cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Geographic location is an important determinant of risk factors for stone disease

Some regions are known to have an increased burden of urolithiasis. Urolithiasis is known to be affected by weather patterns, particularly high ambient temperatures. To identify geographic differences in risk factors, we compared metabolic information for 1254 patients in two geographically distinct regions, New York and Florida, with per sample adjustment for ambient weather. We observed that patients in New York were more likely to have low urine volume, but also lower total urinary calcium (168 vs 216 mg, p = 0.005), urate (376 vs 678 mg, p < 0.001), and phosphate (0.8 vs 0.9 g, p 0.007). Temperature was a predictor of urine pH (B = −0.07, p = 0.024). Geographic region was a predictive factor (p < 0.01) for urine calcium, volume, serum bicarbonate, and anion gap. Increased anion gap and serum HCO3 − were also predicted by temperature (B = 0.065, p = 0.035). Interestingly, urine volume was not affected by temperature. Our finding that temperature is a determining factor of urine pH and anion gap may help to explain the finding that hot weather is associated with increases in urolithiasis. Anion gap has also been previously associated with poor health measures and represents an interesting target for future research. Geographic location may independently contribute to urine composition, through regional diets, sun exposure, and groundwater. This study highlights the impact geographic location plays in determining risk factors for stone disease and the value of regional knowledge to the treating physician in preventing stone disease.
Black Lives Matter in TESOL: De-Silencing Race in a Second Language Academic Literacy Course

As racial tensions and reports of violence have become prominent in news and social media, U.S. society has been responding, struggling, and changing. This complex political and social situation can be particularly confusing for international students studying at U.S. universities. English language teachers are especially well positioned to create space for exploring this complexity and supporting learners' understanding of these events in light of their historical context. This report on the authors' collaborative reflective practice examines a second language academic literacy course through the lens of multiliteracies (New London Group, 1996). This approach acknowledges the multilingual, multicultural landscape of the United States and draws on multiple modalities and discourses in literacy education (Cope & Kalantzis, 2009). The core course novel that is the focus of the current article, A Lesson Before Dying (Gaines, 1993), is the story of a young African American man during the Jim Crow era who is sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit. These teachers noticed that students struggled to put race-related issues that are central to the text into meaningful historical and social context. The authors responded by situating the novel through inclusion of key supplementary materials on themes such as African American Vernacular English and Black masculinities. The pedagogy challenged racist master narratives that permeate American society, as reflected in both the course novel and current events, and constructed counternarratives. The resources described here are immediately relevant to English language classrooms in the United States at this important historical moment.
Efficient data and energy transfer in IoT with a mobile cognitive base station

In this paper, we consider a mobile cognitive base station (MB) to transfer data and energy to IoT devices. The MB receives requests for data and energy from the cluster heads of the IoT devices, then it adjusts its transmission power and location to transfer data and energy to the IoT devices. The goal is to support data and energy demands of IoT devices within a certain time to guarantee a certain quality of service while minimizing the total energy consumption. We consider the energy consumption due to the mobility of the MB in addition to the energy consumed for data and energy consumption. The MB operates underlaying a primary network, and hence, the MB adjusts its transmission power and location such that the primary users are protected from harmful interference. We developed a mathematical model to solve the problem and find the optimal locations and transmission powers that minimize the total energy consumption. Simulation results show how the IoT devices, the primary users, the number of the MB locations, service time and the mobility of the MB influence the total energy consumption. We show that increasing the number of the MB locations and the maximum tolerable time for delivering data and energy allow the MB to provision the service while reducing the total energy consumption.
3' UTR shortening represses tumor-suppressor genes in trans by disrupting ceRNA crosstalk.

Widespread mRNA 3′ UTR shortening through alternative polyadenylation 1 promotes tumor growth in vivo 2 . A prevailing hypothesis is that it induces proto-oncogene expression in cis through escaping microRNA-mediated repression. Here we report a surprising enrichment of 3′UTR shortening among transcripts that are predicted to act as competing-endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) for tumor-suppressor genes. Our model-based analysis of the trans effect of 3′ UTR shortening (MAT3UTR) reveals a significant role in altering ceRNA expression. MAT3UTR predicts many trans-targets of 3′ UTR shortening, including PTEN, a crucial tumor-suppressor gene 3 involved in ceRNA crosstalk 4 with nine 3′UTR-shortening genes, including EPS15 and NFIA. Knockdown of NUDT21, a master 3′ UTR-shortening regulator 2 , represses tumor-suppressor genes such as PHF6 and LARP1 in trans in a miRNA-dependent manner. Together, the results of our analysis suggest a major role of 3′ UTR shortening in repressing tumor-suppressor genes in trans by disrupting ceRNA crosstalk, rather than inducing proto-oncogenes in cis. Shortening of mRNA 3′ UTRs is often observed in cancer. A combination of model-based analysis and experiments suggests that 3′ UTR shortening disrupts competing endogenous RNA crosstalk, thus influencing tumor-suppressor expression in trans.
The Citric Acid Cycle

