cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Habitat Shape and Landscape Context to Northern Bobwhite Populations

Abstract Northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) populations have declined nationally for at least the past 4 decades. Field borders have been promoted as an important component of conservation plans to reverse this decline. Field border characteristics, such as shape and the landscapes in which the borders are established, have the potential to influence their effectiveness for recovering northern bobwhite populations. We established narrow linear (approx. 3-m-wide) and nonlinear field borders on farms in agriculture-dominated and forest-dominated landscapes in the Coastal Plain of North Carolina, USA, after collecting pretreatment data on summer bobwhite abundance. After establishment of field borders, summer bobwhite abundance nearly doubled on farms in agriculture-dominated landscapes and increased approximately 57% on farms with nonlinear field borders. Summer bobwhite abundance did not increase on farms with linear field borders in forest-dominated landscapes. Nonlinear and narrow linear field borde...
Some inverse scattering problems of geophysics

There are many problems in geophysics, optics, nondestructive testing and elsewhere in which a finite inhomogeneity in a homogeneous space is to be recovered from the measurements of a field scattered by the inhomogeneity. The field can be measured far away from the inhomogeneity or in some region which is not too far from the inhomogeneity. Several problems of this type are solved in this chapter. The problems are formulated in Sections 1–4. Section 1 deals with recovery of the refraction index (velocity profile) from the knowledge of the field on the plane for all positions of the source and receiver. Other problems of similar nature are also considered. Section 2 deals with the two-parameter inversion: both the density and velocity are recovered from the knowledge of the field for all positions of the source and receiver on the plane and for two distinct frequencies. In Section 1 the theory is exact, in Section 2 it is based on the first Born approximation. In Section 3 the three-dimensional inverse problem of the scattering theory by a potential is solved in the Born approximation. Section 4 deals with a model problem of induction logging theory.
Epirubicin glucuronidation is catalyzed by human UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2B7

Epirubicin is one of the most active agents for breast cancer. The formation of epirubicin glucuronide by liver UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) is its main inactivating pathway. This study aimed to investigate epirubicin glucuronidation in human liver microsomes, to identify the specific UGT isoform for this reaction, and to correlate epirubicin glucuronidation with other UGT substrates. Microsomes from human livers were used. UGTs specifically expressed in cellular systems, as well as two UGT2B7 variants, were screened for epirubicin glucuronidation. Epirubicin, morphine, and SN-38 glucuronides were measured by high-pressure liquid chromatography. The mean +/- S.D. formation rate of epirubicin glucuronide in human liver microsomes (n = 47) was 138 +/- 37 pmol/min/mg (coefficient of variation, 24%). This phenotype was normally distributed. We screened commercially available UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A4, UGT1A6, UGT1A9, UGT2B7, and UGT2B15 for epirubicin glucuronidation. Only UGT2B7 converted epirubicin to its glucuronide. No differences in epirubicin glucuronidation were found in HK293 cells expressing the two UGT2B7 variants at position 268. Catalytic efficiency (V(max)/K(m)) of epirubicin glucuronidation was 1.4 microl/min/mg, a value higher than that observed for morphine, a substrate of UGT2B7. Formation of epirubicin glucuronide was significantly related to that of morphine-3-glucuronide (r = 0.76, p < 0.001) and morphine-6-glucuronide (r = 0.73, p < 0.001). No correlation was found with SN-38, a substrate of UGT1A1 (r = 0.04). UGT2B7 is the major human UGT catalyzing epirubicin glucuronidation, and UGT2B7 is the candidate gene for this phenotype. The reported tyrosine to histidine polymorphism in UGT2B7 does not alter the formation rate of epirubicin glucuronide, and undiscovered genetic polymorphisms in UGT2B7 might change the metabolic fate of this important anticancer agent.
The Importance of Effective Root Cause Analysis of Failures in High Reliability Microelectronics Applications: A Case Study

The screening and detection of failures in high reliability electronics is crucial to mission success. The governing standards for microelectronic components prescribe effective screens to address known failure modes during the manufacture of the components. When failures are detected outside of the normal component screening process such as in the next higher assemblies, the analysis of such failures to root cause is even more crucial. Effective root cause analysis requires collaboration among personnel having expertise in many areas, both technical and organizational. Too often, the analysis stops at the ‘how’ a part failed, rather than the ‘why’ and true root cause determination. Failures may not only represent defects in the technical aspects of the design, materials or application of the hardware, but may also be related to human organizational factors such as the competing interests of time, quality and cost. The analysis must extend beyond the forensic data into the human organization and the inter...
WISDOM AND APOCALYPTICISM IN THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON

