cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Groundwater Quality Assessment Using Averaged Water Quality Index: A Case Study of Lahore City, Punjab, Pakistan

Water quality is considered as a major issue in mega cities of developing countries. The city of Lahore has over 10 million populations with the highest population density in the Punjab Province, Pakistan. Groundwater is the main source of drinking water in Lahore. The groundwater quality should be regularly monitored to cope up with drinking water quality issues. The water quality index (WQI), previously used in many studies was usually based on one-year data to analyze the water quality situation of the study area. However, the results obtained from the data, based on single observation from different points may have distortion. This might have occurred due to the inclusion of multiple types of errors induced in the data as a result of improper sampling design, lack of expertise in terms of both sampling method and sample testing, instrumental and human errors, etc. Therefore, the study evaluated the groundwater physicochemical parameters (turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids, hardness, chlorides, alkalinity and calcium) for three years. The averaged water quality index (AWQI) was computed using ArcGIS 10.3 model builder. The AWQI map indicated that the water quality in the study area was generally good except in few places like Anarkali, Baghbanpura, Allama Iqbal Town, Mughalpura and Mozang due to relatively higher turbidity levels. The results of this study can be used for decision making regarding provision of clean drinking water to the city of Lahore. Moreover, the methodology adopted in this study can be implemented in other mega cities as well to monitor groundwater quality.
An integrated “plug & play” 3D Slicer module for image-guided navigation for training, simulation and guidance

Minimally invasive surgery leads to significantly reduced morbidity and faster recovery times for patients. These advantages come at the cost of limited visual information available to the surgeon. Owing to the lack of direct visual feedback, visualization environments that enable three dimensional viewing and manipulation of medical images have become key, indispensable technology for minimally invasive interventions. The 3D Slicer software package is an open-source, cross-platform compatible compilation of libraries that enables extensive medical image visualization, processing and analysis, but offers limited built-in functionality for enabling interaction with tracking systems for image-guided navigation applications. Here we present a modular addition to the 3D Slicer environment that allows a rapid and robust integration with several commercial tracking systems while providing real-time estimates of several routine registration metrics. Additionally, the module also includes a modified, robust iterative closest point registration algorithm that requires no rigid-body registration for initialization. We have demonstrated the functionality of the developed module via several sets of experiments conducted using an engineering phantom and commercial tracking systems. The developed module provides a fast, robust and accurate approach for integrating a wide variety of tracking systems into the 3D Slicer platform for the development of “ready-to-go” applications for image guidance and navigation with minimal user development.
Student’s social interaction in inquiry-based science education: how experiences of flow can increase motivation and achievement

This research investigated how student social interactions within two approaches to an inquiry-based science curriculum could be related to student motivation and achievement outcomes. This qualitative case study consisted of two cases, Off-Campus and On-Campus, and used ethnographic techniques of participant observation. Research participants included eight eighth grade girls, aged 13–14 years old. Data sources included formal and informal participant interviews, participant journal reflections, curriculum artifacts including quizzes, worksheets, and student-generated research posters, digital video and audio recordings, photographs, and researcher field notes. Data were transcribed verbatim and coded, then collapsed into emergent themes using NVIVO 9. The results of this research illustrate how setting conditions that promote focused concentration and communicative interactions can be positively related to student motivation and achievement outcomes in inquiry-based science. Participants in the Off-Campus case experienced more frequent states of focused concentration and out performed their peers in the On-Campus case on 46 % of classroom assignments. Off-Campus participants also designed and implemented a more cognitively complex research project, provided more in-depth analyses of their research results, and expanded their perceptions of what it means to act like a scientist to a greater extent than participants in the On-Campus case. These results can be understood in relation to Flow Theory. Student interactions that promoted the criteria necessary for initiating flow, which included having clearly defined goals, receiving immediate feedback, and maintaining a balance between challenges and skills, fostered enhanced student motivation and achievement outcomes. Implications for science teaching and future research include shifting the current focus in inquiry-based science from a continuum that progresses from teacher-directed to open inquiry experiences to a continuum that also deliberately includes and promotes the necessary criteria for establishing flow. Attending to Flow Theory and incorporating student experiences with flow into inquiry-based science lessons will enhance student motivation and achievement outcomes in science and bolster the success of inquiry-based science.
Protein Import Channels in the Crossroads of Mitochondrial Function

Mitochondrial biogenesis and function, since the eukaryotic merger millions of years ago to now, relies on protein import channels across its membranes. This chapter reviews the current literature on the import pathways, how they are regulated, and how they are involved in emerging mitochondrial functions, from biogenesis to transcriptional regulation, stress response, and metabolic reprograming.
Secondary Department Chair Roles: Ambiguity and Change in Systemic Reform.