The citric acid cycle, together with the electron transport system, constitutes stage III of catabolism (see Figure 8.2), also called cellular respiration. Because the citric acid cycle functions in both catabolism (Figure 11.1) and anabolism (Figure 11.2), we call it an amphibolic pathway. The citric acid cycle plays a pivotal role in cellular respiration, has multiple interconnections with other pathways, and provides for interconversions of numerous metabolites.
5.36 Hydrocyanation in Organic Synthesis

Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is one of the most abundant feedstocks that undergoes catalyzed 1,2-additions to aldehydes, ketones, and imines. These reactions are catalyzed by Bronsted and Lewis acids, bases, and organocatalysts. Metal complexes of aluminum, yttrium, and lanthanides, and, even of late transition metals, are effective catalysts in these reactions. Preparatively useful procedures have been developed for the syntheses of enantiopure cyanohydrins and aminonitriles from the appropriate starting materials. Other useful reactions of HCN include conjugate addition to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds and ring-opening reactions of epoxides and aziridines. Nickel-catalyzed hydrocyanation of 1,3-butadiene for the manufacture of adiponitrile is one of the largest homogeneously catalyzed reactions in the industry. Mechanistic studies related to this process helped to uncover many of the fundamental concepts in organometallic reaction mechanisms. These studies also led to an expansion of the scope of hydrocyanation to include alkenes and alkynes. This review will cover synthetic and mechanistic aspects of these reactions, including enantioselective versions, which have received surprisingly little attention. The scope and limitations of the current methodology for the hydrocyanation of different classes of alkenes, 1,3-dienes, and alkynes are discussed. Uses of trimethylsilyl cyanide and acetone cyanohydrin as safe surrogates for HCN are illustrated.
Trace Metal and Nutrient Cycling in San Francisco Bay

Abstract : The long term goals of this project are to examine the influence of metal flux (primarily Cu, Cd, As, Co, Mn and Fe) from sediments on the concentration of dissolved metals in the coastal zone and embayments. The processes that control trace metal exchange across the sediment-water interface within coastal environments regulate the concentration of dissolved, bioactive metals in the water column. These processes include variations in the relative influence of transport mechanisms (diffusion versus bio-irrigation), microbial activity (anaerobic versus aerobic respiration), as well as geochemical reactions (redox reactions, precipitation, complexation and adsorption) that regulate the behavior of dissolved metals in pore waters. All of these processes are controlled by the activity and composition of the sediment community. The role of organic carbon remineralization on trace metal mobility at a biologically active interface is, therefore, the focus of this study.
Economic Importance of Cyst Nematodes in North America

Globodera rostochiensis (Woll.) Behr., G. pallida (Stone), G. tabacum tabacum (Lownsbery & Lownsbery), G. t. solanacearum (Miller & Gray),, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe, H. schachtii Schmidt, H. cruciferae Franklin, H. trifolii Goffart and H. avenae Woll. are the most important cyst nematodes of commercial crops in North America (USA and Canada), or have the potential to be important pests if distribution were not restricted. H. zeae Koshy, Swarup & Sethi parasitises corn (Zea mays) on a few farms in Maryland but its potential economic importance as a pathogen in North America has not yet been determined. Cactodera cacti (Filipjev & Schuurmans Stekhoven) on cactus, Punctodera punctata (Thorne) Mulvey & Stone on wheat, H. lespedeza Golden and G.S. Cobb on lespedeza, H. leucilyma Di Edwardo & Perry on St. Augustine grass, H. fici Kirjanova on fig, H. humuli Filipjev on hop and H. carotaeJones on carrot can be important pests in particular situations but they are not pests of general economic importance in North America.
An anatomy workshop for improving anatomy self-efficacy and competency when transitioning into a problem-based learning, Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

First-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students entering a problem-based learning (PBL) program are faced with a number of pedagogical challenges, including the development of self-directed le...
Love: A Critical Pillar in the Pedagogy of Jesus:

This paper seeks to illuminate the Christocentric themes and elements found within critical pedagogy. This work looks to Jesus as a pioneer in the development of some of the essential theories and ...
Particle-scale numerical modeling of thermo-mechanical phenomena for additive manufacturing using the material point method

A fundamental numerical model at the powder particle scale based on the material point method (MPM) is developed for selective laser sintering (SLS). In order to describe the thermo-mechanical phenomena, a laser heat source model with a Gaussian energy distribution and the Perzyna viscoplastic model with a return mapping algorithm are employed. The principal process conditions, such as the laser power and radius, and the scanning speed are systematically varied. Based on the obtained temperature distribution generated by laser irradiation under these conditions, elastic–viscoplastic stresses were calculated to evaluate the deformation of powder particle pairs under the driving force of surface tension via a simple two-dimensional test case. The developed MPM model can capture minute changes of the deformation behavior and the temperature distribution history during melting and consolidation at the particle scale. Melting and consolidation of particle pairs during SLS are basic nature in determining the final product quality. The model can help to evaluate variations in the fusion of microscopic areas, melted by a laser, resulting from variations in the process conditions.
Bacterial efflux inhibitors are widely distributed in land plants.

