cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prayer as an interpersonal relationship: A neuroimaging study

This fMRI study describes neural correlates of prayer during periods in which people report in after-scan surveys that they felt the presence of God. Participants were part of a broad movement in modern Christianity that goes by various terms such as Pentecostal, charismatic, or spirit-filled. For them, the presence of God is a strong and immediate experience during improvised, personal prayer. Prayer was compared to imaginatively speaking to a loved one, a significant other in the person's life, and to a ground state of visualizing and naming a parade of animals. Results show an overlap between prayer and speaking to a loved one in brain areas associated with theory of mind, suggesting that the brain treats both as an interpersonal relationship. These brain areas are also associated with the default mode network, where the mind evaluates past and possible future experiences of the self. It is suggested that the high personal significance that participants attach to prayer experiences is due in part to th...
ALL-trans-RETINAL IS THE CHROMOPHORE BOUND TO THE PHOTORECEPTOR OF THE ALGA: Chlamydomonas reinhardtii*

– Rhodopsin is the general name for a family of visual pigments that receive light and transmit this signal to the rest of an organism. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a unicellular eukaryote whose light-tracking system consists of a single eye. Through spectral studies of Chlamydomonas' reaction to light of different wavelengths (action spectroscopy), it has been shown in vivo that the photoreceptor of Chlamydomonas is functionally similar to vertebrate rhodopsin. We seek to characterize the photoreceptor further by identifying the molecule that is incorporated into the rhodopsin of Chlamydomonas forming the chromophore. High performance liquid chromatography analysis of organic extracts of retinaloximes from membrane fractions enriched in eye-spots and in cells virtually free of interfering carotenoids identified syn-all-trans as the existing retinaloxime isomer. We conclude that all-trans-retinal is the native molecule that is available to be incorporated into the rhodopsin of Chlamydomonas and therefore forms the functioning chromophore on binding.
Sound generation by turbulent boundary-layer flow over small steps

The aeroacoustics of low-Mach-number boundary-layer flow over backward and forward facing steps is studied using large-eddy simulation and Lighthill's theory. The Reynolds number based on the step height and free-stream velocity ranges from 21000 to 328 as the step height is varied from 53% to 0.83% of the unperturbed boundary layer thickness at the step. For the largest step size, statistics of wall pressure fluctuations such as the root mean square values and frequency spectral density yield favourable comparisons with available experimental measurements. A low-frequency Green's function for the step geometry, valid for an acoustically compact step height, is employed to evaluate the volume integral in the solution to Lighthill's equation. Consistent with the result of previous theoretical studies, the steps act primarily as a dipole source aligned in the streamwise direction. The sound from the forward step is shown to be significantly louder than that from the backward step and the underlying reason is analysed in terms of source strength and distribution relative to the Green's function. The forward step generates stronger sources in regions closer to the step corner, which is heavily weighted by the Green's function. A detailed analysis of flow field and Green's function weighted sources reveals that the backward step generates sound mainly through a diffraction mechanism, while the forward step generates sound through a combination of diffraction and turbulence modification by the step. As the step height decreases, the difference in noise level between forward and backward steps is much reduced as turbulence modification becomes less significant.
Computing 3D blind spots of construction equipment: Implementation and evaluation of an automated measurement and visualization method utilizing range point cloud data

Abstract Limited visibility due to blind spots of construction equipment was responsible for 55% of the visibility-related fatalities in the construction industry. Knowledge of blind spot aids in improving safety on construction sites and the design of equipment cabin itself. Existing approaches for blind spot measurement that follow international standards typically require a time-consuming set-up and are limited by the number of different visibility analyses that can be performed. A new approach to compute blind spot in a fast and efficient way using point cloud data of equipment is presented. The developed approach allows performing different analyses such as: volumetric blind spots, blind spot map, 12 m circumference visibility, rectangular 1 m boundary visibility, and worker visibility. In addition, the above set of analyses can be performed from different viewpoints located virtually anywhere inside the equipment cabin. Validating against synthetic “noisy” point clouds, robustness and accuracy of the approach is established.
Resonance Contributions, Radiative Widths, and Stray Baryonic States in K + Λ Photoproduction

We have analyzed the reaction $\ensuremath{\gamma}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{+}\ensuremath{\Lambda}$ below 2.2-GeV c.m. energy using an isobar model. Energy-dependent multipoles are parametrized by a Breit-Wigner resonance form with an unknown phase included on the coupling. Evidence is found for the existence of a ${D}_{13}(1670)$ resonant state with a width of about 100 MeV. In addition to the ${D}_{13}(1670)$, other important states below 1.9 GeV are the ${S}_{11}(1700)$, ${P}_{11}(1750)$, and ${P}_{13}(1860)$. Approximate values are obtained for the radiative widths of these states.
Missed Conceptions or Misconceptions: Perceived Infertility Among Unmarried Young Adults In the United States

