cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structure of the complex between teicoplanin and a bacterial cell-wall peptide: use of a carrier-protein approach

Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections are commonly treated with glycopeptide antibiotics such as teicoplanin. This drug inhibits bacterial cell-wall biosynthesis by binding and sequestering a cell-wall precursor: a D-alanine-containing peptide. A carrier-protein strategy was used to crystallize the complex of teicoplanin and its target peptide by fusing the cell-wall peptide to either MBP or ubiquitin via native chemical ligation and subsequently crystallizing the protein-peptide-antibiotic complex. The 2.05 A resolution MBP-peptide-teicoplanin structure shows that teicoplanin recognizes its ligand through a combination of five hydrogen bonds and multiple van der Waals interactions. Comparison of this teicoplanin structure with that of unliganded teicoplanin reveals a flexibility in the antibiotic peptide backbone that has significant implications for ligand recognition. Diffraction experiments revealed an X-ray-induced dechlorination of the sixth amino acid of the antibiotic; it is shown that teicoplanin is significantly more radiation-sensitive than other similar antibiotics and that ligand binding increases radiosensitivity. Insights derived from this new teicoplanin structure may contribute to the development of next-generation antibacterials designed to overcome bacterial resistance.
Controls and diagnostics on a fuseless railgun for solid hydrogen pellet acceleration

A two-stage railgun system has been built, incorporating several controls and diagnostics, some including unique features to account for the fact that the projectile is a frozen hydrogen pellet for fusion reactor refueling. A timing circuit has been developed to monitor projectile breech and muzzle velocities and to automatically trigger a sequence of events critical for effective plasma armature railgun operation. This circuit can initiate electrical breakdown of the propellant gas directly behind an incoming projectile, thus enabling fuseless operation. It also triggers a streak camera and a flashlamp for photographing the arc and the outgoing projectile, respectively. The automatic timing circuit is expandable and has been extended to incorporate a trigger for transaugmentation. The timing circuit is immune to mistriggering due to electromagnetic interference or fragmentation of the fragile hydrogen pellets. >
Tuning the insertion properties of pHLIP

The pH (low) insertion peptide (pHLIP) has exceptional characteristics: at neutral pH it is an unstructured monomer in solution or when bound to lipid bilayer surfaces, and it inserts across a lipid bilayer as a monomeric alpha-helix at acidic pH. The peptide targets acidic tissues in vivo and may be useful in cancer biology for delivery of imaging or therapeutic molecules to acidic tumors. To find ways to vary its useful properties, we have designed and analyzed pHLIP sequence variants. We find that each of the Asp residues in the transmembrane segment is critical for solubility and pH-dependent membrane insertion of the peptide. Changing both of the Asp residues in the transmembrane segment to Glu, inserting an additional Asp into the transmembrane segment, or replacing either of the Asp residues with Ala leads to aggregation and/or loss of pH-dependent membrane insertion of the peptide. However, variants with either of the Asp residues changed to Glu remained soluble in an aqueous environment and inserted into the membrane at acidic pH with a higher pK(app) of membrane insertion.
Heats of mixing in liquid solutions of group V elements in indium and gallium

Data and information are presented that are used to demonstrate linear correlations between the maximum heats of mixing in liquid solutions of Bi, Sb, and As in In and Ga, respectively. Where experimental heats of mixing are not available, they- are calculated at the stoichiomctric compound compositions using other enthalpy data and a heat balance equation. Using the correlations, heats in the Ga--P and In--P systems are estimated. The enthalpy balance equation, derived using what is commonly known as Hess' Law of Heat Summation, provides a means for estimating one quantity when the others are known. The equation is concisely derived. (JRD)
LOCATION OF ZEROS PART I: REAL POLYNOMIALS AND ENTIRE FUNCTIONS

In the study of the distribution of zeros of polynomials and entire functions the techniques used, roughly speaking, fall into three categories" analytic, geometric and algebraic. In this paper, which represents the first portion of a two-part investigation, we will attempt to exploit the advantages of all three techniques. In Section 2 we will introduce a novel geometric tool (see also [3]) to prove results which, for the most part, are intractable by algebraic or analytic methods. In addition, the geometric theorems are generally stronger than their algebraic counterparts which are derived as corollaries. In the extensive literature dealing with the location of zeros of real polynomials (and real entire functions) a significant role is played by linear transformations T which possess the following property: (1.1) Zc(T[fl) < Zc(f),
Cerebral atrophy in an infant following treatment with ifosfamide

