence, including surgical margins ≤ 2 cm, angiolymphatic and visceral pleural invasion. Salvage RT : After a median 26 months (9–67), all 22 patients developed SL recurrence which was metabolically active on PET in all and biopsy-confirmed in 18/22 (82%) patients. All patients underwent RT targeting the location of the SL recurrence only. 13/22 (59%) patients had additional PET-negative nodular or linear SL changes that were not included in the irradiated volume. Recurrence after RT : After a median 17 months (9–34) 10/22 (45%) patients recurred either regionally 6/10 (60%), in the lungs 4/10 (40%) or distally 3/10 (30%). No patient recurred at the SL. Two-year overall and disease-free survival rates after RT were 71% and 65%, respectively. Conclusion: RT to SL recurrences alone results in excellent local control. Additional treatment to reduce regional and distant recurrences should be considered.
The effect of building retrofit measures on CO2 emission reduction – A case study with U.S. medium office buildings

Abstract Building retrofits have great potential to reduce CO2 emissions since buildings are responsible for 36% of emissions in the United States. Several existing studies have examined the effect of building retrofit measures on CO2 emission reduction. However, these studies oversimplified emission factors of electricity by adopting constant annual emission factors. This study uses hourly emission factors of electricity to analyze the effect of building retrofit measures on emission reduction using U.S. medium office buildings as an example. We analyzed the CO2 emission reduction effects of eight building retrofit measures that related to envelope and mechanical systems in five locations: Tampa, San Diego, Denver, Great Falls, and International Falls. The main findings are: (1) estimating CO2 emission reduction with constant emission factors overestimates the emission reduction for most measures in San Diego, while it underestimates the emission reduction for most measures in Denver and International Falls; (2) The same retrofit measure may have different effects on CO2 emission reduction depending on the climate. For instance, improving lighting efficiency and improving equipment efficiency have less impact in emission reduction in cold climates than hot climates; and (3) The most energy efficient measure may not be the most efficient emission measure. For example, in Great Falls, the most energy efficient measure is improving equipment efficiency, but the most efficient emission measure is improving heating efficiency.
Change in Knowledge and Attitudes among Students in an Undergraduate Developmental Psychology Class

Non-parent college students enrolled in a lifespan developmental psychology course were assessed at two time points (beginning of the semester and shortly after midterm) on knowledge and attitudes that would likely to be useful for the transition to parenthood. Students reported perceived change in knowledge and attitudes, and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed statistically significant increases in knowledge of infant and child development, knowledge of reproduction and sexuality, rejections of vaccination myths, and appropriate expectations for children. Participants also reported significantly reduced belief in the use and value of corporal punishment, and parent-child role reversal.
Biogenesis of Regulated Exocytotic Carriers in Neuroendocrine Cells

Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis is a hallmark of neurosecretory granules, but the cellular pathway leading to the assembly of these regulated exocytotic carriers is poorly understood. Here we used the pituitary AtT-20 cell line to study the biogenesis of regulated exocytotic carriers involved in peptide hormone secretion. We show that immature secretory granules (ISGs) freshly budded from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) exhibit characteristics of unregulated exocytotic carriers. During a subsequent maturation period they undergo an important switch to become regulated exocytotic carriers. We have identified a novel sorting pathway responsible for this transition. The SNARE proteins, VAMP4 and synaptotagmin IV (Syt IV), enter ISGs initially but are sorted away during maturation. Sorting is achieved by vesicle budding from the ISGs, because it can be inhibited by brefeldin A (BFA). Inhibition of this sorting pathway with BFA arrested the maturing granules in a state that responded poorly to stimuli, suggesting that the transition to regulated exocytotic carriers requires the removal of a putative inhibitor. In support of this, we found that overexpression of Syt IV reduced the stimulus-responsiveness of maturing granules. We conclude that secretory granules undergo a switch from unregulated to regulated secretory carriers during biogenesis. The existence of such a switch may provide a mechanism for cells to modulate their secretory activities under different physiological conditions.
Study plan for evaluating carrying capacity: Measure 7.1A of the Northwest Power Planning Council`s 1994 Fish and Wildlife Program. Report 2 of 4, Final report

