cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A physical reference state unifies the structure-derived potential of mean force for protein folding and binding

Extracting knowledge-based statistical potential from known structures of proteins is proved to be a simple, effective method to obtain an approximate free-energy function. However, the different compositions of amino acid residues at the core, the surface, and the binding interface of proteins prohibited the establishment of a unified statistical potential for folding and binding despite the fact that the physical basis of the interaction (water-mediated interaction between amino acids) is the same. Recently, a physical state of ideal gas, rather than a statistically averaged state, has been used as the reference state for extracting the net interaction energy between amino acid residues of monomeric proteins. Here, we find that this monomer-based potential is more accurate than an existing all-atom knowledge-based potential trained with interfacial structures of dimers in distinguishing native complex structures from docking decoys (100% success rate vs. 52% in 21 dimer/trimer decoy sets). It is also more accurate than a recently developed semiphysical empirical free-energy functional enhanced by an orientation-dependent hydrogen-bonding potential in distinguishing native state from Rosetta docking decoys (94% success rate vs. 74% in 31 antibody-antigen and other complexes based on Z score). In addition, the monomer potential achieved a 93% success rate in distinguishing true dimeric interfaces from artificial crystal interfaces. More importantly, without additional parameters, the potential provides an accurate prediction of binding free energy of protein-peptide and protein-protein complexes (a correlation coefficient of 0.87 and a root-mean-square deviation of 1.76 kcal/mol with 69 experimental data points). This work marks a significant step toward a unified knowledge-based potential that quantitatively captures the common physical principle underlying folding and binding. A Web server for academic users, established for the prediction of binding free energy and the energy evaluation of the protein-protein complexes, may be found at http://theory.med.buffalo.edu.
Effects of NG-Methyl-L-arginine, NG-Nitro-L-arginine, and Aminoguanidine on Constitutive and Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase in Rat Aorta

Abstract A new selective inhibitor of the inducible nitric oxide synthase in the treatment of pathogenesis characterized by overproduction of nitric oxide may be useful. Therefore, we have examined the effects of two L-arginine analogues, N G -methyl-L-arginine (L-NMA) and N G -nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA), and aminoguanidine (AG) on the constitutive and inducible nitric oxide synthase in rat aorta. L-NNA induced greater contractions to phenylephrine than L-NMA whereas AG had no effect on dose-response curves to this α 1 -agonist in rat aorta with endothelium. Relaxations to acetylcholine, adenosine triphosphate, and A 23187 were fully abolished by L-NNA, while L-NMA partially inhibited and AG did not affect the relaxations to these three vasodilators. L-NNA, L-NMA, and AG were equipotent in inhibiting the vascular hyporeactivity to phenylephrine induced by endotoxin in rat aortic rings with endothelium; however, the rate of onset of the maximum inhibitory effects of AG was slower than that obtained with L-NNA and L-NMA. L-arginine completely abolished the effects of AG, but only partially reversed the effects of L-NNA and L-NMA in LPS-treated rings. These results suggest that AG selectively inhibits inducible nitric oxide synthase, whereas L-NNA and L-NMA exert their effects on both the constitutive and inducible nitric oxide synthase.
On the asymptotic behavior of shell structures and the evaluation in finite element solutions

Abstract The objective of this paper is to demonstrate how the asymptotic behavior of a shell structure, as the thickness (t) approaches zero, can be evaluated numerically. We consider three representative shell structural problems; the original Scordelis–Lo roof shell problem, a herein proposed modified Scordelis–Lo roof shell problem and the partly clamped hyperbolic paraboloid shell problem. The asymptotic behavior gives important insight into the shell load bearing capacity. The behavior should also be known when a shell problem is used to test a shell finite element procedure. We briefly review the fundamental theory of the asymptotic behavior of shells, develop our numerical schemes and perform the numerical experiments with the MITC4 shell finite element.
Changes in a repetitive head movement task after vestibular rehabilitation

Objective: Many papers describe vestibular rehabilitation programmes to reduce vertigo and disequilibrium caused by peripheral vestibular disorders, but few studies have assessed performance on purposeful activities. This study determined if performance on a purposeful activity improves after vestibular rehabilitation exercises, and if the speed of treatment exercises influences performance.Setting: Medical school practice; tertiary care facility.Subjects: Fifty-three patients with chronic vertigo caused by peripheral vestibular weakness.Interventions: Subjects performed vestibular rehabilitation head movement exercises to habituate vertigo, in either slow or rapid movement groups. Main measures: Time to perform a repetitive head movement task and intensity of vertigo elicited by that task, questionnaires about independence in activities of daily living and reported usual intensity of vertigo.Results: Both groups significantly decreased the time to perform the task and the intensity of elicited vertigo. R...
Aneurysmal expansion of the visceral patch after thoracoabdominal aortic replacement: An argument for limiting patch size?