If Emerson was correct that “a foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds,” then the mind of the Wisdom of Solomon's author may be considered both supple and expansive, since an ongoing theme of scholarship on the book has been the effort to reconcile in one way or another its real or seeming inconsistencies. The field has tacitly agreed to categorize the Wisdom of Solomon as a wisdom book, which in some ways seems obvious, not least because of the broad hint offered by its Greek title.The title found in the Septuagint actually provides two hints: the word “wisdom” itself, and its attribution of the work to the hero of the sapiential tradition, Solomon. The Latin translations call it “The Book of Wisdom.” The book's ancient designation may not be the title provided by the original author, but it does attest that the work was received by early readers as an example of wisdom literature. Nevertheless, an undercurrent of unease with the common classification has also emerged. In one widely respected collection of essays on Second Temple period texts, the author of the chapter on the Wisdom of Solomon states bluntly that “there is no type of literature in the Bible into which Wisdom as a whole fits,”Maurice Gilbert, “Wisdom Literature,” in Jewish Writings of the Second Temple Period (ed. Michael E. Stone; CRINT, section 2; Literature of the Jewish People in the Period of the Second Temple and the Talmud 2; Assen: Van Gorcum; Philadelphia: Fortress, 1984) 307. although the book is, for want of a better location, discussed in the collection's section on wisdom literature. Another scholar does not shrink from saying that it “is clearly a wisdom book,” although he also notes that by “focusing on only one or another aspect of the book, one could make a case for a variety of literary genres.”Lester L. Grabbe, Wisdom of Solomon (Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1997) 25. A third simply comments that the text is “elusive.”John M. G. Barclay, Jews in the Mediterranean Diaspora from Alexander to Trajan (323 B.C.E.–117 B.C.E.) (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1996) 181.
Estuarine fouling communities are dominated by nonindigenous species in the presence of an invasive crab

Interactions between anthropogenic disturbances and introduced and native species can shift ecological communities, potentially leading to the successful establishment of additional invaders. Since its discovery in New Jersey in 1988, the Asian shore crab (Hemigrapsus sanguineus) has continued to expand its range, invading estuarine and coastal habitats in eastern North America. In estuarine environments, H. sanguineus occupies similar habitats to native, panopeid mud crabs. These crabs, and a variety of fouling organisms (both NIS and native), often inhabit man-made substrates (like piers and riprap) and anthropogenic debris. In a series of in situ experiments at a closed dock in southwestern Long Island (New York, USA), we documented the impacts of these native and introduced crabs on hard-substrate fouling communities. We found that while the presence of native mud crabs did not significantly influence the succession of fouling communities compared to caged and uncaged controls, the presence of introduced H. sanguineus reduced the biomass of native tunicates (particularly Molgula manhattensis), relative to caged controls. Moreover, the presence of H. sanguineus favored fouling communities dominated by introduced tunicates (especially Botrylloides violaceous and Diplosoma listerianum). Altogether, our results suggest that H. sanguineus could help facilitate introduced fouling tunicates in the region, particularly in locations where additional solid substrates have created novel habitats.
Abstract PL03-01: The nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway in cancer initiation and progression

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) has the ability to sense and integrate signals from a variety of sources, including intracellular nutrients and energy, growth factors, and cellular stresses. mTORC1 senses many of these signals through a small G protein switch involving the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) tumor suppressors, TSC1 and TSC2, and the Ras-related small G protein Rheb. Multi-site phosphorylation of the TSC2 protein downstream of distinct signaling pathways appears to account for much of mTORC19s signal-integrating capacity. Importantly, the two most commonly activated oncogenic signaling pathways in human cancers, the PI3K-Akt and Ras-Erk pathways, phosphorylate and inhibit TSC2 to activate mTORC1. Aberrant activation of mTORC1 through genetic and environmental effects on the upstream signaling network is a common molecular event in a large variety of pathological settings, including the majority of genetic tumor syndromes, sporadic cancers, and obesity. However, we are just beginning to understand the downstream consequences of mTORC1 activation in both normal and disease states. I will discuss our evidence suggesting that mTORC1 signaling might be a major molecular link between environmental influences, such as diet, and increased cancer risk. In addition, I will present our work on the role of mTORC1 as a key downstream effector of oncogenic signaling pathways that promotes anabolic cell growth and proliferation by altering the cellular metabolic program. Citation Format: Brendan D. Manning. The nutrient-sensing mTOR pathway in cancer initiation and progression. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh Annual AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research; 2012 Oct 16-19; Anaheim, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Prev Res 2012;5(11 Suppl):Abstract nr PL03-01.
A Research Note on the Changing Association Between Infant Mortality and Socio-Economic Status

own relatively isolated rural communities. The vigor of the group today is indicated by the fact that 287 marriages, involving at least one member of the Brandywine group, were contracted during the first five months of 1956 in the area studied. Thus, even the "hard core" of the group today embraces a larger population than ever before in its history. On the basis of the evidence presented it can be predicted that the Brandywine group will very probably remain a racial "island" for some time to come. As an island it will continue to be linked by the bridge of intermarriage with the mainland on both sides, i.e. with Negroes and whites. On one span the traffic will continue to be two way and quite substantial. Traffic on the other span can be expected to remain almost wholly one way and comparatively light.
Process modeling and control in foundry operations