CONTEXT: Perceived infertility is an individuals belief that she or he is unable to conceive or impregnate regardless of whether this belief is medically accurate. This perception may lead to contraceptive nonuse which may in turn lead to unintended pregnancy. Little research has examined perceived infertility among young adults including potential associations with contraceptive behaviors. METHODS: The frequency of perceived infertility among young adults was assessed using 2009 data from a nationally representative telephone survey of 1800 unmarried men and women aged 18-29. Multinomial regression analyses assessed associations between respondents perceived infertility and selected background reproductive knowledge sexual experience and contraceptive use characteristics. RESULTS: Overall 19% of women and 13% of men believed that they were very likely to be infertile. Hispanic women and women who had received public assistance in the past year had elevated odds of perceived infertility (odds ratios 3.4 and 3.0 respectively) as did Hispanic men and men of other racial or ethnic minorities except blacks (2.5 and 6.1 respectively). Men who had some college education had received sex education or were not in a current relationship had decreased odds of thinking they were very likely to be infertile (0.3-0.4). Among men perceived infertility was associated with the belief that they were likely to have sex without using a contraceptive in the next three months (2.6). CONCLUSIONS: A substantial proportion of young adults believe they are infertile. Improved provider counseling and sex education may be useful in helping them to better understand their actual probability of infertility and this knowledge may lead to improved contraceptive use. Copyright (c) 2012 by the Guttmacher Institute.
On the existence and synthesis of optimal singular control with quadratic performance index

The objective of this correspondence is to study the singular solutions of the optimal control which minimizes the performance index subject to s et of given conditions.
Sleep state scoring in infants from respiratory and activity measurements.

Sleep state scoring usually relies on polysomnographic measurements, which include Electroencephalogram (EEG), Electromyogram (EMG), Electrooculogram (EOG), two or three lead chest Electrocardiogram (ECG), and may include other measurements. Overall, polysomnography is an intrusive procedure not well tolerated by infants and elderly. The goal of this research is to study possibility of automatic sleep state scoring from less intrusive measurements such as activity measurements and respiratory measurements by inductive plethysmography. The study is based on the Collaborative Home Infant Monitoring Evaluation (CHIME) dataset. Results demonstrate that the suggested approach is capable of scoring sleep states (awake, rapid eye movement and quiet sleep) with good accuracy.
Hematogenous Pneumococcal Meningitis in the Infant Rat: Description of a Model

Sensorineural deafness occurs in 20%-30% of children after Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis. An infant rat model of S. pneumoniae meningitis was developed to study the pathogenesis of inner ear invasion by S. pneumoniae. S. pneumoniae type 6 was administered intraperitoneally (inoculum: 1-10 x 10(8) cfu) every 24 h for 3 days to 5-day-old rats. Bacteremia (12 [50%] of 24) and meningitis (11 [46%] of 24) were detected most frequently 4 days after the three doses. The mean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) white blood count for rats with positive CSF cultures was 7271/mm3 (range, 81-20,475). Hematoxylin-eosin-stained brain tissue from the 11 rats with positive CSF cultures showed inflammation in the meninges and scala tympani in 9 each (82%), and scala vestibuli in 6 (55%), but none in the scala media. Gram's-stained brain and inner ear sections from the same 11 rats showed organisms in the meninges in 5 (45%) and scala tympani or vestibuli in 2 (18%). Perilymphatic inflammation occurred significantly (P less than .001) more than did endolymphatic inflammation.
Psychophysical studies of auditory masking in marine mammals: key concepts and new directions.

In recent years, growing awareness of the potentially harmful effects of human-generated noise has led to concern over whether and how increasing ocean noise levels may adversely affect marine mammals by interfering with their detection of biologically important signals. The consequences of adding noise to an animal’s environment may be studied, in part, by identifying and understanding the ways in which noise alters normal or baseline hearing capabilities. The process of auditory masking occurs when the perception of a given signal is negatively influenced by the presence of another sound. Masking effects may be manifested through spectral or temporal interference from noise that decreases the audibility of the signal relative to conditions when the masking noise is not present. In addition to auditory-masking effects, it should be noted that other auditory effects as well as nonauditory behavioral, physiological, or anatomical changes may also occur as a result of noise exposure. Furthermore, marine mammals are not the only aquatic animals that may be vulnerable to these effects. However, the scope of this paper is limited to consideration of the masking effects of noise on the auditory perception of marine mammals. The specific aims are to 1) briefly review the key concepts and methods drawn from a psychophysical approach to the study of auditory masking, 2) examine how masking studies have been applied thus far to improve understanding of noise effects on marine mammals, and 3) consider how future laboratory studies with marine mammals may incorporate progressively more complex and realistic listening scenarios into psychophysical testing programs.
Antihypertensive Therapy in Children Implications for Future Studies

