cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Patterns of communication and the implications for learning among two distributed-education student teams

In a recent pilot study of two Distributed-Education student teams, we learned how people collaborate in work groups. We identified different patterns of communication and the implications such interactions have for collaborative teams. An analysis of current practices in documentation by both teams was conducted, and it offered real world solutions for understanding effective communication interactions of academic and workplace teams in the creation of day-to-day documents. This study tries to answer questions such as, "What are the patterns of communication, and what consequences do these forms of communications have on the way student's learn in a collaborative or distributed teams and learning environments.
Synthesis of oxo- and methylene-bridged C60 dimers, the first well-characterized species containing fullerene-fullerene bonds.

The preparation and characterization of dimers and polymers, wherein two or more cages are directly linked, represents an important frontier in the chemistry of fullerene derivatives. We report the preparation of novel oxo- and methylene-bridged C{sub 60} dimers, the first well-characterized compounds containing fullerene-fullerene bonds. 22 refs., 3 figs.
Use of Water‐Soluble Vitamins in Patients with Chronic Renal. Failure

Summary Little is actually known about the minimum daily requirement for most vitamins in the patient with end-stage renal disease. Many of the studies reviewed suffer from lack of adequate control populations and differing methodologies, making comparisons between these studies difficult. However, patients with renal failure have many restrictions on their dietary intake, frequently suffer from intercurrent illness, and would seem to be at risk for vitamin deficiency. Also, metabolic abnormalities associated with the loss of kidney function may increase the daily requirements for certain vitamins. It is unlikely that dialysis losses of the water-soluble vitamins alone could account for vitamin depletion, and these other factors are likely to play a much more important role. It is of interest to note that the studies which demonstrate little or no vitamin deficiencies are those studies which have been carried out more recently (8, 9, 17). The patients were usually given some vitamin supplementation prior to or during the period of study and thus it is not surprising that most patients failed to demonstrate vitamin deficiency. It is also likely that heightened awareness regarding the propensity for patients with renal failure to develop deficiencies of the water-soluble vitamins has resulted in better dietary instruction and earlier intervention with vitamin supplementation. More efficient dialytic methods have also reduced the restrictions on many foods, and patients are no longer instructed to boil all their fresh vegetables. Although there may be the risk of toxicity when vitamin supplementation is overzealously administered to patients with reduced renal excretory function, it seems prudent to administer some of these water-soluble vitamins to patients with end-stage renal disease who are treated with intermittent dialysis therapy (Table 1). Certainly, this is not a very costly approach. Further studies should be carried out to better evaluate vitamin nutriture in chronically uremic and maintenance dialysis patients and to more rigorously define the minimum dose that would prevent deficiency and avoid toxicity.
Race and competing mortality in advanced head and neck cancer

summary Objectives: Black patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) have poorer survival and disease control compared to non-black patients, but disparities in death from non-cancer causes (i.e., competing mortality) are less well-studied. Materials and methods: We conducted an analysis of 538 patients (169 black, 369 non-black) with stage III–IV HNC treated on one of six multi-institutional protocols between 1993 and 2004 involving multiagent chemoradiotherapy with or without surgery. Competing mortality was defined as death due to intercurrent comorbid disease, treatment-related morbidity, or unknown cause in the absence of disease recurrence, progression, or second malignancy. Cox proportional hazards and competing risks regression were used to estimate the effect of black race on competing mortality. Results: Black race was associated with increased rates of comorbidity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, advanced tumor stage, and poorer performance status (p < .001 for all). Compared to non-black patients, black HNC patients had a higher 5 year cumulative incidence of disease progression (31.4%; 95% CI, 24.4– 38.5% vs 23.4%; 95% CI, 19.1–28.1%) and competing mortality (28.1%; 95% CI, 21.2–35.3% vs 14.5%; 95% CI, 11.0–18.5%). When adjusting for age, male sex, body mass index, distance traveled, smoking and alcohol use, performance status, comorbidity, and tumor stage, the black race was associated with death from comorbid disease (Cox hazard ratio 2.13; 95% CI, 1.06–4.28, p = 0.033). Conclusions: Black patients with advanced HNC are at increased risk of both disease progression and death from competing non-cancer mortality, particularly death from comorbid disease. Improved strategies to manage comorbid disease may increase the benefit of treatment intensification in black patients.
Subacute Neurotoxicity Induced in Mice by Potent Organophosphorus Neuropathy Target Esterase Inhibitors