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Secondary metabolites play a critical role in plant defense against disease and are of great importance to ethnomedicine. Bacterial efflux pumps are active transport proteins that bacterial cells use to protect themselves against multiple toxic compounds, including many antimicrobials. Efflux pump inhibitors from plants can block these efflux pumps, increasing the potency of antimicrobial compounds. This study demonstrates that efflux pump inhibition against the Gram-positive bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus is widespread in extracts prepared from individual species throughout the land plant lineage. It therefore suggests a general mechanism by which plants used by indigenous species may be effective as a topical treatment for some bacterial infections. Aim of the study The goal of this research was to evaluate the distribution of efflux pump inhibitors in nine plant extracts with an ethnobotanical use suggestive of an antimicrobial function for the presence of efflux pump inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and methods Plants were collected, dried, extracted, and vouchers submitted to the Herbarium of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill (NCU). The extracts were analyzed by quantitative mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) to determine the presence and concentration of flavonoids with known efflux pump inhibitory activity. A mass spectrometry-based assay was employed to measure efflux pump inhibition for all extracts against Staphylococcus aureus. The assay relies on UPLC-MS measurement of changes in ethidium concentration in the spent culture broth when extracts are incubated with bacteria. Results Eight of these nine plant extracts inhibited toxic compound efflux at concentrations below the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) value for the same extract. The most active extracts were those prepared from Osmunda claytoniana L. and Pinus strobes L., which both demonstrated IC50 values for efflux inhibition of 19 ppm. Conclusions Our findings indicate that efflux pump inhibitors active against Staphylococcus aureus are common in land plants. By extension, this activity is likely to be important in many plant-derived antimicrobial extracts, including those used in traditional medicine, and evaluation of efflux pump inhibition may often be valuable when studying natural product efficacy.
ASICs are Required for Immediate Exercise-Induced Muscle Pain (IEIP), but not Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

IEIP and DOMS are two types of muscle pain induced by exercise. IEIP occurs during whereas DOMS appears days after exercise. Acid sensing ion channels (ASICs) expressed in muscle afferents, play a role in different pain conditions. ASICs are regulated via chemicals released during intense muscle contraction and microinjuries. Recently, we showed that ASICs are required for IEIP. Here, we tested if ASICs are also required for DOMS. Wild type (WT) and ASIC3-/- mice were divided into control and exercise groups. Exercise group underwent an exhaustive exercise; control group were placed on a non-moving treadmill. Locomotor movement was measured via Open field test to examine fatigue and/or soreness immediately and 24h after exercise. Next, exercise-induced muscle pain was assessed by muscle withdrawal threshold (MWT) at baseline, immediately and 24h after exercise. Our results showed; ASIC3-/- had similar baseline locomotor activity, muscle pain responses and exercise performance as WT. However, ASIC3-/- showed different responses after exercise compared to WT. WT had a lower MWT immediately and 24h after exercise compared to baseline. On the other hand, ASIC3-/- showed a lower MWT only 24h after exercise, but not immediately after. In addition, ASIC3-/- had significant lower locomotor activity than WT immediately after exercise. Also, ASIC3-/- had significant lower movement 24h after exercise compared to control ASIC3-/-, however this difference was not significant for WT mice. In summary, while WT and ASIC3-/- had a same exercise performance, they had different pain perception and fatigue immediately, but not 24h after exercise. Unlike WT, ASIC3-/- did not develop IEIP, even though ASIC3-/- had a higher fatigue level than WT as measured by diminished locomotion after exercise. On the other hand, ASIC3-/- developed DOMS a day after exercise like WT. These results show ASICs are required for immediate exercise-induced pain, but not exercise-induced fatigue and DOMS. Supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs Merit Award (5I01BX000776).
Dynamic gene expression and growth underlie cell-to-cell heterogeneity in Escherichia coli stress response

Cell-to-cell heterogeneity in gene expression and growth can have critical functional consequences, such as determining whether individual bacteria survive or die following stress. Although phenotypic variability is well documented, the dynamics that underlie it are often unknown. This information is important because dramatically different outcomes can arise from gradual versus rapid changes in expression and growth. Using single-cell time-lapse microscopy, we measured the temporal expression of a suite of stress response reporters in Escherichia coli, while simultaneously monitoring growth rate. In conditions without stress, we found several examples of pulsatile expression. Single-cell growth rates were often anti-correlated with gene expression, with changes in growth preceding changes in expression. These expression and growth dynamics have functional consequences, which we demonstrate by measuring survival after challenging cells with the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. Our results suggest that fluctuations in gene expression and growth dynamics in stress response networks can have direct consequences for survival.
Scoring Performance Variations Between the Y Balance Test, A Modified Y Balance Test, and the Modified Star Excursion Balance Test