Ifosfamide, a nitrogen mustard derived alkylating agent commonly used in the treatment of solid tumors, has been associated with neurotoxicity in 5-33% of treated patients. Encephalopathy most often occurs during or shortly following drug administration, with increased drowsiness or irritability, confusion, hallucinations, visual blurring, extrapyramidal dysfunction, cranial nerve abnormalities, incontinence, generalized muscle twitching, seizures, and coma reported in infants, children, and older adults. While most reported neurologic abnormalities associated with ifosfamide have been reversible, encephalopathy resulting in death has occurred. We now report an infant who developed ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy, loss of developmental milestones, progressive brain atrophy, and cessation of cranial growth. This is the first case of cerebral atrophy and loss of developmental milestones that has been reported in a pediatric patient treated with ifosfamide. Given the efficacy of this anti-neoplastic agent and its increasing use in pediatrics, further investigation is indicated, especially in infants where brain growth is ongoing.
Post‐epidemic eosinophilia–myalgia syndrome associated with L‐tryptophan

Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) is characterized by subacute onset of myalgias and peripheral eosinophilia, followed by chronic neuropathy and skin induration. An epidemic of EMS in 1989 was linked to consumption of L-tryptophan that had originated from a single source. Following the ban by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the sale of L-tryptophan, the incidence of EMS declined rapidly. Moreover, no new cases have been described since the FDA ban was lifted in 2005. We report the clinical, histopathologic, and immunogenetic features of a new case of L-tryptophan-associated EMS, along with evidence of activated transforming growth factor β and interleukin-4 signaling in the lesional skin.
The effect on the bonding strength of orthodontic brackets of fluoride application after etching.

Abstract Etching of the enamel surface in preparation for bonding orthodontic brackets is an essential part of the bonding procedure. In an attempt to alleviate concerns regarding the decalcified enamel, it has been suggested that a fluoride solution be applied to the etched surface before placing the bonding material. The purpose of this study is to test the tensile bonding strength of the composite to fluoride-treated enamel. Four groups of 10 teeth each were compared. Group I received a solution of 2% NaF in 0.1 M H3PO4 after etching; groups II and III received a solution of 4% NaF in 0.1 M H3PO4 after etching; and group IV served as the control—that is, no fluoride solution was applied to the enamel after etching. The orthodontic brackets were bonded to the teeth in the four groups with the same procedure. The 40 teeth were then placed in synthetic saliva. Groups I, II, and IV were debonded after 24 hours; group III was debonded after 7 days. The Instron Universal testing machine was used to determine the tensile bonding strength of the adhesive to the teeth. The basic statistics for the tensile strength were calculated and the analysis of variance, general linear models procedure, was used to determine whether significant differences were present among the groups. The findings indicate that the application of either 2% or 4% NaF in a 0.1 M H3PO4 solution does not significantly influence the tensile bonding strength of the adhesive material to the enamel surface.
Roles for early response cytokines during Escherichia coli pneumonia revealed by mice with combined deficiencies of all signaling receptors for TNF and IL-1

During infection, inflammation is essential for host defense, but it can injure tissues and compromise organ function. TNF-α and IL-1 (α and β) are early response cytokines that facilitate inflamma...
Determination of Epithelial Na+ Channel Subunit Stoichiometry from Single-channel Conductances

The epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) is a multimeric membrane protein consisting of three subunits, α, β, and γ. The total number of subunits per functional channel complex has been described variously to follow either a tetrameric arrangement of 2α:1β:1γ or a higher-ordered stoichiometry of 3α:3β:3γ. Therefore, while it is clear that all three ENaC subunits are required for full channel activity, the number of the subunits required remains controversial. We used a new approach, based on single-channel measurements in Xenopus oocytes to address this issue. Individual mutations that alter single-channel conductance were made in pore-lining residues of ENaC α, β, or γ subunits. Recordings from patches in oocytes expressing a single species, wild type or mutant, of α, β, and γ showed a well-defined current transition amplitude with a single Gaussian distribution. When cRNAs for all three wild-type subunits were mixed with an equimolar amount of a mutant α-subunit (either S589D or S592T), amplitudes corresponding to pure wild-type or mutant conductances could be observed in the same patch, along with a third intermediate amplitude most likely arising from channels with at least one wild-type and at least 1 mutant α-subunit. However, intermediate or hybrid conductances were not observed with coexpression of wild-type and mutant βG529A or γG534E subunits. Our results support a tetrameric arrangement of ENaC subunits where 2α, 1β, and 1γ come together around central pore.
Emergent document semantics

It is well known that interpretation depends on the context, whether for a work of art, a piece of literature, or a natural language utterance. This paper addresses the dynamic context of a collection of linked multimedia documents, of which the Web is a perfect example. Contextual document semantics emerge through identification of various users' browsing paths though this multimedia collection. In this paper, we present techniques that use multimedia information as part of this determination. Some implications of our approach are presented in the problem of defining the document semantics of a Webpage as well as the semantics that emerges through its use.
Socialism and Wages in the Recovery from the Great Depression in the United States and Germany