Abstract The mouse is considered to be insensitive and the hen sensitive to clinical expression of organophosphorus-induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN) which is associated with inhibition of neuropathy target esterase (NTE). This species difference is reevaluated with two optimized inhibitors of hen brain NTE by examining them for potential neurotoxic effects in mice. 2-Octyl-4 H -1,3,2-benzodioxaphosphorin 2-oxide (OBDPO) and ethyl octylphosphonofluoridate (EOPF) inhibit mouse brain NTE in vitro by 50% at 0.12 and 0.02 n M and induce neurotoxic signs in mice at 10 and 5 mg/kg, respectively. The action of these compounds in both 1- and 6-month-old mice, sometimes after early transient cholinergic signs, involves ataxia, paralysis, and death in 1 to 3 days and is accordingly referred to as subacute neurotoxicity. The neurotoxic signs are associated with brain edema and severe vacuolation in the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord, particularly the neuropile. Subacute neurotoxic signs are always associated with at least 80% inhibition of brain NTE activity 16–24 hr after treatment. Acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase are much less sensitive than NTE to inhibition by OBDPO and EOPF both in vitro and in vivo. Selected carbamates, thiocarbamates, phosphinates, and sulfonyl fluorides are prophylactic agents and dipentyl 2,2-dichlorovinyl phosphate is a promoter for OBDPO-induced subacute neurotoxicity. Although this type of neurotoxicity in mice is similar to OPIDN in the correlation with NTE inhibition and the prophylactic action of reversible NTE inhibitors, it differs from OPIDN in the delay time prior to onset, the sensitivity of both young and old animals, and the high incidence of fatality. A full neuropathological study is desirable to further characterize this subacute neurotoxicity.
The Kelvin dictum and social science: an excursion into the history of an idea.

Lord Kelvin's dictum on the importance of measurement in science is frequently quoted (and more frequently misquoted). One version is to be found on the facade of the University of Chicago's Social Science Research Building. An impromptu excursion into the history and uses of this inscription sheds light on the roles of measurement and quotation in scholarship.
Interpretation of Beta Lyrae. III - A study of the disk around the secondary component

Light curves of Beta Lyrae available in the far-ultraviolet, visual, and infrared regions of the spectrum at numerous phases in eclipse are analyzed in order to investigate the physical and radiative nature of the disk surrounding the secondary component. The results of this analysis together with those of other investigators lead to the proposal that the outer regions of the disk are dominated by free electrons. This electron-scattering envelope is most likely the source of infrared radiation as well as the cause of the observed polarization. However, the radiation in the region from the optical to the far-ultraviolet comes mainly from submerged layers where local thermodynamic equilibrium prevails. These layers represent the photosphere of either the disk or the secondary component itself.
In Situ and Mobile Simulation: Lessons Learned … Authentic and Resource Intensive

Abstract In situ simulation refers to a learning activity that takes place in the location or environment where the participants may actually provide patient care. Even as more and more simulation labs, schools, and centers emerge, the need for a mobile simulation plan often arises, including the ability to deliver simulation-based training at a clinical site other than one's home simulation site. This article is not only a review of the current literature, but it also incorporates practical solutions that are based on experiences from hundreds of in situ sessions provided at 11 New York City public hospital locations. This article also provides a list of some benefits and considerations when considering in situ or mobile simulation and some useful learning theories behind in situ training in addition to a checklist based on numerous in situ sessions that facilitators may find useful.
Modeling of Complex Manufacturing Processes by Hierarchical Fuzzy Basis Function Networks With Application to Grinding Processes

A framework for modeling complex manufacturing processes using fuzzy neural networks is presented with a novel training algorithm. In this study, a hierarchical structure that consists of fuzzy basis function networks (FBFN) is proposed to construct comprehensive models of the complex processes. A new adaptive least-squares (ALS) algorithm, based on the least-squares method and genetic algorithm (GA), is proposed for autonomous learning and construction of FBFNs without any human intervention. Simulation studies are performed to demonstrate advantages of the proposed modeling framework with the training algorithm in modeling complex manufacturing processes. The proposed method is implemented for the surface grinding processes based on the hierarchical structure of FBFNs. Process models for surface roughness and residual stress are developed based on the available grinding model structures with a small number of experimental data to demonstrate the concept. The accuracy of developed models is validated through independent sets of grinding experiments.
Direct measurement of the multiple-scattering of solar radiation

Describes the results of a unique field experiment to evaluate the atmospheric scattering of solar radiation reflected off of a bright ground target using ground-based instruments. The effort is part of an experimental and theoretical program to fully evaluate the atmospheric point spread function. During the boreal summer of 1997, a unique spectral/spatial target was deployed in the middle of a large uniform grassy area near Brookings, South Dakota, airport. The target consisted of a large vinyl covered nylon tarp 30 by 60 metres in size. The vinyl was dyed to produce a surface that was very bright only in the blue region of the visible spectrum.
A comparison of tests for the hypothesis of no three-factor interaction in 2 × 2 × 2 contingency tables

