cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Type II Isopentenyl Diphosphate Isomerase : Irreversible Inactivation by Covalent Modification of Flavin

Isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (IDI) catalyzes the interconversion of isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), the basic building blocks of isoprenoid molecules. Two structurally unrelated classes of IDI are known. Type I IPP isomerase (IDI-1) utilizes a divalent metal in a protonation−deprotonation reaction; whereas, the type II enzyme (IDI-2) requires reduced flavin. Epoxy, diene, and fluorinated substrate analogues, irreversible inhibitors of IDI-1, were analyzed as mechanistic probes for IDI-2. 3,4-Oxido-3-methyl-1-butyl diphosphate (eIPP), 3-methylene-4-penten-1-yl diphosphate (vIPP), and 3-(fluoromethyl)-3-buten-1-yl diphosphate (fmIPP) inactivate IDI-2 through formation of covalent adducts with the reduced flavin. UV−visible spectra of the inactivated complexes are consistent with modification of the isoalloxazine ring at position N5. vIPP and fmIPP are also alternate substrates with isomerization competing with alkylation of the flavin cofactor. (Z)-3-(Fluoromethyl)-...
Shared decision making and the use of a patient decision aid in advanced serious illness: provider and patient perspectives

Objective Patients with advanced serious illness face many complex decisions. Patient decision aids (PtDAs) can help with complex decision making but are underutilized. This study assessed barriers and facilitators to the use of a PtDA designed for serious illness. Methods Providers and patients were asked about their experiences in making decisions around serious illness and their opinions towards the PtDA. Seven focus groups were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed using a general qualitative inductive method. Results Domain 1 – clinical context within which the PtDA would be utilized including three themes: (1a) role: PtDA might compete with the physician's role; (1b) logistics: it was unclear when and how such a PtDA should be implemented; and (1c) meaning: what it will mean to the patient if the physician recommends viewing of this PtDA. Domain 2 – broader global context: (2a) death-denying culture; and (2b) physician concerns that the PtDA was biased towards palliative care. Conclusion Physicians’ concerns were rooted in deeper concerns about palliative care and a death-denying culture. Patients were more open to using the PtDA than physicians, suggesting ‘it's never too early’. Practice Implications PtDAs for serious illness can maximize early opportunities for goals of care conversations and shared decision making.
Teacher listening: The role of knowledge of content and students

Abstract In this research report we consider the kinds of knowledge needed by a mathematician as she implemented an inquiry-oriented abstract algebra curriculum. Specifically, we will explore instances in which the teacher was unable to make sense of students’ mathematical struggles in the moment. After describing each episode we will examine the instructor's efforts to listen to the students and the way that these efforts were supported or constrained by her mathematical knowledge for teaching. In particular, we will argue that in each case the instructor was ultimately constrained by her knowledge of how students were thinking about the mathematics.
Limiting life-prolonging interventions and providing palliative care towards the end-of-life in Indian intensive care units

Purpose: This position statement aims to minimize inappropriate treatment and optimize palliative care for terminally ill patients in Indian intensive care units by standardizing the process of forgoing life support. It also defines the ethical standards for the physician–patient relationship in the context of critical care practice in India. Evidence: Evidence was gathered through a review of recently published medical literature on the subject, as well as by evaluating the relevant statutes of Indian Law. Available empirical data from critical care practice in India were sparse. Newspaper articles reflecting lay opinion on related issues were also reviewed. The terms for search were: end-of-life care; withdrawal and withholding; intensive care; terminal care; medical futility; ethical issues; palliative care. Method: Proposals from the Chair were debated and recommendations were formulated through a consensus process. The process took into account the guiding ethical principles and clinical practices elsewhere in the world, and incorporated the socio-cultural and legal perspectives unique to this country.
Amine-quinone polyurethanes as binders for metal particle tape

Two new polyurethanes were prepared by condensation polymerization from the new diol monomer 2,5-bis(N-2-hydroxyethyl-N-methyl-amino AQM-1. One amine-quinone polyurethane, AQPU-4, was made from AQM-1, polycaprolactone diol and isophorone diisocyanate. The other, AQPU-8, was made from AQM-1, poly(1,2-butylene glycol), and tolylene-2,4-diisocyanate. Three different metal particle (MP) formulations were prepared and films cast onto polyester base film by hand draw-down: (i) a generic MP formulation containing a commercial polyvinylchloride wetting binder and commercial polyurethane binder, (ii) a formulation where the polyvinylchloride was replaced with AQPU-4, and (iii) a formulation where the polyvinylchloride was replaced with AQPU-8. A comparative corrosion study of the samples was conducted. >
A novel approach to flexible robotic assembly systems

This paper presents a novel approach to designing and manufacturing of a universal gripper to be used with industrial robots in flexible assembly systems. Important issues that impact greatly on the efficiency of the gripper are also discussed in this paper. Such issues include the degree of compliance allowed by the robotic wrist and the way these grippers are actuated. The gripper has been proven to be extremely flexible and low in cost.
Understanding mitochondrial genetic abnormalities in cancer etiology: a proteomics approach.