Background The Modified Star Excursion Balance Test (MSEBT) and the Y-Balance Test- Lower Quarter (YBT-LQ) are utilized to assess dynamic postural stability. These assessments cannot be used interchangeably secondary to kinematic variations and performance differences. A Modified Y-Balance Test-Lower Quarter (MYBT-LQ) was developed to determine if a modification allows performance scores to be directly compared to the MSEBT. Purpose The purpose of this research was to determine if reach distances were similar for young, healthy individuals between three different balance tests: the YBT-LQ, the MYBT-LQ, and the MSEBT. Study design Repeated measures, descriptive cohort study. Methods Twenty-eight participants (17 males, 11 females) were recruited from a convenience sample of young, healthy adults. Participants completed all testing within a single session and performed three trials in each direction, on each leg, for all balance tests. Scoring performance was calculated for each balance test using the average normalized reach distance in the anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial directions. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare between-subject posteromedial and posterolateral scores, while anterior scores were analyzed using a Kruskal Wallis test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to determine within-subject participant performance reliability. Results Analyses indicated significant differences in the posterolateral and posteromedial reach directions between the YBT-LQ and MSEBT and between the MYBT-LQ and MSEBT, while no significant difference was found between the YBT-LQ and MYBT-LQ in any direction. No anterior reach differences were noted between any of the tests. Within-subject ICCs showed a very strong level of agreement between right and left anterior and right posteromedial reaches between all three tests, while only the YBT-LQ and MYBT-LQ demonstrated very strong agreement in all directions. Conclusion Reach performance on the MSEBT differed from the performance on the YBT-LQ and MYBT-LQ in the anterior, posteromedial and posterolateral directions in this population. These findings further support the difference in motor control strategies used during these tests. Levels of evidence 2c.
Computing equivalences on model abstractions representing multiscale processes

Abstract Querying by temporal logic as a reasoning mechanism on a system representing multiscale processes is important in understanding the details of a large and complex system, in particular in the models of biochemical pathways. A novel formalism representing a system of multiscale biochemical pathways is described. The definitions of multiscale model in discrete domains are represented in the form of a labeled transition system. A polynomial time algorithm is constructed for identification of systems representing multiscale pathway. A probabilistic variant of the multiscale formalism is stated.
The effect of mineralization on the time-dependent flexural deformation of cortical bone

Viscoelastic creep is an important factor to take into account when modeling press-fit orthopedic implants and may contribute to progressive vertebral deformity. There is very little data that shows how the presence of mineral affects the creep behavior of cortical bone. For this study creep tests were performed on ovine cortical bone samples and a model was developed to show how mineralization affects the creep response. The data was fit to a modified Bailey-Norton power law with a term representing bone mineral content. These results show that the creep response is significantly affected by bone mineralization (p<0.02, r=0.75, n=12).
Does it Pay to Consistently Meet Analysts' Earnings Expectations?

In this paper, we investigate the market reward to firms that consistently meet or exceed analysts' consensus forecasts over the entire horizon over which a pattern of consistent meet/beat is exhibited. Our results support the existence of a positive market response over the entire horizon. We document that this incremental valuation premium increases with the length of the strategy horizon over which MEET behavior persists, and that MEET firms enjoy significantly higher valuations of income and book value of equity than do NONMEET firms. Finally, we document that there has been a temporal shift in the way the market values the MEET strategy in that there is greater premium (penalty) for meeting /beating (missing) of earnings expectations.
Comparison of retention and expression of recombinant plasmids between suspended and Biofilm-Bound bacteria degrading TCE

Abstract Any exposure of plasmid recombinant microorganisms to an open system environment, either inadvertently or intentionally, mandates research into those fundamental organism:plasmid processes that influence plasmid retention, transfer, and expression. In the open environment, a majority of the microbial activity occurs associated with an interface, within thin biological layers consisting of the cells and their insoluble extracellular polymer; layers known as biofilms. In addition, current toxic wastewater or wastegas treatment reactors exploit bacteria biofilms for certain system operating advantages. Thus any study regarding the fate of recombinant DNA sequences in either an open environment or closed reactor system must consider processes that impact plasmid retention and expression in a biofilm culture. Using recombinant bacteria within a biofilm reactor to degrade a recalcitrant waste requires finding a suitable host to harbor and express the desired degrading plasmid phenotype. Suitable host characteristics include: ability to produce copious amounts of biofilm, resistance to waste-related injury and toxicity, and ability to retain and express the desired plasmid during long term operation. This paper reports on a laboratory evaluation of factors governing plasmid retention and the expression of TCE degradative capacity in both suspended and biofilm cultures.
Heat Resistance of Salmonella: the Uniqueness of Salmonella senftenberg 775W