The sustained unemployment in the United States during the recovery from the Great Depression has proved difficult to explain, as has the rapid elimination of unemployment in Germany. I argue that employment in the United States was restricted by high wages, which government policy raised above the level of efficiency wages. Socialist control and military expansion by the Nazis reduced unemployment, but also held down consumption.
Testing Waveform Predictions of 3D Velocity Models Against Two Recent Los Angeles Earthquakes

Nearly half of the national seismic risk is located in Southern California, and about one‐fourth is concentrated in Los Angeles County alone (Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA], 2000). To assess the seismic hazards that drive this risk, we must forecast the strong ground motions that are likely to be produced by large fault ruptures. The standard probabilistic seismic‐hazard model of California calculates shaking intensities according to an ensemble of ground‐motion prediction equations (Petersen et al. , 2008). These empirical equations have a high aleatory variability, primarily because they do not model much of the ground‐motion variance caused by 3D crustal heterogeneities (Strasser and Bommer, 2009). One approach for improving hazard estimates is to simulate the wave propagation through realistic 3D crustal models (Olsen et al. , 1995, 2006; Komatitsch et al. , 2004; Graves et al. , 2008). If seismograms can be simulated for sufficiently large samples of probable ruptures, then hazard curves of exceedance probability versus seismic intensity can be constructed from the calculated site response. Graves et al. (2010) have developed a software platform, CyberShake, that combines seismic reciprocity with highly optimized anelastic wave propagation codes to reduce the time of this calculation to manageable levels. Low‐frequency (<0.5 Hz) CyberShake hazard models, each comprising about 240 million synthetic seismograms, have been computed for the Los Angeles region (Graves et al. , 2010; Wang et al. , 2013; Wang and Jordan, 2014). The ability to simulate seismograms depends on having accurate models of 3D crustal structure. Crustal models that specify the lateral and depth variations of seismic velocities have been developed for southern California by synthesizing constraints from geologic studies, well logs, seismic reflection and refraction surveys, and earthquake tomography (Hauksson, 2000; Magistrale …
Horizontal Review between International Organizations: Why, How, and Who Cares about Corporate Regulatory Capture

A diverse set of national and international bodies is increasingly commenting upon other organizations� compliance with �global administrative law� norms, creating a complex network of interaction and review. Although many forms of interaction can be identified and observed, horizontal review between international organizations appears to be relatively rare. This article examines one instance in which review did emerge: the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe's criticisms of the transparency and accountability of the World Health Organization (WHO) during the H1N1 pandemic. Two key questions arise from the case study. First, what structural or institutional features allowed inter-institutional review to take place? And, secondly, why would two institutions have such divergent views of an international organization's accountability and transparency? The analysis suggests that a key factor in allowing horizontal review to occur is diversity in institutional composition � in terms either of membership, distribution of power between members, or interests represented by members. In this case study, the Parliamentary Assembly represented the interests of states� legislative branches, whereas the WHO representatives reflect the interests of states� executive branches. Variations in baseline assumptions regarding the WHO's function in regulating infectious disease response and to whom it should be accountable may partially explain the substantive divergence of opinion.
Near real-time shadow generation using BSP trees

This paper describes an object-space shadow generation algorithm for static polygonal environments illuminated by movable point light sources. The algorithm can be easily implemented on any graphics system that provides fast polygon scan-conversion and achieves near real-time performance for environments of modest size. It combines elements of two kinds of current shadow generation algorithms: two-pass object-space approaches and shadow volume approaches. For each light source a Binary Space Partitioning (BSP) tree is constructed that represents the shadow volume of the polygons facing it. As each polygon's contribution to a light source's shadow volume is determined, the polygon's shadowed and lit fragments are computed by filtering it down the shadow volume BSP tree. The polygonal scene with its computed shadows can be rendered with any polygon-based visible-surface algorithm. Since the shadow volumes and shadows are computed in object space, they can be used for further analysis of the scene. Pseudocode is provided, along with pictures and timings from an interactive implementation.
Concepts underlying the development of modules

The need for common pedagogical and design features in courseware is discussed. A particularly useful feature would allow use of courseware in either of two “modes”: as an “electronic chalkboard” for the instructor who wishes to take advantage of the computer in a traditional lecture setting, or as an “electronic study guide” in which students interact individually with the programs. Development of programs using these two modes can be facilitated using Author-Assist, a set of routines and a program skeleton being developed by CONDUIT (1983). Author-Assist provides procedures for use of several types of automatic menu generation, automatic text formatting in “text ports,” mixed text and graphics, protected input routines, lowercase characters in text, automatic scaling of graphic displays using “graphports,” on-screen calculator functions, and a variety of other features.
On improving the performance of IEEE 802.11 with relay-enabled PCF