This report is one report of four that the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) staff used to address Measure 7.1A in the Northwest Power Planning Council's (Council) fish and Wildlife Program (Program) dated December 1994 (NPPC 1994). Measure 7.1A calls for the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) to fund an evaluation of salmon survival, ecology, carrying capacity, and limiting factors in freshwater, estuarine, and marine habitats. Additionally, the Measure asks for the development of a study plan based on the critical uncertainties and research needs identified during the evaluation. In the evaluation of carrying capacity the authors concluded that defining capacity and listing the determinants of capacity is not a simple exercise. Capacity is a complex variable among the attributes that all together define salmon performance. To pursue the capacity parameter, that is, a single number or set of numbers that quantify how many salmon the basin or any part of the basin can support, will not lead to the development of a useful study plan. To increase understanding of ecology, carrying capacity, and limiting factors, it is necessary to deal with the complexity of the sustained performance of salmon in the Columbia River Basin. This report describes the elements ofmore » a study plan that could be used to increase the understanding of ecology, carrying capacity, and limiting factors that influence salmon survival under current conditions.« less
Simultaneous all-optical wavelength conversion of baseband payload and removal/replacement of subcarrier multiplexed headers

Summary form only given. In this paper we demonstrate a new technique to address the problem of all-optical subcarrier multiplexed (SCM) header replacement by exploiting the frequency response of wavelength conversion via gain saturation in semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs). We also demonstrate that SCM header replacement can be performed by remodulating the new header on the wavelength-converted baseband. Therefore, the data-rate and format transparency of the routing process are preserved.
Noninvasive intranasal stem cells bypass the blood-brain barrier to target the brain to treat Parkinson's disease, stroke, MS, brain tumors, cerebral ischemia, Alzheimer's and other CNS disorders

Together with my collaborators in Germany, especially Lusine Danielyan M.D., we discovered and patented that therapeutic cells, including adult stem cells and genetically-engineered cells, can be non-invasively delivered to the CNS using the noninvasive intranasal delivery method that I developed. The first of our scientific papers on this new discovery describes this successful method of delivery and proprietary formulations that enhance delivery. The second of our papers describes the successful treatment of Parkinson's disease in an animal model with intranasal adult bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells. Journal of Nature and Science, 1(1):e23, 2015.
When Names and Schools Collide: Critically Analyzing Depictions of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children Negotiating Their Names in Picture Books

Names and experiences in schools are often tied together in a child’s identity formation. This is true for all children, but becomes an increasingly important topic as classrooms in the United States are becoming more diverse. In this study, we seek to explore the idea of names as identity in picture books depicting minority children. In doing so, we seek to understand the connections between the pressures to assimilate the names of diverse children and the behavior of their classroom teachers. To explore this topic, we have chosen to examine ten picture books published since 2000 that depict diverse children and their experiences surrounding their name and their identity in schools in the United States. To analyze these texts we used an inductive qualitative model for content analysis (Hesse-Biber and Leavy, 2011) and critical discourse analysis (Rogers and Christian, 2007) noting scenes and illustrations from the texts that best represent three main themes: Negotiating the Pressures to Assimilate, Teacher Characters and the Abdication of Responsibility, and Negotiating the Fear of Identity Loss. Critical literacy and postcolonial thought offer insights into the fear and pain associated with assimilation to school settings as well as the roles of adults, both parents and teachers, in perpetuating the assimilation of students into U.S. schools. The findings support the idea that while these books seek to empower minority and immigrant children, they often inadvertently reify the very systems of power they set out to critique.
Measuring how the degree of content knowledge determines performance outcomes in an engineering design-based simulation environment for middle school students

Many secondary schools offer STEM-based technology and engineering courses that use simulation modeling to teach engineering design. However, the performance of the final design is usually dependent upon the student's ability for knowledge application. When a student reaches the limit of this content knowledge, they may resort to other problem solving processes, such as a trial and error approach, to improve their design. This study measures the outcomes of students with varying levels of content knowledge to determine how the level of knowledge determines their performance within a virtual design simulation. The results show that students with a greater content knowledge initially have significantly better performance outcomes. However, if given enough opportunities to engage in the simulation activity, students with less content knowledge perform equally well. Measuring how different levels of content knowledge determine performance outcomes.Students were exposed to different content in a virtual simulation environment.Performance application based on efficiency was analyzed.Content-based knowledge application may initially produces more efficient outcomes.Less content knowledge with more iterations may produce equal performance outcomes.
Economic Exit, Interdependence, and Conflict

This article examines the question of whether economic interdependence constrains or motivates interstate conflict. The theoretical model predicts when and how interdependence influences conflict, using exit costs to separate economic interdependence from less binding economic interaction. Analysis of the model suggests that when exit costs exceed an endurance threshold for at least one state, the threat of exit becomes a viable but limited bargaining tool. Exceeding this threshold increases low-level conflict as states use economic and diplomatic tools to resolve demands, but it decreases high-level conflict because states take advantage of more efficient means of dispute resolution. If the stakes are too high, however, exit costs fail to check conflict, and the economic relationship becomes an ineffective bargaining arena. Empirical analysis provides support for the hypotheses derived from the model.
Effect of letter orientation and sequential redundancy on the speed of letter search.