Of approximately 300 cultures of Salmonella, representing 75 different serotypes, none was found to be as heat-resistant as S. senftenberg 775W. However, S. blockley 2004 was 5 times more heat-resistant and S. senftenberg 775W was 30 times more heat-resistant than S. typhimurium Tm-1, the reference strain in this study. All other strains of Salmonella tested, including 19 strains of S. senftenberg and 7 strains of S. blockley, had decimal reduction times at 57 C of about 1 min, equivalent to that of the reference organism, Tm-1. As observed in other bacterial species, strain 775W is more heat-sensitive in the log phase than in the stationary phase of growth. Cells from cultures grown at 44 C were more heat-resistant than those grown at either 35 or 15 C; the medium of growth, whether minimal or complex, made no appreciable difference in heat resistance. Cells from cultures limited by a carbon source were killed at a much slower rate than those limited by a nitrogen source and exhibited a 1-hr lag at 55 C before a significant rate of kill was attained. For any given set of growth conditions, strain 775W was always more heat-resistant than another strain of S. senftenberg, 197B, which has normal heat resistance.
When Circuit Breakers Trip: Resetting the CFAA to Combat Rogue Employee Access

This article focuses on the narrow question of whether the Computer Fraud & Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030 et. seq) should be available to a private-sector employer as a vehicle to litigate classic employee misappropriation cases when such employee’s conduct does not result in damage to the employer’s electronic system, computer's circuitry or programming, or interruption of service. The current circuit split regarding the construction and application of the CFAA’s access authorization provisions to employment cases has meant that an employer’s likely recovery under the statute depends in most instances upon factors external to the employee’s alleged conduct and more on whether and to what extent the court in a particular jurisdiction is willing to voyage into the subjective mindset of the employee during the alleged conduct.After examining legislative history of the CFAA, this article argues that the original intent of Congress was to target legislation against outside hackers, and employees of the company were not originally contemplated within the reach of the statute. However, as computer crimes became more sophisticated, Congress took steps to increase protection for owners of commercial information by factoring employee access into the CFAA provisions, albeit without crafting the amendments properly. Further, the article explains the theoretical underpinnings of the circuit split and argues that the split reflects divergent views on how to apply theories of contract, agency, and code-based approaches to the concept of “authorization” within the cyber security and computer information system context. While proffering a draft amendment to the statute, this article concludes by urging law makers or courts to 1) eliminate or exempt the “exceeding authorization” analysis when applying the statute to classic employee misappropriation cases; 2) end inquiries that focus on the employee’s subjective intent at the time of the access or the employee’s subsequent use of the information obtained; and 3) focus strictly on the unauthorized nature of the employee’s intrusion upon the employer’s protected computer information – this strict approach should render an employer’s inability to prove the employee’s breach of explicit contractual prohibition or a trespass of system code an automatic bar to recovery under the statute.
Locally Countable Models of $\Sigma_1$-Separation

Let α be any countable admissible ordinal greater than ω . There is a transitive set A such that A is admissible, locally countable, On A = α , and A satisfies Σ 1 -separation. In fact, if B is any nonstandard model of KP + ∀ x ⊆ ω (the hyperjump of x exists), the ordinal standard part of B is greater than ω , and every standard ordinal in B is countable in B , then HC B ∩ (standard part of B ) satisfies Σ -separation.
Microtubule solutions display nematic liquid crystalline structure.

We report a study of the spontaneous formation of ordered arrays of microtubules in solution. Form birefringence and anisotropic light-scattering appear rapidly and spontaneously when tubulin, initially present in homogeneous solution, self-assembles into microtubules. This phenomenon is reversible and occurs at protein concentrations of a few milligrams per ml, in the presence or absence of microtubule-associated proteins. Light and electron microscopic examination reveals that extensive regions of these birefringent solutions consist of nearly parallel microtubules. Measurement of the order parameter, S, yields a value of 0.81 +/- 0.05, indicating a high degree of alignment. Comparison of these observations to qualitative predictions developed from the theory of Onsager ((1949) Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 51, 627-659) leads to the conclusion that microtubules form a nematic liquid crystalline phase in vitro under ordinary conditions. Simultaneous spectrophotometric observation of turbidity (a measure of microtubule assembly) and birefringence shows that the parallel ordering lags only slightly behind assembly, thus demonstrating that much microtubule growth must occur by addition of tubulin to the ends of microtubules that are already aligned. These observations of anisotropy are important to the understanding of microtubule dynamics in vitro.
On the Structure of the Cu B Site in La1.85Sr0.15CuO4

By using NQR and new NMR methods, we isolated the A and B site signals in La2-xSrxCuO4 for x=0.15 at 300 K. This enabled us to measure lineshapes, relaxation rates, and the magnetic shifts separately for the Cu A and B sites. Trapped holes cause a substantial magnetic linewidth that is experienced by both Cu sites in a similar way. An axially symmetric lattice modulation is responsible for the quadrupolar broadening, but also affects both sites. The B sites do not cluster, and differ from the A sites mainly by a small change in the quadrupole frequency. Combining our results with literature data, we conclude that the B sites represent regular Cu sites in slightly contracted CuO6 octahedra.
Multiplication-free subband coding of color images