Integrating wireless LAN (WLAN) techniques with the third generation cellular networks has become a promising way to improve the performance of wireless systems. As WLANs play an important role in such heterogeneous systems, the performance of WLANs becomes important to the whole system. It is well known that WLANs provide a physical layer multi-rate capability, and hence MAC layer mechanisms are needed to exploit this capability. In this paper, we propose a novel MAC layer relay-enabled point coordination function (PCF) protocol, called r PCF, to exploit the physical layer multi-rate capability. Since WLAN supports multiple data rates in response to different channel conditions, data packets may be delivered faster through a relay node than through the direct link if the direct link has low quality and low rate. To enable MAC layer relay, the access point needs to collect information about the channel conditions, and notify the mobile nodes which data rate to use and whether to transmit the data through a relay station. We design protocols to achieve this goal and refine these protocols to minimize the control overhead. Simulation results show that r PCF can significantly improve the system performance in terms of system throughput and transmission delay by adding only a negligible control overhead.
Zero bias anomalies produced by controlled amounts of Cr in Al-I-Al tunnel junctions

Abstract Zero to 5A of Cr have been deposited in the barriers of Al-I-Al tunnel junctions. One angstrom of Cr metal produces a 10 per cent conductance peak which does not have the voltage-temperature dependence of the Appelbaum theory and is absent when the metal is oxidized. Thicker layers of oxidized Cr produce a large conductance dip.
Pharmacology of the Effects of Bradykinin, Serotonin, and Histamine on the Release of Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide from C-Fiber Terminals in the Rat Trachea

The effects of inflammatory substances, bradykinin (BK), 5-HT, and histamine (HIS), on the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) from the peripheral terminals of sensory afferents in the rat trachea were examined ex vivo. With intralumenal perfusion, the isolated rat trachea displays low but measurable secretion of CGRP (32 +/- 4.6 fmol/10 min fraction). The addition of BK (10(-6) to 10(-4) M) to the superfusate resulted in an immediate, concentration-dependent increase in the level of CGRP (5–30-fold increase above baseline) in the perfusates, and this effect showed a concentration-dependent tachyphylaxis. [Des-Arg10]-kallidin, a B1 receptor agonist, at concentrations of up to 10(-4) M did not induce any significant increase in CGRP outflow from the rat trachea. HIS at 10(-4) M caused a modest but progressive augmentation in the release of CGRP. 5-HT at 10(- 4) M had no effect upon the resting efflux of CGRP, but at a concentration of 10(-6) M significantly enhanced the release of CGRP evoked by capsaicin (10(-6) M). Similar conditioning studies carried out with HIS and BK showed no augmentation. BK-evoked CGRP efflux was significantly inhibited by [D-Arg0, Hyp3, Thi5,8, D-Phe7]-BK (B2 antagonist) and indomethacin. While [Des-Arg9, Leu8]-BK (B1 antagonist) also caused a reduction of BK-induced release, its effect did not reach statistical significance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Accurate Computations for Steep Solitary Waves.

Abstract : Finite amplitude solitary waves in water of arbitrary uniform depth are considered. A numerical scheme based on collocation is presented to calculate the highest solitary wave. It is found that the ratio of the amplitude of the wave versus the depth is 0.83322. This value is about 0.006 higher than the values obtained by most previous investigators. In addition another numerical scheme based on an integro-differential formulation is derived to compute solitary waves of arbitrary amplitude. Thse calculations show that the results of Longuet-Higgins and Fenton are not accurate for very steep waves. Graphs and tables of the results are included.
Evaluation of stimulated parotid saliva flow rate in different age groups.

The production of stimulated parotid saliva was examined in 208 adults, aged 23-88 yr. Among men and women, taking no prescription medication, there was no diminution of stimulated parotid fluid output with increased age. Of subjects taking medication, post-menopausal women (but not older men) produced stimulated saliva at rates significantly lower than their non-medicated counterparts.
EFFECTS OF CRUISE-ALTITUDE POLLUTION

This paper presents a brief, relatively nontechnical summary of present understanding of the environmental effects of aircraft emissions during high-altitude-cruise operation. It is shown that the effects of nitric oxide and water on ozone are relatively well established, but that the possible climatic consequences of emissions are, at best, poorly understood. does not represent an actual physical barrier in the at- mosphere, and its precise location varies on both a daily and seasonal basis. Pollution of the lower stratosphere by con- ventional aircraft flying in the vicinity of the tropopause is, however, somewhat less severe than that caused by SST's, which cruise well into the stratosphere. Pollutants are disper- sed less rapidly with increasing flight altitude in the stratosphere; SST exhaust products can remain up to two years. (Vertical mixing becomes less intense as penetration in- to the stratosphere increases.) In the last few years, several studies have been published which report on the emissions of jet aircraft engines (e.g., Refs. 1 and 2). The following paragraphs briefly discuss the effects of water and oxides of nitrogen on ozone and climate, and the effects of sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide on climate.
Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma With Extensive Dendritic Cell Network Mimicking Follicular Dendritic Cell Tumor A Case Report With Pathologic, Immunophenotypic, and Molecular Findings