Several tests are available for the hypothesis stating that there is no 3-factor interaction in a 2 × 2 × 2 contingency table. This paper provides an empirical study of the behavior, under H 0 well as under a variety of alternatives, of six tests. Pearson's X 2 test, which was first applied to the 2 × 2 × 2 table by Bartlett (1935) is found most powerful among the tests which do not inflate the nominal significance level.
Undergraduate Research in Bioinformatics - The CONNJUR project

The involvement of undergraduate students in scholarship of discovery has many benefits including increased excitement and motivation on the part of the student, a richer academic experience, preparation for graduate work, and the potential establishment of a foundation for life-long learning. However, undergraduate involvement in research also suffers from the drawbacks of lack of student skills, multiple demands on student time, and short time-frame for research efforts. When the area of research is bioinformatics, specifically the study of protein structure using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, the breadth of background required to carry out research is a further roadblock to undergraduate participation. The CONnecticut NMR Joint University Research project is an effort to construct an NMR data analysis framework that includes a common data store and integrates current NMR analysis tools. This paper reports on the challenges faced and approach used to incorporate undergraduate students into a multi-institutional team of faculty and graduate students designing and developing the data analysis framework.
Avoiding Captain Ahabs Lessons from the Office of the Independent Counsel

The 1978 independent counsel law was designed to create an impartial prosecutor to increase public confidence that high-ranking government officials accused of misconduct would be fairly investigated. Many independent counsels have come under bipartisan criticism for being overzealous. Such overzealousness and excessive persistence may not be the random result of isolated personalities but may instead be the predictable outcome of escalation determinants embedded in the position of independent counsel. The author outlines these escalation determinants, shows how they may have influenced independent counsels, demonstrates how they may be counteracted, and discusses the general implications for the design of administrative positions.
High-Level Visual Object Representations Are Constrained by Position

It is widely assumed that high-level visual object representations are position-independent (or invariant). While there is sensitivity to position in high-level object-selective cortex, position and object identity are thought to be encoded independently in the population response such that position information is available across objects and object information is available across positions. Contrary to this view, we show, with both behavior and neuroimaging, that visual object representations are position-dependent (tied to limited portions of the visual field). Behaviorally, we show that the effect of priming an object was greatly reduced with any change in position (within- or between-hemifields), indicating nonoverlapping representations of the same object across different positions. Furthermore, using neuroimaging, we show that object-selective cortex is not only highly sensitive to object position but also the ability to differentiate objects based on its response is greatly reduced across different positions, consistent with the observed behavior and the receptive field properties observed in macaque object-selective neurons. Thus, even at the population level, the object information available in response of object-selective cortex is constrained by position. We conclude that even high-level visual object representations are position-dependent.
Left ventricular geometry immediately following defibrillation: shock-induced relaxation.

A previous two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound study suggested that there is relaxation of the myocardium after defibrillation. The 2D study could not measure activity occurring within the first 33 ms ...
Choice Map: Inferring a Product-Market Map from Panel Data

This paper describes Choice Map, a model that infers a product-market map from panel data. Choice Map is a stochastic brand choice model, a random utility quantal choice model, and a multidimensional scaling procedure. Choice Map combines the parsimony of stochastic choice models, the rationale of random utility models, and the ability of multidimensional scaling procedures to simultaneously infer both brand positions and consumer preferences from preference choice data. Choice Map assumes that consumers have stationary purchase probabilities for the observational period, which makes the model best suited to frequently-bought mature product categories. Neither experimental nor survey data are required. Traditional mapping methods that scale such data may not yield the same structure for low-involvement products as will a procedure like Choice Map that scales behavioral data. Choice Map's descriptive and predictive validity exceeds that of an alternative stochastic brand choice model the Dirichlet-multinomial for a test data set.
A Canonical Correlation Analysis of the WISC and ITPA for a Group of Learning-Disabled Children:

A frequent criticism of the Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Abilities (ITPA) has been that it may measure general cognitive abilities — similar to the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) or Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale — rather than the specific abilities it was designed to measure. This study investigated the extent to which information obtained from the WISC overlaps with information obtained from the ITPA. A canonical correlation analysis revealed that only 24% of the WISC subtest variance is redundant, given the ITPA; while 22% of the ITPA subtest variance is redundant, given the WISC. The ITPA and WISC seem to measure essentially different constructs. The only subtests significantly related are the Digit Span and Auditory Sequential Memory subtests. Thus, an educational evaluator should not consider discarding one or the other test because of assumed similarity of results; both tests should be retained.
Photocleavable side groups to spatially alter hydrogel properties and cellular interactions