This paper describes a very computationally efficient design algorithm for color image coding at low bit rates. The proposed algorithm is based on uniform tree-structured subband decomposition, multistage scalar quantization of the image subbands, and high order entropy coding. The main advantage of the algorithm is that no multiplications are required in both analysis/synthesis and encoding/decoding. This can lead to a simple hardware implementation of the subband coder, while maintaining a high level of performance.
Patient-Reported Outcomes Accurately Measure the Value of an Enhanced Recovery Program in Liver Surgery

Background Enhanced recovery (ER) pathways have become increasingly integrated into surgical practice. Studies that compare ER and traditional pathways often focus on outcomes confined to inpatient hospitalization and rarely assess a patient's functional recovery. The aim of this study was to compare functional outcomes for patients treated on an Enhanced Recovery in Liver Surgery (ERLS) pathway vs a traditional pathway. Study Design One hundred and eighteen hepatectomy patients rated symptom severity and life interference using the validated MD Anderson Symptom Inventory preoperatively and postoperatively at every outpatient visit until 31 days after surgery. The ERLS protocol included patient education, narcotic-sparing anesthesia and analgesia, diet advancement, restrictive fluid administration, early ambulation, and avoidance of drains and tubes. Results Seventy-five ERLS pathway patients were clinically comparable with 43 patients simultaneously treated on a traditional pathway. The ERLS patients reported lower immediate postoperative pain scores and experienced fewer complications and decreased length of stay. As measured by symptom burden on life interference, ERLS patients were more likely to return to baseline functional status in a shorter time interval. The only independent predictor of faster return to baseline interference levels was treatment on an ERLS pathway (p = 0.021; odds ratio = 2.62). In addition, ERLS pathway patients were more likely to return to intended oncologic therapy (95% vs 87%) at a shorter time interval compared to patients on the traditional pathway (44.7 vs 60.2 days). Conclusions In oncologic liver surgery, enhanced recovery's primary mechanism of action is reduction in life interference by postoperative surgical symptoms, allowing patients to return sooner to normal function and adjuvant cancer therapies.
Not for Women Only: Applying the Relational Model of Group Development with Vulnerable Populations

ABSTRACT This article presents and illustrates the application of the relational model of group development (Schiller, 1995, 1997), originally formulated to address a differential developmental pathway observed in groups comprising women, to address vulnerable populations. Following a review of group developmental theory, the article discusses the importance of practitioners moving from observation to application in the use of a group stages model for groups impacted by trauma, oppression, and loss.
Isolation and characterization of putative human lung alveolar epithelial progenitor cell from tissue explants

Introduction: Alveolar epithelial type II cells (AECII) are generally considered the stem/progenitor cells of the alveolar compartment. However, recent studies in rodents suggest that AECs may arise from primitive precursors. Objective: Isolate and characterize alveolar progenitor cells (aEpiPCs) from human lung tissue. Methods: Surgical biopsies from anonymous donors were obtained under an approved IRB protocol at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Boston, USA). Explant cultures were established and epithelial progenitors were isolated using serum-free media. Outgrowth cells were characterized by flow cytometry, immunostaining, and qRT-PCR. Function and differentiation were assessed via scaffold re-cellularization and Matrigel® assays. Results: Passage 0 aEpiPCs were uniformly EpCAM + , Itg β4α6 + , Pancytokeratin + , proSP-C - , and Aquaporin5 - . They were also c-kit - , CD45 - , CD90 - and CD31 - , consistent with an undifferentiated epithelial phenotype. Cells were highly clonogenic (cfu efficiency = 12%), self-renewing out to passage 10, and displayed increased telomerase levels. On laminin and collagen I, aEpiPCs differentiated into AECI and II cells, expressing proSP-B, proSP-C, Aqp5 and ZO-1. Differentiation was also observed following seeding onto de-cellularized mouse lung and plating on Matrigel. Conclusions: Undifferentiated human aEpiPCs isolated from biopsy specimens are highly proliferative, clonogenic, and demonstrate lineage-restricted multipotency in culture. These cells, which can be readily isolated from explants of human lung tissue, appear to represent precursors to AECI and II cells, and may play an important role in homeostasis and regeneration in the human lung.
Task-based human observer study for evaluation of 4D MAP-RBI-EM method for gated myocardial perfusion SPECT