Abstract Introduction: Thoracoabdominal aortic replacement requires visceral vessel revascularization and is usually performed with Crawford's inclusion technique or a large Carrel patch. This segment of retained native aorta may be prone to recurrent aneurysmal disease. We reviewed our experience with patients in whom aneurysmal expansion of the visceral patch was detected. Methods: The records of 107 patients undergoing thoracoabdominal aortic replacement operations performed or followed up at the Johns Hopkins Hospital between 1992 and 2000 were reviewed. All patients had visceral patches created for type II, III, or IV aneurysms. Visceral patches were considered aneurysmal if the maximal diameter of the aortic prosthesis and patch was 4.0 cm or more. Results: Patch aneurysmal expansion (mean, 5.4 cm) was detected in eight patients (7.5%). All three women had connective tissue disorders (mean age, 36 years), and all five men had atherosclerotic disease (mean age, 73 years). Five patients were symptom free with their aneurysms detected by surveillance computed tomography scans; two patients had back pain prompting computed tomography scans; and one patient presented with an emergency patch rupture. Aneurysmal patches were successfully revised in three patients. Two patients died in the operating room, and three patch aneurysms ( Conclusions: Although Crawford's inclusion method of visceral patch construction is generally durable, patients undergoing thoracoabdominal aortic replacement require yearly surveillance for the detection of aneurysmal expansion of the visceral patch. We recommend limiting visceral patch size at the original operation by routinely excluding the orifice of the left renal artery. Patients at high risk for recurrent aneurysmal expansion, such as those with connective tissue disorders, will benefit from creating small visceral patches and possibly implanting both renal arteries separately during the original operation. (J Vasc Surg 2001;34:405-10.)
Light-emitting device with monolithic integration on bulk silicon in standard complementary metal oxide semiconductor technology

A silicon light-emitting device is designed and realized in standard 3-μm complemen- tary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) integrated circuitry. Accordingly, it can be integrated with its signal processing CMOS and BiCMOS circuits on the same chip, thus enabling the fabrication of much needed all-silicon monolithic optoelectronic systems operated by a single supply. The device emitted light in a broad, bell-shaped spectrum from 500 to 850 nm with characteristic peaks at 650 and 750 nm. Initial investigations indicate that the quantum efficiency is of the order of 10 −8 and the electric-to-optical power conversion efficiency is of the order of 10 −9 . This silicon light-emitting device has obvious applications in the electro-optical inter- connect. © 2013 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE) (DOI: 10.1117/1.JNP.7
Taiwan in 2009: Eroding Landslide

After landslide victories in elections in 2008, the ruling Kuomintang (Nationalist Party) under Ma Ying-jeou promoted closer economic ties with the booming economy of mainland China, working toward a free trade agreement. The destruction in Taiwan wreaked by Typhoon Morakot in August exposed weaknesses and doubts about Ma9s leadership.
Effect of filler addition on the compressive and impact properties of glass fibre reinforced epoxy

Flyash is incorporated in glass fibre reinforced epoxies to study their response to the filler addition. Low cost of flyash can reduce the overall cost of the component. Only very low volume fractions of filler are investigated in the present study. To obtain further clarification of the observed phenomenon, another abundantly available low cost material, calcium carbonate is incorporated in one set of the specimens. Compressive strength of the material is found to decrease, whereas steep increase in impact strength is observed by introduction of very small quantity of fillers. Specimens containing calcium carbonate are tested for impact properties only. Effect of specimen aspect ratio on the compressive strength values is also studied by testing specimens of three different aspect ratios. Scanning electron microscopic observations are taken to develop a better understanding of the phenomena taking place in the material system at microscopic level.
Modeling public opinion and voting as a complex system with agent-based simulations

In this paper we study the effects of external stimuli on public opinion and voting in the context of collective opinion formation. We model two situations of collection opinion formation: the effects of public opinion on nanotechnology and voting. In the first case, we study the behavior of systems under shock, while in a second case we study the effect of constant perturbation. We take an agent-based simulation approach to understand the complexities of the formation and disruption of collective opinion.
Incubation temperature influences locomotor performance in young wood ducks (Aix sponsa).

Incubation temperature is an important maternal effect in birds that can influence numerous offspring traits. For example, ducklings from eggs incubated at lower temperatures have lower growth rates, protein content, and are in poorer body condition than ducklings from eggs incubated at higher temperatures. Based on these observations, we predicted that incubation temperature would indirectly influence performance through its direct effects on body size. Wood duck (Aix sponsa) eggs were incubated at three ecologically relevant temperatures (35, 35.9, 37°C). After hatching, all ducklings were housed under identical conditions and were subjected to aquatic and terrestrial racing trials at 15 and 20 days posthatch (dph). Contrary to our prediction, incubation temperature did not influence most duckling body size parameters at 15 or 20 dph. However, incubation temperature did have a strong influence on locomotor performance independent of body size and body condition. Ducklings hatched from eggs incubated at the lowest temperature had significantly reduced maximum aquatic swim velocity than ducklings from higher temperatures. Maximum terrestrial sprint velocity followed a similar pattern, but did not differ statistically among incubation treatments. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that slight changes in incubation temperature can directly affect locomotor performance in avian offspring and thus provide a significant source of phenotypic variation in natural wood duck populations.
Multi-TI Arterial Spin Labeling MRI with Variable TR and Bolus Duration for Cerebral Blood Flow and Arterial Transit Time Mapping