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or depletion of the mitochondrial genome have been linked to several human diseases including Diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and cancer.1 The mitochondrial genome encodes 13 subunits of the respiratory complexes, the mitochondrial rRNAs and some tRNAs.1 Surprisingly though, it is possible to generate viable cell lines completely lacking in mitochondrial DNA termed Rho-0 cells.2 Recently, several groups have taken advantage of this fact to analyze the proteome of these cells to better understand how alterations in the mitochondrial genome can contribute to disease.
Land Cover Classification in a Complex Urban-Rural Landscape with Quickbird Imagery.

High spatial resolution images have been increasingly used for urban land-use/land-cover classification, but the high spectral variation within the same land-cover, the spectral confusion among different land-covers, and the shadow problem often lead to poor classification performance based on the traditional per-pixel spectral-based classification methods. This paper explores approaches to improve urban land-cover classification with QuickBird imagery. Traditional per-pixel spectral-based supervised classification, incorporation of textural images and multispectral images, spectral-spatial classifier, and segmentation-based classification are examined in a relatively new developing urban landscape, Lucas do Rio Verde in Mato Grosso State, Brazil. This research shows that use of spatial information during the image classification procedure, either through the integrated use of textural and spectral images or through the use of segmentation-based classification method, can significantly improve land-cover classification performance.
Growth and physiology of deciduous shade trees in response to controlled-release fertilizer

a b s t r a c t Managing tree nutrition is a major consideration in container production to optimize growth while mini- mizing potential nutrient leaching. In this study, we examined growth and physiological responses of deciduous shade trees grown in a pot-in-pot container production system to controlled-release fer- tilizer (CRF). In May 2006, we potted twenty 2.5-3.0 cm caliper bare root liners of Acer × freemanii 'Jeffersred', Acer rubrum 'Franksred', Liriodendron tulipifera, Platanus × acerifolia 'Bloodgood', Quercus rubra, Ulmus japonica × wilsoniana 'Morton', and Ulmus 'Morton Glossy' in 95-L (25-gal) contain- ers. Treatments consisted of controlled-release fertilizer (15-9-12; N-P2O5-K2O, 8-9 month release) top-dressed at rates of 15, 30, 45, and 60 g N tree−1 for the 2006 growing season, and 19, 38, 56, and 75 g N tree −1 for the 2007 growing season. Tree height and caliper growth increased with each fertilizer increment in 2006. In 2007, maximum tree height and caliper growth occurred at 56 g N tree −1 . Total leaf area production increased in proportion to fertilizer addition, which supports the hypothesis that fertilizer increases growth by increasing total leaf area per tree. Photosynthetic response to fertilizer rate varied by species. In 2007, trees of most species had lowest photosyn- thetic rates at 56 or 75 g N tree −1 , possibly as a result of increased water stress associated with greater total leaf area. In 2007, chlorophyll content index was highly correlated with foliar N concentra- tion, which may be useful in detecting nutrient deficiencies, although the relationship was species dependent.
Erotica vs. pornography

Eroticism and pornography deal with the use of erotic stimuli to enhance sexual feelings and expression. However, the deeper nuances of these two areas tend to be significantly different. Eroticism is seen as an artful expression of sexuality; it is considered “vanilla,” nonviolent, and sensual. Pornography, on the other hand, seems to correlate sexuality with some form of aggression and/or imbalance of male–female power relationships. Keywords: art; artistic expression; erotica; intimacy; pornography; positive sexual feelings; vanilla
Opposed growth factor signals control protein degradation in muscles of Caenorhabditis elegans

In addition to contractile function, muscle provides a metabolic buffer by degrading protein in times of organismal need. Protein is also degraded during adaptive muscle remodeling upon exercise, but extreme degradation in diverse clinical conditions can compromise function(s) and threaten life. Here, we show how two independent signals interact to control protein degradation. In striated muscles of Caenorhabditis elegans, reduction of insulin-like signaling via DAF-2 insulin/IGF receptor or its intramuscular effector PtdIns-3-kinase (PI3K) causes unexpected activation of MAP kinase (MAPK), consequent activation of pre-existing systems for protein degradation, and progressive impairment of mobility. Degradation is prevented by mutations that increase signal downstream of PI3K or by disruption of autocrine signal from fibroblast growth factor (FGF) via the FGF receptor and its effectors in the Ras–MAPK pathway. Thus, the activity of constitutive protein degradation systems in normal muscle is minimized by a balance between directly interacting signaling pathways, implying that physiological, pathological, or therapeutic alteration of this balance may contribute to muscle remodeling or wasting.
Energy-Efficient Pipelined Bloom Filters for Network Intrusion Detection

Software-based detection techniques are commonly used to identify the predefined signatures in network streams. However, the software-based techniques can not keep up with the speeds that network bandwidth increases. Hence, hardware-based systems have started to emerge. Bloom filters are frequently used to identify malicious content like viruses in high speed networks. However, architectures proposed to implement Bloom filters are not power efficient. We propose a new Bloom filter architecture that exploits the well-known pipelining technique. Through extensive power analysis we show that pipelining can reduce the power consumption of Bloom filters up to 90 %, which leads to the energy-efficient implementation of network intrusion detection systems.
FIVE-DIMENSIONAL (CYBER) WARFIGHTING: CAN THE ARMY AFTER NEXT BE DEFEATED THROUGH COMPLEX CONCEPTS AND TECHNOLOGIES?