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) with a nodular pattern of growth is uncommon and may be misdiagnosed initially as a B-cell lymphoma or reactive process. We report a case of a rapidly growing PTCL with a distinctly nodular pattern in an axillary lymph node from an 89-year-old man. Immunohistochemical stains for CD21, CD23, and CD35 highlighted an extensive dendritic cell network that imparted the nodular appearance and, in addition, was associated intimately with the neoplastic cells. The neoplastic cells otherwise had an immunophenotype similar to previously reported cases of PTCL with a nodular pattern and germinal center origin (CD3+, CD4+, CD5+, bcl-6+, CD31+, subset CD10+, subset CXCL13+, and subset CD79a+). Molecular studies confirm a clonal T-cell receptor g gene rearrangement. This case emphasizes unusual morphologic features in a PTCL that may be mistaken for follicular lymphoma or a tumor of follicular dendritic cell origin.
On the physical and logical topology design of large-scale optical networks

We consider the problem of designing a network of optical cross-connects (OXCs) to provide end-to-end lightpath services to large numbers of label switched routers (LSRs). We present a set of heuristic algorithms to address the combined problem of physical topology design (i.e., determine the number of OXCs required and the fiber links among them) and logical topology design (i.e., determine the routing and wavelength assignment for the lightpaths among the LSRs). Unlike previous studies which were limited to small topologies with a handful of nodes and a few tens of lightpaths, we have applied our algorithms to networks with hundreds or thousands of LSRs and with a number of lightpaths that is an order of magnitude larger than the number of LSRs. In order to characterize the performance of our algorithms, we have developed lower bounds which can be computed efficiently. We present numerical results for up to 1000 LSRs and for a wide range of system parameters such as the number of wavelengths per fiber, the number of transceivers per LSR, and the number of ports per OXC. The results indicate that it is possible to build large-scale optical networks with rich connectivity in a cost-effective manner, using relatively few but properly dimensioned OXCs.
You May Think You’re Right … Young Adults Are More Liberal Than They Realize:

Do people have biased perceptions of their political orientation? Based on the link between political conservatism and in-group loyalty, we predicted that people would underestimate their liberalism and that this effect would be more pronounced among political conservatives. Young adults indicated their self-perceived political orientation and completed an objective measure of political orientation, which placed them along a liberal-conservative continuum by comparing their attitudes on 12 core issues (e.g., gay marriage, welfare) to population norms. Participants showed a significant bias toward perceiving themselves as more conservative than they actually were, and this effect was more pronounced among independents and conservatives than liberals. Further, biased self-perceptions of political orientation predicted voting behavior in the 2012 Presidential Election after controlling for objective political orientation scores. Discussion highlights theoretical implications for self-knowledge research and practical implications for American politics more broadly.
On the stability of shear flow in a rotating gas

The linear stability of a rotating contained perfect gas flowing axially is shown to depend on a ‘centrifugal Richardson number’ when the ratio of the axial flow to the peripheral velocity, and the ratio of the peripheral velocity to the sound speed are both small. The Boussinesq approximation is not made. In the limit of infinite sound speed the known incompressible result (unstable, Pedley 1968) is reproduced. Comparison with computational results indicates that the asymptotic theory is pessimistic.
Impact of Reflective Mulch on Yield of Strawberry Plants and Incidence of Damage by Tarnished Plant Bug (Heteroptera: Miridae)

The current study investigated the impact of reflective mulch on yield of strawberry plants and incidence of damage by tarnished plant bugs, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), for three strawberry cultivars: ‘Honeoye’, ‘Earliglow’, and two sibling Dayneutrals (‘Tribute’ and ‘Tristar’, herein considered as one cultivar). Of all cultivars tested, Honeoye was the most productive and least susceptible to tarnished plant bug. For Earliglow and Honeoye, reflective mulch enhanced productivity of strawberry plants and suppressed density of nymphs per flower cluster and proportion of damaged fruits, but did not significantly impact numbers of nymphs or damaged fruits per hectare. Results with Dayneutrals were not consistently significant. Both in the presence or absence of reflective mulch, proportion of damaged fruits increased with increasing density of nymphs per flower cluster and with decreasing number of fruits harvested per row section, suggesting that planting productive strawberry cultivars or maintaining cultural practices that promote high yield may provide an effective line of defense against tarnished plant bug. These results also suggest that reflective mulch may suppress incidence of damage by tarnished plant bug both directly, by reducing number of nymphs per flower cluster, and indirectly, by enhancing productivity of strawberry plants. Economic analyses evaluating costs and benefits of using reflective mulch, as well as studies investigating mechanisms that underlie the impact of reflective mulch on yield and incidence of damage by tarnished plant bug, are still needed before reflective mulch can be implemented as a management strategy in commercial strawberry fields.
Individual Psychotherapy and Changes in Self-Experience in Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Comparison of Patients in Metacognitively Focused and Supportive Psychotherapy

