cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Major Depression: Abnormally Increased Contributions from Subgenual Cingulate Cortex and Thalamus

Background Positron emission tomography (PET) studies of major depression have revealed resting-state abnormalities in the prefrontal and cingulate cortices. Recently, fMRI has been adapted to examine connectivity within a specific resting-state neural network—the default-mode network—that includes medial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortices. The goal of this study was to examine resting-state, default-mode network functional connectivity in subjects with major depression and in healthy controls. Methods Twenty-eight subjects with major depression and 20 healthy controls underwent 5-min fMRI scans while resting quietly. Independent component analysis was used to isolate the default-mode network in each subject. Group maps of the default-mode network were compared. A within-group analysis was performed in the depressed group to explore effects of depression refractoriness on functional connectivity. Results Resting-state subgenual cingulate and thalamic functional connectivity with the default-mode network were significantly greater in the depressed subjects. Within the depressed group, the length of the current depressive episode correlated positively with functional connectivity in the subgenual cingulate. Conclusions This is the first study to explore default-mode functional connectivity in major depression. The findings provide cross-modality confirmation of PET studies demonstrating increased thalamic and subgenual cingulate activity in major depression. Further, the within-subject connectivity analysis employed here brings these previously isolated regions of hypermetabolism into the context of a disordered neural network. The correlation between refractoriness and subgenual cingulate functional connectivity within the network suggests that a quantitative, resting-state fMRI measure could be used to guide therapy in individual subjects.
Identification of Genomic Features in Environmentally Induced Epigenetic Transgenerational Inherited Sperm Epimutations

A variety of environmental toxicants have been shown to induce the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease and phenotypic variation. The process involves exposure of a gestating female and the developing fetus to environmental factors that promote permanent alterations in the epigenetic programming of the germline. The molecular aspects of the phenomenon involve epigenetic modifications (epimutations) in the germline (e.g. sperm) that are transmitted to subsequent generations. The current study integrates previously described experimental epigenomic transgenerational data and web-based bioinformatic analyses to identify genomic features associated with these transgenerationally transmitted epimutations. A previously identified genomic feature associated with these epimutations is a low CpG density (<12/100bp). The current observations suggest the transgenerational differential DNA methylation regions (DMR) in sperm contain unique consensus DNA sequence motifs, zinc finger motifs and G-quadruplex sequences. Interaction of molecular factors with these sequences could alter chromatin structure and accessibility of proteins with DNA methyltransferases to alter de novo DNA methylation patterns. G-quadruplex regions can promote the opening of the chromatin that may influence the action of DNA methyltransferases, or factors interacting with them, for the establishment of epigenetic marks. Zinc finger binding factors can also promote this chromatin remodeling and influence the expression of non-coding RNA. The current study identified genomic features associated with sperm epimutations that may explain in part how these sites become susceptible for transgenerational programming.
Technological Advances in Soybean Yields: A Disaggregated Approach

Increasing row crop productivity—as measured by yields per acre—is an important topic from a number of perspectives. On a global scale, increased output per unit of land is needed to meet growing world food demand. On a regional scale, investments in yield-enhancing basic research need to result in improved yields for producers. In this research we set forth to quantify the impact of technology, precipitation, and temperature on soybean yields. Specifically, a disaggregated approach is used to model Illinois soybean yields across the nine state crop reporting districts. The results show that weather impacts are similar across the crop reporting districts; however, technology benefits accrue at statistically different rates across regions. The results provide no evidence that soybean yields in Illinois are plateauing [JEL Classifications: Q130, Q160, Q190].
Congestion-driven codesign of power and signal networks

We present a global wire design methodology that simultaneously considers the performance needs for both signal lines and power grids under congestion considerations. An iterative procedure is employed in which the global routing is performed according to a congestion map that includes the resource utilization of the power grid, followed by a step in which the power grid is adjusted to relax the congestion in crowded regions. This adjustment is in the form of wire removal in noncritical regions, followed by a wire sizing step that overcomes the effects of wire removal. Experimental results show that the overall routability can be significantly improved while the power grid noise is maintained within the voltage droop constraint.
Is Confidence of Mammographic Assessment a Good Predictor of Accuracy

OBJECTIVE. Interpretive accuracy varies among radiologists, especially in mammography. This study examines the relationship between radiologists’ confidence in their assessments and their accuracy in interpreting mammograms. MATERIALS AND METHODS. In this study, 119 community radiologists interpreted 109 expert-defined screening mammography examinations in test sets and rated their confidence in their assessment for each case. They also provided a global assessment of their ability to interpret mammograms. Positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were modeled as functions of self-rated confidence on each examination using log-linear regression estimated with generalized estimating equations. Reference measures were cancer status and expert-defined need for recall. Effect modification by weekly mammography volume was examined. RESULTS. Radiologists who self-reported higher global interpretive ability tended to interpret more mammograms per week (p = 0.08), were more likely to spe...
Reconfigurable Lens-Array with Monolithically Integrated MEMS Switches