Hydrogel systems with inducible variations in mechanical and chemical properties are of interest to many aspects of tissue engineering. Substrate-tethered hydrogel films, fabricated by copolymerization of hydroxyethylacrylate with the photolabile monomer 2-nitrobenzyl acrylate (2-NBA) and a crosslinker were shown to be responsive to UV light through cleavage of the 2-NBA moiety. The surface and bulk properties of the films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy and atomic force and confocal microscopy. At long irradiation times, a tripling of the swelling ratio and an order of magnitude decrease in gel modulus were observed, coupled with an increase in surface wettability. Following short exposures, the gels became resistant to protein and cell adhesion, a trend that was reversed with longer exposure times. Finally, high-fidelity patterns of gel swelling were fabricated through spatially selective irradiation by employing basic photomasks. These materials are useful for future studies for which spatial and temporal control of material properties and cellular interactions are desirable.
Age-related increase in mitochondrial DNA damage and loss of DNA repair capacity in the neural retina

With age, there is increased mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage in the central nervous system (CNS) that may underlie, contribute or increase the susceptibility to certain neurodegenerative diseases. We examined retinas from the eyes of young and old rodents for mtDNA damage and for changes in selected DNA repair enzymes. We found increased levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxy-guanosine (8-OHdG) by immunohistochemical labeling for the oxidative DNA damage marker in aged rodent retinas, which was confirmed by quantitative ELISA. 8-OHdG co-localized with the mitochondrial enzyme superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), suggesting damage to mtDNA. Most of the damaged mtDNA was in the photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells. Measurements of nuclear DNA (nDNA) and mtDNA lesions indicated that DNA damage was primarily in mtDNA in aged retinas. The increased damage to mtDNA may be due to decreased levels of DNA repair enzymes in the aged retina. Using qPCR, Western blots and immunohistochemistry, we determined the levels of DNA repair enzymes for oxidative damage. In retinas from old eyes compared to retinas from young eyes, we found decreased levels of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), mutY homolog (MYH) and endonuclease III homologue 1 (NTH1). Our results suggest that normal, age-related, increased mtDNA damage, likely due to decreased repair capacity in aged retinas, may be a susceptibility factor that underlies age-related retinal diseases.
TELE: a timing evaluator using layout estimation for high level applications

The authors address the problem of early accurate timing prediction of VLSI layouts, prior to any physical design tasks. The authors present an approach based on two models, analytical and constructive. This approach permits the user to trade off the accuracy of the prediction versus the runtime of the predictor. Such a scheme is quite useful for high level design tasks such as high-level synthesis and system level partitioning. The authors experimentally validated the model with respect to standard benchmark circuits from MCNC and the results indicate a 13% or better accuracy in the worst case delay predictions for Standard Cell designs with up to 1800 cells. >
National public library statistical systems and management: a comparison between the United States and the People’s Republic of China

Through an analytical and comparative study, examines the development and current status of the USA’s and China’s national library statistical systems, their natural functions and key system characteristics, usability of performance measures, and each system’s strengths and shortcomings. A distinction is made between government‐centred and profession‐centred systems. Identifies four factors which influence the systems’ characteristics. By finding commonalities and differences between the two statistical systems, provides library professionals, governmental administrators, and educators with the opportunity to learn from each other’s practices and experiences, to conduct further investigations into the purpose and characteristics of the statistical systems, and ultimately, to improve nationwide library planning and evaluation in their own country.
Structure and Polymorphism of the UL6 Portal Protein of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1

By electron microscopy and image analysis, we find that baculovirus-expressed UL6 is polymorphic, consisting of rings of 11-, 12-, 13-, and 14-fold symmetry. The 12-mer is likely to be the oligomer incorporated into procapsids: at a resolution of 16 A, it has an axial channel, peripheral flanges, and fits snugly into a vacant vertex site. Its architecture resembles those of bacteriophage portal/connector proteins.
Does melancholia predict response in major depression

We examined the value of the melancholic distinction for predicting response to 1 week of hospitalization without antidepressant drugs and to a 4-week fixed plasma level desipramine (DMI) trial in patients with unipolar non-psychotic major depression. Both DSM-III and III-R criteria were tested. Response to hospitalization (HDRS ≤ 12) was much less common in DSM-III melancholic than in non-melancholic patients (1 of 19 vs. 18 of 37, χ2 = 8.69, df = 1, P < 0.001) and severity did not account for this association. DSM-III-R melancholia criteria were also associated with poor hospital response but slightly less predictive. Melancholic patients, however, diagnosed with either set of criteria, were not more likely to respond to drug treatment on any of the measures examined.
Landscape Effects on Waterbird Densities in California Rice Fields: Taxonomic Differences, Scale-Dependence, and Conservation Implications

Abstract Habitat use patterns are influenced not only by characteristics of the habitat itself, but also by the nature of the surrounding landscape. Conservation of waterbirds in agricultural areas, therefore, needs to consider the effects of landscape patterns on the occurrence of species in individual fields. The relationships between the densities of waterbirds using flooded rice fields in winter and characteristics of the surrounding landscape were analyzed in California’s Sacramento Valley. The spatial scale at which the landscape was described was varied by calculating the amount of each habitat type within 2 km, 5 km, and 10 km of each field’s boundary. Waterbird densities in flooded fields were related to landscape patterns in various ways, but the nature of the relationships differed among taxonomic groups and depended on the scale at which the landscape was characterized. Densities of geese, wading birds, and shorebirds were positively correlated with the amount of wildlife refuge or semi-natura...
Procter & Gamble: Cost of Capital (Abridged)