Abstract : The author offers a scenario which frontally assaults some of the premises he sees emerging from the Army After Next Project. He forecasts a scenario in which a future enemy concedes that the U.S. Army's superior technology, advanced weaponry, and proven record of success in recent military operations make it virtually invulnerable to conventional forms of symmetric attack. They therefore seek asymmetric ways to obviate those advantages. The author devises a five-dimensional, holistic approach to warfare that uses the three dimensions of land, sea, and aerospace but also incorporates the temporal and cyber dimensions of warfare. This approach to warfare exploits U.S. weaknesses while maximizing the enemy's limited areas of technological capability.
AXR1-ECR1 and AXL1-ECR1 heterodimeric RUB-activating enzymes diverge in function in Arabidopsis thaliana

RELATED TO UBIQUITIN (RUB) modification of CULLIN (CUL) subunits of the CUL-RING ubiquitin E3 ligase (CRL) superfamily regulates CRL ubiquitylation activity. RUB modification requires E1 and E2 enzymes that are analogous to, but distinct from, those activities required for UBIQUITIN (UBQ) attachment. Gene duplications are widespread in angiosperms, and in line with this observation, components of the RUB conjugation pathway are found in multiples in Arabidopsis. To further examine the extent of redundancy within the RUB pathway, we undertook biochemical and genetic characterizations of one such duplication event- the duplication of the genes encoding a subunit of the RUB E1 into AUXIN RESISTANT1 (AXR1) and AXR1-LIKE1 (AXL1). In vitro, the two proteins have similar abilities to function with E1 C-TERMINAL-RELATED1 (ECR1) in catalyzing RUB1 activation and RUB1-ECR1 thioester formation. Using mass spectrometry, endogenous AXR1 and AXL1 proteins were found in complex with 3HA-RUB1, suggesting that AXR1 and AXL1 exist in parallel RUB E1 complexes in Arabidopsis. In contrast, AXR1 and AXL1 differ in ability to correct phenotypic defects in axr1-30, a severe loss-of-function AXR1 mutant, when the respective coding sequences are expressed from the same promoter, suggesting differential in vivo functions. These results suggest that while both proteins function in the RUB pathway and are biochemically similar in RUB-ECR1 thioester formation, they are not functionally equivalent.
The Review of Economic Legislation

In June, the following amendments were introduced into the legislation: the procedure for carrying out due diligence of evaluation reports by self-regulating entities of appraisers was specified; the period of the aggregate record of hours worked by persons employed at hazardous and dangerous jobs has been extended; the nationwide per capita minimum subsistence level in Q1 2015 was set.
Evaluating acetaldehyde synthesis from L-[14C(U)] threonine by Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus

Abstract To evaluate the synthesis of acetaldehyde from threonine during growth of yogurt cultures, Streptococcus thermophilus MS1 and Lactobacillus bulgaricus MR1 were grown in defined medium in which 10% of the total threonine was composed of L-[carbon-14(U)] threonine. Acetaldehyde production was monitored by formation of 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone followed by separation and analysis using high performance liquid chromatography. After growth for 8h at 42°C, approximately 2.0% of the total acetaldehyde (780.4 nmol) produced was from L-[carbon-14]threonine. Threonine aldolase activity was determined in cell-free extracts from S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus grown in Elliker broth. Increasing incubation temperature from 30 to 42°C decreased threonine aldolase activity in cells of the streptococcus harvested after 8h of incubation. Effect of incubation temperature was more dramatic in cells harvested after 18h where the activity of cells grown at 42°C was 89% lower than that of cells grown at 30°C. Cell extracts from S. thermophilus MS1 possessed higher threonine aldolase activity than did those from L. bulgaricus MR1. Increased assay temperature from 30 to 42°C increased threonine aldolase activity in S. thermophilus MS1.
Recruiting Chinese Americans into cancer screening intervention trials: strategies and outcomes.

BackgroundCancer is the leading cause of death among Asian Americans. While Asian Americans are the fastest growing minority population in the United States, they are underrepresented in cancer research and report poor adherence to cancer screening guidelines.PurposeThis study utilized data from two large randomized intervention trials to evaluate strategies to recruit first-generation Chinese American immigrants from community settings and Chinese American physician practices. Findings will inform effective strategies for promoting Asian American participation in cancer control research.MethodsChinese Americans who were non-adherent to annual mammography screening guidelines (Study 1 with 664 immigrant women > 40 years of age) and to colorectal cancer screening guidelines (Study 2 with 455 immigrants > 50 years of age) were enrolled from the greater Washington DC, New York City (NYC), and Philadelphia (PA) areas. Both studies trained bilingual staff to enroll Chinese-speaking participants with the aid of...
Benefits and costs of improved IEQ in U.S. offices