This paper presents a Ka-band monolithic MEMS-enabled lens-array. Two-bit antenna-filter-antenna (AFA) elements with programmable 3-pole/4-pole frequency response are used to synthesize a reconfigurable phase-transforming aperture. A fully integrated device comprising 484 AFA elements and 2420 switches is fabricated on a stack of two 4"quartz wafers with the SU-8 adhesive bonding. The array is biased to various modes by applying 0 or 100 V to 264 bias lines. AFA elements have an average insertion loss of 4.3-9.4 dB and phase error of less than 17deg at 34.8 GHz. Pattern measurements at 34.8 GHz show a scan width of 60deg in the E-plane and H-plane. E-plane pattern is presented.
Delayed and carryover effects of salinity on flowering in Iris hexagona (Iridaceae)

Saltwater intrusion into wetland ecosystems has destroyed or damaged many native plant populations. Iris hexagona is a saltsensitive species that exhibits intraspecific variation in salinity tolerance. To investigate the effect of salinity on flowering, we exposed I. hexagona collected from natural populations to salt treatments in a common garden. Experimental salinity additions strongly delayed flowering phenology, but the effect was not apparent until the second year, when less than 4 g/L NaCl delayed flowering up to 3 d. In the field, soil salinity and flowering phenology varied substantially within I. hexagona populations. Iris flowers are receptive to pollinators for 2 d or less, therefore a 3-d delay could affect outcrossing dynamics, and ultimately, the evolutionary ecology of iris populations. Salinity also had a carryover effect; prior salinity exposure delayed flowering in irises that had been replanted in freshwater conditions for 6 mo. This is an important result because it suggests that episodic stress (such as tropical storms) can influence performance well after the stress has disappeared. Our research further underscores the importance of long-term studies because a 1yr experiment would have failed to reveal the strong effects of salinity that emerged in the second year.
Ordering Prenominal Modifiers with a Reranking Approach

In this work, we present a novel approach to the generation task of ordering prenominal modifiers. We take a maximum entropy reranking approach to the problem which admits arbitrary features on a permutation of modifiers, exploiting hundreds of thousands of features in total. We compare our error rates to the state-of-the-art and to a strong Google n-gram count baseline. We attain a maximum error reduction of 69.8% and average error reduction across all test sets of 59.1% compared to the state-of-the-art and a maximum error reduction of 68.4% and average error reduction across all test sets of 41.8% compared to our Google n-gram count baseline.
A co-culture device with a tunable stiffness to understand combinatorial cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions

Cell behavior on 2-D in vitro cultures is continually being improved to better mimic in vivo physiological conditions by combining niche cues including multiple cell types and substrate stiffness, which are well known to impact cell phenotype. However, no system exists in which a user can systematically examine cell behavior on a substrate with a specific stiffness (elastic modulus) in culture with a different cell type, while maintaining distinct cell populations. We demonstrate the modification of a silicon reconfigurable co-culture system with a covalently linked hydrogel of user-defined stiffness. This device allows the user to control whether two separate cell populations are in contact with each other or only experience paracrine interactions on substrates of controllable stiffness. To illustrate the utility of this device, we examined the role of substrate stiffness combined with myoblast co-culture on adipose derived stem cell (ASC) differentiation and found that the presence of myoblasts and a 10 kPa substrate stiffness increased ASC myogenesis versus co-culture on stiff substrates. As this example highlights, this technology better controls the in vitro microenvironment, allowing the user to develop a more thorough understanding of the combined effects of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
Hydrogen Peroxide Formation and Decay in Iron‐rich Geothermal Waters: The Relative Roles of Abiotic and Biotic Mechanisms