Objective: Deficits in metacognition, or the ability to form complex ideas about self and others, may be a root cause of dysfunction in schizophrenia. Accordingly, forms of psychotherapy have been proposed to address metacognitive deficits. This study explored whether metacognitively focused individual psychotherapy can affect self-experience by conducting narrative interviews of patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder enrolled in either metacognitively oriented psychotherapy (n = 12) or supportive psychotherapy (n = 13) in a naturalistic setting. Method: Participants in both groups completed a narrative interview consisting of questions that focused on perceptions and process of psychotherapy and its impact on outcomes. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and coded using an inductive process informed by grounded theory. Results: Qualitative analyses revealed all participants reported psychotherapy led to improvements in self-esteem and the ability to think more clearly and set meaningful goa...
What's on Tap? Transforming Stormwater Survey Data into Visually Appealing Educational Tools

Sustainability and environmentalism are broad, complex topics about which South Carolina residents have varying perceptions and opinions. It is important to examine these topics not only in South Carolina, but also nationally and globally, as water circulates and is a vital source for survival that is becoming increasingly valuable. This study utilizes telephone survey data that sought to identify South Carolina residents' knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding nonpoint source water pollution, and watershed management. This data was collected in 2013 in five regions of South Carolina: Pee Dee, Charleston, Midlands, Grand Strand, and the Upstate. The purpose of this visualization project was to describe the process of using visualization tools for expressing residents' opinions about a several issues related to storm water management. These particular visualization tools will ease the comprehension of environmental perceptions by transferring survey data from Excel spreadsheets to illustrations that are easy to read and are more visually appealing. The visualization instruments used were a social media marketing tool, Radian6, and ESRI's geographical information system for data topography: Arc GIS. Additionally, a flip-book was developed as an educational supplement to raise awareness of the environmental impact and personal responsibility of water pollution. The successful implementation of the methodology will allow a keener observation and presentation of residents' environmental awareness. The knowledge gained can be used to strengthen storm water education efforts, both regionally and nationally.
Adaptation of a methanogenic consortium to arsenite inhibition.

Arsenic (As) is a ubiquitous metalloid known for its adverse effects to human health. Microorganisms are also impacted by As toxicity, including methanogenic archaea, which can affect the performance of a process in which biological activity is required (i.e., stabilization of activated sludge in wastewater treatment plants). The novel ability of a mixed methanogenic granular sludge consortium to adapt to the inhibitory effect of arsenic As was investigated by exposing the culture to approximately 0.92 mM of arsenite (AsIII) for 160 days in an arsenate (AsV)-reducing bioreactor using ethanol as the electron donor. The results of shaken batch bioassays indicated that the original, unexposed sludge was severely inhibited by AsIII as evidenced by the low 50 % inhibition concentrations (IC50) determined, i.e., 19 and 90 μM AsIII for acetoclastic and hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis, respectively. The tolerance of the acetoclastic and hydrogenotrophic methanogens in the sludge to AsIII increased 47-fold (IC50 = 910 μM) and 12-fold (IC50 = 1100 μM), respectively, upon long-term exposure to As. In conclusion, the methanogenic community in the granular sludge demonstrated a considerable ability to adapt to the severe inhibitory effects of As after a prolonged exposure period.
Chryseobacterium indologenes: an emerging infection in the USA

Nursing home-associated infections and antibiotic resistant pathogens constitute common and serious problems in the geriatric population. Chryseobacterium indologenes, a non-motile Gram-negative rod, though widely distributed in nature, is an uncommon human pathogen. Typically thought of as an organism of low virulence, it may cause serious infections, particularly among the immunocompromised. The majority of reported cases are nosocomial, often associated with immunosuppression or indwelling catheters. It has been reported as the causative agent in bacteraemia, peritonitis, pneumonia, empyema, pyelonephritis, cystitis, meningitis and central venous catheter-associated infections. We report a rare case of C. indologenes infection affecting a nursing home resident in the USA and we provide a review of similar cases. This report emphasises the importance of individualised treatment and promotes awareness about this organism as one of several emerging pathogens in immunocompromised adults and in the frail elderly who are often nursing home residents, in the Western Hemisphere.
Universal Pragmatics as a Methodology for Analyzing Institutional Cultures