This paper estimates some of the benefits and costs of implementing scenarios that improve indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in the stock of U.S. office buildings. The scenarios include increasing ventilation rates when they are below 10 or 15 L/s per person, adding outdoor-air economizers and controls when absent, eliminating winter indoor temperatures greater than 23 oC, and reducing dampness and mold problems. The estimated benefits of the scenarios analyzed are substantial in magnitude, including increased work performance, reduced sick building syndrome symptoms, reduced absence, and improved thermal comfort for millions of office workers. The combined potential annual economic benefit of a set ofnon-overlapping scenarios is approximately $20 billion. While the quantitative estimates have a high uncertainty, the opportunity for substantial benefits is clear. Some IEQ improvement measures will save energy while improving health or productivity, and implementing these measures should be the highest priority.
Upper limits on possible photochemical hazes on Pluto

The suggestion by Elliot et al., (1989) that a haze layer near the surface of Pluto may be photochemical in origin and similar to the aerosol hazes in the atmospheres of other outer solar system bodies is evaluated. The nature of hazes which may be produced in the Hubbard et al., (1989) atmosphere is explored as well. It is concluded that the very low pressure in Pluto's atmosphere requires an aerosol production rate equal to the total maximum methane photolysis rate expected at Pluto.
Evaluation of single nucleotide polymorphisms on 3 candidate genes in a population of forage-tested yearling bulls

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) on 3 candidate genes for growth and performance traits in bulls participating in a forage-based performance bull test. Single nucleotide polymorphisms on 3 candidate genes including calpastatin (CAST), growth hormone (GH1), and IGF-1 were used for association analysis. These SNP were genotyped on 47 purebred Angus, Braford, and Brahman bulls on a forage-based performance bull test. The measured traits included ADG, birth weight, d-0 test weight, 112-d weight, hip height, marbling, rib-eye area, and scrotal circumference. Single nucleotide polymorphism associations were reported as significant if P < 0.05 and were observed on the IGF-1 and CAST genes for growth and production traits. A total of 10 unique SNP (rs109022910, rs109199979, rs109327701, rs132665612, rs132951819, rs136875549, rs136939207, rs137140434, rs137601357, and rs137651874) located on both the IGF-1 and GH1 genes were associated (P < 0.05) with growth and performance traits. Furthermore, of the 12 unique SNP associated with growth and performance, 7 of the identified SNP (rs109022910, rs109199979, rs132951819, rs136875549, rs136939207, rs137601357, and rs137651874) were significantly associated with more than one growth or performance trait. However, the only gene with SNP significantly associated (P < 0.05) with carcass traits was the GH1 gene in which a single SNP (rs137651874) was associated with rib-eye area. Although multiple SNP were associated with evaluated traits, these SNP must be validated in larger and more diverse populations before implementation into selection strategies.
Shorting Effects of LiFePO 4 Cathode in Lithium Ion Batteries

Co3(PO4)2 or AlPO4 coating layers were formed on the surface of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 cathode material by in situ chemical method and calcination at 700°C to improve the electrochemical cyclability and structural stability during charge-discharge process of the cathode. The structure and electrochemical properties of the pristine LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 cathode materials and the metal phosphate coated-cathode materials were investigated by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, particle size analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge-discharge test. Co3(PO4)2-LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 and AlPO4- LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 cathode showed the improved reversibility compared with the pristine cathode material. It is attributed to the structural stability of metal phosphate coated LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2. In particular, Co3(PO4)2-LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 showed a more stable rate capability than the pristine LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 and AlPO4-LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 at high C-rate.
Diagnosis of Cyclic Vomiting

In a study at Children’s Hospital, Ann Arbor, MI, and Children’s Memorial Hospital, Chicago, designed primarily to compare cost-effectiveness of three methods of management of cyclic vomiting cases, one group of patients received an extensive diagnostic evaluation, a second was treated with empiric antimigraine drugs for 2 months, and a third an upper GI series with small-bowel follow-through (UGI-SBFT) plus empiric therapy.
Rapid Virtual Stenting for Intracranial Aneurysms

The rupture of Intracranial Aneurysms is the most severe form of stroke with high rates of mortality and disability. One of its primary treatments is to use stent or Flow Diverter to divert the blood flow away from the IA in a minimal invasive manner. To optimize such treatments, it is desirable to provide an automatic tool for virtual stenting before its actual implantation. In this paper, we propose a novel method, called ball-sweeping, for rapid virtual stenting. Our method sweeps a maximum inscribed sphere through the aneurysmal region of the vessel and directly generates a stent surface touching the vessel wall without needing to iteratively grow a deformable stent surface. Our resulting stent mesh has guaranteed smoothness and variable pore density to achieve an enhanced occlusion performance. Comparing to existing methods, our technique is computationally much more efficient.
“Chipping Away at the Issues”: Piecemeal Dispute Resolution and Territorial Conflict

Disputants might resolve their disagreements in a piecemeal fashion, addressing a subset of the issues at a time. How viable is such a strategy? I argue that partial settlements signal the desire t...
Simple liquid models with corrected dielectric constants.