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is widely distributed in surface waters where the primary photochemical formation pathway involves the interaction between dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and ultraviolet radiation (UVR). In laboratory studies using iron-rich water from Yellow-stone's Chocolate Pots spring, H2O2 formation depended on sample treatment (unfiltered, < 0.2 micron filtered, autoclaved) prior to irradiation, suggesting several formation pathways. Similar H2O2 formation in filtered and unfiltered water indicates that it is primarily soluble material that is responsible for H2O2 formation. H2O2 formation with soluble material probably includes only photochemical reactions with DOC and/or metals. Greater H2O2 formation in unfiltered and filtered water than in autoclaved water suggests that the agent(s) involved in H2O2 formation is (are) not stable at high temperatures and pressures and degrade to nonphotoreactive species. Such unstable agents may include DOC and/or dissolved complexes of iron or other metals. UVR absorbance occurs across the UV spectrum and, though slightly greater in the UVA range (320-400 nm), is similar to that of other surface waters. Increased UVR absorbance after autoclaving suggested degradation or alteration of some components, which in turn affected H2O2 formation. The spectral region used for irradiation affected net formation and yield. H2O2 formation in water irradiated with UVA radiation was 2.5-3 times that formed in water irradiated with UVB radiation (280-320 nm) in experiments using artificial light sources. Apparent quantum yields comparable to those reported by others could not be calculated because the instrumental designs are not the same. However, approximate quantum yields were calculated for these experiments but should be viewed with caution. Quantum yields were higher in these experiments (0.0040 mol H2O2 per mol photon at 310 nm and 0.0012 mol H2O2 per mol photon at 350 nm) than values reported by other researchers (< 0.0007 mol H2O2 per mol photon at 300 nm and < 0.0005 H2O2 per mol photon at 340 nm; [Scully, N. M., D. R. S. Lean, D. J. McQueen and W. J. Cooper (1996) Limnol. Oceanogr. 41, 540-548]). In natural solar source experiments, H2O2 formation was greater in experiments with UVA and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR; 400-700 nm) than with PAR alone or with UVB, UVA and PAR. However, H2O2 capacity (nM H2O2 W-1 h-1 m2) was greatest with UVB radiation and lowest with PAR radiation. Source regions could not be studied separately. Dark decay of H2O2 occurred via two mechanisms. The main mechanism responsible for H2O2 decay involved particulate matter (probably microorganisms), whereas a secondary mechanism involved soluble matter (i.e. DOC, metal ions and other dissolved species involved in Fenton reactions).
Balance Differences in People with Parkinson Disease with and without Freezing of Gait

Abstract Background Freezing of gait (FOG) is a relatively common and remarkably disabling impairment associated with Parkinson disease (PD). Laboratory-based measures indicate that individuals with FOG (PD + FOG) have greater balance deficits than those without FOG (PD − FOG). Whether such differences also can be detected using clinical balance tests has not been investigated. We sought to determine if balance and specific aspects of balance, measured using Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), differs between PD + FOG and PD − FOG. Furthermore, we aimed to determine if time-efficient clinical balance measures (i.e. Mini-BESTest, Berg Balance Scale (BBS)) could detect balance differences between PD + FOG and PD − FOG. Methods Balance of 78 individuals with PD, grouped as either PD + FOG ( n = 32) or PD − FOG ( n = 46), was measured using the BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and BBS. Between-groups comparisons were conducted for these measures and for the six sections of the BESTest using analysis of covariance. A PD composite score was used as a covariate. Results Controlling for motor sign severity, PD duration, and age, PD + FOG had worse balance than PD − FOG when measured using the BESTest ( p = 0.008, F = 7.35) and Mini-BESTest ( p = 0.002, F = 10.37), but not the BBS ( p = 0.27, F = 1.26). BESTest section differences were noted between PD + FOG and PD − FOG for reactive postural responses ( p F = 14.42) and stability in gait ( p = 0.003, F = 9.18). Conclusions The BESTest and Mini-BESTest, which specifically assessed reactive postural responses and stability in gait, were more likely than the BBS to detect differences in balance between PD + FOG and PD − FOG. Because it is more time efficient to administer, the Mini-BESTest may be the preferred tool for assessing balance deficits associated with FOG.
First test of orbit response matrix in proton storage ring

The orbit response matrix method is applied to experimentally determine the Cooler Ring optics at the Indiana University Cyclotron Facility (IUCF). We have carried out two experiments in Oct. And Nov. 1996 to measure the orbit response of the IUCF Cooler Ring. An analysis software was adopted from the NSLS, BNL. In our analysis, strength error in quadrupoles and steering dipoles, and amplifier gain in BPMs are included as fitting parameters. However, effects of the linear and non-linear coupling are excluded in our preliminary analysis. Since the resolution of our BPM system is of the order of 10 /spl mu/m, we will address the effect of BPM resolution on the applicability of the orbit response matrix method in proton storage rings.
Amorphous Zn2GeO4 nanoparticles as anodes with high reversible capacity and long cycling life for Li-ion batteries

Amorphous and crystalline Zn2GeO4 nanoparticles were prepared and characterized as anode materials for Li-ion batteries. A higher reversible specific capacity of 1250 mAh/g after 500 cycles and excellent rate capability were obtained for amorphous Zn2GeO4 nanoparticles, compared to that of crystalline Zn2GeO4 nanoparticles. Small particle size, amorphous phase and incorporation of zinc and oxygen contribute synergetically to the improved performance by effectively mitigating the huge volume variations during lithiation and delithiation process.
Contemporary Mormonism : social science perspectives

"Contemporary Mormonism" is the first collection of sociological essays to focus exclusively on Mormons. Featuring the work of the major scholars conducting social science research on Mormons today, this volume offers refreshing new perspectives not only on Mormonism but also on the nature of successful religious movements, secularization and assimilation, church growth, patriarchy and gender roles, and other topics. This first paperback edition includes a new introduction assessing the current state of Mormon scholarship and the effect of the globalization of the LDS Church on scholarly research about Mormonism.
CONTINUING IMPORTANCE OF NITRATE CONTAMINATION OF GROUNDWATER AND WELLS IN RURAL AREAS