This issue of Hypertension includes the results from a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled antihypertensive drug trial with valsartan in children.1 It takes the study of hypertension in children another step forward by extending controlled drug trials into the preschool age group (3 to 6 years old). Historically, blood pressure and hypertension as independent disciplines within pediatrics date only to the 1977 publication of the first report of the Task Force on Blood Pressure in Children. The task force report provided standards for normal and elevated blood pressure in children, based on national population studies, and arbitrarily defined hypertension as blood pressure greater than the 95th percentile of the distribution according to age and sex. As a result of that report and 3 subsequent revisions, measurement of blood pressure and recognition of hypertension as a childhood health care issue have become integral to the practice of pediatrics. Associated with the rising interest in hypertension was the realization that little was known about the use of antihypertensive drugs in children. The primary concern among pediatricians was related to potential adverse effects, in particular, developmental effects, of using adult drug doses and dosing schedules. At that time there was little incentive for the pharmaceutical companies to test drugs in children, and studies were investigator initiated by a telephone call to the company medical director, with the expense in the low 6 figures. Despite including crossover designs comparing 2 or 3 drugs, washout periods, and dose-response data, those protocols probably would not be funded today because of the small cohort size that combined …
Effects of controllability of stress on hippocampal pharmacology

To examine the effect of the controllability of stress on aspects of hippocampal noradrenergic, opiate, and cholinergic pharmacology, we trained rats in a controllability paradigm and assessed [3H]desmethylimipramine, [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate, or [3H]naloxone binding in hippocampal areas CA1, CA3, and the dentate gyrus with quantitative autoradiography. Rats that could control shock termination were yoked to rats that could not control termination of equivalent shock; a third group of rats received no shock. When the rats that could terminate shock responded at an 85% rate, their brains were removed and sectioned, incubated with tritiated ligands, and exposed to film for an appropriate period. Quantitative densitometry revealed a 10%–22% decrease in naloxone binding in CA3 in rats receiving uncontrollable shock; no significant changes were observed in rats that could control shock. Thus, the ability to control shock prevented stress-induced changes in µ opiate receptor binding in area CA3 of the hippocampus.
Electrostatics for Exploring the Nature of Water Adsorption on the Laponite Sheets' Surface

In this work, the topology of the electrostatic potential using density functional theory for periodic systems was used to study the nature of the interaction of water with laponite surfaces; an uncharged sheet model was also used. The topological analysis predicts that for uncharged surfaces the adsorption mode is such that the water molecules are adsorbed almost parallel to the surface. For laponite surfaces, where there is a net charge, the adsorption mode involves electrostatic repulsion between the negative lone pairs on the water molecules and the ones on the surface oxygen atoms. As a consequence, the water molecules bind to the surface in a perpendicular and tilted approach, minimizing the repulsive interactions. The advantage of using the topology of the electrostatic potential as an efficient method to describe the electrostatic interactions between adsorbates and surfaces is also discussed.
The School Psychologist in Evaluating Educational Programs.

Abstract A discussion of school psychology practice is presented, with emphasis on school programs rather than on individuals. While pressures exist to continue emphasizing the individual as the unit of study, current literature in evaluation theory and community psychology suggest a more viable model for the practice of school psychology. The learning process as it occurs in school programming is discussed, illustrating potential sources of involvement for school psychologists in effecting change in education. It is suggested that school psychologists, operating from a framework of evaluation theory, are well suited to be evaluators of school programs.
Systemic inflammation associated with severe intestinal injury in extremely low gestational age newborns.

To define the role of systemic inflammation in infants with intestinal perforation (IP) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), we measured 25 blood protein concentrations on days 1, 7 and 14 in 939 infants born before 28 weeks’ gestation. On days 7 and 14, infants with NEC had elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), IL-6 and IL-8. Infants with IP had elevated levels of CRP and insulin growth factor binding protein-1 on day 7 and elevated CRP, SAA, TNF-receptor-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 levels on day 14. A better understanding of systemic inflammation might help prevent and treat these disorders.
Exploring the association between melanoma and glioma risks.

Abstract Purpose Gliomas are one of the most fatal malignancies, with largely unknown etiology. This study examines a possible connection between glioma and melanoma, which might provide insight into gliomas' etiology. Methods Using data provided by the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program from 1992 to 2009, a cohort was constructed to determine the incidence rates of glioma among those who had a prior diagnosis of invasive melanoma. Glioma rates in those with prior melanoma were compared with those in the general population. Results The incidence rate of all gliomas was greater among melanoma cases than in the general population: 10.46 versus 6.13 cases per 100,000 person-years, standardized incidence ratios = 1.42 (1.22–1.62). The female excess rate was slightly greater (42%) than that among males (29%). Sensitivity analyses did not reveal evidence that radiation treatment of melanoma is responsible for the detected gap in the rates of gliomas. Conclusions Our analysis documented increased risk of glioma among melanoma patients. Because no common environmental risk factors are identified for glioma and melanoma, it is hypothesized that a common genetic predisposition may be responsible for the detected association.
Calculation of the quantum-limited comb lineshape for a mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser

We have calculated the spontaneous emission limited lineshape of the comb lines from a mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser using experimentally-derived parameters for the linear response. The lineshape has contributions from the dynamic response of the laser. Our results allow us to determine the fundamental limitation due to spontaneous emission on the uncertainty of frequency measurements using femtosecond frequency combs, when the effects of feedback and the frequency measurement equipment are properly taken into account.
Comparison of sitting face-to-face intubation (two-person technique) with standard oral-tracheal intubation in novices: a mannequin study.