Systemic reform initiatives, while concerned with school leadership roles, have overlooked the potential role of secondary department chairpersons in the change process. This study examines departm...
Pulse Sequences for Hyperpolarized MRS

Hyperpolarization offers substantial gains in sensitivity for magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy (MRS) and imaging (MRI), which are particularly beneficial for providing novel functional information not accessible to conventional MRS and MRI. However, hyperpolarized MR requires tailored pulse sequences because of its unique magnetization behavior, including its decay back to thermal equilibrium, spin exchange, and metabolic conversion of the hyperpolarized magnetization. In addition, rapid delivery of the hyperpolarized media from the polarizer to the subject is key to success. This article begins by describing the unique behavior of hyperpolarized agents and the problems associated with their delivery, focusing on 13C-labeled pyruvate. Efficient RF and acquisition strategies that include variable flip angles, spectral-spatial RF pulses that address problems with chemical shift displacement artifacts, hyperpolarized slice profile distortions, and the effects of magnetic field inhomogeneity are presented. Acquisition strategies covered include MR spectroscopic imaging with phase encoding and time-dependent readout gradient trajectories, model-based methods, metabolite-specific imaging, steady-state free-precession, and ultrafast two-dimensional NMR. The integration of compressed sensing and parallel imaging into hyperpolarized MR for acceleration is also examined. Keywords: hyperpolarized pulse sequences; metabolic imaging; molecular imaging; variable flip angles; spectral-spatial RF pulses; rapid spectroscopic imaging; metabolite-specific imaging; ultrafast 2-D NMR
Editorial: The Bedrock of Library Services

My library will implement a new library service platform, or LSP, this year. We have had an integrated library system with another vendor for twenty years. I was a rank and file cataloger (special formats) when an RFP was issued for the current system. I did not have input into the selection process and also was not part of the massive data migration effort. While I attended numerous training sessions, I did not prepare documentation or train others. Both my position within my library and our needs for a more sophisticated system and services have changed a great deal in those twenty years
Do transgender men have equal access to health care and engagement in preventive health behaviors compared to cisgender adults

Using 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, this study investigates whether transgender men have equal access to health care and engagement in preventive health behaviors compared to cisgender adults in the U.S. and whether race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and rural residence moderate these relationships. Once controlling for sociodemographic factors, we do not find differences for transgender men. Rural transgender men were less likely to have a personal doctor or receive a blood cholesterol screening than their urban peers; transgender men with less education were more likely to have a cholesterol screening. We detail implications for social workers within health care.
Reversal of Plant Tumor Formation

The transformation of plant tissues by the soil bacteria Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Agrobacterium rhizogenes results in tumor formation or a callus with excessive root formation, respectively. These processes are associated with the incorporation of bacterial plasmid DNA (T-DNA), into the genome of the host plant. Much effort is underway to utilize these processes to incorporate useful genes into plants by using the bacterial plasmid as a transformation vector. In order for the processes to be useful, it is necessary to have a procedure whereby normal fertile plants can be generated from the tumor tissue with retention of the foreign genes.
Reversing Disability in Old Age

In his autobiographical novel, House of God, medical resident Samuel Shem (1978) described the tendency of physicians in his hospital to call the old patients “gomers.” The term gomer (or “gome” for short), Shem explains, serves as an acronym for “Get Out of My Emergency Room.” The phrase implies than old patients will be annoying and that their health will inevitably decline with a variety of age-related complications. Although Shem wrote his novel in 1978, some hospital house staff still refer to people over the age of 60 as gomes. The doctors who use the term gome would defend themselves by pointing out that the term is said tongue in cheek and that they would never use the term in the hearing vicinity of an old patient. We will argue in this paper, however, that the use of the term represents a kind of thinking and behavior that has negative consequences for the health of old people.
The Limited Utility of Communication in Simple Organisms

Many forms of communication have evolved in the animal kingdom for different purposes. In this paper we investigate the limits of communication for simple reactive organisms and show that communication has only limited benefits in biologically inspired foraging tasks and can even have detrimental effects in certain environments. Based on these results, we argue that simple agents with simple architectures need very special environmental conditions for communication to benefit them and thus to evolve.
Activation of basal forebrain purinergic P2 receptors promotes wakefulness in mice

The functions of purinergic P2 receptors (P2Rs) for extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) are poorly understood. Here, for the first time, we show that activation of P2Rs in an important arousal region, the basal forebrain (BF), promotes wakefulness, whereas inhibition of P2Rs promotes sleep. Infusion of a non-hydrolysable P2R agonist, ATP-γ-S, into mouse BF increased wakefulness following sleep deprivation. ATP-γ-S depolarized BF cholinergic and cortically-projecting GABAergic neurons in vitro, an effect blocked by antagonists of ionotropic P2Rs (P2XRs) or glutamate receptors. In vivo, ATP-γ-S infusion increased BF glutamate release. Thus, activation of BF P2XRs promotes glutamate release and excitation of wake-active neurons. Conversely, pharmacological antagonism of BF P2XRs decreased spontaneous wakefulness during the dark (active) period. Together with previous findings, our results suggest sleep-wake regulation by BF extracellular ATP involves a balance between excitatory, wakefulness-promoting effects mediated by direct activation of P2XRs and inhibitory, sleep-promoting effects mediated by degradation to adenosine.
Nonhomogeneous Damped String: Riesz Basis Property of Root Vectors Via Transformation Operators Method