This case asks the student to compute Procter & Gamble's weighted average cost of capital to determine whether another company should enter the household-products market; the student must also compute Clorox's cost of capital as a check on the P&G estimate. The case emphasizes the conceptual as well as the mechanical aspects of computing cost of capital for a company with homogeneous business risk and stable capital structure. (The unabridged version of the case is UVA-F-0931.)
CDC “High Risk” Donor Status Does Not Significantly Effect Patient Outcome in Pediatric Heart Transplantation

s S225 (34-98%) derived from catheterizations. 31% (8-89%) of the total exposure occurred during the transplant admission, 59% (11-88%) during planned and 3% (0-56%) during unplanned follow-up testing. Age at transplant was a significant risk factor for increased radiation exposure, with older patients receiving higher dose (p= 0.006). When adjusted for age, congenital heart disease as indication for transplant (p= 0.08), pre-sensitization (p= 0.12), and a positive crossmatch (p= 0.09) showed a trend toward increased exposure. Conclusion: At our center, pediatric heart transplant patients are exposed to significant amounts of ionizing radiation over the first post-transplant year, the majority of which occurs during scheduled catheterization. As survival improves, it is important to consider the potential long term risks associated with these levels of exposure.
Vertical redistribution of zooplankton in an oligotrophic lake associated with reduction in ultraviolet radiation by wildfire smoke

We used a natural experiment to test whether wildfire smoke induced changes in the vertical distribution of zooplankton in Lake Tahoe by decreasing incident ultraviolet radiation (UV). Fires have a variety of effects on aquatic ecosystems, but these impacts are poorly understood and have rarely been observed directly. UV is an important driver of zooplankton vertical migration, and wildfires may alter it over large spatial scales. We measured UV irradiance and the distribution of zooplankton on two successive days. On one day, smoke haze from a nearby wildfire reduced incident UV radiation by up to 9%, but not irradiance in the visible spectrum. Zooplankton responded by positioning themselves, on average, 4.1 m shallower in the lake. While a limited data set such as this requires cautious interpretation, our results suggest that smoke from wildfires can change the UV environment and distribution of zooplankton. This process may be important in drought-prone regions with increasingly frequent wildfires, and globally due to widespread biomass burning.
Analysis the relationship of Factor V,APCR,and Hcy in acute myocardial infarction patients

Objective:To investigate the relationship of gene polymorphism of coagulation factor Ⅴ with activated protein C-resistance(APCR)and Hyperhomocysteinemi(Hcy)in acute myocardial infarction patients.Method:APCR,Hcy,and FⅤ G1691-A,G1091-C,A1090-G gene polymorphism were assayed in 80 acute myocardial infarction patients and 100 normal subjects.Result:Positive rate of APCR and Hcy in patients with acute myocardial infarction was 16.25%,57.12% respectively.There was one patients having 3 types of FⅤ gene mutation.Conclusion:There were especially high positive Hcy rate and Hcy may be one of the important causes of thrombosis in patient with acute myocardial infarction.APCR phenomenon existed in acute myocardial infarction patients of Uyghur,it may have relation with factor Ⅴ gene mutation.
X-ray Diagnosis of Hirschsprung's Disease in Neonates:A Report of 33Cases

Objective To discuss the diagnostic value of barium enema and abdominal X-ray plain films for Hirschsprung's disease in neonates.Methods 33 neonates with Hirschsprung's disease proved by colonic surgery or rectal biopsy were collected.The typical andatypical X-ray features on barium enema and abdominal X-ray plain films were retrospectively analysed.Results In 33 cases,barium enema showed a case of short segment type Hirschsprung's disease,16 cases of common type,2 cases of long segment type and 5 cases of whole colon type.Barium retention in the whole colon in 5 cases and in a part of colon in 21 cases were seen after 24 hours follow-up.2 cases showed irregular bizarre saw-toothed change of rectum and sigmoid colon.On abdominal X-ray plain films,20 cases showed low colonic obstruction and intestinal distention and 5 cases showed less air in intestines.Conclusion Barium enema and abdominal plain films can afford the valuable X-ray diagnosis for Hirschsprung's disease in neonates suspected initially by clinician.
Developmental Consequences of Chlorophyll Deprivation on the Light Harvesting System of Soybean

Regulation of development, with the assembly of multimeric complexes, often requires the integration of diverse biosynthetic pathways. Thylakoid biogenesis is a notable example, since it requires cytosolic and chloroplastic protein synthesis, chlorophyll (Chl) production, iron-sulfur center biosynthesis, etc. Two biochemical probes, gabaculine (3-amino-2,3-dihydro-benzoic acid) and AHA (4-amino-hexynoic acid), permit the study of thylakoid assembly when one of these pathways, Chl biogenesis, is restricted by inhibition at the level of aminolevulinic acid synthesis (1,3).
The relationship between maternal education and reported childhood conditions.