Subjects searched for target letters through upright or inverted sentences, words, and nonwords. Letters were easier to detect in sentences (vs. words) and words (vs. nonwords) under less demanding search conditions (e.g., one or two target letters in memory set, upright presentation). Familiar letter orientation aided search under all conditions and its aid did not vary with memory set size (intercept effect only). The latter result, taken together with previous findings, indicates a general familiarity effect at the encoding stage. An analysis of facultative and disruptive sequential redundancy effects indicated that facilitation depends on several key factors and, most important, on having words presented in uppercase.
Amino Acid-Responsive Liquid Membrane Electrodes

Abstract Amino acid responsive electrodes based on the use of their quaternary ammonium salts in a liquid membrane phase have been prepared for tryptophane, phenylalanine, leucine, methionine, valine, and glutamic acid.
On a class of linked diagrams II. asymptotics

Linked diagrams, or complete pairings on 2r points, were defined in I, where the cardinality Sn of the set of irreducible pairings was calculated recursively. In the present paper, it is shown that the ratio of Sn to the total number of pairings (2n?1)!! approaches the limit e?1 as n?∞.
Effectiveness of barrier precautions and surveillance cultures to control transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms: A systematic review of the literature

Background Despite the priority placed on preventing transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in health care facilities, there is a lack of consensus among recommended infection control guidelines. We focused on control measures that have a great potential to affect patient care, patient services, and hospital cost/resources: barrier precautions/patient isolation and surveillance cultures. Methods We conducted a systematic review of the literature and published English-language guidelines pertaining to the use of barrier precautions/patient isolation and surveillance cultures to prevent the transmission of MDROs. The recommendations made by the published guidelines were summarized and compared. The primary research studies identified through our literature search were evaluated for study quality. We then summarized the outcomes of the studies with the highest quality scores and made recommendations for future work. Results A total of 29 studies were included in our assessment of study quality; of those, 7 studies were of high quality. Conclusion This systematic review identified key gaps in the literature including a need for greater monitoring of implementation of the interventions, more cost analyses of interventions, determining the independent contribution of specific interventions, and identifying the minimum interventions needed to reduce transmission.
Expressive language characteristics of schizophrenic subjects with different medication histories

Abstract In this descriptive study the verbal performance of four previously unmedicated schizophrenic subjects was evaluated prior to and two weeks following the effects of antipsychotic treatment … and compared to the performance of five continuously medicated schizophrenic subjects. Results obtained using two subtests of the Porch Index of Communicative Ability (PICA) and on the “Cookie Theft” picture description task from the Boston Aphasia Diagnostic Examination, revealed a variety of language disturbances that appeared to be related to medication status and classification of schizophrenia. Previously unmedicated subjects performed worse than medicated subjects on all tasks, however, disordered verbal performance was observed for all patients. Results are discussed in reference to a theory of hyperactivity of the cortical areas, and the influence of medication on performance.
Management of persistent rotaviral diarrhea in children with cystic fibrosis with enteral administration of intravenous immunoglobulin

Abstract Rationale Oral administration of intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) has been used to treat rotaviral diarrhea. Immunodeficient children are susceptible to persistent infection with rotavirus, and chronic virus-related symptoms in this population may justify the use of enteral IVIG therapy. Persistent rotaviral diarrhea in cystic fibrosis, however, as well its management strategy, have not been described. Methods Two patients with cystic fibrosis (a 2mo old male and 10mo old female) presented with chronic rotavirus diarrhea and poor weight gain. Both were receiving optimal doses of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy and gastric acid suppression. Both received an immunologic evaluation for primary immunodeficiency due to their histories of chronic rotavirus infection. Because of persistence of viral antigen over six months and voluminous diarrhea, they were treated with serial weekly doses of enteral IVIG. The first patient received 300mg/kg/dose weekly for seven doses and the second received 500mg/kg/dose weekly for four doses. Results The male patient had a negative evaluation for a primary immunodeficiency and the female patient had transient hypogammaglobulinemia, possibly attributable to gastrointestinal protein losses (serum IgG at sixteen months old was 318mg/dl). After treatment of both patients with enteral IVIG, stool volume decreased, rotavirus antigen became non detectable in stools, and improved weight gain ensued. Conclusions Chronic rotavirus infection should be considered in patients with cystic fibrosis and poor weight gain. Enteral administration of IVIG may be a useful therapeutic intervention.
Development of a Synthetic Process towards a Hepatitis C Polymerase Inhibitor