The contamination of groundwater and rural drinking water supplies by nitrates from livestock and human excrement, other organic waste, or chemical fertilizers is a potential hazard throughout the world. Infant illness and death from nitrate-induced methemoglobinemia is probably often misdiagnosed, perhaps as sudden infant death syndrome, and certainly contributes to the national infant death rate statistics. A 1950 report listed 144 cases of infant methemoglobinemia with 14 deaths in one 30-month period in Minnesota. Infant deaths resulting from misdiagnosis of this preventable, treatable intoxication were still occurring as recently as 1986 in South Dakota. In this state, about 39% of dug or bored wells were unsafe due to high nitrate content, compared with 22% of drilled wells and 16% of driven wells. Properly constructed wells more than 30 m deep are more likely to be safe. Groundwater concentrations of nitrate may be unsafe for consumption, and standards are needed to regulate such contamination. Such standards could serve as guidelines and could be enforceable in the case of water systems dependent on wells.
Elastic PMLs for resonator anchor loss simulation

Electromechanical resonators and filters, such as quartz, ceramic, and surface-acoustic wave devices, are important signal-processing elements in communication systems. Over the past decade, there has been substantial progress in developing new types of miniaturized electromechanical resonators using microfabrication processes. For these micro-resonators to be viable they must have high and predictable quality factors (Q). Depending on scale and geometry, the energy losses that lower Q may come from material damping, thermoelastic damping, air damping, or radiation of elastic waves from an anchor. Of these factors, anchor losses are the least understood because such losses are due to a complex radiation phenomena in a semi-infinite elastic half-space. Here, we describe how anchor losses can be accurately computed using an absorbing boundary based on a perfectly matched layer (PML) which absorbs incoming waves over a wide frequency range for any non-zero angle of incidence. We exploit the interpretation of the PML as a complex-valued change of co-ordinates to illustrate how one can come to a simpler finite element implementation than was given in its original presentations. We also examine the convergence and accuracy of the method, and give guidelines for how to choose the parameters effectively. As an example application, we compute the anchor loss in a micro disk resonator and compare it to experimental data. Our analysis illustrates a surprising mode-mixing phenomenon which can substantially affect the quality of resonance.
Miniature superconductive coaxial transmission lines

This is a review paper concisely tracing the development of miniature superconductive coaxial transmission lines from the original invention as a vertical channel signal delay line for fractional nanosecond pulse oscillography to present-day work towards highly compact, broad-band, and low-loss telecommunication cables. The present state of development yields a 1.6-mm coaxial line operating at 4.2K and having Pb conductors, polyethylene dielectric, Z 0 = 50 ± 0.3 Ω and a 1-GHz attenuation of the order of 1 dB/km. The attenuation up to 1 GHz is mainly due to dielectric losses.
a Direct Numerical Simulation of Channel Flow Transition Under AN External Body Force

SUMMARY This research seeks to increase our understanding on the laminar-turbulent transition under an external body force. Direct numerical simulation by the spectral method with a weak formulation is used to solve the transient 3-D Navier-Stokes equations. Initial disturbances consist of the finite-amplitude 2-D Tollmien-Schlichting wave and two 3-D oblique waves. Competitions among different modes were computed during transition for different Richardson numbers. It is found that the body force can modify the transition mechanism of flows between two vertical plates. The body force was found to hasten the formation of three-dimensional flow. A non-laminar flow induced by the body force may present when the background flow is still laminar.
On New York’s Assessment Policy: A Perspective from the Field

Starting in the early 1990’s, New York State began to establish learning standards that defined what students at various grade levels should know and be able to do in most curricular areas and a series of state assessments designed to measure student progress towards the performances demanded by the standards. Experience with these assessments has provided for practitioners (that is, teachers, administrators, and other professional-level public school workers) the basis and motivation for a critical field perspective on state assessment policy. By a critical field perspective, I mean a perspective taken by practitioners (as opposed to specialists in testing) that is grounded in analysis that is committed as much to equity as it is to excellence in public education. The purpose of this article is to outline such a position on the state assessments. I begin by describing the assessments as they are commonly experienced by practitioners, identifying the political context in which our state assessment policy has developed, and questioning the fundamental nature of the policy itself. I then suggest actions for practitioners to take to challenge problematic aspects of the state policy and to promote policy that enhances both equity and excellence.
Mechanisms of Biological Interaction with Electric and Magnetic Fields

There are many biological responses in the power frequency range at field strengths slightly above normal background. Studies of biosynthetic changes in cells and of changes in enzyme activity in electric and magnetic fields have provided insights into biological mechanisms.
Solar flare gamma-ray line shapes