We extend the classical concept of transformation operators to the 1-dim wave equation with spacially nonhomogeneous coefficients containing the first order damping term. The equation governs the vibrations of a damped string. Transformation operators were introduced in the fifties by I.M. Gelfand, B.M. Levitan and V.A. Marchenko in connection with the inverse scattering problem for the 1-dim Schrodinger equation. In the classical case, the transformation operator maps the exponential function (stationary wave function of a free particle) into the so-called Jost solution of the perturbed Schrodinger equation. In our case, it is natural to introduce two transformation operators(outgoingandincomingtransformation operators). The terminology is motivated by an analog with the Lax-Phillips scattering theory. Our main results are the following. First, we prove the existence of transformation operators (which have the forms of the identity operator plus certain Volterra integral operators) and estimates for their kernels. Secondly, using the transformation operators, we prove that the dynamics generator of a finite string with damping both in the equation and in the boundary conditions is a Riesz spectral operator. The latter result provides a class of nontrivial examples of nonselfadjoint operators which admit an analog of the spectral decomposition. The result also has a significant applications in the control theory of distributed parameter systems.
Consent Rate For Organ Donation After Brain Death: A Single Center’s Experience over 11.5 years (P4.324)

Objective: To compare different social and medical factors that affect organ donation in the intensive care units. Background: Many patient, family and hospital factors have been associated with obtaining consent for organ donation after brain death (BD). We evaluated potential factors that played a role in the consent rate in a large tertiary hospital over a period of 11.5 years. Design/Methods: We evaluated all BD declarations in our hospital between 2006 and 2017 regarding consent for donation. We cross-matched the hospital electronic medical records with the records of the local organ procurement organization to identify this population. Results: The organ procurement organization (OPO) spoke to 208 families (58.7% African American (AA), 48% female, mean age of 48.1 years). Another 43 families were never approached. There was a 72% consent rate. There was no significant relationship between sex, admission diagnosis, ICU (neuro vs. medical vs. surgical), physician specialty (neurology vs. other), time from event to BD declaration or religion and decision to donate. Families were more likely to consent to donation if the patient was non-AA (88% vs 62% if AA, p Conclusions: Although the majority of BD patients in this large series were AA, their families were almost 5 times less likely to consent for organ donation than non-AA families. There is an urgent need to explore the reasons for low donation rates in this population. Disclosure: Dr Kananeh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Brady has nothing to disclose. Dr. Louchart has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schultz has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mehta has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rehman has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mayer has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Actelion, Bard Medical, Bayer, Edge Therapeutics, and Stryker Neurovascular. Dr. Varelas has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with UCB.
Does Mitral Valve Calcium in Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Replacement Portend Worse Survival

Background Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is associated with worse outcomes after mitral valve replacement (MVR). With limited data available on long-term outcomes, we reviewed our experience of MVR in presence of MAC. Methods A retrospective review of 1,710 consecutive patients who underwent MVR between January 2000 and December 2015 was performed. Patients with isolated primary MVR (n = 496) were included, whereas patients with concomitant cardiac surgery (n = 1,068), previous MVR (n = 110), and mitral valve (MV) endocarditis (n = 36) were excluded. MV calcification was classified as MAC present in anterior/posterior annulus and vertically at the level of leaflets/subvalvular apparatus. A conservative approach towards annular debridement was followed. Results Our sample's mean age was 64.4 ± 14.1 years, and included 279 (56%) women. MV calcification was observed in 169 (34%) patients with MAC in 115 (23%). Older age, higher ejection fraction, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, dialysis, and previous aortic valve surgery were associated with increased prevalence of MAC. Patients with MV calcification had higher stroke rate (p = 0.040), patients with anterior leaflet and commissural calcification had higher pacemaker implantation (p = 0.010, p = 0.001, respectively), and patients with circumferential MAC had higher postoperative dialysis (p = 0.006). Operative mortality was not significantly different (p = 0.466) between MAC (n = 1, 1%) and non-MAC (n = 9, 2%) patients. MAC was associated with late mortality (unadjusted hazard ratio, 1.62; 95% confidence interval, 1.20 to 2.18), though on multivariable analysis age, diabetes, dialysis, hypertension, previous aortic valve surgery, previous coronary artery bypass grafting, and MVR with a bioprosthetic valve were found to be independent risk factors for mortality whereas MAC was not. Conclusions A conservative approach to treat MAC achieves satisfactory results. Patients with MAC have significant comorbidities contributing to a worse survival, though MAC in itself is not a risk factor for mortality.
Factors that may influence the absence of liver metastases in a spontaneous colorectal cancer animal model- Potential targets for intervention in humans