The synthesis of 2-(4-{2-[(2R)-2-Cyclopentyl-5-(5,7-dimethyl-[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-2-ylmethyl)-4-hydroxy-6-oxo-3,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-yl]-ethyl}-2-fluoro-phenyl)-2-methyl-propionitrile (1) on multikilogram scale is described. Initial synthesis of this clinical candidate for inhibition of the hepatitis C viral polymerase (HCVP) protein was executed via a racemic synthetic route coupled with chiral HPLC separation. Due to the achiral route and instability of key intermediates, the initial route was determined to be unsuitable for large-scale manufacture. An alternate route was developed utilizing a convergent Heck coupling, resolution of a carboxylic acid via diastereomeric salt formation, and an efficient chemical recycling of the undesired enantiomer.
Freiberg's Disease

Freiberg’s disease is a relatively uncommon disorder of the metatarsal head. Although trauma and circulatory disturbances likely contribute major roles in its development, it is widely accepted that Freiberg’s etiology is multifactorial. Conservative treatment, focused on offloading and relieving stress, is uniformly accepted as the appropriate initial management. Surgical management can broadly be categorized as procedures which attempt to correct the pathophysiology and halt its progression, and procedures which address the sequelae of later stage disease. Newer strategies, including osteochondral transplantation, attempt to restore the damage metatarsal cartilage with a viable osteochondral plug.
Using a GA and Wisdom of Artificial Crowds to solve solitaire battleship puzzles

A hybrid algorithm using a genetic algorithm and the Wisdom of Artificial Crowds effect was developed to solve instances of the solitaire battleship puzzle. A Java program was written to implement the algorithm and display graphical solutions. This program demonstrates both the flexibility of genetic algorithms and the use of wisdom of the crowd to refine solutions generated by other means. Some ways in which the algorithm could be improved are discussed, as well as the suitability of these techniques for solving solitaire battleship puzzles.
Estrogen regulation of glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function: therapeutic implications for prevention of Alzheimer's disease

Estrogen-induced signaling pathways in hippocampal and cortical neurons converge upon the mitochondria to enhance mitochondrial function and to sustain aerobic glycolysis and citric acid cycle-driven oxidative phosphorylation and ATP generation. Data derived from experimental and clinical paradigms investigating estrogen intervention in healthy systems and prior to neurodegenerative insult indicate enhanced neural defense and survival through maintenance of calcium homeostasis, enhanced glycolysis coupled to the citric acid cycle (aerobic glycolysis), sustained and enhanced mitochondrial function, protection against free radical damage, efficient cholesterol trafficking and beta amyloid clearance. The convergence of E(2) mechanisms of action onto mitochondrial is also a potential point of vulnerability when activated in a degenerating neural system and could exacerbate the degenerative processes through increased load on dysregulated calcium homeostasis. The data indicate that as the continuum of neurological health progresses from healthy to unhealthy so too do the benefits of estrogen or hormone therapy. If neurons are healthy at the time of estrogen exposure, their response to estrogen is beneficial for both neuronal survival and neurological function. In contrast, if neurological health is compromised, estrogen exposure over time exacerbates neurological demise. The healthy cell bias of estrogen action hypothesis provides a lens through which to assess the disparities in outcomes across the basic to clinical domains of scientific inquiry and on which to predict future applications of estrogen and hormone therapeutic interventions sustain neurological health and to prevent age-associated neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Overall, E(2) promotes the energetic capacity of brain mitochondria by maximizing aerobic glycolysis (oxidative phosphorylation coupled to pyruvate metabolism). The enhanced aerobic glycolysis in the aging brain would be predicted to prevent conversion of the brain to using alternative sources of fuel such as the ketone body pathway characteristic of Alzheimer's.