Initial uses of process modeling were limited to phenomenological descriptions of the physical processes in foundry operations, with the aim of decreasing scrap and rework. It is now clear that process modeling can be used to select, design and optimize foundry processes so that on-line process control can be achieved. Computational, analogue and empirical process models have been developed for sand casting operations, and they are being applied in the foundry with beneficial effects.
Esophagostomy in the Dog Allowing Natural Feeding

SummaryA safe two-stage operative technic is described for establishing an esophagostomy in the dog which permits natural feeding. When required for experimental purposes, a simple procedure allows this esophagostomy to assume, temporarily, the advantages of the standard double-barrelled esophagostomy.
Monitoring and analysis of rural drinking water in wet season in Changyi district of Jilin city

Objective To investigate the sanitary conditions of rural drinking water in Changyi district.Methods The sanitary survey and water quality monitoring were developed in the rural areas of Changyi district,and the results were analysed.Results 1.The main unqualified targets and their pass rate of rural drinking water in wet season were as follows:total coliforms(36.2%),thermotolerant coliforms(41.5%),total numbers of colony(47.9%),visible substances(48.2%),turbidity(58.9%),manganese content(69.6%).2.The microbial indicators' pass rate and the total pass rate of small central water supply(92.3%,38.5%) are higher than those of non-centeral water supply(23.3%,6.7%)(χ2=17.496,P=0.000).3.The microbial indicators pass rate of the water before entering storage device(37.2%) was higher than that in storage devices(0.0%).Conclusion 1.The main unqualified indicators of rural drinking water in Changyi district in wet season include sensory traits,general chemical indicators,and microbial indicators,and latter pass percent is the lowest.2.The water quality of small central water supply is better than that of non-central water supply in wet period.3.Water storage device is a way of microbial contamination of rural drinking water in Changyi district in wet period.
The impact of organizational factors on mental health professionals' involvement with families.

Objective Drawing on an organizational behavior framework, this study explored the impact of attitudinal, occupational, and organizational factors on mental health professionals' involvement with clients' families. Methods Data came from a survey conducted with psychiatric staff at the largest public hospital and the largest private hospital in Indianapolis between 1991 and 1993 as part of the Indianapolis network mental health study. Responses of 184 clinicians who provided direct care were analyzed using multiple regression to assess the impact of their attitudes toward families, job characteristics, and organizational work environment on the amount of contact they had with clients' families. Results Providers' attitudes toward families had no significant effect on the frequency of their contact with families. Job and organizational factors were the strongest predictors. Specifically, being a social worker or therapist and working on day and evening shifts were associated with increased involvement with families. Staff members' perceptions of how well their unit functioned were also positively correlated with frequency of contact with families. Conclusions The organizational environment in mental health agencies has a significant influence on the extent to which professionals become involved with clients' families. Administrators and policy makers should give careful consideration to how the work environment encourages or limits mental health professionals' abilities and willingness to get more involved with clients' families.
Assessing the Shoulder: History, Physical Examination, Differential Diagnosis, and Special Tests Used

Historical review and physical assessment of the patient are the keystones upon which an understanding of shoulder problems can be built. The basis of physical examination of the shoulder is expanded to include new information derived from electromyographic studies.
A Unified Concept of Renal Trauma

AbstractOf 115 cases of renal trauma 75 injuries were blunt and 40 were penetrating. Primary exploration was done in 20 per cent of the patients with blunt injuries and in 100 per cent of those with penetrating injuries. A reparative procedure was done in 60 per cent of the patients operated on for blunt trauma and in 73 per cent of those operated upon for penetrating trauma. Only 3 per cent of the patients with blunt injury and 28 per cent of those with penetrating injury required a nephrectomy. We have concluded that renal injuries should be classified by type and extent rather than by etiology, that the extent of injury should be determined and not surmised, and that the management of renal trauma is a function of the extent of injury and the over-all status of the patient. In addition, the non-operative management of an inadequately defined renal injury cannot be considered conservative management.
Laboratory Values for Pediatric Endocrinology

This list includes some of the reference ranges laboratory values used most frequently in pediatric endocrinology with standards, sample preparation and sample sizes from Quest Diagnostics/Nichols Institute and Esoterix/Labcorp. Other laboratories perform these tests and a few also have pediatric standards (e.g., ARUP). However, we do not recommend using a laboratory that has not established pediatric standards because the lower detectable limits, or the accurate area of the standard curves of the laboratory, might be well above pediatric values. Laboratories that are set up for pediatric endocrine samples will accept smaller volumes than requested of adult patients. The minimum volumes listed here can be used for smaller children but there may not be a duplicate test available to check results when such small quantities are utilized; consult with the laboratory for details of the most recent collection size, storage, and transport. You must check your results against the standards of the laboratory you choose, as the laboratories recommend, as the reference ranges can change since the time of publication of this book; the following is only a guide.
Every infinite compact group can have a non-measurable subgroup

Abstract We show that it is consistent with ZFC that every infinite compact group has a non-Haar-measurable subgroup. We show that the same is also true for subgroups without the property of Baire.
A simple approach for bioactive surface calibration using evanescent waves.