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is an MRI perfusion imaging method from which quantitative cerebral blood flow (CBF) can be calculated. We present a multi-TI ASL method (multi-TI integrated ASL) in which variable post-labeling delays and variable TRs are used to improve the estimation of arterial transit time (ATT) and CBF while shortening the scan time by 41% compared to the conventional methods. Variable bolus widths allow for ${\rm T}_{1}$ and ${\rm M}_{0}$ estimation from raw ASL data. Multi-TI integrated pseudo-continuous ASL images were collected at 7 TI times ranging 100–4300ms. Voxel-wise ${\rm T}_{1}$ and ${\rm M}_{0}$ maps were estimated, then CBF and ATT maps were created using the estimated ${\rm T}_{1}$ tissue map. All maps were consistent with physiological values reported in the literature. Based on simulations and in vivo comparisons, this method demonstrates higher CBF and ATT estimation efficiency than other ATT acquisition methods and better fit to the perfusion model. It produces CBF maps with reduced sensitivity to errors from ATT and tissue ${\rm T}_{1}$ variations. The estimated ${\rm M}_{0}$ , ${\rm T}_{1}$ , and ATT maps also have potential clinical utility. The method requires a single scan acquired within a clinically acceptable scan time (under 6 minutes) and with low sensitivity to motion.
Use of a web-based image reporting and tracking system for assessing abdominal imaging examination quality issues in a single practice

This article presents our local experience in the implementation of a real-time web-based system for reporting and tracking quality issues relating to abdominal imaging examinations. This system allows radiologists to electronically submit examination quality issues during clinical readouts. The submitted information is e-mailed to a designate for the given modality for further follow-up; the designate may subsequently enter text describing their response or action taken, which is e-mailed back to the radiologist. Review of 558 entries over a 6-year period demonstrated documentation of a broad range of examination quality issues, including specific issues relating to protocol deviation, post-processing errors, positioning errors, artifacts, and IT concerns. The most common issues varied among US, CT, MRI, radiography, and fluoroscopy. In addition, the most common issues resulting in a patient recall for repeat imaging (generally related to protocol deviation in MRI and US) were identified. In addition to submitting quality problems, radiologists also commonly used the tool to provide recognition of a well-performed examination. An electronic log of actions taken in response to radiologists' submissions indicated that both positive and negative feedback were commonly communicated to the performing technologist. Information generated using the tool can be used to guide subsequent quality improvement initiatives within a practice, including continued protocol standardization as well as education of technologists in the optimization of abdominal imaging examinations.
Bowling Together: Promoting the Identity, Brand, and Value of the Society of Clinical Psychology

The declining trends in membership within the American Psychological Association (APA) and APA divisions reviewed by Robiner, Fossum, and Hong (2015) are startling and provide a wake-up call to professional psychology. In this commentary, Karlin (the President-Elect of APA Division 12, the Society of Clinical Psychology [SCP]) identifies important issues associated with membership needs and declines within SCP and critical areas of focus for ensuring its future success. In identifying current needs and providing a vision for the future of SCP, Karlin stresses the importance of and future plans for promoting the identity, brand, and value of SCP.
Ineffectiveness of Official Development Assistance in Ethiopia and Sudan

ODA is aid given by governments, NGOs, and other agencies aimed at reducing poverty through support to developing countries. There is large agreement that assistance of some type is necessary to help certain developing countries end chronic impoverished conditions that prevent them from becoming stable, self-sustaining members of the world community. There is large disagreement, however, on what form that assistance should take. "Despite billions of dollars being spent on development assistance over the past sixty years, the net effect has been a strengthening of the status quo and the forces which keep people poor. It is time to radically reform aid policies." Thus, there is much debate on whether ODA is even effective in achieving its long term goals and whether it should be discontinued in favor of other forms of assistance.In questioning why ODA is ineffective, this research project identifies some of the principal reasons, hypothesizing that donor countries’ aid policies fail to address fundamental policy problems, aid program implementing organizations are inefficient, and aid recipient countries’ governments are ineffective. It specifically examines ODA to Ethiopia and Sudan, which received the largest share of ODA to sub-Saharan Africa in 2008. Although, billions of dollars in ODA are poured into developing countries each year, the largest recipient countries remain impoverished and so ODA is viewed by many as a poor assistance tool. If some of the reasons behind the ineffectiveness of ODA can be identified, subsequent ODA policies may be modified to enhance ODA effectiveness, allowing greater improvements in the targeted developing countries to be realized and/or more appropriate allocations in ODA across the spectrum of recipient countries.Conclusions from this research indicate several reasons why ODA is ineffective. Among them are the lack of development policy coherence in donor countries’ individual aid-related organizations and among the donor countries and INGOs, failure to effectively manage and measure aid impact, inefficiencies of INGOs’ operations, and recipient countries’ inabilities to govern effectively.
FARM FAMILY RESOURCES AND THE ADOPTION OF NO-PLOW TILLAGE IN SOUTHWESTERN WISCONSIN