Molecular simulations often use explicit-solvent models. Sometimes explicit-solvent models can give inaccurate values for basic liquid properties, such as the density, heat capacity, and permittivity, as well as inaccurate values for molecular transfer free energies. Such errors have motivated the development of more complex solvents, such as polarizable models. We describe an alternative here. We give new fixed-charge models of solvents for molecular simulations—water, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, and dichloromethane. Normally, such solvent models are parametrized to agree with experimental values of the neat liquid density and enthalpy of vaporization. Here, in addition to those properties, our parameters are chosen to give the correct dielectric constant. We find that these new parametrizations also happen to give better values for other properties, such as the self-diffusion coefficient. We believe that parametrizing fixed-charge solvent models to fit experimental dielectric constants may provide...
Maximizing accuracy and precision using individual and grouped exposure assessments.

Objectives Random errors in exposure data were explored to determine their effect on exposure-response relationships using individual, grouped, or combined (grouped and individual) exposure assessment methods. Methods Monte Carlo simulations were conducted by generating small "studies" of one hundred subjects divided into four exposure groups. Observed exposure data were generated for each individual using assumed inter- and intraindividual variances and a lognormal distribution. The data were used to calculate the following three estimates of exposure: an individual mean, a group mean, and a hybrid estimate using the James-Stein shrinkage estimator. The exposure estimates were regressed on generated (continuous) "health outcomes," and the regression results were stored and analyzed. Results Random errors in exposure data resulted in attenuation of the exposure-response relationship when the individual estimates were used, especially when the within-subject variability was high. The attenuation was substantially controlled by the group mean estimate, however, at a cost of decreased precision. The hybrid estimator simultaneously controlled both bias and imprecision in the observed exposure-response function. Conclusion While estimates of exposure based on individual means may result in attenuation of the exposure-response relationship, grouped estimates may control bias while decreasing precision. Combining individual and group estimates can simultaneously control both types of error. However, further research is required to determine how robust these findings are to different error structures, grouping strategies, exposure-response models, and exposure assessment methods.
National Interest, International Organization, and American Foreign Policy

American foreign policy has recently become a favorite target-area for attacks upon an alleged moralizing and legalistic habit which ignores or condemns national interest. The criticism runs the whole gamut of our relations with the world outside, focusing with final virulence upon our effort to find peace in the United Nations. It covers most of the nation's history, tracing the decline from “realism” to moralistic fantasy back to the moment when the genius of the Federalists began to be corrupted by Jeffersonian sentimentalism. The vast complex of today's foreign relations furnishes innumerable points of assault. A folly of self-righteousness has led us—so the indictment reads—into tragic error in China, in Korea, in the Near and Middle East, even (though here some of the accusers desert) in Europe. We give quixotically where we should sell; but our purse-strings are tied with moral scruples where we should be lavish. Shrinking from the open use of power, we enter into wasteful and entangling alliances where we should keep a free hand. Crusading in the name of democracy and disregarding the limits of our resources, we undertake to assist peoples anywhere to establish free governments in the face of intervention from Moscow. We take up arms for the utopian aims of an international organization set up in postwar zeal for a new era and maintained at our expense. A course in this literature of calamity leaves us wondering how the nation has survived. It sounds like the dirge for a fallen empire.
Assessment of Plasma Cytokine Profile Changes in Bevacizumab-Treated Retinopathy of Prematurity Infants.

Purpose We compared changes of plasma angiogenesis cytokine profiles in infants who were treated with intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) for type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with age-matched preterm non-ROP infants. Methods Thirteen infants with type 1 ROP and 13 age-matched preterm non-ROP infants were included. Blood samples were collected prior to treatment (time 0) and 6 weeks after the treatment (time 42). Plasma levels of nine cytokines from the angiogenesis growth factor panel and seven soluble cytokine receptors were measured using a magnetic multiplex assay. Results Plasma cytokine profiles changed from time 0 to time 42 in both groups. In bevacizumab-treated ROP infants, the following plasma angiogenesis growth factor and soluble cytokine receptor levels decreased significantly: soluble VEGF-A (sVEGF-A; P = 0.0001), sVEGF-D (P = 0.04), angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2; P = 0.002), sVEGF receptor 1 (R1) and R2 (P = 0.005), soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R; P = 0.002), soluble glycoprotein 130 (spg130; P = 0.0001), and soluble TNF receptor (sTNFR) I and II (P = 0.0001). The following factors and receptors increased significantly: sVEGF-C (P = 0.05), placental growth factor (PlGF; P = 0.02), endothelin-1 (ET-1; P = 0.0001), and FGF-1 (P = 0.02). At time 42, sVEGF-A, sgp130, sIL-6R, sTNFR I, and sTNFR II were lower, and ET-1 level was higher, in bevacizumab-treated ROP infants compared to age-matched non-ROP infants. Conclusions The results suggest that bevacizumab treatment resulted in significant angiogenic cytokine profile changes in infants with severe ROP. The long-term clinical impact of these changes should be studied carefully.
Direct Entry to 4,10-Didesmethyl (9S)-Dihydroerythronolide A via Catalytic Allene Osmylation