610 Objectives: We evaluated the 4D maximum a posteriori rescaled-block iterative (MAP-RBI)-EM image reconstruction method for gated myocardial perfusion (GMP) SPECT using a task-based human observer study. Methods: Previously, we performed optimization study of 4D MAP-RBI-EM method with corrections of image degrading factors. We found sets of its optimal parameter ranges for improved trade-off in terms of normalized mean squared error (NMSE) and normalized standard deviation (NSD) as compared to conventional reconstruction methods. To apply a task-based human observer study for its evaluation, we used a population of 4D NURBS-based Cardiac-Torso (NCAT) phantoms. Noise-free and noisy projection data of 16 cardiac gates were generated using an analytical projector that included the effects of attenuation, collimator-detector response and scatter (ADS). The projection data were reconstructed with the sets of parameters that had been chosen from the previous optimization study using the 3D FBP and 3D OS-EM methods with ADS corrections followed by filtering and the 4D MAP-RBI-EM method with ADS corrections. In the human observer study, the task of the observers were to rate their confidence on the absence or presence of a regional motion defect. We applied receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and used the area under the ROC curve as an index to compare the detectability of the motion defect. Results: It showed significant differences in detection performance among the different reconstruction methods and sets of parameter values. Images obtained from the optimized 4D MAP-RBI-EM with corrections gave better human observer detection performance among the other reconstruction methods. Conclusions: The optimized 4D MAP-RBI-EM method with corrections provides improvement in detecting wall motion abnormalities in GMP SPECT. Research Support: NIH HL68076
Differential program evaluation model in child protection.

Increasingly attention has been focused to the degree to which social programs have effectively and efficiently delivered services. Using the differential program evaluation model by Tripodi, Fellin, and Epstein (1978) and by Bielawski and Epstein (1984), this paper described the application of this model to evaluating a multidisciplinary clinical consultation practice in child protection. This paper discussed the uses of the model by demonstrating them through the four stages of program initiation, contact, implementation, and stabilization. This organizational case study made a contribution to the model by introducing essential and interrelated elements of a "practical evaluation" methodology in evaluating social programs, such as a participatory evaluation approach; learning, empowerment and sustainability; and a flexible individualized approach to evaluation. The study results demonstrated that by applying the program development model, child-protective administrators and practitioners were able to evaluate the existing practices and recognize areas for program improvement. Language: en
Cloning and characterization of the RNA polymerase alpha-subunit operon of Chlamydia trachomatis.

Abstract We have cloned the chlamydial operon that encodes the initiation factor IF1, the ribosomal proteins L36, S13, and S11, and the alpha subunit of RNA polymerase. The genes for S11 and alpha are closely linked in Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and plant chloroplast genomes, and this arrangement is conserved in Chlamydia spp. The S11 ribosomal protein gene potentially encodes a protein of 125 amino acids with 41 to 42% identity over its entire length to its E. coli and B. subtilis homologs; the gene encoding the alpha subunit specifies a protein of 322 amino acids with 25 to 30% identity over its entire length to its E. coli and B. subtilis homologs. In a T7-based expression system in E. coli, the chlamydial alpha gene directed the synthesis of a 36-kDa protein. Mapping of the chlamydial mRNA transcript by RNase protection studies and by a combination of reverse transcription and the polymerase chain reaction demonstrates that IF1, L36, S13, S11, and alpha are transcribed as a polycistronic transcript.
A Child With Antibodies Targeting Both Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis and Bullous Pemphigoid Antigens

Background: Some patients with subepidermal blistering diseases show clinical, histologic, and immunopathologic features of both linear IgA bullous dermatosis and bullous pemphigoid. Such patients can be further characterized by defining the target of their circulating autoantibodies. We present the first case report of a child with linear deposits of IgA and IgG with circulating autoantibodies characteristic of both linear IgA bullous dermatosis and bullous pemphigoid. Observations: Widely distributed subepidermal vesicles showing neutrophils in the dermal papillae developed in a 3-year-old boy. Direct immunofluorescence microscopy of perilesional skin revealed linear deposits of IgA, IgG, and C3 in the epidermal basement membrane. The patient responded to therapy with dapsone, and after 6 months, it was possible to discontinue treatment. Circulating IgA antibodies from this child bound the epidermal side of 1-mol/L saline-split skin and immunoblotted the 97-kd linear IgA bullous dermatosis antigen. Circulating IgG antibodies bound the epidermal and, at low titer, dermal sides of split skin. These IgG antibodies immunoblotted and immunoprecipitated bullous pemphigoid antigens 1 and 2. Conclusions: Linear deposits of IgA and IgG in the epidermal basement membrane of patients with subepidermal bullous lesions may signify the coexistence of circulating autoantibodies directed against linear IgA bullous dermatosis and bullous pemphigoid antigens. (Arch Dermatol. 1995;131:1438-1442)
Great Independent: The Lincoln Telephone Company, 1903–1908

It was not in the nature of the local American entrepreneur to concede to monopolistic power. Technical competence, good controls, and appeals to local pride were potent weapons in the struggle of a small company to succeed in the face of competition with the giant Bell system.
changing concepts of incest among the Nuer

Diverging from the general tendency among anthropologists to conceptualize the “problem of incest” in ahistorical terms, I examine here some of the historical processes involved in the redefinition of various categories of incest by Nuer over the last half century. In particular, I analyze the dynamic relationship between indigenous discourse about the nature of incest on the one hand, and shifting relations of power among various segments of the population on the other. [incest and exogamy, social change, alliance and descent, Nuer]
Progress on matrix SiC processing and properties for fully ceramic microencapsulated fuel form