A probit model identifies variables related to the probability that a farm operator used a conservation tillage practice. Data from a 1983 survey of 529 randomly selected Wisconsin farmers were used to determine maximum likelihood estimates. Voluntary no-plow adopters were significantly different from traditional moldboard tillers in these respects: they were more likely to be risk takers; more aware of the effect of erosion damage on property values and yields; operated larger farms in areas that had less precipitation and a warmer climate; and were more often owners than renters. Several other variables, cited elsewhere in the literature, did not appear to be significant but are also reported.
Elastic Properties of CVD Diamond Via Dynamic Resonance Measurements

Control of the mechanical properties of CVD diamond is essential to achieve optimal performance in various applications. While several methods have been applied to the measurement of the Young’s modulus of thick-film CVD diamond, in general these methods are not suitable for diamond characterization on a production scale. In addition, many of these methods cannot determine the shear modulus (or Poisson’s ratio), which is necessary for a complete description of the elastic properties. We have developed a simple dynamic resonance method for determining both the Young’s and shear modulus of free-standing CVD diamond in the shape of rectangular plates or round disks. The specimen is supported along nodal lines of flexural or torsional modes. Oscillations induced by impact from a falling ceramic bead are sensed by a microphone, and the resonant frequencies are determined by a signal analyzer. The Young’s and shear modulus are calculated from the frequencies of the fundamental flexural and torsional modes, respectively, using quasi-analytic formulas. CVD diamond grown by several methods routinely achieves Young’s and shear modulus values above 1000 GPa and 500 GPa, respectively, in good accord with theoretical values for pure polycrystalline diamond.
Laparoscopic ultrasonography as compared with static or dynamic cholangiography at laparoscopic cholecystectomy : a prospective multicenter trial

We compared laparoscopic ultrasonography (LICU) with static (S) or dynamic (D) cholangiography (IOC) for assessment of duct anatomy and calculi in 209 patients. LICU visualized ducts in 88% compared with 93% for IOC (P=0.046). Nineteen patients (9%) had stones: 17 were found by LICU (89%) and 10 (53%) by IOC (P=0.032). Time to perform LICU (7±3 min) was less than IOC (13±6 min) (P<0.0001). Time to perform SIOC (12±5 min) and DIOC (14±6 min) did not differ (P=0.48), nor did these tests differ in accuracy. LICU provided useful anatomical information but IOC better defined anatomic anomalies. LICU required less time but was less reliable at defining anatomy and complete duct visualization. LICU was more sensitive for stones. SIOC and DIOC did not differ objectively. LICU and IOC are complementary.
Effect of GaAs Surface Treatments on Lanthanum Silicate High-K Dielectric Gate Stack Properties

The properties of lanthanum silicate (LaSiOx) gate stacks on GaAs substrates have been examined, comparing different GaAs pretreatments; namely a) as-received, b) HCl-treated, and c) sulphur-treated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the As 3d, Ga 3d, and Ga 2p binding energy peaks were used to reveal the chemical nature of the stacks. After a 400 °C in situ anneal in 10−6 torr pO2, the LaSiOx chemically reduces the As oxides from the as-received GaAs, while Ga oxide species remain. HCl and S-treated GaAs similarly show no As oxides, and a much smaller degree of Ga oxides than the as-received case. The Ga-S bonding may be responsible for lowering the tendency towards Ga oxidation for the S-treated case. On p-type, Zn-doped GaAs, 3.0 nm lanthanum silicate films produce MOS device EOT values of 2.38 nm, 1.51 nm, and 1.37 nm, on as-received, HCl-treated, and S-treated substrates, respectively. The high EOT for the as-received GaAs corresponds to the thicker Ga oxide and elemental As at the interface. The decreases in both Ga oxide and elemental As at the interface of the S-treated stack appears to be related to it having the lowest EOT devices.
Inductive Risks, Inferences, and the Role of Values in Disorders of Consciousness

Johnson's (2016) article begins by considering various inferences regarding patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC)—from inferences in diagnosing, including those involved by the use of neur...
Enabling adiabatic passages between disjoint regions in parameter space through topological transitions