1836 Colorectal cancer survival would improve if liver spread could be averted. The cotton top tamarin (CTT) spontaneously develops colorectal cancer but liver metastases are rare. We studied three mechanisms to explain this phenomenon: 1. Pentatpeptide PELPK-encoding nucleotide sequence changes in the N-terminal-A1 hinge region of the CEA molecule, and the effect of Kupffer cell blockade on human serum CEA; 2. Glycosylation changes in the CEA molecule in the tamarin by enzymatic deglycosylation and; 3. We performed immunostaining to determine the distribution of biliary glycoprotein (BGP), also known as CEACAM1 or CD66a, in tamarin (kindly provided by NERPC) and in human livers with and without metastatic disease pre-selected our pathologist. BGP is a putative vascular endothelial growth factor and is recognized by a specific monoclonal antibody (Prall & Wagener et al, 1996). 70% of CTT had changes in somatic PELPK sequences. Cancer animals had higher rates of PELPK changes, specifically in the LP bipeptide (p
Symptom Profile of Chronic Rhinosinusitis Versus Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Tertiary Rhinology Clinic

Objectives:Patients with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often present to an otolaryngologist with symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This study analyzes symptom profiles of such p...
What’s Hot in 2019: Expanded and Interconnected Notions of Literacy

The What’s Hot in 2019 survey was conducted to measure the amount of attention currently being given to literacy topics in research and practice. Twenty-five literacy leaders were surveyed; results...
Staged Surgical Management of Anatomically Corrected Malposition of Great Arteries

A nine-month-old girl diagnosed with anatomically corrected malposition (atrioventricular discordance, ventriculoarterial concordance, and malposed great arteries) complicated by multiple ventricular septal defects (VSD) and multifactorial left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) presented for management after pulmonary artery banding. She underwent interim palliation in the form of bilateral cavopulmonary connections, a modified Damus-Kaye-Stansel-type anastomosis, and subsequent staged one-and-a-half ventricle repair (1.5 repair) at the age of three years in the form of VSD closure, hemi-Mustard, and LVOTO resection.
Association between statin use, atherosclerosis, and mortality in HIV-infected adults.

Author(s): Phan, Binh An P; Ma, Yifei; Scherzer, Rebecca; Deeks, Steven G; Hsue, Priscilla Y | Abstract: BackgroundWhile HIV infection is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, benefit from statin is not well established in HIV-infected adults. We assessed whether statins are associated with a decrease in carotid artery intima-media thickness (cIMT) progression and all-cause mortality in HIV-infected adults who are at elevated ASCVD risk and recommended for statins.MethodsCarotid IMT was measured at baseline and follow-up in 127 HIV-infected adults who meet ACC/AHA criteria to be on statins. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to address selection bias. Multivariable models were used to control for baseline characteristics.Results28 subjects (22%) were on statins and 99 subjects (78%) were not. Mean cIMT at baseline was 1.2 mm (SD = 0.34) in statin users and 1.1 mm (SD = 0.34) in non-users, and the multivariable adjusted difference was 0.05mm (95%CI -0.11, 0.21 p = 0.53). After 3.2 years of follow-up, average cIMT progression was similar in statin users and non-users (0.062mm/yr vs. 0.058 mm/yr) and the multivariable adjusted difference over the study period was 0.004 mm/yr (95% CI -0.018, 0.025, p = 0.74). All-cause mortality appeared higher in non-statin users compared with statin users, but the difference was not significant (adjusted HR = 0.74, 95%CI 0.17-3.29, p = 0.70).ConclusionIn a HIV cohort who had elevated ASCVD risk and meet ACC/AHA criteria for statins, treatment with statins was not associated with a reduction in carotid atherosclerosis progression or total mortality. Future studies are needed to further explore the impact of statins on cardiovascular risk in the HIV-infected population.
Perioperative Transthoracic Echocardiography Practice By Cardiac Anesthesiologists-Report of a "Start-Up" Experience.

Objective In this paper, the authors report their experience of perioperative transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) practice and its impact on perioperative patient management. Design Retrospective case series. Setting Single institution, tertiary university hospital. Participants A total of 101 adult ASA II-V male and female patients >18 years old who were scheduled for or having surgery were included in this retrospective case series. Interventions All patients underwent a focused perioperative TTE exam performed by cardiac anesthesiologists with significant TTE experience, and further clinical management was based on echocardiography findings discussed with the anesthesia care team. Measurements Significant echocardiographic findings and changes in patient management were reported. Step-up management was a new intervention that was executed based on echocardiographic findings (volume infusion, inotropic therapy, cardiology consultation, and other interventions), and step-down management was avoidance of an unnecessary intervention based on echocardiographic findings (proceeding to surgery without cancellation, delay, cardiology consultation, and additional investigations/interventions). Main Results Fifty-three percent of TTEs were performed in the preoperative setting, 34% were intra-operative, and 13% were postoperative. No significant findings were detected in 38 patients, leading to step-down management in all of them. Among patients with positive findings, left ventricular dysfunction (12.8%), hypovolemia (10.8%), and right ventricular dysfunction (7.9%) were the most common. Step-up therapy included inotropic/vasopressor therapy (24.8%), intensive care admission after surgery for further management (13.8%), volume infusion (12.8%), and other interventions (additional monitoring, surgical delay, cardiology consultation, and modification of surgical technique). Conclusion Perioperative focused TTE examination is useful in the diagnosis of new cardiac conditions for anesthesia management (intraoperative monitoring and hemodynamic therapy) and postoperative care (intensive care unit admissions). Perioperative TTE performed by anesthesiologists can also help avoid procedural delays and unnecessary consults.
Effect of proton pump inhibitor co-medication on imatinib disposition: A healthy volunteer study