A computer code has been developed which is used to calculate ab initio the laboratory shapes and energy shifts of gamma-ray lines from (C-12)(p, gamma/4.438/)p-prime(C-12) and (O-16)(p, gamma/6.129/)p-prime(O-16) reactions and to calculate the expected shapes of these lines from solar flares. The sensitivity of observable solar flare gamma-ray line shapes to the directionality of the incident particles is investigated for several projectile angular distributions. Shapes of the carbon and oxygen lines are calculated assuming realistic proton energy spectra for particles in circular orbits at the mirror points of magnetic loops, for particle beams directed downward into the photosphere, and for isotropic particle distributions. Line shapes for flare sites near the center of the sun and on the limb are shown for both thin-target and thick-target interaction models. 19 refs.
Spectroscopic Ellipsometry Studies of n-i-p Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon Based Photovoltaic Devices

Optimization of thin film photovoltaics (PV) relies on characterizing the optoelectronic and structural properties of each layer and correlating these properties with device performance. Growth evolution diagrams have been used to guide production of materials with good optoelectronic properties in the full hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) PV device configuration. The nucleation and evolution of crystallites forming from the amorphous phase were studied using in situ near-infrared to ultraviolet spectroscopic ellipsometry during growth of films prepared as a function of hydrogen to reactive gas flow ratio R = [H2]/[SiH4]. In conjunction with higher photon energy measurements, the presence and relative absorption strength of silicon-hydrogen infrared modes were measured by infrared extended ellipsometry measurements to gain insight into chemical bonding. Structural and optical models have been developed for the back reflector (BR) structure consisting of sputtered undoped zinc oxide (ZnO) on top of silver (Ag) coated glass substrates. Characterization of the free-carrier absorption properties in Ag and the ZnO + Ag interface as well as phonon modes in ZnO were also studied by spectroscopic ellipsometry. Measurements ranging from 0.04 to 5 eV were used to extract layer thicknesses, composition, and optical response in the form of complex dielectric function spectra (e = e1 + ie2) for Ag, ZnO, the ZnO + Ag interface, and undoped a-Si:H layer in a substrate n-i-p a-Si:H based PV device structure.
Toward A Scalable, Patient-Centered Community Health Worker Model: Adapting the IMPaCT Intervention for Use in the Outpatient Setting

Abstract Community health worker (CHW) programs are an increasingly popular strategy for patient-centered care. Many health care organizations are building CHW programs through trial and error, rather than implementing or adapting evidence-based interventions. This study used a qualitative design-mapping process to adapt an evidence-based CHW intervention, originally developed and tested in the hospital setting, for use among outpatients with multiple chronic conditions. The study involved qualitative in-depth, semi-structured interviews with chronically ill, uninsured, or Medicaid outpatients from low-income zip codes (n = 21) and their primary care practice staff (n = 30). Three key themes informed adaptation of the original intervention for outpatients with multiple conditions. First, outpatients were overwhelmed by their multiple conditions and wished they could focus on 1 at a time. Thus, the first major revision was to design a low-literacy decision aid that patients and providers could use to selec...
Calculated properties of μ-mesonic atoms

Abstract Results of calculations of μ-mesonic energy levels and some auxiliary quantities derived from the bound muon wave functions are presented. The results are exact insofar as the nucleus may be regarded as a static spherically symmetric charge distribution. Dynamical corrections are omitted.
A young woman with enlarged lymph nodes.

A previously healthy 25-year-old woman presents with a “lump in the neck.” How should she be assessed?
Abstract 364: Pathological Effects of Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) on Pressure Overload-induced Heart Failure

Rationale: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a metabolite formed in the metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine, is elevated in the circulation of patients at increased risk for heart attack and adverse prognosis during heart failure. Objective: We investigated the effects of dietary choline and TMAO on the severity of heart failure following transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Methods and Results: Male C57Blk/6J mice were fed either control diet, a diet containing choline (1.2%) or a diet containing TMAO (0.12%) at 3 weeks prior to surgical TAC and were studied for 12 weeks. Left ventricular (LV) structure and function were monitored at 3 week intervals and myocardial tissue was collected at 12 weeks. Plasma TMAO levels were significantly (p < 0.01) increased in the choline (28.64 ± 2.30 μM) and TMAO (28.18 ± 4.27 μM) compared to the control group (1.87 ± 0.26 μM). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly (p < 0.05) worse in mice fed TMAO compared to control diet. LV end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the TMAO group compared to control diet. Myocardial fibrosis as measured with Picrosirius Red staining was also significantly greater (p < 0.01) in the TMAO and choline groups. Circulating BNP levels were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the TMAO and choline groups. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that heart failure severity is significantly enhanced in mice fed diets containing either TMAO or choline. Our results suggest that consumption of food high in dietary nutrients that increase TMAO levels such as phosphatidylcholine may increase heart failure severity. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring: is it cost-effective?