Abstract Children of more-educated mothers tend to be healthier than children of less-educated mothers. However, in the United States, evidence for this relationship largely focuses on summary measures of health, such as subjective health status, birth weight, and height. Few studies have examined the relationship between mothers' education and children's reported conditions, the health metric that underlies many policy decisions concerning population health. Contrary to stylized facts about socioeconomic gradients in health, higher detection and reporting rates may lead to higher reporting rates among children of more-educated mothers, despite their better underlying health. This reporting pattern that might not mirror gradients for summary health measures. To examine this possibility, I investigate the association between maternal education and nine health conditions in the 1998–2014 National Health Interview Surveys (n = 176,097). I consider variation in the maternal education gradient across the specific reported conditions that children experience, paying particular attention to how patterns differ across children's ages. Results suggest that, unlike for the income gradient in child health, the relationship between maternal education and reported conditions varies in magnitude and direction across conditions. With some exceptions, the probability of reporting a diagnosed condition increases with maternal schooling. For some diagnoses, like asthma, this relationship is curvilinear, with an inverse gradient for children of the most educated mothers. However, the probability of reporting conditions that require neither diagnosis nor substantial parent-child involvement for detection tends to be flat across maternal education. Contrary to expectations, these relationships tend to be more pronounced for children who are 6 years of age or older than for younger children. These results expand understanding of the production and reporting of early-life health inequalities and illustrate limitations of an oft-used health metric. Reported conditions may underestimate socioeconomic inequalities in children's health.
Field emission diodes using sharp vertical edge structure

Field emission diodes with sharp vertical edges have been fabricated for possible future cathodoluminescence and high frequency device applications. These devices are formed using self-aligned planar processing methods based on conformal thin film deposition techniques thereby eliminating many of the fabrication difficulty and performance variation associated with other previously used fabrication methods. Recessed sealed vacuum cavities have been formed as part thereby eliminating the need for external vacuum pumping. >
Understanding the Importance of Radiology Screening When Suspecting Child Abuse

Abstract Child abuse is a global problem causing serious consequences to victims, their families, and society. To protect children, nurses and other health care providers need to be aware of the signs of child abuse and understand the role of radiologic studies in the evaluation of physical child abuse. The aim of this article is to present the different types of fractures caused by abuse, and the necessity of using different radiographic images to determine the locations and the severity of fractures.
Planar cell polarity-dependent and independent functions in the emergence of tissue-scale hair follicle patterns

Hair follicles of the mammalian epidermis display local order and global alignment, a complex pattern instructed by the core planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway. Here we address the contributions of core PCP genes, Van Gogh-like and Frizzled, to the establishment, local refinement, and global order of embryonic and postnatal hair follicles. We find that, similar to Fz6 mutants, the disordered hair patterns of Vangl2 mutants are refined over time and eventually corrected. In both mutants, we find that tissue-level reorientation occurs through locally coordinated follicle rotation at stereotyped locations. Strikingly, Vangl2 and Fz6 mutant follicles collectively rotate with opposing directionalities, suggesting that redundant core PCP signals contribute to their directed realignment. Consistently, global follicle alignment is not restored upon conditional ablation of both Vangl1 and Vangl2 genes. Instead, spatially distinct patterns of whorls and crosses emerge and persist even after a complete cycle of hair follicle regeneration. Thus, local refinement of hair follicles into higher order patterns can occur independently of the core PCP system, however, their global alignment with the body axes requires PCP function throughout morphogenesis, growth and regeneration.
Abstract 2376: Novel insights into the regulation of ERK3’s kinase activity and its ability to promote cancer cell invasiveness