We explore topological transitions in parameter space in order to enable adiabatic passages between regions adiabatically disconnected within a given parameter manifold. To this end, we study the Hamiltonian of two coupled qubits interacting with external magnetic fields, and make use of the analogy between the Berry curvature and magnetic fields in parameter space, with spectrum degeneracies associated to magnetic charges. Symmetry-breaking terms induce sharp topological transitions on these charge distributions, and we show how one can exploit this effect to bypass crossing degeneracies. We also investigate the curl of the Berry curvature, an interesting but as of yet not fully explored object, which together with its divergence uniquely defines this field. Finally, we suggest a simple method for measuring the Berry curvature, thereby showing how one can experimentally verify our results.
Human Resource Allocation of Immunization Program in Urban Yichang

Objective To investigate the current status of staff of immunization program for scientifically allocating human resources.Methods Cross-sectional survey and descriptive methods were adopted to study the immunization program and state quo of the professionals.Results The immunization program staff was mainly female,with a sex ratio of male to female 0.11 ∶ 1 and average age 34.8±9.5.The constituents ratio of staff in different institutions on education degree((χ2= 2 0.377,P 0.01) and specialty(χ2= 59.370,P 0.01) were statistically different.The vaccination staffs were all nursing specialty and the percentage of staffs with higher education degree was higher than that of vaccination clinic.There was no statistical difference on distribution of professional titles,and the constituent was mainly primary and intermediate titles.The service year among different regions showed no statistical difference.Conclusion The staff of immunization program are young and with high education degree.However,there are still some areas couldn't meet the requirements of the currents situation.
Surgical materials and wound closure techniques.

Absorbable suture material has recently been developed to withstand high forces, alleviating the problems of implanting nonabsorbable material. The development of disposable draping materials allows for a more sterile surgical environment but raises issues of cost and environmental impact.
Writing a Successful Research Paper. I—Up to the Point of Submission

Entire books are devoted to the writing of research papers. And thus my effort here is not to emulate those efforts in exquisite detail, but rather to provide an overview to the creation of a successful paper and seeing it through to publication. Writing papers, like writing grants, is something that improves and speeds up with time. However, there remain several key elements to making the entire process less painful. I hope to share with readers some of my ideas here.
Transfection of S2 Cell with DNA Using CellFectin Reagent

[Abstract] This method provides a step-by-step guide to transfecting Drosophila S2 cells with the pRmHA-3 (or similar) vector with insert of choice (in this case SDF-1β-FLAG) and generating a stable cell line. This cell line is then capable of producing the protein of interest under inducible conditions by addition of copper sulfate, which can then be purified and used as desired. This protocol provides an example to finding out when your peak protein production occurs and a method for determining optimal selection conditions.
Chemical Probes and Engineered Constructs Reveal a Detailed Unfolding Mechanism for a Solvent-Free Multidomain Protein

Despite the growing application of gas-phase measurements in structural biology and drug discovery, the factors that govern protein stabilities and structures in a solvent-free environment are still poorly understood. Here, we examine the solvent-free unfolding pathway for a group of homologous serum albumins. Utilizing a combination of chemical probes and noncovalent reconstructions, we draw new specific conclusions regarding the unfolding of albumins in the gas phase, as well as more general inferences regarding the sensitivity of collision induced unfolding to changes in protein primary and tertiary structure. Our findings suggest that the general unfolding pathway of low charge state albumin ions is largely unaffected by changes in primary structure; however, the stabilities of intermediates along these pathways vary widely as sequences diverge. Additionally, we find that human albumin follows a domain associated unfolding pathway, and we are able to assign each unfolded form observed in our gas-phase...
Complementary cereals and legumes for health: Synergistic interaction of sorghum flavones and cowpea flavonols against LPS-induced inflammation in colonic myofibroblasts.

cope Cereals and legumes are traditionally consumed together in many cultures, and may provide complementary health benefits beyond what is known about improved indispensable amino acid intake. Here, we use an in vitro model of inflammatory pathways to investigate whether the different flavonoids in sorghum and cowpea could synergistically reduce inflammation. Methods and results Interactive effect of combining apigenin and quercetin, as well as extracts (70% acetone, v/v) from a flavone-dominated white sorghum and flavonol-dominated white cowpea, against LPS-induced NF-κB and downstream cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8) gene and protein expression was evaluated using the CCD18Co colon myofibroblasts. Combination of apigenin and quercetin, and sorghum and cowpea extracts synergistically downregulated LPS-induced NF-κB gene and protein expression in a dose-dependent manner, with additive effect producing IC50 values that were 14.6 and 14.0 times, respectively, higher than 1:1 combined treatments. Similar strong synergistic interactions were observed for the downstream cytokines (IC50 values for additive effect 8.3–21 times higher than combined treatments). Furthermore, the ratios of the different combined treatments significantly affected the magnitude of synergy. Conclusion Combining the structurally related cereal flavones and legume flavonols elicit strong synergistic anti-inflammatory response in LPS-stimulated nonmalignant colonocytes, likely by targeting interdependent mechanisms.
Cognitive Differences Accounting for Cross-cultural Variation in Perceptions of Healthy Eating