2503 Background: Imatinib mesylate, a potent inhibitor of Bcr-Abl and c-kit tyrosine kinases, is widely used to treat gastrointestinal stromal tumors and Philadelphia chromosome-positive leukemias. Imatinib often causes gastric upset and is therefore frequently administered with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Yet, the resulting elevated gastric pH, delayed gastric emptying, and inhibition of ABC transporters in the gut could change imatinib absorption, thereby affecting the therapeutic effectiveness of imatinib. To test this hypothesis, we sought to define the effect of PPI on the plasma pharmacokinetics of imatinib. Methods: 11 healthy subjects (6 M, 5 F; 21–56 years) were enrolled in a 2-period, open-label, randomized cross-over, fixed- sequence study. In one period, they received a single 400 mg dose of imatinib p.o., in the other, 40 mg omeprazol daily for five days followed by a single 400 mg dose of imatinib p.o.. The periods were separated by a wash-out period of ≥ 14 days. Plasma samples from 0–72...
The SDGs and the Empowerment of Bangladeshi Women

This chapter describes Bangladesh’s successes with advancing gender equality in the period of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), locating their origins in elite commitment to including women in the development process, and in the partnerships and aid that built the state and NGO capacity to reach them. The chapter reflects on the lessons of Bangladesh’s innovative and unexpected advances in the light of the new challenges posed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably those of early marriage and the achievement of decent work. The chapter asks whether contemporary conditions suggest that the elite commitment and state capacity that drove progress on the MDGs are up to meeting the more contentious and complex goals of the SDGs.
Having “been there” doesn’t mean I care: When prior experience reduces compassion for emotional distress.

The current research found that participants who had previously endured an emotionally distressing event (e.g., bullying) more harshly evaluated another person's failure to endure a similar distressing event compared with participants with no experience enduring the event or those currently enduring the event. These effects emerged for naturally occurring (Studies 1, 3, and 4) and experimentally induced (Study 2) distressing events. This effect was driven by the tendency for those who previously endured the distressing event to view the event as less difficult to overcome (Study 3). Moreover, we demonstrate that the effect is specific to evaluations of perceived failure: Compared with those with no experience, people who previously endured a distressing event made less favorable evaluations of an individual failing to endure the event, but made more favorable evaluations of an individual managing to endure the event (Study 4). Finally, we found that people failed to anticipate this effect of enduring distress, instead believing that individuals who have previously endured emotionally distressing events would most favorably evaluate others' failures to endure (Study 5). Taken together, these findings present a paradox such that, in the face of struggle or defeat, the people we seek for advice or comfort may be the least likely to provide it.
Comparison of transcriptional responses between pathogenic and nonpathogenic hantavirus infections in Syrian hamsters using NanoString.

Background Syrian hamsters infected with Andes virus (ANDV) develop a disease that recapitulates many of the salient features of human hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), including lethality. Infection of hamsters with Hantaan virus (HTNV) results in an asymptomatic, disseminated infection. In order to explore this dichotomy, we examined the transcriptome of ANDV- and HTNV-infected hamsters. Results Using NanoString technology, we examined kinetic transcriptional responses in whole blood collected from ANDV- and HTNV-infected hamsters. Of the 770 genes analyzed, key differences were noted in the kinetics of type I interferon sensing and signaling responses, complement activation, and apoptosis pathways between ANDV- and HTNV-infected hamsters. Conclusions Delayed activation of type I interferon responses in ANDV-infected hamsters represents a potential mechanism that ANDV uses to subvert host immune responses and enhance disease. This is the first genome-wide analysis of hantavirus-infected hamsters and provides insight into potential avenues for therapeutics to hantavirus disease.
Comparative analysis of helmeted impact response of Hybrid III and National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment headforms

As advanced helmet testing methodologies are developed, the effect headform selection may have on the biomechanical impact response must be considered. This study sought to assess response differences between two of the most commonly used headforms, the Hybrid III and National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment headforms, through a series of helmeted impact tests. A total of 180 pendulum impact tests were conducted with three impactor velocities and six impact locations. Test condition–specific significant differences were found between the two headforms for peak linear and angular accelerations (α = 0.05), although differences tended to be small. On average, the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment headform experienced higher peak linear (3.7 ± 7.8%) and angular (12.0 ± 21.6%) accelerations, with some of the largest differences associated with impacts to the facemask. Without the facemask impacts, the average differences in linear (1.8 ± 6.0%) and angular ...
Liver Defatting: An Alternative Approach to Enable Steatotic Liver Transplantation