Summary When investigating the interaction of cells with surfaces, it is becoming increasingly important to perform quantitative measurements of surface protein density to understand reaction kinetics. Previously, to calibrate a surface for an experiment one would have to use a radiometric assay or strip the surface with acid and perform a mass quantification. Although both of these methodologies have been proven to be effective measurement techniques for surface quantification, they can be time consuming and require substantial amounts of material. The latter is particularly problematic when working with specialized molecules or constructs that may be expensive to produce and/or only available in small quantities. Here we present a simple method to measure the intensity and penetration depth of an evanescent wave, and use this information to quantify the density of surface molecules in a microscopic region of a transparent surface.
Pseudo Boosted Deep Belief Network

A computationally efficient method to improve classification performance of a Deep Belief Network (DBN) is introduced. In the Pseudo Boost Deep Belief Network (PB-DBN), top layers are boosted while lower layers of the base classifiers share weights for feature extraction. PB-DBN maintains the same time complexity as a DBN with fast convergence to optimality by introducing the mechanism of pseudo boost. Experiments in classification show that after only a few iterations, the PB-DBN has higher accuracy than a classic DBN.
A Double-Blind, Randomized Pilot Trial of Chromium Picolinate for Overweight Individuals with Binge-Eating Disorder: Effects on Glucose Regulation

ABSTRACTPurpose: Chromium treatment has been shown to improve glucose regulation in some populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether chromium picolinate (CrPic) supplementation improves glucose regulation in overweight individuals with binge-eating disorder (BED). Methods: In this double-blinded randomized pilot trial, participants (N = 24) were randomized to high (HIGH, 1000 mcg/day, n = 8) or moderate (MOD, 600 mcg/day, n = 9) dose of CrPic or placebo (PL, n = 7) for 6 months. Participants completed an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Fixed effects models were used to estimate mean change in glucose area under the curve (AUC), insulinAUC, and insulin sensitivity index (ISI). Results: Results revealed a significant group and time interaction (p < 0.04) for glucoseAUC, with glucoseAUC increasing significantly in the PL group (p < 0.02) but decreasing significantly in the MOD group (p < 0.03) at 6 months. InsulinAUC increased significantly over time...
Performance evaluation for rapid detection of pan-cancer microsatellite instability with MANTIS.

// Esko A. Kautto 1 , Russell Bonneville 1 , Jharna Miya 1 , Lianbo Yu 2 , Melanie A. Krook 1 , Julie W. Reeser 1 and Sameek Roychowdhury 1,3 1 Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA 2 Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA 3 Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA Correspondence to: Sameek Roychowdhury, email: // Keywords : microsatellite instability, computational biology, next-generation sequencing Received : November 24, 2016 Accepted : December 02, 2016 Published : December 12, 2016 Abstract In current clinical practice, microsatellite instability (MSI) and mismatch repair deficiency detection is performed with MSI-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Recent research has produced several computational tools for MSI detection with next-generation sequencing (NGS) data; however a comprehensive analysis of computational methods has not yet been performed. In this study, we introduce a new MSI detection tool, MANTIS, and demonstrate its favorable performance compared to the previously published tools mSINGS and MSISensor. We evaluated 458 normal-tumor sample pairs across six cancer subtypes, testing classification performance on variable numbers of target loci ranging from 10 to 2539. All three computational methods were found to be accurate, with MANTIS exhibiting the highest accuracy with 98.91% of samples from all six diseases classified correctly. MANTIS displayed superior performance among the three tools, having the highest overall sensitivity (MANTIS 97.18%, MSISensor 96.48%, mSINGS 76.06%) and specificity (MANTIS 99.68%, mSINGS 99.68%, MSISensor 98.73%) across six cancer types, even with loci panels of varying size. Additionally, MANTIS also had the lowest resource consumption (<1% of the space and <7% of the memory required by mSINGS) and fastest running times (49.6% and 8.7% of the running times of MSISensor and mSINGS, respectively). This study highlights the potential utility of MANTIS in classifying samples by MSI-status, allowing its incorporation into existing NGS pipelines.
Genetic Differences in Oviposition Preference Between Two Populations of Heliothis virescens