The detection and treatment of hypertension can prevent cerebrovascular disease and, to some extent, coronary heart disease. For mild hypertension this process is not efficient because many patients must be treated with antihypertensive medication to benefit only a few. The costs of identification, diagnosis and drug treatment of mild hypertension are significant. These costs have increased recently, in part due to changing patterns of drug selection favoring newer agents. Primary and secondary screening for hypertension has relied on casual blood pressure measurement which has high sensitivity, but low specificity, i.e. many false-positives can be expected. Incorporation of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring into secondary screening has potential for greater specificity by excluding from treatment 20-40% of those initially identified as having mild hypertension. Computer analysis of simulated populations selected for treatment by either casual blood pressure or by use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring with echocardiography (for borderline cases) demonstrates no difference in calculated life expectancy for the two groups. However, the former strategy selected 23% of the subjects for treatment, while the latter selected 6%. These results imply that appropriate use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in secondary screening of mild hypertension may have a significant impact on cost-effectiveness.
Architectures for intrusion tolerant database systems

In this paper we propose four architectures for intrusion-tolerant database systems. While traditional secure database systems rely on prevention controls, an intrusion-tolerant database system can operate through attacks in such a way that the system can continue delivering essential services in the face of attacks. With a focus on attacks by malicious transactions, Architecture I can detect intrusions, and locate and repair the damage caused by the intrusions. Architecture II enhances Architecture I with the ability to isolate attacks so that the database can be immunized from the damage caused by a lot of attacks. Architecture III enhances Architecture I with the ability to dynamically contain the damage in such a way that no damage will leak out during the attack recovery process. Architecture IV enhances Architectures II and III with the ability to adapt the intrusion-tolerance controls to the changing environment so that a stabilized level of trustworthiness can be maintained. Architecture IV enhances Architecture IV with the ability to deliver differential, quantitative QoIA services to customers who have subscribed for these services even in the face of attacks.
Prodigious plant methylomes.

Schmitz and colleagues recently investigated DNA methylation patterns in diverse flowering plant species, finding substantial variation in the extent and distribution of methylation in angiosperms. Please see related Research article: http://www.doi.org/10.1186/s13059-016-1059-0
Using i2b2 to bootstrap rural health analytics and learning networks

We demonstrate that the open-source i2b2 (Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside) data model can be used to bootstrap rural health analytics and learning networks. These networks promote communication and research initiatives by providing the infrastructure necessary for sharing data and insights across a group of healthcare and research partners. Data integration remains a crucial challenge in connecting rural healthcare sites with a common data sharing and learning network due to the lack of interoperability and standards within electronic health records. The i2b2 data model acts as a point of convergence for disparate data from multiple healthcare sites. A consistent and natural data model for healthcare data is essential for overcoming integration issues, but challenges such as those caused by weak data standardization must still be addressed. We describe our experience in the context of building the West Virginia/Kentucky Health Analytics and Learning Network, a collaborative, multi-state effort connecting rural healthcare sites.
The role of electronic processes in the electrical breakdown of liquids

In recent years1–8 considerable attention has been focused on the development of prebreakdown disturbances in liquids. These disturbances (streamers) seem to be the manifestation of a highly conducting state since rapid breakdown occurs when they bridge the gap. From measurements of the effect of small concentrations of specific additives on the velocity of propagation of the streamers we have concluded that electronic processes are of importance in their growth.8 In this paper we shall present further data and shall discuss the mechanisms involved.
Progression of tau pathology within cholinergic nucleus basalis neurons in chronic traumatic encephalopathy: A chronic effects of neurotrauma consortium study.

AbstractObjective: To test the hypothesis that the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM), a cholinergic basal forebrain (CBF) cortical projection system, develops neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) during the progressive pathological stages of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in the brain of athletes.Method: To characterize NFT pathology, tau-antibodies marking early, intermediate and late stages of NFT development in CBF tissue obtained at autopsy from eighteen former athletes and veterans with a history of repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) were used.Results: Analysis revealed that cholinergic nbM neurons develop intracellular tau-immunoreactive changes progressively across the pathological stages of CTE. In particular, there was an increase in pre-tangle (phosphorylated pS422) and oligomeric (TOC1 and TNT1) forms of tau in stage IV compared to stage II CTE cases. The nbM neurons also displayed pathologic TDP-43 inclusions and diffuse extracellular and vascular amyloid-β (Aβ) deposits in CTE. A h...
FAK expression as a prognostic marker in colorectal cancer: A single institution study of 298 patients.