In comparison with the well-studied conventional MAPKs, such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, much less is known about the regulation and downstream targets of ERK3, an atypical MAPK. Whereas dual phosphorylation of the TXY activation motif in ERK1/2 is critical for their activation, it is unclear if phosphorylation of the single phospho-acceptor site (S189) in the SEG activation motif of ERK3 is critical for its kinase activity or function. In addition, little is known about the functions of the structurally distinct elongated C-terminus extension of ERK3. Recent studies have revealed important roles for ERK3 in promoting cancer progression. Of note, our previous study showed that ERK3 increases cancer cell invasiveness by phosphorylating the oncogenic protein steroid receptor co-activator 3 (SRC-3) and upregulating SRC-3-mediated matrix metalloproteinase gene expression. Here we aimed to elucidate the importance of the phospho-site S189 and the C-terminus in regulating ERK3 kinase activity and its functions in cancer cells. By performing in vitro kinase assays, we found that as compared to the wild type (WT) ERK3 protein, ERK3-S189A has remarkably reduced kinase activity towards auto-phosphorylation and phosphorylating SRC-3. In line with the critical role of S189 in ERK3 kinase activity, mutation of S189 to alanine greatly reduced ERK3’s activity in promoting the migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. To study the regulatory role of the C-terminus in ERK3 kinase activity, we expressed and purified the N-terminal ERK3 (aa 1-340) that retains the kinase domain but has deletion of the C-terminus. While it showed higher auto-phosphorylation ability than the full length ERK3 protein, ERK3 (aa 1-340) had greatly decreased ability to phosphorylate SRC-3. Interestingly, ERK3-S189A (aa 1-340) exhibited kinase activity equivalent to that of ERK3 (aa 1-340). These results suggest that on one hand, the C-terminus may play an auto-inhibitory role on ERK3 kinase activation through intramolecular interaction and that the phospho-S189 is required for relieving this auto-inhibition; on the other hand, C-terminus plays a critical role for ERK3 to recruit substrates, such as SRC-3. In agreement with its inability to phosphorylate SRC-3, ERK3 (aa 1-340) had decreased ability to stimulate migration and invasion of lung cancer cells as compared to full length ERK3. Taken together, our study unravels the importance of ERK3 S189 residue as well as the C-terminus for the intramolecular regulation of ERK3 kinase activity and invasiveness-promoting ability in cancer cells. Citation Format: Lobna Elkhadragy, Hadel Alsaran, Weiwen Long. Novel insights into the regulation of ERK3’s kinase activity and its ability to promote cancer cell invasiveness [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2376. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-2376
Late breast implant infections: a delayed MRSA infection from hematogenous spread in an intravenous drug user

Infection following breast augmentation is a rare event, with an incidence of 0–4% in most studies. We present the case of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bilateral breast implant infection in a 42-year-old female, 19 years after submuscular saline breast augmentation. Her history was significant for intravenous drug abuse and concomitant osteomyelitis of the sternum and manubrium. She underwent washout and debridement, with explantation of the breast implants, and long-term intravenous vancomycin. This represents the longest reported occurrence of late infection in breast augmentation and the only report of a breast implant infection due to hematogenous spread/seeding from intravenous drug abuse. Level of Evidence: Level V, risk study.
Identity-by-Descent Mapping Identifies Major Locus for Serum Triglycerides in Amerindians Largely Explained by an APOC3 Founder Mutation.

Background— Identity-by-descent mapping using empirical estimates of identity-by-descent allele sharing may be useful for studies of complex traits in founder populations, where hidden relationships may augment the inherent genetic information that can be used for localization. Methods and Results— Through identity-by-descent mapping, using ≈400 000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of serum lipid profiles, we identified a major linkage signal for triglycerides in 1007 Pima Indians (LOD=9.23; P =3.5×10 −11 on chromosome 11q). In subsequent fine-mapping and replication association studies in ≈7500 Amerindians, we determined that this signal reflects effects of a loss-of-function Ala43Thr substitution in APOC3 (rs147210663) and 3 established functional SNPs in APOA5 . The association with rs147210663 was particularly strong; each copy of the Thr allele conferred 42% lower triglycerides (β=−0.92±0.059 SD unit; P =9.6×10 −55 in 4668 Pimas and 2793 Southwest Amerindians combined). The Thr allele is extremely rare in most global populations but has a frequency of 2.5% in Pimas. We further demonstrated that 3 APOA5 SNPs with established functional impact could explain the association with the most well-replicated SNP (rs964184) for triglycerides identified by genome-wide association studies. Collectively, these 4 SNPs account for 6.9% of variation in triglycerides in Pimas (and 4.1% in Southwest Amerindians), and their inclusion in the original linkage model reduced the linkage signal to virtually null. Conclusions— APOC3/APOA5 constitutes a major locus for serum triglycerides in Amerindians, especially the Pimas, and these results provide an empirical example for the concept that population-based linkage analysis is a useful strategy to identify complex trait variants.
Impact of Nucleic Acid Testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis C Virus on Blood Product Availability, Outdating, and Patient Safety

Abstract Context.—Limited data are available about the impact of nucleic acid testing for human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus in donated blood as part of a nationwide investigational study that affected greater than 90% of the blood supply. Objective.—To assess the impact of nucleic acid testing on supply, outdating, and patient safety. Design.—Participants in the College of American Pathologists 2001 American Association of Blood Banks/College of American Pathologists Viral Marker C survey were asked questions about supply, outdating, and implementation of a full quarantine of blood pending nucleic acid testing results. The number of respondents for each question ranged from 197 to 219 for blood centers and from 462 to 504 for hospitals. Results.—Shortages were more common for platelets (29% and 23% of blood centers and hospitals, respectively) than for red blood cells (13%, 11%). Similarly, outdating of platelets (13%, 11%) was more common than outdating of red blood cells; outdating of r...
Capturing the rains: Comparing Chinese and World Bank hydropower projects in Cameroon and pathways for South-South and North South technology transfer

