cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamical localization of ultracold sodium atoms

We report a study of atomic motion in time-dependent optical potentials. We measure momentum transfer in parameter regimes for which the classical dynamics are chaotic, and observe the quantum suppression of chaos by dynamical localization. The high degree of control over the experimental parameters enables detailed comparisons with theoretical predictions, and opens new avenues for investigating quantum chaos.
Termination processes in group transfer polymerization

Two major termination processes in the GTP of methacrylates and acrylates have been studied. For methacrylates, intramolecular cyclization is the dominant, if not sole, termination reaction. Both cyclization and O/C-silyl isomerization of the chain end are observed for acrylates. Oligomerization experiments were used to study the relative rates of cyclization and propagation and the influence of temperature, catalyst and dp. Under typical GTP conditions for methacrylates, cyclization is at least two orders of magnitude slower than monomer addition.
Cultural economic geography and a relational and microspace approach to trusts, rationalities, networks, and change in collaborative workplaces

This paper develops a relational, microspace framework to explain how social interaction (in and outside of workplaces) affects decision making, behavior, and performance in collaborative work. The transfer of critical intangible resources such as trust, across persons outside conventional loci of power in overlapping social networks, entails an evolution of different types of trust. Bridging networks informally on a bottom-up basis depends on complementary social relations and the transformation of trusts based on different rationalities formed in different places and social networks. Understanding collaboration can help as much in constructing positive change as in thwarting destructive, discriminatory work practices.
Influenza Virus Infection Increases p53 Activity: Role of p53 in Cell Death and Viral Replication

The induction of apoptotic cell death is a hallmark of influenza virus infection. Although a variety of cellular and viral proteins have been implicated in this process, to date no conserved cellular pathway has been identified. In this study, we report that the tumor suppressor protein p53 is essential for the induction of cell death in influenza virus-infected cells. In primary human lung cells, influenza virus increased p53 protein levels. This was also noted in the human lung cell line A549, along with the up-regulation of p53-dependent gene transcription. Reduction of p53 activity in A549 cells inhibited influenza virus-induced cell death as measured by trypan blue exclusion and caspase activity. These findings were not cell type specific. Influenza virus-induced cell death was absent in mouse embryo fibroblasts isolated from p53 knockout mice, which was not the case in wild-type mouse embryo fibroblasts, suggesting that p53 is a common cellular pathway leading to influenza virus-induced cell death. Surprisingly, inhibiting p53 activity led to elevated virus replication. Mechanistically, this may be due to the decrease in interferon signaling in p53-deficient cells, suggesting that functional p53 is involved in the interferon response to influenza infection. To our knowledge, these are the first studies demonstrating that p53 is involved in influenza virus-induced cell death and that inhibiting p53 leads to increased viral titers, potentially through modulation of the interferon response.
The Microstructure of Poly(Isobutylene-co-p-Methylstyrene) by NMR Spectroscopy

Abstract The microstructure of isobutylene-para-methylstyrene (IB-pMeSt) copolymers was studied by NMR spectroscopy. 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra were used to obtain overall copolymer compositions. 13C-NMR signals were assigned in terms of triad monomer sequences, and triad distributions were obtained over a wide copolymer composition range. According to statistical tests, the IB-pMeSt copolymerization cannot be described by zero- (Bernoullian) or first-order Markov models because reactivity ratios r IB and r pMeSt were found to change with the monomer feed composition. Additional insight into the microstructure of IB-pMeSt copolymers was gained by calculating sequence numbers, run numbers, and sequence lengths from triad distributions. Further, the Kelen-Tudos plot showed a distinct curvature indicating that the Kelen-Tudos method, applied over the entire monomer feed composition range, cannot give meaningful reactivity ratios for this monomer pair. Evidently the simple two-parameter Mayo-Lewis model is inade...
Three-dimensional capacitance evaluation on a Connection Machine

An algorithm for three-dimensional capacitance evaluation suitable for parallel computers is proposed, and its implementation on a massively parallel architecture, the Connection Machine, is described. After a brief overview of the architecture and the programming style of the Connection Machine is given, a mathematical formulation of the general problem (i.e. the numerical solution of Laplace's equation in three dimensions) is reviewed. The numerical discretization scheme is described along with its implementation on a Connection Machine and the numerical performances of a set of examples are discussed. Experimental results show that this approach allows a fast and efficient solution for this type of problem. >
Manifesting Democracy: Public Space and the Search for Identity in Post‐War Japan

The entry of Western democracy into Asia represents one of the most significant dimensions of the East-West cultural dialectic. The transformative formal and intellectual influences of Western democratic concepts on Asian urbanity and identity formation therefore remain paramount to the discourse on Asian cities today. This document explores the search for democratic space in Japan—the first non-Western democracy in the world. By tracing the evolution and shifts of Japanese public space over the last six decades, it attempts both a re-reading of the Japanese city as a democratic construct, and of democracy itself as a culturally appropriated model.
Associative Search Techniques versus Probabilistic Retrieval Models

This article offers a personal look back at the origins and early use of associative search techniques, and also a look forward at more theoretical approaches to the document retrieval problems. The purpose is to contrast the following two different ways of improving system performance: (1) appending associative search techniques to more or less standard (conventional) document retrieval systems, and (2) designing document retrieval systems based on more fundamental and appropriate principles namely probabilistic design principles. Very recent work on probabilistic approaches to the document retrieval problem has provided a new (and rare) unification of two previously competing models. In light of this, I argue that if we had to choose the best way to improve performance of a document retrieval system, it would be wiser to implement, test, and evaluate this new unified model, rather than to continue to use associative techniques which are coupled to conventionally designed retrieval systems.
Cooperative collision-free control of Lagrangian multi-agent formations