623Background: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is an attractive therapeutic target in solid cancers, but there is no method for patient selection based on FAK expression nor biomarker for therapeutic response. Previous FAK expression studies were not standardized and showed varying correlations. This single-institution study aims to define FAK expression patterns in colorectal cancer (CRC) and correlate with patient outcomes and expression in other solid cancers. Methods: We analyzed 635 samples from 298 patients (pt) with CRC using tissue microarrays (TMAs) stained for FAK and scored 0-3 by a single pathologist. The TMAs contained samples of 298 primary tumors with 290 matching normal tissue and 47 matching metastases. As an internal control, we examined FAK and outcomes in 135 breast cancer pt and 145 melanoma pt. FAK expression and pt outcomes were evaluated using Kruskal-Wallis exact and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: FAK expression correlated with aggressive phenotype in CRC primaries. Matching nor...
A randomised safety promotion intervention trial among low-income families with toddlers

Background Toddler-aged children are vulnerable to unintentional injuries, especially those in low-income families. Objective To examine the effectiveness of an intervention grounded in social cognitive theory (SCT) on the reduction of home safety problems among low-income families with toddlers. Methods 277 low-income mother–toddler dyads were randomised into a safety promotion intervention (n=91) or an attention-control group (n=186). Mothers in the safety promotion intervention group received an eight-session, group-delivered safety intervention targeting fire prevention, fall prevention, poison control and car seat use, through health education, goal-setting and social support. Data collectors observed participants9 homes and completed a nine-item checklist of home safety problems at study enrolment (baseline), 6 and 12 months after baseline. A total score was summed, with high scores indicating more problems. Linear mixed models compared the changes over time in home safety problems between intervention and control groups. Results The intent-to-treat analysis indicated that the safety promotion intervention group significantly reduced safety problems to a greater degree than the attention-control group at the 12-month follow-up (between-group difference in change over time β=−0.54, 95% CI −0.05 to −1.03, p=0.035), with no significant differences at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusions A safety promotion intervention built on principles of SCT has the potential to promote toddlers9 home safety environment. Future studies should examine additional strategies to determine whether better penetration/compliance can produce more clinically important improvement in home safety practices. Trial registration number NCT02615158; post-results.
Multimodal codemeshing: Bilingual adolescents’ processes composing across modes and languages

Abstract With the growing linguistic diversity in today's classrooms, recent scholarship has begun to explore how multilingual students can use the full range of their linguistic repertoires when composing. At the same time, conceptions of writing have expanded to include multiple modes (e.g., text, images, sound, and movement). Addressing these tandem needs, this study examined how three bilingual eighth grade students composed across multiple languages and modalities – a process we call multimodal codemeshing – when creating a digital project. This comparative case study integrated translanguaging and social semiotics theoretical frameworks to understand students' multimodal codemeshing processes. Data sources included screen capture and video observations, student design interviews, and multimodal products. Findings revealed that students initiated their multimodal codemeshing processes through exploring the composing tool, collaborating with peers, and visually brainstorming. The process involved simultaneous iterative motion on multiple levels, including across modes, phases of the process, and sections of their projects. Students exhibited a range of textually-driven and visually-driven processes for creating content and followed unique compositional paths. Furthermore, students used their heritage languages for different purposes during the composing process. Along with becoming more fluent with digital tools and modes, students described increased comfort in using and sharing their heritage languages.
Chelatable trace zinc causes low, irreproducible KDAC8 activity

Acetylation is an important regulatory mechanism in cells, and emphasis is being placed on identifying substrates and small molecule modulators of this post-translational modification. However, the reported in vitro activity of the lysine deacetylase KDAC8 is inconsistent across experimental setups, even with the same substrate, complicating progress in the field. We detected trace levels of zinc, a known inhibitor of KDAC8 when present in excess, even in high-quality buffer reagents, at concentrations that are sufficient to significantly inhibit the enzyme under common reaction conditions. We hypothesized that trace zinc in solution could account for the observed variability in KDAC8 activity. We demonstrate that addition of chelators, including BSA, EDTA, and citrate, and/or the use of a phosphate-based buffer instead of the more common tris-based buffer, eliminates the inhibition from low levels of zinc as well as the dependence of specific activity on enzyme concentration. This results in high KDAC8 activity that is consistent across buffer systems, even using low concentrations of enzyme. We report conditions that are suitable for several assays to increase both enzyme activity and reproducibility. Our results have significant implications for approaches used to identify substrates and small molecule modulators of KDAC8 and interpretation of existing data.
Rooting phylogenetic trees under the coalescent model using site pattern probabilities

Phylogenetic tree inference is a fundamental tool to estimate ancestor-descendant relationships among different species. In phylogenetic studies, identification of the root - the most recent common ancestor of all sampled organisms - is essential for complete understanding of the evolutionary relationships. Rooted trees benefit most downstream application of phylogenies such as species classification or study of adaptation. Often, trees can be rooted by using outgroups, which are species that are known to be more distantly related to the sampled organisms than any other species in the phylogeny. However, outgroups are not always available in evolutionary research. In this study, we develop a new method for rooting species tree under the coalescent model, by developing a series of hypothesis tests for rooting quartet phylogenies using site pattern probabilities. The power of this method is examined by simulation studies and by application to an empirical North American rattlesnake data set. The method shows high accuracy across the simulation conditions considered, and performs well for the rattlesnake data. Thus, it provides a computationally efficient way to accurately root species-level phylogenies that incorporates the coalescent process. The method is robust to variation in substitution model, but is sensitive to the assumption of a molecular clock. Our study establishes a computationally practical method for rooting species trees that is more efficient than traditional methods. The method will benefit numerous evolutionary studies that require rooting a phylogenetic tree without having to specify outgroups.
Acceptability of Psychosis Screening and Factors Affecting Its Implementation: Interviews With Community Health Care Providers