Heliothis virescens (F.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), the tobacco budworm, is a multivoltine, polyphagous, highly mobile and economically important insect indigenous to the Americas. A majority of larvae of a given H. virescens population feed on different host plant species in different generations and different geographic locations, apparently depending largely on the local relative abundance of host plants (Table 1). In Mississippi, for example, adults eclose in May from overwintered pupae to oviposit primarily on Geranium dissectum L. and G. carolinianum L. (wild geraniums), Vicia villosa Roth, (winter vetch), and Trifolium resupinatum L. (Persian clover), as well as at least six other apparently less important species (Stadelbacher 1981, Snow and Brazzel 1965). The second through fourth generation larvae are primarily on Gossypium hirsutum L. (cotton) even though four other hosts are acceptable (Snow and Brazzel 1965). Cotton probably does not contribute as significantly as wild hosts to the fifth and final (overwintering) generation due to agricultural defoliation and tillage (Roach and Hopkins 1979; however, see also Laster and Furr 1971). In contrast, in North Carolina, Nicotiana tabacum L. (tobacco) is the major host in each generation although cotton is attacked also. Tobacco is an acceptable host in Mississippi, but very little is grown there (Snow and Brazzel 1965).
CREATING SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN BANKING THROUGH TECHNOLOGY, CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL MARKERTING

Purpose : The purpose of the study was to establish the need of creating sustainable competitive advantage in banking through technology, customer relationship management and internal marketing. Methodology: The research was carried out through an explanatory research. The target population of the study was 3,193 employees of the Co-op Bank. A sample of 68 employees spread across the bank was selected. The researcher used descriptive and inferential statistics in this study. The study used primary data. The study used a questionnaire as the preferred data collection tool. This study used the quantitative method of data analysis which included inferential and descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and measures of tendency mainly means and frequencies. Inferential statistics included correlation analysis. The tool for data analysis was Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17 program. The results were presented using tables and pie charts to give a clear picture of the research findings. Results: The findings indicated that information technology has significant positive effect on competitive advantage. The findings also showed that customer relationship management (CRM) has a significant positive effect on competitive advantage of banks. The findings further implied that internal marketing has a significant effect on competitive advantage. Further the findings implied that information technology has significant positive effect on competitive advantage. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Following study results, it was recommended that investment in Information technology be emphasized in the banks as it has an effect on the overall achievement of competitive advantage. The study also recommended that banks should emphasize customer relationship by investing in a customer relationship management system. It was further recommended that employees are central to an effective CRM and as such firms must manage its relationships with their employees if they have any hope of fully serving customer needs and that this is especially important in firms where employees are the eyes of customers.
Targeted Robotic Assisted Microsurgical Denervation of the Spermatic Cord for the Treatment of Chronic Orchialgia or Groin Pain: A Single Center, Large Series Review

Purpose: Microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord is a treatment option for chronic orchialgia refractory to conservative treatment. A recent study showed specific nerve fibers as the possible cause of chronic orchialgia. Our goal was to present the outcomes of ligation of these nerves using a technique of targeted robotic assisted microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 772 patients who underwent targeted robotic assisted microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord from October 2007 to July 2016. Selection criteria were chronic testicular pain more than 3 months in duration, failed conservative treatments, negative neurological and urological workup, and temporary resolution of pain with a local anesthetic spermatic cord block. Targeted robotic assisted microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord was performed. Pain was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using a subjective visual analog scale and objectively...
Child protective services utilization of child abuse pediatricians: A mixed methods study

Several children's hospitals and medical schools across Texas have child abuse pediatricians (CAPs) who work closely with child protection workers to help ensure accurate assessments of the likelihood of maltreatment in cases of suspected abuse and neglect. Since the state does not mandate which cases should be referred to a CAP center, we were interested in studying factors that may influence workers' decisions to consult a CAP. We used a mixed methods study design consisting of a focus group followed by a survey. The focus group identified multiple factors that impact workers' decision-making, including several that involve medical providers. Responses from 436 completed surveys were compared to employees' number of years of employment and to the state region in which they worked. Focus group findings and survey responses revealed frustration among many workers when dealing with medical providers, and moderate levels of confidence in workers' abilities to make accurate determinations in cases involving medical information. Workers were more likely to refer cases involving serious physical injury than other types of cases. Among workers who reported prior interactions with a CAP, experiences and attitudes regarding CAPs were typically positive. The survey also revealed significant variability in referral practices by state region. Our results suggest that standard guidelines regarding CAP referrals may help workers who deal with cases involving medical information. Future research and quality improvement efforts to improve transfers of information and to better understand the qualities that CPS workers appreciate in CAP teams should improve CAP-CPS coordination.
dCas9-targeted locus-specific protein isolation method identifies histone gene regulators.