Habermas maintains that the democratic nature of the public sphere can only be maintained within the context of the ideal speech situation. Truth, in this framework, means democratically arrived at consensus, free from domination. If consensus breaks down, that is if validity claims cannot be vindicated because they have been critically challenged, then truth claims may only be recovered through conditions of discourse in argumentative reasoning. This involves the cooperative search for truth. If not allowed to progress because all participants have not been allowed to raise or challenge truth claims involving the four speech acts, then what results is a situation involving conflict and ideology. Conflict arises when "consensus concerning distribution of opportunities for satisfying needs breaks down" (Held 346). What is necessary then is a critique of ideology through the "considerations of universal pragmatics" in order to determine the degree to which communicative action has given way to strategic action and particular interests of a dominant group as opposed to the generalizable interests of the entire community (Habermas 1979, 112-113). It is therefore important to analyze the normative structure of particular socio-cultural systems and institutions in order to determine whether all participants have equal opportunities to employ all speech acts including communicatives, representatives, regulatives, and constatives. In the event that all actors are not able to employ and therefore fulfill their obligations which are necessary for establishing the ideal speech situation, then it is possible that what exists is a culture whose norms are entirely disconnected from justification. This paper suggests that Universal Pragmatics as constructed by Habermas can be used as a practical methodology for analyzing various institutional cultures.
Design of Protocol Testing System for Concentrator Local Communication Module Interface

As the abilities of the vendors were very different,the compatibility of the modules was not ideal.A kind of testing system was designed to realizing to the concentrator local module interface protocol testing,which may provide a practical reference for equipment purchasing.
Felipe Vergara and Lumni: Launching an Innovation in a Developing Economy

The case chronicles the development of Lumni, Inc., an international start-up offering innovative mechanisms for financing higher education. It focuses on: the details of decision making required to transform an idea into a viable business; building partnerships; the challenge associated with raising venture capital; and the challenges of creating a new market where human capital can be traded to finance higher education.
The role of speech therapists on speech language disordered children

As psychological and physiological development and circumstances vary considerably, the problems of speech and language in children are further complicated. The speech therapists (ST) who have been concerned with these children and their families are requested eagerly to reconsider and control their own communicative attitude. Furthermore, STs have to improve clinical technique that is appropriate to each child. In this report, the author shows the outline of the speech and language problems of children, and discusses the merit and demerit of speech therapy itself. The clinical approach for motor speech disturbance and sensory language disorder is also described.
Comparison of Urine Output among Patients Treated with More Intensive Versus Less Intensive RRT: Results from the Acute Renal Failure Trial Network Study

Background and objectives Intensive RRT may have adverse effects that account for the absence of benefit observed in randomized trials of more intensive versus less intensive RRT. We wished to determine the association of more intensive RRT with changes in urine output as a marker of worsening residual renal function in critically ill patients with severe AKI. Design, setting, participants, & measurements The Acute Renal Failure Trial Network Study ( n =1124) was a multicenter trial that randomized critically ill patients requiring initiation of RRT to more intensive (hemodialysis or sustained low–efficiency dialysis six times per week or continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration at 35 ml/kg per hour) versus less intensive (hemodialysis or sustained low–efficiency dialysis three times per week or continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration at 20 ml/kg per hour) RRT. Mixed linear regression models were fit to estimate the association of RRT intensity with change in daily urine output in survivors through day 7 ( n =871); Cox regression models were fit to determine the association of RRT intensity with time to ≥50% decline in urine output in all patients through day 28. Results Mean age of participants was 60±15 years old, 72% were men, and 30% were diabetic. In unadjusted models, among patients who survived ≥7 days, mean urine output was, on average, 31.7 ml/d higher (95% confidence interval, 8.2 to 55.2 ml/d) for the less intensive group compared with the more intensive group ( P =0.01). More intensive RRT was associated with 29% greater unadjusted risk of decline in urine output of ≥50% (hazard ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.10 to 1.51). Conclusions More intensive versus less intensive RRT is associated with a greater reduction in urine output during the first 7 days of therapy and a greater risk of developing a decline in urine output of ≥50% in critically ill patients with severe AKI.
Use of Tablet Devices in the Management of Agitation Among Inpatients with Dementia: An Open-Label Study