Desmethyl erythronolides have emerged as macrolide targets that may prove effective against resistant bacteria. A five-step sequence to 4,10-didesmethyl (9S)-dihydroerythronolide A (1) from known cyclic bis[allene] 13 is reported. Key structural and mechanistic aspects of the synthesis are discussed along with catalytic allene osmylation. An improved route to 13 is also described.
HEMODYNAMIC AND SYMPATHETIC EFFECTS OF SPINAL ADMINISTRATION OF NEUROPEPTIDE Y IN RATS

Intrathecal administration of 4 nmol/kg neuropeptide Y in Dial-urethane-anesthetized rats elicited decreases in arterial pressure, renal sympathetic nerve activity, and a slight decrease in heart rate. The depressor response was associated with a sustained hindquarters and mesenteric vasodilation resulting in a decrease in total peripheral resistance. Intrathecal NPY also resulted in a decrease in renal sympathetic nerve activity. There was a positive correlation between the percent changes in arterial pressure and renal sympathetic nerve activity. With the use of renal nerve activity and heart rate as indexes, NPY resulted in a decrease in baroreflex sensitivity. The depressor effect of intrathecal NPY did not appear to be due to spinal vasoconstriction and ischemia, since spinal microvascular resistance was decreased slightly. We conclude that the intrathecal administration of NPY produces an inhibition of sympathetic nerve activity, resulting in a decrease in total peripheral resistance and arterial pressure.
A Source of Power

Inconsistency is the salient element in Jefferson’s thought about commerce before his departure to Europe shortly after the close of the American Revolutionary War. This need not imply unclear thinking, but it does reflect the intellectual positions Jefferson experimented with in the various roles he assumed during his early public career. J. G. A. Pocock instructs the modern historian to ‘learn to read and recognize the diverse idioms of political discourse as they were available in the culture and at the time he is studying’.1 In this light Thomas Jefferson’s statements may be read as simply calling for different responses to different problems. The following historical examination of Jefferson’s early thought and the policies he advocated and pursued is an effort to explain these incongruities.
Urologic and Clinical Evaluation of the Male with Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complaint among men, with increasing prevalence of the condition as men age. Patients frequently present with one or multiple etiologies for ED, which can include psychogenic and organic causes. Following standard evaluation with a history and physical examination, paying particular attention to the genitourinary and cardiovascular system, a variety of diagnostic modalities, including penile Doppler ultrasonography, can inform treatment options and long-term prognosis.
Cancer Stem Cells as New Therapeutic Targets for Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer (OC) is highly responsive to chemotherapy but most patients eventually relapse and develop chemoresistance and die from their disease. Reoccurrence of ovarian tumors has been attributed to persistence of dormant cells with stem cell characteristics, which has been defined as cancer stem cells (CSCs). This chapter will summarize current knowledge on CSCs in OC, including their putative origin, characteristics, and methods of isolation and targeting strategies. CSCs display specific genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that fuel their survival, self-renewal, and tumor-initiating capacity. Therapies targeting the epigenome show potential for eradicating CSCs by inducing their differentiation. A continued need to identify strategies that block stem cell–specific vulnerabilities remains with the goal of completely eradicating CSCs and prevent disease relapse.
Left Ventricular Assist Device Thrombosis Is Associated With an Increase in the Systolic-to-Diastolic Velocity Ratio Measured at the Inflow and Outflow Cannulae

Objective To determine whether the ratio of peak systolic-to-nadir diastolic velocity (S/D ratio) measured using Doppler at the left ventricular assist device (LVAD) inflow and outflow cannulae is associated with pump thrombosis and to determine whether there is an absolute decrease in the diastolic cannula velocities in LVAD thrombosis. Design Retrospective chart review. Setting University hospital. Participants Patients who underwent LVAD exchange. Interventions None. Measurements and Main Results Transesophageal echocardiograms were reviewed from all patients with the HeartMate II device (Thoratec Corporation, Pleasanton, CA) over a 6-year period and who underwent LVAD exchange for pump thrombosis. The following 3 time points were evaluated: (1) initial LVAD placement (prethrombosis), (2) thrombosis, and (3) exchanged LVAD placement (postthrombosis). Systolic and diastolic flow velocities were examined using pulse-wave spectral Doppler at the inflow and outflow cannulae, and the S/D ratio for each was determined. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS, version 9.4 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC), using 2-tailed tests and alpha = 0.05. Thirteen patients were included in the study. Significant differences were observed in S/D ratios among the 3 phases at both the inflow (p = 0.0234) and outflow (p = 0.0047) cannulae. Pairwise tests of the inflow cannulae showed that the mean S/D ratio at the time of thrombosis (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 4.29 ± 1.74) was significantly greater than the prethrombosis ratio (2.49 ± 0.65; p = 0.0069). Among outflow measurements, the mean S/D ratio at thrombosis (3.94 ± 1.34) was significantly higher than both the prethrombosis (2.63 ± 0.56; p = 0.0025) and postthrombosis (2.74 ± 0.83) (p = 0.0093) ratios. Decreases in diastolic velocities were not statistically significant at the inflow cannula. At the outflow cannula, there was a significant difference in diastolic velocity among the phases (p = 0.0233). Specifically, the postthrombosis diastolic measurements (41.50 ± 9.94) were significantly higher than both the prethrombosis (26.85 ± 10.13; p = 0.0140) and thrombosis (26.7 ± 15.35; p = 0.0151) values. Conclusions An increased S/D ratio measured with Doppler at the LVAD inflow and outflow cannulas may be associated with pump thrombosis. Decreased diastolic cannula velocities were not observed in LVAD thrombosis.
Modeling ‘acoustic color’ of fish at ultrasonic frequencies