Abstract The consolidation mechanism and resulting properties of the silicon carbide (SiC) matrix of fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel form are discussed. The matrix is produced via the nano-infiltration transient eutectic-forming (NITE) process. Coefficient of thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, and strength characteristics of this SiC matrix have been characterized in the unirradiated state. An ad hoc methodology for estimation of thermal conductivity of the neutron-irradiated NITE–SiC matrix is also provided to aid fuel performance modeling efforts specific to this concept. Finally, specific processing methods developed for production of an optimal and reliable fuel form using this process are summarized. These various sections collectively report the progress made to date on production of optimal FCM fuel form to enable its application in light water and advanced reactors.
Continuous-time feedforward SD modulators with robust lowpass STF

Continuous-time sigma-delta modulators are often implemented using the feedforward structure. This type of architecture is prone to large out-of-band peaking and degraded anti-aliasing filtering owing to its sensitivity to process variation. Two alternative continuous-time delta-sigma modulators, which exhibit significantly lower signal transfer function (STF) sensitivity, are described.
The evolution of competing species of terrestrial salamanders: niche partitioning or interference?

One of the central assumptions of evolutionary ecology is that interspecific competition is a potent evolutionary force acting on coexisting species. There are few animal species that provide an opportunity for an experimental analysis of the evolutionary consequences of the phenomenon. We have taken advantage of the fact that two species of terrestrial salamander,Plethodon glutinosus andP. jordani, have different altitudinal distributions on two mountain ranges in North Carolina. Field removal experiments showed that interspecfic competition was much stronger in the Great Smoky Mountains than in the Balsam Mountains, and transplant experiments between the two mountain ranges showed that neither species from the Balsam Mountains had a measurable effect on its congener in the Smokies, although both species from the Smokies had strong negative effects on the Balsam congeners. Other experiments were conducted on the behavioral and ecological changes that have (or have not) evolved in the two areas. Our studies show that increased interspecific interference was the major evolutionary response of these largePlethodon species to interspecific competition, and that partitioning of food or microhabitat was not involved.
Teaching Phonics in the Context of Children's Literature or Spelling: Influences on First-Grade Reading, Spelling, and Writing and Fifth-Grade Comprehension

First-grade children's reading, writing, and spelling competencies in 2 different instructional contexts for teaching phonics were examined. Reading, writing, and spelling abilities were measured at the beginning, middle, and end of 1st grade. Children were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments designed to teach grapheme-phoneme correspondences, blending, and segmenting. In 1 treatment, children generated spellings for words, and in the other treatment, phonics instruction was embedded in literature. The spelling treatment was significantly better for spelling phonetically regular real and pseudowords, reading phonetically regular pseudowords, and written story length. It was also more beneficial for low-ability children's reading of connected text. There were no treatment effects on reading uncontrolled words in text. At the end of 5th grade, spelling-context children had significantly higher comprehension than did literature-context children. Discussion focuses on phonological processing while spelling and the effects of the instructional press of context-embedded and context-reduced instructional approaches in 1st grade.
Long step sensorless control of permanent magnet synchronous machines with extended Kalman filter

This paper presents a long step sensorless vector control of a subsea permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) using extended Kalman filter (EKF) estimation. The PMSM is controlled and driven by an adjustable speed drive (ASD) over 30km transmission lines through one step-up transformer. A typical mechanical load profile is used. An open loop scalar control is applied at the startup and then switched to a sensorless vector control using EKF estimations. A Simulink model is the first step in validating this control strategy. It also validates that PMSM can start at any rotor initial position and achieve stable and reliable sensorless vector control.
Alpha-Particle Bombardment of Magnesium Isotopes

Energy levels in three aluminum isotopes have been observed with alpha-particle bombardment of magnesium isotope targets. Protons from the reaction were observed with a proportional counter. By using an aluminum foil changer before the counter and recording only those protons near the end of their range, an energy resolution from 4 to 8% was obtained in the various runs. The ground-state $Q$ values were calculated by comparison to the ${\mathrm{Mg}}^{24}(\ensuremath{\alpha}, p){\mathrm{Al}}^{27}$ ground-state group using the known $Q$ value for the inverse reaction. The ground-state $Q$ values were found to be -1.29\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04 Mev for ${\mathrm{Mg}}^{25}(\ensuremath{\alpha}, p){\mathrm{Al}}^{28}$, and -2.90\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04 Mev for ${\mathrm{Mg}}^{26}(\ensuremath{\alpha}, p){\mathrm{Al}}^{29}$. Proton groups were found corresponding to excited states in ${\mathrm{Al}}^{27}$ at 0.85, 1.06, 2.17, and 2.64 Mev; in ${\mathrm{Al}}^{28}$ at 1.00, 1.57, 2.18, 2.54, and 2.96 Mev; in ${\mathrm{Al}}^{29}$ at 1.69 Mev. The mass value of ${\mathrm{Al}}^{29}$ was calculated to be 28.98972\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.00006 amu.