Abstract Background Few studies have evaluated the impact of the upright position on the success of oral-tracheal intubation. Yet, for patients with airway difficulties (i.e, active intraoral bleeding or morbidly obese), the upright position may both benefit the patient and facilitate intubation. Objectives We compared the success rates of subjects performing standard intubation to a modified version of the sitting face-to-face oral-tracheal intubation technique on a simulation model. We also reviewed the possible advantages and limitations of the sitting face-to-face intubation technique. Methods Volunteer medical and paramedical students were given instruction, then tested, performing in random order both standard oral-tracheal and two-person sitting face-to-face oral-tracheal intubation on full-bodied mannequins. Observers reviewed video recordings, noting the number of successful intubations and the time to completion of each procedure at 15, 20, and 30 s. Results All of the sitting face-to-face intubations were successful, 53/53 (100%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 93–100%); whereas of the 53 subjects who performed standard intubation, 48 were successful (91%, 95% CI 80–96%). The difference between successful intubations using the standard vs. sitting face-to-face technique was 9% (95% CI 1.3–9.4%, p =0.025). At times 15 and 20 s, medical student subjects who successfully performed both techniques were less successful at completing the procedure when performing the standard technique as compared to the sitting face-to-face technique ( p =0.016). A post-procedural survey found that the majority of subjects preferred the sitting technique. Conclusion Subjects were significantly more successful at performing and preferred the sitting face-to-face intubation when compared to standard intubation.
Effect of Aluminum Level on Boron Clustering in Ni3Al

In alloys containing 0.24% boron, atom-probe field-ion microscopy (APFIM) revealed the presence of boron clusters in Ni-25 at. % Al and Ni-26 Al but not in Ni-24 Al. The observed boron clusters generally consisted of two to three boron atoms with a maximum size of 10 atoms. Quench rates that ranged from rapid solidification to furnace cooling had little effect on the clustering. The occurrence of the clustering coincides with a higher rate of boron strengthening as measured by an increase in the yield stress per atomic percent boron, and it also coincides with a reduced amount of boron segregation to grain boundaries. The levels of nickel and boron were highly variable on grain boundaries in rapidly solidified material and therefore no consistent indication of nickel enrichment at the grain boundaries associated with boron segregation was found. This result suggests that cosegregation of nickel with boron may not be necessary for the ductilization of Ni3Al by boron, since the rapidly solidified material is also ductilized by boron and exhibits segregation of only boron to the grain boundaries.
How to write a case report for publication

Objective This paper describes how and why to write a case report for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Efficient computation of quasi-periodic circuit operating conditions via a mixed frequency/time approach

Design of communications circuits often requires computing steady-state responses to multiple periodic inputs of differing frequencies. Mixed frequency-time (MFT) approaches are orders of magnitude more efficient than transient circuit simulation, and perform better on highly nonlinear problems than traditional algorithms such as harmonic balance. We present algorithms for solving the huge nonlinear equation systems the MFT approach generates from practical circuits.
DNA damage in intact cells induced by bacterial metabolites of chloramphenicol

Four chloramphenicol (CAP) metabolites known to be produced by intestinal bacteria were examined with respect to their capacity to induce DNA damage in intact cells. The induction of DNA single-strand breaks in Raji cells, activated human lymphocytes, and human marrow cells was assayed by the alkaline elution technique. One of the four compounds tested, dehydro-CAP, was capable of inducing DNA single-strand breaks in all three cell systems at concentrations of 10(-4) M. This effect is comparable to that observed previously with nitroso-CAP, the nitroreduction intermediate of CAP. The nitroreduction of dehydro-CAP by human bone marrow cell homogenate was detected by the production of the corresponding amino derivative amounting to 5.6 X 10(-5) M from 2 X 10(-3) M substrate under aerobic conditions. In sharp contrast, nitroreduction of CAP by bone marrow could not be demonstrated. The genotoxicity of dehydro-CAP, its relative stability compared to the nitroso-CAP, and its nitroreducibility by bone marrow suggest that this bacterial metabolite of CAP may play a key role as a mediator of aplastic anemia in the predisposed host.
DEMO 89-the initial experiment with the HERMIES-III robot