Objective:Although screening for psychosis may reduce the duration of untreated psychosis, the barriers and facilitators associated with implementing such a procedure in various care settings have not been explored.Methods:Investigators conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 17 members of school counseling services or community mental health staff at sites that administer a psychosis screening tool. Using an inductive approach to thematic analysis, they evaluated the acceptability of psychosis screening and barriers to and facilitators of implementation.Results:Participants reported few barriers to implementation. However, several service-, client-, and program-level factors were considered to significantly affect the implementation of screening. Most participants found that using the screening tool did not significantly affect their overall workload. Facilitators included leadership support, the novelty of using a technology-based screener, regular staff training, and the importance of establ...
Active Denial: Redesigning Japan's Response to China's Military Challenge

The growth of Chinese military power poses significant challenges to Japan. China's military spending, which was half that of Japan's in 1996, is now three and a half times as large. Japan has take...
Recent Developments in the Extraction, Reconstitution, and Purification of the Mitochondrial Citrate Transporter from Normal and Diabetic Rats

The mitochondrial tricarboxylate (i.e. citrate) transporter catalyzes an electroneutral exchange across the mitochondrial inner membrane of a tricarboxylate (e.g. citrate, threo-Ds-isocitrate, cis-aconitate) for either another tricarboxylate, a dicarboxylate (e.g. malate or succinate), or phosphoenolpyruvate (Robinson et al., 1971, Palmieri et al., 1972). This transporter plays a particularly important role in hepatic intermediary metabolism because citrate efflux from mitochondria provides the cytoplasm with: a) a carbon source for both triacylglycerol and sterol biosyntheses (Spencer & Lowenstein, 1962; Srere & Bhaduri, 1962; Greville, 1969); and b) a source of NAD+ and NADPH (via the concerted action of malate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme) which can be utilized by the glycolytic and lipid biosynthetic pathways respectively.
Nonallelism of erd and prcd and exclusion of the canine RDS/peripherin gene as a candidate for both retinal degeneration loci.

Purpose. To determine whether early retinal degeneration (erd) and progressive rod cone degeneration (prcd), two canine hereditary retinal degenerations, are caused by allelic mutations; to determine the cDNA sequence of the canine RDS/peripherin homolog (CFRDSP); and to test whether mutations(s) in CFRDSP cause(s) either erd or prcd Methods. Three mf-affected dogs were crossbred to three prcrf-affected dogs, and their progeny were tested by electroretinography and retinal morphology for evidence of retinal degeneration. Canine RDS/peripherin cDNA was cloned and sequenced after reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of total retinal RNA. A set of overlapping fragments of CFRDSP cDNA amplified from normal and />rcd-affected retinal RNA was examined by double-stranded conformational polymorphism analysis for evidence of any mutation in prcdaffected dogs. RDS/peripherin-specific restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) allelic differences within informative prcd and erd pedigrees were sought by digestion of amplified regions of the CFRDSP gene with different restriction enzymes. A Hinf I RFLP was identified with alleles segregating in a set of prcd and erd informative pedigrees. Linkage of CFRDSP to either prcd or erd was tested using the LINKAGE analysis package. Results. All progeny from the erd X prcd cross were phenotypically normal at ages beyond the age of diagnosis for both parental disorders. The sequence of CFRDSP cDNA is reported (Genbank accession U27349). It is, overall, 79% identical at the nucleotide level with the corresponding human sequence. The coding region shares 89% and 93% nucleotide identity with the corresponding human and feline sequences, respectively. No mutation has been identified in the coding region of CFRDSP in /wcd-affected dogs. In prcd pedigrees informative for both prcd and the CFRDSP Hinf I RFLP, a minimum of six obligate recombinants were identified. Similarly, in erd pedigrees, 14 of 29 progeny informative for both erd and this RFLP were obligate recombinants. Conclusions. The canine erd and prcd mutations are nonallelic. The canine RDS/peripherin gene (CFRDSP) has been excluded as a candidate for both prcd and erd. The demonstrated informativeness of the canine pedigrees on which these studies were based will enable testing other candidate genes for prcd and erd. Sequence information of CFRDSP will enable testing this locus as a candidate in other canine hereditary retinal degenerations. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1996;37:783-794. X rogressive rod-cone degeneration (prcd) and early retinal degeneration (erd) are canine hereditary retinal degenerations that were originally characterized, respectively, in miniature poodle