What counts as healthy eating varies both within and across cultures. While people often focus on specific foods and nutrients, the timing and style of eating (eating context) can also be an important consideration, and one that appears to vary across cultures. One possible explanation for this variation is differences in basic cognition, with holistic thinking in collectivist cultures favouring contextual factors. We assess this hypothesis by examining perceptions between two cultural groups that vary in collectivism. In study 1, we investigate whether residents of Ukraine place more importance on considerations of eating context than residents of the USA . In study 2, we test whether this between-country difference is due to the mediating effect of individual differences in collectivism. Ukrainian participants consistently placed more importance on context (Cohen’s d = 0.71–0.84; p d = 0.95, p p > 0.05). These results suggest that the holistic pattern of attention might extend to the domain of nutrition and may account for some cross-cultural differences in perceptions of healthy eating. We briefly discuss the benefits of perception focused on the context of eating, such as decreased burden of self-regulation in a food-rich environment.
Tried in the Court of Public Opinion: Effects of Involvement in Criminal Transgressions on Athlete Image

This study expands the empirical study of Benoit’s image repair theory by serving two purposes using a sports context. First, this study will specifically examine criminal transgressions by compari...
Morphological Regeneration and Functional Recovery of Neuromuscular Junctions after Tourniquet-Induced Injuries in Mouse Hindlimb

Tourniquet application and its subsequent release cause serious injuries to the skeletal muscle, nerve, and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) due to mechanical compression and ischemia-reperfusion (IR). Monitoring structural and functional repair of the NMJ, nerve, and skeletal muscle after tourniquet-induced injuries is beneficial in exploring potential cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for tourniquet-induced injuries, and for establishing effective therapeutic interventions. Here, we observed long-term morphological and functional changes of the NMJ in a murine model of tourniquet-induced hindlimb injuries. Unilateral hindlimbs of C57/BL6 mice were subjected to 3 hours of tourniquet by placing an orthodontic rubber band, followed by varied periods of tourniquet release (1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks). NMJ morphology in the gastrocnemius muscle was imaged, and the endplate potential (EPP) was recorded to evaluate NMJ function. In NMJs, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) clusters normally displayed an intact, pretzel-like shape, and all nAChR clusters were innervated (100%) by motor nerve terminals. During 3 hours of tourniquet application and varied periods of tourniquet release, NMJs in the gastrocnemius muscle were characterized by morphological and functional changes. At 1 day and 3 days of tourniquet release, nAChR clusters retained normal, pretzel-like shapes, whereas motor nerve terminals were completely destroyed and no EPPs recorded. From 1 to 6 weeks of tourniquet release, motor nerve terminals gradually regenerated, even reaching that seen in sham mice, whereas nAChR clusters were gradually fragmented with prolongation of tourniquet release. Additionally, the amplitude of EPPs gradually increased with prolongation of tourniquet release. However, even at 6 weeks after tourniquet release, the amplitude of EPPs did not restore to the level seen in sham mice (13.9 ± 1.1 mV, p < 0.05 vs. sham mice, 29.8 ± 1.0 mV). The data suggest that tourniquet application and subsequent release impair the structure and function of NMJs. Morphological change in motor nerve terminals is faster than in nAChR clusters in NMJs. Slow restoration of fragmented nAChR clusters possibly dampens neuromuscular transmission during the long phase following tourniquet release.
Clinical Reasoning: A 45-year-old man with weakness and myalgia after orthopedic surgery.

A 45-year-old man underwent rotator cuff surgery and developed fatigue and generalized myalgia postoperatively. After 4 weeks of mild symptoms, he experienced severe muscle aches and bilateral leg weakness after walking 1.5 miles, prompting him to seek medical attention.
Open Problems in Property Elicitation

The study of property elicitation is gaining ground in statistics and machine learning as a way to view and reason about the expressive power of emiprical risk minimization (ERM). Yet beyond a widening frontier of special cases, the two most fundamental questions in this area remain open: which statistics are elicitable (computable via ERM), and which loss functions elicit them? Moreover, recent work suggests a complementary line of questioning: given a statistic, how many ERM parameters are needed to compute it? We give concrete instantiations of these important questions, which have numerous applications to machine learning and related fields.
CREATE Wellness: A multi-component behavioral intervention for patients not responding to traditional Cardiovascular disease management.

Abstract Background/Aims Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the US. Many patients do not benefit from traditional disease management approaches to CVD risk reduction. Here we describe the rationale, development, and implementation of a multi-component behavioral intervention targeting patients who have persistently not met goals of CVD risk factor control. Methods Informed by published evidence, relevant theoretical frameworks, stakeholder advice, and patient input, we developed a group-based intervention (Changing Results: Engage and Activate to Enhance Wellness; “CREATE Wellness”) to address the complex needs of patients with elevated or unmeasured CVD-related risk factors. We are testing this intervention in a randomized trial among patients with persistent (i.e > 2 years) sub-optimal risk factor control despite being enrolled in an advanced and highly successful CVD disease management program. Results The CREATE Wellness intervention is designed as a 3 session, group-based intervention combining proven elements of patient activation, health system engagement skills training, shared decision making, care planning, and identification of lifestyle change barriers. Our key learnings in designing the intervention included the value of multi-level stakeholder input and the importance of pragmatic skills training to address barriers to care. Conclusions The CREATE Wellness intervention represents an evidence-based, patient-centered approach for patients not responding to traditional disease management. The trial is currently underway at three medical facilities within Kaiser Permanente Northern California and next steps include an evaluation of efficacy, adaptation for non-English speaking patient populations, and modification of the curriculum for web- or phone-based versions. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02302612 .
Notch Target Gene E(spl)mδ Is a Mediator of Methylmercury-Induced Myotoxicity in Drosophila