Objective To investigate the feasibility, safety, and utility of tablet devices as novel nonpharmacologic tools in managing older psychiatric inpatients with agitation and dementia. Methods Thirty-six patients at a geriatric psychiatry inpatient unit were provided with tablets when agitated and used various apps on the tablet related to communication, games, music, web browser, and photography during their stay. Study staff documented the frequency, duration, and app usage history and rated the extent to which agitation improved after tablet use. Results All participants, regardless of dementia severity, were able to use apps and were rated by staff to have clinical benefit. Dementia severity was negatively associated with app complexity. Age was negatively associated with frequency and duration of tablet use. Conclusion Tablet use as a nonpharmacologic intervention for agitation in older adults, including those with severe dementia, appears to be feasible, safe, and of potential utility.
Hemodynamic Monitoring Techniques

Pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) is measured at the distal end of the Swan-Ganz catheter. A transient occlusion of blood flow is performed during inflation of the distal balloon in a large caliber pulmonary artery. Beyond the balloon, the pressure drops in the pulmonary artery to a pressure called the pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (PAOP) (Fig. 3.1). This pressure is the same throughout the pulmonary vascular segment in which the balloon is occluded. This segment behaves as an open downstream static column of blood in the pulmonary venous segment. In this regard, the PAOP is a reflection of the pulmonary venous pressure. Because the artery occluded by the balloon is rather large in size, the PAOP is the pressure of a pulmonary vein of the same caliber. Because the resistance of the pulmonary venous segment flowing into the left atrium is considered to be low, the PAOP is a good reflection of the pressure of the left atrium and, by extension, the diastolic pressure of the left ventricle, provided that there is no mitral stenosis. Notably, the PAOP does not match the pulmonary artery wedge pressure. The wedge pressure corresponds to the pressure in relation to the occlusion of a pulmonary vessel of a smaller caliber obtained without inflating the balloon. Thus, the wedge pressure reflects the pulmonary venous pressure in an area with a lower rating and is greater than the PAOP. Finally, the pulmonary capillary pressure cannot be directly measured. It can only be estimated in two ways, from the decay curve upon balloon inflation or from the Gaar equation, as follows: $$ \mathrm{Pulmonarycapillarypressure}=\mathrm{PAOP}+0.4\times \left({\mathrm{PAP}}_{\mathrm{mean}}-\mathrm{PAOP}\right) $$ Unfortunately, this formula is only relevant if the venous resistance is homogeneously distributed. Pulmonary capillary pressure is rarely used in clinical practice due to the difficulty of measurement, even though it reliably reflects the risk of pulmonary edema.
Molecular Genetics of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator: Genotype and Phenotype

The cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene encodes an epithelial ion channel. Although one mutation remains the most common cause of CF (F508del), there have been more than 2000 reported variations in CFTR. For the most part, individuals who carry only one mutation (heterozygotes) have no symptoms; individuals who inherit deleterious mutations from both parents have CF. However, growing awareness of CFTR mutations that do not ever or do not always cause CF, and individuals with mild or single-organ system manifestations of CFTR-related disease have made this Mendelian relationship more complex.
Estimating local average treatment effects in aggregate data

ABSTRACTIn some contexts, the effect of a treatment can be estimated with easily accessible aggregate rather than individual data, using difference-in-difference estimation. However, under imperfect assignment within groups, this produces intent-to-treat estimates, which may not be the treatment effect of interest. This article provides a method for estimating local average treatment effects using aggregate data. I also suggest a data source that allows the method to be applied when treatment rates are not recorded.
An unembalmed cadaveric preparation for simulating pleural effusion: A pilot study of chest percussion involving medical students.

Cadaveric simulations are an effective way to add clinical context to an anatomy course. In this study, unembalmed (fresh) cadavers were uniquely prepared to simulate pleural effusion to teach chest percussion and review thoracic anatomy. Thirty first-year medical students were assigned to either an intervention (Group A) or control group (Group B). Group A received hands-on training with the cadaveric simulations. They were instructed on how to palpate bony landmarks for identifying the diaphragm and lobes of the lungs, as well as on how to properly perform chest percussion to detect abnormal fluid in the pleural space. Students in Group B practiced on each other. Students in Group A benefited from the training in several ways. They had more confidence in their percussive technique (A = mean 4.3/5.0, B = 2.9/5.0), ability to count the ribs on an intact body (A = mean 4.0/5.0, B = 3.0/5.0), and ability to identify the lobes of the lungs on an intact body (A = mean 3.8/5.0, B = 2.3/5.0). They also demonstrated a greater ability to locate the diaphragm on an intact body (A = 100%, B = 60%) and detect abnormal pleural fluid (A = 93%, B = 53%) with greater confidence (A = mean 3.7/5.0, B = 2.5/5.0). Finally, the hands-on training with the unembalmed cadavers created more excitement around learning in Group A compared with Group B. This study shows that simulating pleural effusion in an unembalmed cadaver is a useful way to enhance anatomy education. Anat Sci Educ 10: 160-169. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.