Eukaryotic gene regulation is a complex process, often coordinated by the action of tens to hundreds of proteins. Although previous biochemical studies have identified many components of the basal machinery and various ancillary factors involved in gene regulation, numerous gene-specific regulators remain undiscovered. To comprehensively survey the proteome directing gene expression at a specific genomic locus of interest, we developed an in vitro nuclease-deficient Cas9 (dCas9)-targeted chromatin-based purification strategy, called “CLASP” (Cas9 locus-associated proteome), to identify and functionally test associated gene-regulatory factors. Our CLASP method, coupled to mass spectrometry and functional screens, can be efficiently adapted for isolating associated regulatory factors in an unbiased manner targeting multiple genomic loci across different cell types. Here, we applied our method to isolate the Drosophila melanogaster histone cluster in S2 cells to identify several factors including Vig and Vig2, two proteins that bind and regulate core histone H2A and H3 mRNA via interaction with their 3′ UTRs.
Multiple Pulmonary Nodules in an Immunocompetent Adolescent with Infectious Mononucleosis.

BACKGROUND Infectious mononucleosis is usually a self-limiting illness, but can be rarely associated with complications. CASE CHARACTERISTICS A 17-year-old boy with Epstein-Barr virus related infectious mononucleosis and cold antibody-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia with incidentally noted multiple pulmonary nodules. OBSERVATIONS Nodules regressed over the next few weeks without specific therapy. MESSAGE Pediatricians need to be aware of this rare clinical presentation of infectious mononucleosis so that further invasive testing can be avoided.
Emergency Medicine Resident Shift Work Preferences: A Comparison of Resident Scheduling Preferences and Recommended Schedule Design for Shift Workers.

Background Shift work can negatively impact an individual's health, wellness, and quality of work. Optimal schedule design can mitigate some of these effects. The American College of Emergency Physicians has published schedule design guidelines to increase wellness and longevity in the field, but these guidelines are difficult to apply to emergency medicine (EM) residents given their high shift burdens and other scheduling constraints. Little is known is known about EM resident scheduling preferences or ideal schedule design in the context of residency training. Objectives The objectives were to determine whether EM resident schedule design preferences are consistent with current scheduling guidelines for shift workers and to gather information on scheduling practices that are important to residents. Methods We surveyed residents at four allopathic EM residency programs and assessed residents' preferences on various schedule design features including shift length, circadian scheduling, night shift scheduling, and impact of schedule design on personal wellness. Results Of the 144 residents surveyed, 98% of residents felt that their shift schedule was a key factor in their overall wellness. Residents agreed with shift work guidelines regarding the importance of circadian scheduling (65% favorable), although rated the ability to request a day off and have a full weekend off as more important (84 and 78% favorable responses, respectively). Recommended guidelines promote shorter shifts, but only 24% of residents preferred 8-hour shifts compared to 57, 71, and 43% of residents preferring 9-, 10-, and 12-hour shifts, respectively. Sixty-seven percent of residents preferred their nights to be scheduled in one sequence per 4-week period, a night scheduling strategy most at odds with recommended guidelines. Conclusions Emergency medicine resident scheduling preferences are not universally consistent with shift work guidelines, likely due to the distinct circumstances of residency training. Residents identify schedule design as a significant factor in their overall wellness.
Microbial Degradation of TCDD in A Model Ecosystem

Microbial degradation of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) was studied by using pure culture isolates of microorganisms, terrestrial and aquatic model systems, and an outdoor pond. In each case metabolic activities were recognized by the appearance of metabolic products from 14C-TCDD. In the outdoor pond the apparent half-life of TCDD was in the order of one year, recoveries of TCDD after 12 and 25 months being 49.7 and 29.4 percent, respectively. In model systems metabolic activities on TCDD were stimulated by the addition of general nutrients such as glucose, bactopeptone and mannitol yeast. The two microbial isolates, Bacillus megaterium and Nocardiopsis sp., were found to degrade TCDD. The most important factor found to promote their metabolic activities was the nature of carrier solvent for TCDD. In this regard ethyl acetate gave the best results under the experimental conditions.
Personal resources and the social distribution of depression.

This paper addresses the hypothesis that gender, age, marital status, and SES matter for depression partly because of associated differences in the availability and/or impact of the personal resources of mastery and self-esteem. It is argued that findings indicating that the social distributions of these resources complement those for depression would provide preliminary support for this hypothesis. Based on a large urban community sample (n = 1,390), our findings fail to support the availability hypothesis in relation to marital status, provide only modest support in reference to age and gender, but yield compelling support in relation to socioeconomic status (SES). Indeed, variations in the availability of these resources, especially mastery, provide a largely, if not entirely, adequate explanation for the SES–depressive symptoms relationship and accounts for nearly half of the SES–Major Depressive Disorder relationship. Although the significance of mastery was more pronounced among women and unmarried persons, such differences did not contribute to understanding observed gender or marital status variations in depression.
Electrochemical Profile for Potassium Ions Across the Hair-Cell Membranes