HERMIES-III is a large mobile robot designed for human-scale experiments. The initial experiment with the robot (DEMO 89) was the cleanup of a simulated chemical spill. To perform the experiment, the robot was required to plan a path through an already known world, navigate along the path (avoiding unexpected obstacles), and locate and remove debris from a target area. A description is given of the software system that was developed to perform the experiment. The software system consisted of 19 processes that operated on a distributed set of heterogeneous computers. >
Response of MEMS Devices Under Shock Loads

There is strong experimental evidence for the existence of strange modes of failure of MEMS devices under shock. Such failures have not been explained with conventional models of MEMS. These failures are characterized by overlaps between moving microstructures and stationary electrodes, which cause electrical shorts. This work presents a model and simulation of MEMS devices under the combination of shock loads and electric actuation, which will shed the light on the influence of these forces on the pull-in instability. Our results indicate that the reported strange failures can be attributed to early dynamic pull-in instability. The results show that the combination of a shock load and an electric actuation makes the instability threshold much lower than the threshold predicted considering the effect of shock alone or electric actuation alone. Several results are presented showing the response of MEMS devices due to half-sine pulse, triangle pulse, and rectangular pulse shock loads of various durations and strengths. The effects of linear viscous damping and incompressible squeeze-film damping are also investigated.
Statistical Reanalysis of Jewish Priests' and Non-Priests' Haplotypes Using Exact Methods

Researchers in an article appearing in Nature used asymptotic (i.e., large sample) chi-square tests in analyzing haplotypes of Y chromosomes using the polymerase chain reaction applied to genomic DNA from male Israeli, North American, and British Jews. The use of classical methods for analyzing extremely sparse contingency tables is frequently done, but with the advent of statistical software capable of conducting exact tests, researchers should certainly cease relying on outdated methods for small sample analyses. A reanalysis was conducted using modern statistical methods. Results and implications for using exact tests are discussed.
Establishing the genetic heterogeneity of familial hemiplegic migraine.

In this issue of Brain Thomsen and colleagues present data representing several important developments in the field of familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) with their investigation of the genetic spectrum and prevalence of this disorder (Thomsen et al ., 2006). The authors have performed the first population-based sampling strategy to obtain complete case ascertainment of this rare disease (Lykke Thomsen et al ., 2002) and followed this initial effort with a complete molecular genetic analysis of the collected samples, both by searching for mutation at the three identified FHM loci (Ophoff et al ., 1996; De Fusco et al ., 2003; Dichgans et al ., 2005) and also by performing a genome wide linkage scan. These data allow expansion and refinement of the genetic etiology of FHM within the relatively homogenous Danish population. Specifically, they clarify the penetrance of each mutation, population prevalence of mutations in genes known to cause this disorder, identify novel mutations and also show data that suggest additional as yet unidentified genetic lesions underlying this disorder. From a clinical perspective the study provides valuable data on the potential contribution of these mutations in defining the phenotypic (clinical) spectrum of this disorder. The hope is that these innovations will someday be extended to FHM's highly prevalent cousin, the common migraine. The extent of sampling in this study distinguishes it from others since the aim was to capture every FHM family in Denmark by systematic selection through the national patient registry, headache clinics, and advertising in national journals to physicians and headache patients. Sampling for families …
TREATMENT OF IMPACTED FRACTURE OF THE NECK OF THE FEMUR

In the five cases of impacted fracture of the neck of the femur reported, treatment by means of a short abduction spica, elevation of the heel of the shoe on the well side, and early walking resulted in union and complete recovery.
Refinement of the n - α and p - α fish-bone potential

The fish-bone potential of composite particles simulates the Pauli effect by nonlocal terms. We determined the $n$-$\ensuremath{\alpha}$ and $p$-$\ensuremath{\alpha}$ fish-bone potential by fitting to the experimental phase shifts. We found that with a double Gaussian parametrization of the local potential we can describe the $n$-$\ensuremath{\alpha}$ and $p$-$\ensuremath{\alpha}$ phase shifts simultaneously for all partial waves.
Living Green and Living Well: Climate Change and the Low-Carbon Imaginary

Given imperatives to dramatically reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and the entrenched social norms that countenance and even encourage carbon-intensive lifestyles, it has become clear that any effective response to these imperatives will have to combine policy instruments that incentivize decarbonization efforts with normative critique that dissociates greenhouse pollution from living well. What is needed, in other words, is the development of a low-carbon imaginary as a positive vision of individual sustainability without the associations between green living and the austerity and sacrifice that such efforts typically connote. Unlike temporary crises for which temporary austerity measures are sometimes effectively mobilized, the spectre of global climate change requires permanent normative transformation that equates living sustainably with living well. In this paper, I examine a variety of critical social movements that aim to create such a new cultural imaginary, including what Juliet Schor terms 'downshifting,' Michael Pollanﾒs food activism, and Kalle Lasnﾒs culture jamming, with the aim of assessing the extent to which such movements and the critical normative work they represent might effectively assist in the difficult transition to a low-carbon society, supporting and supplementing the policy efforts that cannot succeed without them.
Ubiquitin Aldehyde Increases Adenosine Triphosphate–Dependent Proteolysis of Hemoglobin α-Subunits in β-Thalassemic Hemolysates