Macrovesicular steatosis in greater than 30% of hepatocytes is a significant risk factor for primary graft nonfunction due to increased sensitivity to ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. The growing prevalence of hepatic steatosis due to the obesity epidemic, in conjunction with an aging population, may negatively impact the availability of suitable deceased liver donors. Some have suggested that metabolic interventions could decrease the fat content of liver grafts prior to transplantation. This concept has been successfully tested through nutritional supplementation in a few living donors. Utilization of deceased donor livers, however, requires defatting of explanted organs. Animal studies suggest that this can be accomplished by ex vivo warm perfusion in a time scale of a few hours. We estimate that this approach could significantly boost the size of the donor pool by increasing the utilization of steatotic livers. Here we review current knowledge on the mechanisms whereby excessive lipid storage and macrosteatosis exacerbate hepatic I/R injury, and possible approaches to address this problem, including ex vivo perfusion methods as well as metabolically induced defatting. We also discuss the challenges ahead that need to be addressed for clinical implementation.
Pten Mutations Alter Brain Growth Trajectory and Allocation of Cell Types through Elevated β-Catenin Signaling

Abnormal patterns of head and brain growth are a replicated finding in a subset of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is not known whether risk factors associated with ASD and abnormal brain growth (both overgrowth and undergrowth) converge on common biological pathways and cellular mechanisms in the developing brain. Heterozygous mutations in PTEN ( PTEN +/− ), which encodes a negative regulator of the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway, are a risk factor for ASD and macrocephaly. Here we use the developing cerebral cortex of Pten +/− mice to investigate the trajectory of brain overgrowth and underlying cellular mechanisms. We find that overgrowth is detectable from birth to adulthood, is driven by hyperplasia, and coincides with excess neurons at birth and excess glia in adulthood. β-Catenin signaling is elevated in the developing Pten +/− cortex, and a heterozygous mutation in Ctnnb1 (encoding β-catenin), itself a candidate gene for ASD and microcephaly, can suppress Pten +/− cortical overgrowth. Thus, a balance of Pten and β-catenin signaling regulates normal brain growth trajectory by controlling cell number, and imbalance in this relationship can result in abnormal brain growth. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We report that Pten haploinsufficiency leads to a dynamic trajectory of brain overgrowth during development and altered scaling of neuronal and glial cell populations. β-catenin signaling is elevated in the developing cerebral cortex of Pten haploinsufficient mice, and a heterozygous mutation in β-catenin, itself a candidate gene for ASD and microcephaly, suppresses Pten +/− cortical overgrowth. This leads to the new insight that Pten and β-catenin signaling act in a common pathway to regulate normal brain growth trajectory by controlling cell number, and disruption of this pathway can result in abnormal brain growth.
Eccentrically Braced Steel Frames for Earthquakes

A unique, practical structural steel system that possesses many advantages in the seismic design of structures is described. The system employs diagonal bracing with large eccentricity between the brace-beam connection and the beam column joint. The eccentricity provides a ductile fuse that yields in shear and prevents brace buckling. Static and dynamic analyses indicates that this system can perform well during earthquakes, because it combines the stiffness of a braced frame with the excellent energy dissipation of a moment-resisting frame. One-third-scale experiments showed that the system behaves as predicted in the analyses. It dissipates large amounts of energy while maintaining a very stiff structure, and it offers many potential applications in the seismic design of structures.
An online platform to automate LEED energy performance evaluation and submission process

Purpose – This study aims to develop a web-based tool – LEED Energy Performance Online Submission Tool (LEPOST) to reduce the submission cost of the leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) application process and facilitate green building design. Lifecycle cost reduction is a major driver for designing green buildings. LEED rating system has been well recognised and widely used in the green building industry. However, certification cost incurred in time and money is often a deterrent for some projects. Design/methodology/approach – LEPOST automatically maps EnergyPlus and eQUEST energy simulation results to the LEED energy performance requirement submission templates using an extensible markup language (XML) data structure. It incorporates the Energy Star Target Finder online engine and current utility data to calculate points required to assess LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 2 and Credit 1 automatically. Findings – A comparative case study is conducted using an office building proje...
Yeast Hsl7 (histone synthetic lethal 7) catalyses the in vitro formation of ω-NG-monomethylarginine in calf thymus histone H2A