Acoustic color is a descriptor of the dual dependences of backscattering cross section or its logarithmic form, target strength, of an underwater object on sonar frequency and angle of incidence. Use of ‘color’ refers, in one sense, to the coding of backscattering cross section by color on a figure whose axes are frequency and angle. In a larger sense, ‘color’ refers to the frequency dependence of backscattering, in analogy with optics, recognizing that the spectral dependence can convey significantly more information about the scattering object than the angle dependence alone. Here, acoustic color is computed for 13 pollack (Pollachius pollachius) swimbladders for which high-resolution morphometric data are available. The represented total fish length range is 31.5–44.5 cm. Investigated frequencies span the range 35–125 kHz, and investigated angles for vertically downward ensonification span the range of tilt angles from 45 deg head down to 45 deg head up. Since high-frequency acoustic scattering by fish is dominated by the swimbladder when present, the backscattering cross section of the swimbladder is a very good approximation to that of the entire fish. The assumption of high frequencies also supports use of the Kirchhoff-approximation scattering model applied to the digital representation of the swimbladder wall as a pressure-release surface. Computational results are shown for a particular specimen, and for the entire set of specimens when averaged with respect to the backscattering cross section. Differences of individual dependences with respect to the mean are computed. Cross-correlation coefficients of the difference functions are then computed and further quantified in a covariance matrix.
The need for ‘skeptical’ accountants in the era of Big Data

Big Data is now readily available for analysis, and analysts trained to conduct effective analysis in this area are in high demand. However, there is a dearth of discussion in the literature related to identifying the important cognitive skills required for accountants to conduct effective Big Data analysis. Here we argue that accountants need to approach Big Data analysis as informed skeptics, being ever ready to challenge the analysis by asking good questions in appropriate topical areas. These areas include understanding the limits of measurement and representation, the subjectiveness of insight, the challenges of statistics and integrating data sets, and the effects of underdetermination and inductive reasoning. Accordingly, we develop a framework and an illustrative example to facilitate the training of accounting students to become informed skeptics in the era of Big Data by explaining the conceptual relevance of each of the topical areas to Big Data analysis. In addition, example questions are identified that accountants conducting Big Data analysis should be asking regarding each topic. Further, for each topic, references to additional resources are provided that students can access to learn more about effectively conducting Big Data analysis.
A Ki-67 proliferation index cutoff value of 1% to predict 5-year RFS and OS in patients with pulmonary carcinoid tumors.

11119 Background: Evaluation of prognostic factors in carcinoid tumors of the lung is limited due to the rarity of disease. This study assessed Ki-67 expression and other clinical variables as prog...
Plant–Plant Allelopathic Interactions. Phase I: The Laboratory

This chapter describes the underlying criteria and assumptions in the development and execution of bioassays utilizing model systems in the laboratory. It provides details and commentary regarding the materials and methods used. Describes and discusses the results and significance of the following: (a) effects and duration of effects for individual phenolic acids, mixtures of phenolic acids, and phenolic acids in combination with other organic and inorganic compounds on seedlings growing in nutrient and in soil cultures, (b) the interactions of phenolic acids with seedling roots, bulk-soil and rhizosphere microbes, and soil particles, (c) the relationships between phenolic acid-utilizing microbes, soil characteristics, and seedling inhibition, (d) the effects of phenolic acids on the various life stages of plants, (e) what happens to phenolic acid concentrations over time in nutrient culture and seedling-microbe-soil systems, and (f) the relevance of laboratory bioassays to field studies.
Using hierarchical agglomerative clustering to locate potential aspect interference

Systems created within the aspect-oriented paradigm (AOP) are difficult for programmers to understand fully. AOP suggests moving crosscutting concerns scattered throughout class code into an individual module, known as an aspect. The process of aspect weaving injects the crosscutting concern back into class code at specific locations, known as joinpoints. A side effect of the weaving process is aspect interference-when aspect code creates unexpected results at a joinpoint. Therefore, developing an understanding of locations that could either cause or exhibit aspect interference problems is essential to developing an interference-free AOP system. This study used the interference potential (IP) and interference causality potential (ICP) metrics, and derived a new metric called total interference potential (TIP), to classify areas of potential interference problems. In addition, the project performs a hierarchical agglomerative clustering using the three metrics. Experiments conducted on two AOP systems identified clusters within each program that could cause or exhibit aspect interference problems. Results showed the merit of using clustering analysis as a technique to locate portions of a system to review or alter to prevent interference problems.
More Two-Dimensional Problems