Since Davis (1954) first described the physiological relationship between the unique ionic environment surrounding the cochlear hair cells and generation of the cochlear microphonics (CM), extensive studies on the receptor potentials of the single hair cells have been reported. In spite of these studies the ionic mechanisms occuring in the cochlear hair cells, especially electrochemical profile for K+ across the hair-cell membranes have not been fully elucidated. Utilizing K+ selective liquid membrane electrodes, the present experiments were designed to estimate the electrochemical driving force for K+ ions across the hair-cell membranes of normal guinea pigs. The preliminary report of these studies was presented to the 4th Midwinter Research Meeting of Association for Research in Otolaryngology (Konishi and Salt, 1981).
The point of view of the insurance company

The message behind this quote is right up-to-date. However, it dates back almost 40 years – it is taken from the statement by the Council of Ministers to the Swiss parliament in 1958. This formed the basis for the introduction of disability insurance in Switzerland. It introduced a new approach; previously the task of helping the disabled was primarily seen as ensuring a minimum living income for the disabled by means of public and private welfare.
Changes in oxygen saturation during weaning from short-term ventilator support after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate changes in oxygenation as measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2) and saturated venous oxygenation (SvO2) during weaning from mechanical ventilator support. DESIGN Exploratory, pilot study. SETTING Cardiovascular intensive care unit in a private 691-bed acute care medical center in the South. SUBJECTS Ten adults between 50 and 76 years of age who had uncomplicated coronary artery bypass graft surgery. OUTCOME MEASURES SpO2 and SvO2 obtained at start of each weaning event and each minute for 5 minutes thereafter. METHOD Five discrete events associated with the unit's weaning protocol were studied: ventilator adjustments, continuous positive airway pressure trial, respiratory mechanics, removing continuous positive airway pressure and suctioning, and extubation. Weaning events, initiated by unit staff members, were based on subjects' arterial blood gases, SpO2, respiratory rate, blood pressure, heart rate, level of alertness, and respiratory effort. RESULTS Both SpO2 and SvO2 changed with weaning. For some subjects these changes were clinically important: SvO2 fell by 10% or more, and SpO2 fell to or below 90%. The assessment parameters guiding the weaning process resulted in some weaning events being initiated when SvO2 was at or below 60%. CONCLUSIONS Measures of SpO2 and SvO2 are sensitive to changes in oxygenation status during weaning. Although more study is needed, SvO2 measures provide valid information about oxygen status and can be used to guide weaning.
Resveratrol and Depression in Animal Models: A Systematic Review of the Biological Mechanisms.

Depression is currently treated by pharmacotherapies that can elicit debilitating side effects for patients. Novel treatment options with limited side effects are currently being researched. Resveratrol is a polyphenol and phytoalexin found in the skins of grapes, red wine, Japanese knotweed, and peanuts. It has been studied extensively for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Resveratrol has also gained attention for its neuroprotective properties. The aim of the review was to examine the mechanisms by which resveratrol reduces depressive behaviors in animal models. In total, 22 studies met the established criteria for final review. Behavioral aspects of depression were investigated using validated measures such as the forced swimming test, tail suspension test, sucrose preference test, and open field test. While many physical measures were taken, three main biological mechanisms were explored: Regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis; decreased inflammation; and increased Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and neurogenesis. Based on these findings, resveratrol may be deemed an effective treatment for depression in animal models at doses between 10–80 mg/kg/day, although higher doses had the most significant effects. Future studies should examine the effects of resveratrol on depression in humans to determine the eligibility of resveratrol as a natural antidepressant with less severe side effects.
Implementation of a Self-Balancing Control for Series IGBTs

Series-connected IGBTs, with their ability to withstand high voltages, are necessary to fully achieve High-Voltage DC (HVDC) Transmission and Flexible AC Transmission (FACT). In this paper, a hardware implementation method of a self-balancing control of series IGBTs is developed and tested. The proposed method does not rely on either resistive balancing components because of high power loss or costly high-end digital units. Instead, it regulates the voltage sharing among IGBTs via gate pulse delays introduced at modulation stage. Experiments with 4 series modules indicate that the proposed hardware implementation method is able to enhance both the steady-state and transient voltage sharing. The auxiliary balancing circuits consume low energy loss per cycle.
Bovine eggs release zinc in response to parthenogenetic and sperm-induced egg activation