The HSL7 (histone synthetic lethal 7) gene in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae encodes a protein with close sequence similarity to the mammalian PRMT5 protein, a member of the class of protein arginine methyltransferases that catalyses the formation of ω-NG-monomethylarginine and symmetric ω-NG,N′G-dimethylarginine residues in a number of methyl-accepting species. A full-length HSL7 construct was expressed as a FLAG-tagged protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We found that FLAG-tagged Hsl7 effectively catalyses the transfer of methyl groups from S-adenosyl-[methyl-3H]-L-methionine to calf thymus histone H2A. When the acid-hydrolysed radiolabelled protein products were separated by high-resolution cation-exchange chromatography, we were able to detect one tritiated species that co-migrated with an ω-NG-monomethylarginine standard. No radioactivity was observed that co-migrated with either the asymmetric or symmetric dimethylated derivatives. In control experiments, no methylation of histone H2A was found with two mutant constructs of Hsl7. Surprisingly, FLAG–Hsl7 does not appear to effectively catalyse the in vitro methylation of a GST (glutathione S-transferase)–GAR [glycine- and arginine-rich human fibrillarin-(1–148) peptide] fusion protein or bovine brain myelin basic protein, both good methyl-accepting substrates for the human homologue PRMT5. Additionally, FLAG–Hsl7 demonstrates no activity on purified calf thymus histones H1, H2B, H3 or H4. GST–Rmt1, the GST-fusion protein of the major yeast protein arginine methyltransferase, was also found to methylate calf thymus histone H2A. Although we detected Rmt1-dependent arginine methylation in vivo in purified yeast histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4, we found no evidence for Hsl7-dependent methylation of endogenous yeast histones. The physiological substrates of the Hsl7 enzyme remain to be identified.
Matrix isolation study of the products of the interaction of electrons and of argon atoms in excited Rydberg states with HCCIF2

Abstract Infrared absorptions of the (CICF)⋯H—F − and HCF − 2 anions have been identified in the spectrum of the products of the photolysis of HCCIF 2 isolated in an argon matrix at 14 K using radiation in the 147—105 nm spectral range. These anions are also produced in matrix experiments in which the Ar:HCCIF 2 sample is codeposited with an atomic beam of sodium and charge transfer processes are induced by mercury are radiation, as well as in experiments in which the sample is codeposited with a beam of argon that has been passed through a microwave discharge. Both the spectral data and molecular orbital calculations for HCF − 2 indicate that this molecule has an exceptionally weak CH bond and that its apex angle is considerably more acute than that of the uncharged HCF 2 radical. The high threshold for ion production from HCCIF 2 dictates consideration of the role played by highly excited Rydberg states of argon in the discharge experiments. It appears probable that charge transfer occurs between these excited argon and HCCIF 2 . The high ion yield typical of the discharge experiments is also consistent with product formation resulting from collision of matrix-isolated HCCIF 2 with free excitons formed by the impact of highly excited argon atoms at the surface of the solid deposit.
Impact of vessel maturation on antiangiogenic therapy in ovarian cancer.

Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the functional and therapeutic significance of pericytes in ovarian cancer vasculature. Study Design Tumor vessel morphologic condition and efficacy of endothelial and pericyte targeting were examined with the use of in vivo ovarian cancer models. The expression of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) ligands and receptors was examined in endothelial, pericyte-like, and ovarian cancer cells. Results Relative to normal vessels, tumor vasculature was characterized by loosely attached pericytes in reduced density. PDGF-BB was expressed predominantly by the endothelial and cancer cells, whereas PDGFRβ was present in pericyte-like cells. PDGF-BB significantly increased the migration of and VEGF production by pericyte-like cells; PDGFRβ blockade abrogated these effects. Dual VEGF (VEGF-Trap) and PDGF-B (PDGF-Trap) targeted therapy was more effective in inhibiting in vivo tumor growth than either agent alone. Conclusion Aberrations in the tumor microenvironment contribute to endothelial cell survival. Strategies that target both endothelial cells and pericytes should be considered for clinical trials.
Wavepacket path integral formulation of semiclassical dynamics

Abstract The “quantum trajectory” wavepacket approach to semiclassical collision dynamics is generalized to include effects which cause distortion of initially gaussian wavepackets. The generalization takes the form of a discrete phase space path “integral” or sum. A complete set of gaussian phase space localized basis functions is proposed, and in the semiclassical limit, each basis function time develops in a simple classical-like fashion. Thus, the formulation conveniently builds in the correct limiting semiclassical behavior. The phase space path sum is formally exact, numerically it appears convenient, and is apparently equally at home in quantum and semiclassical regimes.
Rapid sexing of murine preimplantation embryos using a nested, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

The objective of this study was to develop a rapid and efficient means of sexing murine preimplantation embryos at the 4- to 8-cell stage of development. To achieve this goal, a nested, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was optimized using DNA from male and female mice and primers specific for X- (DXNds3)- and Y- (Sry,Zfy) gene sequences. Sensitivity of the assay was measured using groups of 4, 2, or 1 blastomere from dissociated embryos. Efficiency was evaluated using single blastomeres obtained by embryo biopsy. Accuracy of sexing was determined by comparing single-cell results with those of matched blastocysts. Robust amplification of male (XY) and female (XX) gene sequences was obtained in less than 6 hours. The percentage of male (3 bands) and female (1 band) reactions for groups of 4, 2, or 1 blastomere was 100% (6/6), 100% (15/15), and 94.4% (17/18), respectively. Assay efficiency for single, biopsied blastomeres from 4 to 8 cell embryos was 95.8% (207/216). For male and female embryos, sexing of single blastomeres accurately predicted results of matched blastocysts, 100% (10/10) and 100% (13/13), respectively. Simultaneous amplification of one X- and two Y-gene sequences ensured correct interpretation of sexing reactions. Short thermal cycling times and minimal tube handling increased the assay speed and decreased the potential risk of contamination. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 49:261–267, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pharmacological and ionic features of γ-aminobutyric acid receptors influencing electrical properties of melanotrophs isolated from the rat pars intermedia