We will consider some two-dimensional steady-state boundary value problems from the areas of heat transfer problems (with and without convection), torsion, seepage, and fluid flows, and solve them by the finite element method.
Is the theory of planned behaviour an appropriate model for human fertility

The Theory of Reasoned Action (or Theory of Planned Behaviour, TPB), developed primarily by Fishbein and Ajzen, has been useful in hundreds of studies and for more than three decades. A quick examination of Google Scholar data on the author Ajzen (Harzing 2010) shows over 65,000 citations; three TPBrelated papers have over 10,000 citations and five more have over 1,000 citations each! The impact and usefulness of this general approach is unquestioned. The popularity of the approach does not appear to be fading. Fishbein and Ajzen’s recent book (2010) provides the most recent statement of the theory, documents its use in multiple contexts and responds to some critiques. Ajzen, a keynote speaker at the recent VID conference (From intentions to behaviour: reproductive decision-making in a macro-micro perspective), made the case for the general TPB approach, but he challenged demographers to alter it in ways that make it appropriate for fertility research. A number of fertility-related papers and research projects have adopted aspects of this approach and the VID conference adopted the TPB as a cornerstone of discussion. Thus, we ask the fundamental question: Is the theory of planned behaviour an appropriate model for human fertility? Before answering it, we first describe briefly the TPB, review some troubling evidence vis-a-vis TPB and fertility and then raise more general issues that we have attempted to resolve in our own work (Johnson-Hanks et al. 2011). The dominant theoretical models in demography have conceptualised fertility as a result of a rational decision-making process where the costs and benefits of actions are weighed. The TPB is in this class of models (along with Bandura’s 1977 Social Learning Theory and micro-economic models following Becker 1991). But in Vienna, Ajzen was careful to point out that the TPB did not assume
Multi-2D reconstruction of electromechanical activation maps of a beating heart

Arrhythmias can be treated by ablating the heart tissue in the regions of abnormal conduction, e.g. activating too early or with a different speed. The key of the treatment then lies in the location of these areas. In current clinical practice, 3-D electroanatomic maps can be created during the procedure by probing the heart with a specific catheter. However, it is a time-consuming and invasive procedure. Electromechanical wave imaging (EWI) is an ultrasound-based technique that can provide 2-D maps of the electromechanical activation of the heart. Yet, the activation follows a complex 3-D pattern. We thus propose an automated method to generate pseudo 3-D activation maps using several 2-D maps. These maps are subsequently analyzed qualitatively to locate the source of arrhythmia or quantitatively to evaluate the conduction speed in the myocardial tissue.
Homeowner associations and sharing economy innovations: Empowering taxpayers while fostering citizen participation

This paper examines organizations that deliver “club goods,” which demonstrate aspects of both private and public goods. One such organization is the homeowner association (HOA), which has been ter...
PFOA and PFOS Are Generated from Zwitterionic and Cationic Precursor Compounds During Water Disinfection with Chlorine or Ozone

Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) are anionic organic pollutants, which are widespread in the environment. They have become a global concern due to their persistence in the environment as well as their toxicity and bioaccumulative properties. In this study, we demonstrate that PFOA, PFOS, or both are produced from a group of four zwitterionic/cationic polyfluoroalkyl amide (FA) and sulfonamide (FS) compounds during conventional drinking-water disinfection with chlorine or ozone. FA compounds were readily degraded by chlorine and converted primarily to PFOA, likely by a Hofmann-type rearrangement. FS compounds were much less reactive toward chlorine; the generation of PFOS from the FSs was not significant. All four FA and FS compounds were degraded rapidly during ozonation, generating PFOA, PFOS, and a number of infrequently reported products for which chemical structures were either confirmed or tentatively proposed using high-resolution mass spectrometry. FSs generated both PF...
Point-of-Care Ultrasound Identifies Urinoma Complicating Simple Renal Colic: A Case Series and Literature Review.

Abstract Background Renal colic is a frequently encountered diagnosis among emergency department patients. Point-of-care (POC) ultrasound has taken on an increasingly important role in the diagnostic strategy of this disease, as it has been shown to be an effective modality for diagnosis and for guiding management. The primary pathology that the emergency physician will evaluate for in cases of suspected renal colic is hydronephrosis, which is a dilatation of the renal pelvis and calyces resulting from a distal obstruction such as a ureteral stone. However, other significant findings can be seen, one of which is the extravasation of urine around the kidney secondary to a forniceal, or calyceal, rupture. Case Series We present three cases of unanticipated perinephric fluid collections identified initially on POC ultrasound in cases of suspected simple renal colic. Concomitant hydronephrosis was also seen in each of these cases. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? While the utilization of POC ultrasound in cases of suspected renal colic increases, we should be prepared to encounter and identify perinephric fluid collections in our evaluations. Although the ideal management of these cases is not completely defined from the current literature, we benefit from knowing how to identify these on POC ultrasound, understanding the underlying pathophysiology, and appreciating the possibility of complications that may arise.
Curvature and Schur’s Lemma

The curvature 2-forms of the Chern connection are $$\boxed{\Omega _j^i: = dw_j^i - w_j^k \wedge w_k^i}$$ (3.1.1) .