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant and neurotoxicant that has long been known to cause a variety of motor deficits. These motor deficits have primarily been attributed to MeHg targeting of developing neurons and induction of oxidative stress and calcium dysregulation. Few studies have looked at how MeHg may be affecting fundamental signaling mechanisms in development, particularly in developing muscle. Studies in Drosophila recently revealed that MeHg perturbs embryonic muscle formation and upregulates Notch target genes, reflected predominantly by expression of the downstream transcriptional repressor Enhancer of Split mdelta (E(spl)mδ). An E(spl)mδ reporter gene shows expression primarily in the myogenic domain, and both MeHg exposure and genetic upregulation of E(spl)mδ can disrupt embryonic muscle development. Here, we tested the hypothesis that developing muscle is targeted by MeHg via upregulation of E(spl)mδ using genetic modulation of E(spl)mδ expression in combination with MeHg exposure in developing flies. Developmental MeHg exposure causes a decreased rate of eclosion that parallels gross disruption of indirect flight muscle (IFM) development. An increase in E(spl) expression across the pupal stages, with preferential E(spl)mδ upregulation occurring at early (p5) stages, is also observed. E(spl)mδ overexpression in myogenic lineages under the Mef2 promoter was seen to phenocopy eclosion and IFM effects of developmental MeHg exposure; whereas reduced expression of E(spl)mδ shows rescue of eclosion and IFM morphology effects of MeHg exposure. No effects were seen on eclosion with E(spl)mδ overexpression in neural and gut tissues. Our data indicate that muscle development is a target for MeHg and that E(spl)mδ is a muscle-specific mediator of this myotoxicity. This research advances our knowledge of the target pathways that mediate susceptibility to MeHg toxicity, as well as a potential muscle development-specific role for E(spl)mδ.
Pi and the AGM. By Jonathan M. Borwein and Peter B. Borwein

(1988). Pi and the AGM. By Jonathan M. Borwein and Peter B. Borwein. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 95, No. 9, pp. 895-897.
Predictive Validity of the STarT Back Tool for Risk of Persistent Disabling Back Pain in a U.S. Primary Care Setting

Abstract Objective To examine the predictive validity of the Subgrouping for Targeted Treatment (STarT Back) tool for classifying people with back pain into categories of low, medium, and high risk of persistent disabling back pain in U.S. primary care. Design Secondary analysis of data from participants receiving usual care in a randomized clinical trial. Setting Primary care clinics. Participants Adults (N = 1109) ≥18 years of age with back pain. Those with specific causes of back pain (pregnancy, disc herniation, vertebral fracture, spinal stenosis) and work-related injuries were not included. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures The original 9-item version of the STarT Back tool, administered at baseline, stratified patients by their risk (low, medium, high) of persistent disabling back pain (STarT Back risk group). Persistent disabling back pain was defined as Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire scores of ≥7 at 6-month follow-up. Results The STarT Back risk group was a significant predictor of persistent disabling back pain (P Conclusions The STarT Back risk groups successfully separated people with back pain into distinct categories of risk for persistent disabling back pain at 6-month follow-up in U.S. primary care. These results were very similar to those in the original STarT Back validation study. This validation study is a necessary first step toward identifying whether the entire STarT Back approach, including matched/targeted treatment, can be effectively used for primary care in the United States.
Against Medical Advice Discharges from the Emergency Department

The emergency department (ED) presents a unique context for patients leaving the acute care setting against medical advice (AMA). We review three common cases, establish definitions, discuss the peer-reviewed literature, debunk the myths and common practices, cover the law and the effect of technology, and finally return to the clinical scenarios to make concrete recommendations for handling patients requesting to leave the ED prior to completion of their episode of care. The advice contained within this chapter will help a practitioner of emergency medicine capably navigate the sometimes murky waters of balancing and accommodating a patient’s request and defending a professional’s responsibilities to the health-care system. It will also serve the wider health-care community to gain insight into the complex environment of health-care delivery in the ED that only gets trickier when patients request to leave.
Feasibility of 3.4 nm Laser Pumped by Ultraintense RBS Laser