Abstract Characteristics of the γ-aminobutyric acid receptors on melanotrophs of the rat pars intermedia were studied by intracellular recording. Muscimol and 3-amino-1-propanesulfonic acid, but not baclofen or glycine, mimicked the depolarization and conductance increase produced by γ-aminobutyric acid on the melanotrophs. These effects appeared to be due to an increase in chloride ion conductance since the null potentials for all three drugs were the same and were affected by changes in external or internal chloride ion concentration but not by changes in the concentrations of other ions present in the recording solution or by the addition of the calcium-channel blocker cobalt. Bicuculline abolished the effect of muscimol. Picrotoxin reduced the effect of γ-aminobutyric acid; so too did furosemide. Muscimol mimicked the ability of γ-aminobutyric acid to reduce the depolarization produced by excess potassium and this effect was also blocked by bicuculline. Rat melanotrophs thus appear to possess γ-aminobutyric acid receptor-ionophore complexes similar to the classical sort found in neurons in the mammalian central nervous system. Furthermore, the parallels between the electrical responses observed and secretory effects previously noted, reinforce the view that electrical activity may participate in stimulus-secretion coupling in melanotrophs.
Fatigue cracking of titanium tubes in an industrial heat exchanger

The fatigue fracture of commercially pure (cp) titanium tubes at relatively low temperatures [120° C (250° F)] in a shell-and-tube heat exchanger was studied. The cp titanium tubes were subjected to flow-induced vibration and compression axial loading in service. The combined stresses resulted in numerous intergranular cracks in circumferential direction. Some cracks reached a size that resulted in complete rupture of tubes. Fractographic analyses indicated that the fracture was caused by high-cycle fatigue. A large portion of the tube wall indicated a lack of characteristic ductility of cp titanium. The reduced ductility was a result of second-phase particle inclusion and hydrogen absorption in tube material. The secondphase particles provided easy sites for initiation and coalescence of microvoids. Hydrogen absorption of titanium resulted in an increase in hydride content and thus a decrease in ductility.
Chemotherapy treatment — the nurse's role

ABSTRACT:Cancer is a generic term encompassing different disease entities with similar pathology but potentially different outcomes. Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are all viable treatment options. Veterinary nurses (VNs) play a central role in helping manage cancer patients and it is important that the VN has sufficient knowledge and understands the individual treatment options prescribed. This information is invaluable when providing client care instilling owner confidence in the personnel treating their pet. This article discusses use of chemotherapeutics, highlighting potential health and safety implications and the role of the VN in treatment.
Polarization studies of radiation emitted by surface plasmons in silver

Abstract Measurements are reported on the polarization of radiation emitted by the roughness induced decay of nonradiative surface plasmons optically excited by light in thin Ag films. This radiation is of mixed polarization when the incident light is p-polarized. The s-polarized component of the radiation is observed to be considerably less intense than the p-polarized component.
Catalytic activity and thermal stability of Au–CuO/SiO2 catalysts for the low temperature oxidation of CO in the presence of propylene and NO

Abstract Oxidation catalysts in emissions control systems generally contain Pd/Pt and require exhaust temperatures above 200 °C to operate, but under low-temperature conditions, oxidation of CO and hydrocarbons are challenging. As engine efficiency improves and exhaust temperature decreases, there is an increasing demand for high emissions control performance at low temperatures. Therefore, it becomes imperative to design new catalysts that are active at low operating temperatures. Au–CuOx catalysts, made through the oxidation of AuCu alloy nanoparticles, have been found to be highly active for the oxidation of CO at low reaction temperatures. The catalytic activity for the conversion of CO using Au–CuOx/SiO2 was evaluated under simulated lean exhaust conditions (CO, C3H6, NO, H2O, O2 and Ar). It was found that the oxidation of CO over the Au–CuOx/SiO2 catalyst was inhibited when C3H6 or NO was introduced into the reaction stream. Interestingly, a physical mixture of Au–CuOx/SiO2 and Pt/Al2O3 worked in synergy to enhance the oxidation of NO to NO2 with 90% conversion near 300 °C in the presence of CO. This reactivity is on par with Pt/Al2O3 NO oxidation activity in the absence of CO. The Au–CuOx/SiO2 catalysts were also found to be thermally stable after being aged up to 700 °C for 10 h. The resistance to particle sintering can be attributed to the CuOx “anchoring” the Au particles to the silica support.