Abstract China is an increasingly prominent actor in infrastructure development in the Global South. Hydropower, as a renewable energy source, is a key area in which Chinese technological cooperation and finance can contribute to sustainable growth. However, many of China's overseas hydropower projects remain controversial for their social and environmental impacts. This paper presents a comparative case study of a China Exim Bank-financed project and a World Bank-led multilateral project – both located in Cameroon – to highlight the commonalities and differences between China as a rising power and “traditional” Northern donors in the field of hydropower development. It examines the financiers’ influence on tendering, financing and implementation, as well as pathways of technology transfers undertaken. While both projects adhere to domestic regulations, the rigor of norm-enforcement and the level of involvement from financiers differ considerably, with implications for the projects’ construction, labor-relations and potential for technology transfers. This study contributes to the understanding of the developing norms and practices surrounding environmental and social impact management and technology transfers in South-South cooperation by engaging in a comparison of China, a rising power, and “traditional” donors such as the World Bank, who are re-emerging in the field of infrastructure development.
Should IV contrast be given with PETCT for staging or restaging patients with lung cancer

484 Objectives: To determine the clinical impact of administering IV contrast in patients undergoing a standard PET-CT scan for lung cancer evaluation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed images and clinical reports from 52 consecutive patients who had an IV contrast enhanced breath hold 16 row detector CT (CTC) and a shallow breathing whole body FDG PET-CT scan (GE Discovery ST) without IV contrast(PETCT) for the purpose of initial staging (n=28) or restaging (n=24) lung cancer. The CT and PETCT were performed within 4 wks of each other and with no interval treatment change. All scans (CTC and the non-contrast CT and PET components of PETCT) were jointly reviewed by a radiologist and a primary nuclear medicine physician. The TNM stage determined by PETCT was compared to that determined by CTC in order to assess whether CTC added any staging information to PETCT. Results: In the initial staging group, CTC provided potentially important T staging in 4 of 28 pts; all 4 had centrally located lesions invading the mediastinum or encasing vital vascular structures. No additional information was obtained for initial N staging. In 2 of 28 pts, CTC showed an indeterminate sub-cm liver hypodensity which was not seen on PETCT. No other potential M stage information was obtained from CTC. In the restaging group, CTC provided no additional information for assessing recurrence of T, N, or M disease. Conclusions: IV contrast with PETCT may improve initial T staging for centrally located tumors which could be important for surgical planning. For initial N staging and for restaging T, N, or M disease, IV contrast does not appear to provide additional information. For initial M staging, IV contrast may highlight indeterminate subcentimeter liver hypodensities not seen on the PET or CT component of PETCT. Patients with central tumors may benefit most from IV contrast while all others might be spared the increased cost and risk of adverse reaction associated with adding IV contrast to PETCT.
"Smarter" Roads and Highways

The Internet of Things can be used in conjunction with roads and highways to increase safety, reduce congestion and overall costs of maintenance, improve traffic flow, and provide a more pleasant experience for drivers and passengers. At the same time, there are inherent problems related to these systems such as the need to ensure safety and privacy when unexpected systems interactions occur. In this work we provide some guidance and a vision going forward for device manufactures, planners, highway construction companies, and other stakeholders.
Tuning the stabilization mechanism of nanoparticle-regulated complex fluids

Abstract In nanoparticle haloing, charged nanoparticles have been found to enhance the stability of colloidal suspensions by forming a non-adsorbing layer surrounding neutral colloids which induces an electrostatic repulsion between them. However, there has been some debate that nanoparticles may directly deposit onto the colloidal surfaces and that the stabilization mechanism relies on nanoparticle adsorption. In this study, we have found that these two mechanisms control the stability of colloidal suspensions across a continuum over increasing nanoparticle concentrations. AFM force measurements showed that highly charged zirconia nanoparticles built up an electrostatic repulsion between negligibly charged silica surfaces, preventing them from aggregating. The follow-up adsorption measurements and force modeling indicated that minor adsorption of nanoparticles is expected at volume fractions of 10−5 to 10-3, but the amount of nanoparticle adsorption dramatically increases with increasing the nanoparticle volume fraction beyond 10-3. Based on these results, we propose that the fundamental mechanism of nanoparticle-regulated stabilization is nanoparticle haloing at low nanoparticle concentrations which transitions to adsorption at higher concentrations. Accordingly, at a nanoparticle volume fraction of around 10-3 where the transition happens, the stabilization can be influenced by both nanoparticle haloing and adsorption.