Two major causes of the anemia in β-thalassemia are a deficiency in hemoglobin (Hb) β-subunit (and consequently HbA) synthesis and, due to the resulting excess of Hb α-subunits, erythroid cell hemolysis. The hemolytic component might be ameliorated by increasing the intracellular proteolysis of the excess α-subunits. Isolated 3H-labeled α-chains are known to be degraded primarily by the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)- and ubiquitin (Ub)-dependent proteolysis pathway in unfractionated β-thalassemic hemolysates. Our objective was to increase this degradation by targeted intervention. Ub aldehyde (Ubal), a synthetic inhibitor of isopeptidases (proteases that hydrolyze the bond between the Ub polypeptide and its protein adduct), was added to reaction mixtures containing a hemolysate from the blood cells of one of four β-thalassemic donors and 3H-α-chains or 3H-α-globin as a substrate. Optimum enhancement of ATP-dependent degradation occurred at 0.4 to 1.5 μmol/L Ubal and ranged from 29% to 115% for 3H-α-chains and 47% to 96% for 3H-α-globin among the four hemolysates. We suggest that Ubal stimulates 3H-α-subunit proteolysis by inhibition of an isopeptidase(s) that deubiquitinates, or “edits,” Ub-3H-α-subunit conjugates, intermediates in the degradative pathway. In control studies, similarly low Ubal concentrations did not enhance the degradation of 3H-α2β2 (HbA) tetramers or inhibit the activities of methemoglobin reductase and four selected glycolysis pathway enzymes. These and other results may be the basis for a therapeutic approach to β-thalassemia.
Simulation phenology model for the western grapeleaf skeletonizer (Lepidoptera: Zygaenidae): development and adult population validation

A process-oriented model was developed to simulate the phenology of the western grapeleaf skeletonizer, Harrisina brillians Barnes & McDunnough. Processes defined in the model include spring adult emergence, moth longevity, oviposition, and immature life-stage development. Model versions including discrete or distributed delays of life-stage development were compared. Model output was compared with pheromone trap count data collected in seven individual vineyards in 1988 and in three vineyards each year from 1989 through 1991. Model predictions and pheromone trap counts at 50% of cumulative catch were within 7 d of each other in 36 of 48 generational moth flight periods. Based on the level of variation in immature life-stage development that is characteristic of H. brillians , simulation output differed little between discrete delay versus distributed delay model versions. Results indicate that model implementation has considerable potential for predicting the seasonal occurrence of damaging immature life stages of this vineyard pest.
Abstract 51: Prospective study of LINE-1 hypomethylation in peripheral leukocyte DNA and colorectal cancer risk.

Abstract Background: The family of long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE-1) retrotransposons is reportedly hypomethylated in many cancers and reflects global methylation status in the genome. Global hypomethylation in peripheral blood leukocyte DNA has been increasingly studied and associated with increased risk of cancer, including colorectal cancer and adenoma in cross-sectional studies. Methods: To minimize disease- and/or treatment-related effects, we studied LINE-1 methylation levels in prospectively collected blood specimens from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial in relation to subsequent colorectal cancer risk. In a nested study of 398 cases and 519 controls who were cancer-free at blood collection, the extent of LINE-1 hypomethylation was measured by using the McrBC methylation specific restriction enzyme to cut methylated but not unmethylated DNA, followed by real-time PCR of the undigested/unmethylated LINE1 promoter sequences. We estimated the association between colorectal cancer risk and LINE-1 methylation categories by computing odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) through multivariable logistic regression modeling. Results: Overall, we observed no clear association between colorectal cancer and LINE-1 methylation categories (lowest tertile vs. highest: OR=1.06, 95% CI=0.74-1.52; P trend=0.72). However, we observed a nearly significant trend of decreasing LINE-1 methylation (hypomethylation) associated with increasing colorectal cancer risk, after excluding cases diagnosed within 1 year (lowest tertile vs. highest: OR=1.40, 95% CI=0.87-2.27; P trend=0.14) and 5 years (OR=2.65, 95% CI=0.96-7.36; P trend=0.07) following the blood collection. We noted no significant risk modification by folate intake or other suspected risk factors of colorectal cancer, such as smoking, obesity, and aspirin/ ibuprofen use in analyses including all subjects or excluding cases diagnosed within 5 years following blood collection (P interaction ranged between = 0.12 to 0.98). Conclusion: Findings from this prospective investigation offer further support for a potential dose-dependent relationship between LINE-1 hypomethylation in leukocyte DNA and subsequent colorectal cancer risk. Citation Format: Wen-Yi Huang, L. Joseph Su, Sonja I. Berndt, Lee E. Moore, Hormuzd A. Katki, Srinivasan Yegnasubramanian, Mark P. Purdue. Prospective study of LINE-1 hypomethylation in peripheral leukocyte DNA and colorectal cancer risk. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Post-GWAS Horizons in Molecular Epidemiology: Digging Deeper into the Environment; 2012 Nov 11-14; Hollywood, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(11 Suppl):Abstract nr 51.
A Measure of Comprehensive Airman Fitness: Construct Validation and Invariance Across Air Force Service Components