Abstract Upon fertilization or parthenogenesis, zinc is released into the extracellular space through a series of exocytic events termed zinc sparks, which are tightly coordinated with intracellular calcium transients. The zinc spark reduces the total amount of intracellular zinc, and this reduction is necessary and sufficient to induce egg activation even in the absence of calcium transients. In addition, this zinc release contributes to the block to polyspermy through modification of the zona pellucida. The zinc spark has been documented in all organisms examined to date including the mouse, two species of nonhuman primates, and human. Here we determined whether zinc sparks occur in the bovine, an important model of gamete development in mono-ovulatory mammalian species. We obtained metaphase II-arrested (MII) bovine eggs following in vitro maturation. Total zinc, assessed in single cells using X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy, was significantly more abundant in the bovine egg compared to iron and copper. Studies with intracellular fluorescent probes revealed that labile zinc pools are localized to discrete cytoplasmic punctae enriched at the cortex. To determine whether zinc undergoes dynamic fluxes during egg activation, we parthenogenetically activated bovine eggs using two approaches: ionomycin or bovine phospholipase C zeta (bPlcζ). Both these methods induced zinc sparks coordinately with intracellular calcium transients. The zinc spark was also observed in bovine eggs following intracytoplasmic sperm injection. These results establish that zinc is the most abundant transition metal in the bovine egg, and zinc flux during egg activation - induced by chemical activation or sperm - is a highly conserved event across mammalian species.
Wireless Sensor Networks for Improved Snow Water Equivalent and Runoff Estimates

We leverage the frontiers of the Internet of Things technology in a recently developed end-to-end wireless sensor network (WSN) system that samples, collects, stores, and displays mountain hydrology measurements in near real-time. At the core of the system lies an ultra-low power, radio channel-hoping, and self-organizing mesh that allows for remote autonomous sampling of snow. Such properties, combined with a rugged weather-sealed design of the devices and multi-level data replication, provides reliable real-time data at spatial and temporal scales previously impractical to achieve in mountain environments. The system was deployed at three 1 km2 sites across the North Fork of the Feather River basin with a cluster of 12 sensor nodes for each location. Measurements show that existing operational autonomous systems are non-representative spatially, with biases that can reach up to 50%. A comparison between a wet and dry year showed that snow depths exhibit strong multi-scale inter-year spatial stationarity with major rank conservation. Temporally dense analysis using elastic net regression shows that dominant features at the sub-km2 scale are site-dependent and differ from the watershed scale. Newly introduced explanatory variables, based on the nearest neighbor with a Landsat assimilated historical product, consistently explained up to 90% of the variance in the watershed-scale SWE for both years. At two WSN sites, lagged cross-correlation of snowmelt with stream flow measurements showed a significant improvement of up to 100% compared with existing systems, suggesting that WSNs can be instrumental in improving runoff forecasting and water management.
Twenty-five-year-old woman with palpitations and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Clinical introduction A 25-year-old woman with a diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and pre-excitation on ECG presented with unexplained syncope and daily palpitation. Genetic testing was positive for lysosome-associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) mutation which confirmed the diagnosis of Danon disease. Her younger sister was diagnosed with a similar condition and received a defibrillator implantation. Her 12-lead ECG (figure 1) and a long strip tracing (figure 2) are shown below. Question Where is the location of the accessory pathway and what is the next appropriate management? Anteroseptal pathway and catheter ablation Mid-septal pathway and pacemaker/defibrillator implantation Right lateral pathway and catheter ablation Fasciculoventricular pathway and electrophysiological study Left lateral pathway and electrophysiological study
Challenges and Opportunities in the Estimation of Dynamic Models

Interest in modeling longitudinal processes is increasing rapidly in organizational science. Organizational scholars often employ multilevel or hierarchical linear models (HLMs) to study such proce...
A multi-center phase Ib/II study of nal-irinotecan, 5-fluouracil and leucovorin in combination with nivolumab as second-line therapy for patients with advanced unresectable biliary tract cancer.

TPS4154Background: Patients (pts) with advanced biliary tract cancers (BTC) have poor prognosis despite systemic chemotherapy, and treatment beyond first-line platinum doublet remains investigation...
Multiscale modeling approach for asphalt concrete and its implications on oxidative aging

The multiscale evaluation of asphalt composites is a method whereby material behaviors are viewed as a consequence of mechanisms that are active at different length scales within the asphalt concrete mixture. Evaluations in this line of study involve identifying the functional mechanisms at the specific length scales where they are most active. This framework may offer additional insights into key behaviors of asphalt concrete as well as provide information on the link between constituent material behaviors and bulk mixture properties. In this chapter, the multiscale study of asphaltic composites is presented, along with the implications of this method on the oxidative aging phenomenon in asphalt concrete.
Diffusion Induced Interface Migration in Ceramics

Diffusion Induced Grain Boundary Migration (DIGM) and Liquid Film Migration (LFM) have been observed in the MgO system. NiO, CoO, or mixtures of the two, have been used to induce the migration. Interfaces are observed to migrate away from their radii of curvature, and alloying has occurred in the regions swept by the interface. The results agree with the model which gives the coherency strain as the driving force for this migration.