Our presentation consisted of two parts. In the first part we presented main theoretical results on the plasma and pumping conditions required to generate gain at 3.4 nm in H-like CVI ions in transition from the first excited state to ground state. Transient population inversion is generated during the recombination process. It was shown that high gain (up to G~200 cm-1) can be achieved using currently available compact lasers. In the second part we presented a new type of compact laser generating ultra-short and ultra-intensive pulses via Raman Backscattering (RBS) amplification and compression in plasma. We achieved large (up to 1000) “seed” amplification and its compression from~1 psec down to 150 fsec in only 2 mm long plasma pumped with~1014 W/cm2 pulses. We also presented very recent experiments on amplification in 2 passes setup. Such RBS amplifier and compressor is expected to provide in not too far future intensities~1020 W/cm2 at high repetition rate in compact (university type) system, which would be ideal pump not only for 3.4 nm laser but even for shorter wavelength lasers.
“I Don’t Look Like Her”: Race, Resemblance, and Relationships in Multiracial Families:

Race and resemblance are tied to family membership, and relationships characterize family dynamics. In this article, we argue that race, resemblance, and relationships intersect in distinct, layere...
Breast Cancer Screening Modalities

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in them. Breast cancer survival varies by stage at diagnosis. According to Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, the overall 5-year relative survival rate is 99% for localized disease, 85% for regional disease, and 27% for distant-stage disease [1]. Breast cancer screening is used to identify women with asymptomatic cancer so that cases are picked up and treated early leading to better outcomes. Presently, breast cancer detection relies on mammography as the main screening modality, but its role is now declining because of high false-positive rates and limited sensitivity for detection of lesions in dense breast tissues. Biomarkers that can predict early disease are a welcome addition to the imaging methods used for breast cancer screening. Imaging techniques for screening have been discussed in detail in Chap. 27, and the role of clinical examination and biomarkers will be dealt in this chapter.
When to use and when not to use BBR: An empirical analysis and evaluation study

This short paper presents a detailed empirical study of BBR's performance under different real-world and emulated testbeds across a range of network operating conditions. Our empirical results help to identify network conditions under which BBR outperforms, in terms of goodput, contemporary TCP congestion control algorithms. We find that BBR is well suited for networks with shallow buffers, despite its high retransmissions, whereas existing loss-based algorithms are better suited for deep buffers.To identify the root causes of BBR's limitations, we carefully analyze our empirical results. Our analysis reveals that, contrary to BBR's design goal, BBR often exhibits large queue sizes. Further, the regimes where BBR performs well are often the same regimes where BBR is unfair to competing flows. Finally, we demonstrate the existence of a loss rate "cliff point" beyond which BBR's goodput drops abruptly. Our empirical investigation identifies the likely culprits in each of these cases as specific design options in BBR's source code.
Caring for Tiny Babies May Bear a Big Burden: Burnout in Neonatology Fellows

Background: Burnout, defined as a psychological syndrome characterized by mental and physical exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lacking sense of personal accomplishment has been shown to affect quality of care delivery and increase medical errors. Burnout among neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows has not been previously studied. Objective: To evaluate burnout prevalence among neonatology fellows and explore contributing and alleviating factors. Design/Methods: A national electronic survey was sent through Organization of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Training Program Directors (ONTPD) and Trainees and Early Career Neonatologists (TECaN) listservs …
Use of third-line therapies in advanced sarcoidosis.

Objectives Patients with advanced sarcoidosis often require third-line therapies including infliximab, adalimumab, rituximab, and repository corticotropin injection (RCI). Over time, some patients discontinue therapy. Methods In a retrospective review of patients at the University of Cincinnati Sarcoidosis Clinic, we identified patients who received one or more third-line treatments. Age, race, gender, organ involvement, and initial date of therapy were collected. For patients in whom a drug was discontinued, the last date of treatment, reason for drug discontinuation, and outcome of drug withdrawal were noted. Results Of the 2109 patients identified, 317 (15%) had received one or more third-line therapies (infliximab: 258 patients; adalimumab: 52 patients; rituximab: 34 patients; RCI: 101 patients). Patients with neurologic, cutaneous, or ocular sarcoidosis involvement were more likely to have received third-line therapy. Overall, 225 (50.6%) of treatment regimens were discontinued. Rate of discontinuation was higher for infliximab (55%), adalimumab (58%), or RCI (43%) than for rituximab (29%, Chi square=11.959, p=0.0075). Compared to RCI, the hazard ratio (HR) for discontinuing therapy due to infection was increased for infliximab (HR=12.14, p=0.0134) and adalimumab (HR=9.71, p=0.0356). The hazard ratio was higher for drug discontinuation due to allergic reactions to infliximab (HR=9.40, p=0.0017) or adalimumab (HR=5.83, p=0.0273). For patients receiving at least two years of therapy, drug survival was significantly shorter for infliximab compared to other therapies (Chi square=5.4054, p=0.0201). Conclusions While third-line therapies are often initially effective, a significant number of patients discontinued individual treatments and initiated an alternative third-line therapy.