ABSTRACTThis article addresses the construct validity of an online assessment measure intended to reflect the biopsychosocial and spiritual fitness of U.S. Air Force (AF) members, defined as Comprehensive Airman Fitness. The analysis presented examines the extent to which this measure and the associated validation model are invariant across three AF components: active duty personnel, members of the Air National Guard/AF Reserve, and AF civilian employees. Our results indicate that total fitness (i.e., second-order factor), its four subcomponents (i.e., first-order factors), and the resiliency construct associated with role performance are invariant across service components at the configural, metric, and scalar measurement levels. Further, the strong positive association between total fitness and resiliency is statistically indistinguishable across all AF components. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Differentiation of infected from noninfected rapidly progressive neuropathic osteoarthropathy.

Differentiation of infected from noninfected rapidly progressive neuropathic osteoarthropathy can be difficult in a combined bone/ 111 In-leukocyte study. We present two cases : one infected and one not infected. By examining the distribution of the 111 In leukocyte activity and the change in the lesion-to-background ratios from the 4-hr to the 24-hr image, it may be possible to determine if the rapidly progressive neuropathic osteoarthropathy is infected.
Impact of malnutrition on gastrointestinal surgical patients

Abstract Background The accurate diagnosis of malnutrition is imperative if we are to impact outcomes in the malnourished. The American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), in an attempt to address this issue, have provided evidence-based criteria to diagnose malnutrition. The purpose of this study was to validate the ASPEN/AND criteria in a cohort of patients from a single high-volume surgical oncology unit. Methods Patients undergoing major abdominal surgery from June 2013 to March 2015 were classified by their nutritional status using the ASPEN/AND criteria. Results A total of 490 patients were included. Median age was 64 y, a majority were female (50.6%), white (60.2%), underwent elective procedures (77.6%), had a Charlson comorbidity score (CCS) of 3-5 (40.0%), and a Clavien-Dindo complication (CDC) grade of 0-II (81.2%). A total of 93 (19.0%) patients were classified as moderately/severely malnourished. On univariate analysis, malnourished patients were more likely to be older, undergo emergent procedures, and have a CCS >5 (P 0.05 failed to reach significance. Conclusions Malnutrition worsens LOS and cost. Utilization of standardized criteria consistently identifies patients at risk of negative outcomes who may benefit from perioperative nutritional support.
Low Quality of Basic Caregiving Environments in Child Care: Actual Reality or Artifact of Scoring?.

ABSTRACTQuality Rating Improvement Systems (QRIS) frequently include the Infant-Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ITERS-R) as part of rating and improving child care quality. However, studies utilizing the ITERS-R consistently report low quality, especially for basic caregiving items. This research examined whether the low scores reflected the absence of basic health practices or challenges with the scoring procedures and quality standards of the instrument. Classroom observations (N = 95) using an alternative scoring system for the ITERS-R showed that most classrooms met more indicators than the traditional scoring methods captured. Additional data collected for hand washing, diaper changing, and table washing in a subset of classroom (n = 41) indicated that few classrooms consistently met the embedded standards for the basic caregiving items. Although the additional data showed the absence of table washing and hand washing in many classrooms, more variability existed than with the traditional sc...
Cobalt–copper based catalysts for higher terminal alcohols synthesis via Fischer–Tropsch reaction

The production of higher terminal alcohols through CO hydrogenation according to the Fischer–Tropsch (F–T) process has been a topic of interest since the Institut Francais du Petrole (IFP) demonstrated short-chain C1–C6 mixed alcohols production over cobalt–copper based catalysts. A number of catalyst formulations were screened for their suitability at that time. In particular, the addition of Cr, Zn, Al, Mn and V to CoCu was investigated. In a number of patents, it was shown that catalyst preparation is crucial in these catalyst formulations and that high alcohols selectivity can only be achieved by carefully respecting the procedures and recipes. This short critical review highlights recent developments in CoCu-based catalysts for higher terminal alcohols synthesis via F–T synthesis. Special attention will be given to catalyst preparation which according to developments in our group is based on oxalate precipitation. This way we show that the close association of Co and Cu on the one hand and promoter/dispersant on the other are of utmost importance to ensure high performance of the catalysts. We shall concentrate on “CoCuMn”, “CoCuMo” and “CoCuNb” catalyst formulations, all prepared via oxalate precipitation and combined with “entrainment techniques” if necessary, and show high total alcohols selectivity can be obtained with tunable Anderson-Schulz-Flory chain-lengthening probability. Either long-chain C8–C14 terminal alcohols as feedstock for plasticizers, lubricants and detergents, or short-chain C2–C5 alcohols as “alkanol” fuels or fuel additives can be formed this way.
ANA-Negative Presentation of SLE in Man with Severe Autoimmune Neutropenia.

Background. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, inflammatory, connective tissue disease that commonly affects the joints and a variety of organs due to an overactivation of the body’s immune system. There is wide heterogeneity in presentation of SLE patients, including lung, central nervous system, skin, kidney, and hematologic manifestations. Case Presentation. We report a case of atypical manifestation of SLE in a 53-year-old man who presented with neutropenic fever. Physical findings of interest included oral ulcers on the lower lip, a malar-like rash across the bridge of the nose, and a discoid-like rash on extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees. Labs include ANC <100, weakly positive anti-dsDNA, negative ANA, ferritin 1237 ng/mL, low C3/C4, and positive direct Coombs’ test. A thorough workup for infection and hematologic malignancy was negative. Two days after initiation of therapy with 25 mg IV solumedrol twice a day, the patient’s daily fevers resolved. ANC drastically improved to 2000 after two weeks of steroid treatment. He was later found to have a high titer of anti-neutrophil antibodies. Discussion. Autoimmune leukopenia is a common presentation in SLE, occurring in 50–60% of patients. Severe autoimmune neutropenia is uncommon and may correlate with high anti-neutrophil antibody activity despite a negative ANA. As neutropenia is usually mild, there are currently no guidelines for therapy. For our patient, we started him on low dose IV solumedrol and found that he responded drastically to treatment. Given strongly positive nonspecific anti-neutrophil antibodies in the setting of a negative ANA noted in our patient, it is likely that there are other currently unknown antibodies associated with SLE which may correlate strongly with autoimmune neutropenia.
Juliana, et al v. United States, et al

In June of 2015, a group of twenty-one youth plaintiffs, ranging in age from 8 to 19, initiated a suit in the United States District Court of Oregon, against the United States government in Juliana, et al v. United States, et al. The plaintiffs allege that the federal government knowingly “[…] permitted, encouraged, and otherwise enabled continued exploitation, production, and combustion of fossil fuels, [...] deliberately allow[ing] atmospheric CO2 concentrations to escalate to levels unprecedented in human history.” Further, the plaintiffs allege that as a result of these actions, the federal government has destabilized the climate system, “significantly endanger[ing the] plaintiffs, with the damage persisting for millennia.” The plaintiffs base their claims on substantive due process grounds, arguing that the government’s actions have and will continue to deprive them life, liberty, and property, and that government has violated its obligation to hold certain natural resources in trust for the people and for future generations. As a remedy, the plaintiffs seek: 1) a declaration that their constitutional and public trust rights have been violated; and 2) an order enjoining the defendants from violating those rights and directing defendants to develop a plan to reduce CO2 emissions. In response to the plaintiffs’ claims, the defendant federal government and a group of intervenors filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. The defendants moved to dismiss the action for lack of subject matter jurisdiction and failure to state a claim on which relief can be granted. Oral argument on the motion was held and in April 2016, Magistrate Judge Coffin issued his Finding and Recommendation (“F&R”) in which he recommended the District Court deny the motion to dismiss. The defendants and intervenors filed objections in response to Judge Coffin’s F&R. Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636 and Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 72, the objections were reviewed by District Judge Ann Aiken. On November 10, 2016, after reviewing the objections of the defendants, Judge Aiken issued an Opinion and Order adopting Judge Coffin’s F&R and denying the defendants’ motion to dismiss. A brief discussion of Judge Aiken’s opinion and her reasoning for denying the motion to dismiss is found in turn.
Clinical Features and Surgical Treatment of Schwannoma Affecting the Base of the Tongue: A Systematic Review.

Introduction Schwannomas of the head and neck account for 25–40% of all cases, with presentation at the base of the tongue as the most frequent site for intraoral tumors. Objectives Here, a systematic review was conducted to include 15 cases of patients with schwannoma of the base of the tongue. Data Synthesis Most patients presented with a single, painless, well-encapsulated nodule at the base of the tongue. These nodules were slow-growing, with an average of 13.3 months from onset to presentation. Most cases were accompanied by airway obstruction, indicated by symptoms of dysphagia, dysarthria, snoring, and sleep apnea. Overall, the histological studies were consistent with a benign schwannoma with a palisading Antoni A and Antoni B pattern without malignant changes in cell morphology. These tumors were treated via complete surgical excision, and all cases achieved full remission by final follow-up. Conclusion Surgical removal is the primary mode of treatment with excellent postoperative prognosis and rare instances of recurrence. Given the rarity of this tumor, this review of available case studies serves to comprehensively describe clinical presentation and surgical treatment approaches to tongue base schwannoma.