In this paper we address the problem of cooperation and collision avoidance for multi-agent Lagrangian systems with input disturbances. Two different disturbance observers with different stability results are used for Lagrangian systems, and collisions are shown to never occur in both cases. Then, using Lyapunov techniques, states of the systems are shown to converge to an ultimately bounded region around the master agent. Theoretical results are illustrated through simulations.
Electrophysiological Distinctions Between Oxytocin and Vasopressin Neurons in the Supraoptic Nucleus

Oxytocin and vasopressin neurons can be differentiated from one another, and from neurons in the immediately adjacent perinuclear zone, by their electrophysiological properties. In both sexes, oxytocin and vasopressin neurons are characterized by a prominent transient outward rectification which is conspicuously lacking in most perinuclear neurons. In addition, perinuclear neurons, some of which project to the supraoptic nucleus, exhibit a transient depolarization which underlies short bursts of spikes. Oxytocin neurons are characterized by: 1) the presence of a sustained outward rectifier above -50 mV, active below spike threshold; 2) a rebound depolarization following deactivation of the sustained rectification which can sustain short spike trains; and 3) a smaller transient outward rectification, probably associated with the potassium current, Ia. Vasopressin neurons show little of the sustained outward rectification and rebound depolarization, but have a stronger transient outward rectification. Although both cell types exhibit depolarizing afterpotentials, in vasopressin neurons these lead to plateau potentials underlying prolonged discharges. In oxytocin neurons, the depolarizing potential usually sustains a short spike discharge, but less often leads to prolonged bursts. These data suggest that the intrinsic properties of oxytocin and vasopressin neurons lead to quantitatively different forms of burst discharges, both of which may facilitate hormone release.
Structural origins of mechanical properties and hysteresis in SIS triblock copolymers/polystyrene blends with spherical morphology

The mechanical response and the corresponding microstructure of polymer blends composed of styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer and deuterated polystyrene are studied via in situ small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) measurements during intermittent uniaxial extension. The initial blend morphologies consist of spherical PS glassy domains arranged in body-centered cubic (BCC) lattices. The spheres rearrange affinely with the macroscopic deformation up to Hencky strains ~0.35. Larger deformation is mechanically characterized by yield and strain hardening. In this regime, SANS measurements reveal a transition from a BCC crystal lattice to chevron-like patterns. Using electron microscopy, we found that the chevrons arise from a real-space structure described as spheres that have been stretched along one axis and aligned parallel to one another. Such configuration is unstable and reverts to BCC structure after stress release. After unloading the blends, remnant nano-deformation is observed, which is fully relaxed only in the transverse direction after more than 10 h. Permanent damage of the internal structure along the stretching direction impedes the full recovery of the initial sphere configuration.
Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus and other viruses in human lymphomagenesis

Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also called human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), is associated with a specific subset of lymphoproliferative disorders. These include two main categories. The first is primary effusion lymphomas and related solid variants. The second is multicentric Castleman disease, from which KSHV-positive plasmablastic lymphomas can arise. KSHV contributes to lymphomagenesis by subverting the host cell molecular signaling machinery to deregulate cell growth and survival. KSHV expresses a selected set of genes in the lymphoma cells, encoding viral proteins that play important roles in KSHV lymphomagenesis. Deregulation of the NF-κB pathway is an important strategy used by KSHV to promote lymphoma cell survival, and the viral protein vFLIP is essential for this process. Two other viruses that are well documented to be causally associated with lymphoid neoplasia in humans are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV/HHV-4) and human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV-1). Both of these are similar to KSHV in their use of viral proteins to promote cell survival by deregulating the NF-κB pathway. Here we review the basic information and recent developments that have contributed to our knowledge of lymphomas caused by KSHV and other viruses. The understanding of the mechanisms of viral lymphomagenesis should lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets and to the development of rationally designed therapies.
Parental Occupation Inspiring Science Interest Perspectives From Physical Scientists

Children’s early science interest begins well before middle school, and parents can be important in generating and sustaining such interest. This qualitative study addresses how parental occupation...
Strategies for improving the intratumoral distribution of liposomal drugs in cancer therapy.

ABSTRACTIntroduction: A major limitation of current liposomal cancer therapies is the inability of liposome therapeutics to penetrate throughout the entire tumor mass. This inhomogeneous distribution of liposome therapeutics within the tumor has been linked to treatment failure and drug resistance. Both liposome particle transport properties and tumor microenvironment characteristics contribute to this challenge in cancer therapy. This limitation is relevant to both intravenously and intratumorally administered liposome therapeutics.Areas covered: Strategies to improve the intratumoral distribution of liposome therapeutics are described. Combination therapies of intravenous liposome therapeutics with pharmacologic agents modulating abnormal tumor vasculature, interstitial fluid pressure, extracellular matrix components, and tumor associated macrophages are discussed. Combination therapies using external stimuli (hyperthermia, radiofrequency ablation, magnetic field, radiation, and ultrasound) with intrave...
The Role of Spectral Selectivity in Fluorescence Detection for Liquid Chromatography

The use of a cut-off filter has been compared with a monochromator for emission energy selection in the fluorescence detector used in the analysis of environmental samples for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by liquid chromatography. The use of a cut-off filter can provide greater sensitivity for compounds that are well separated by the chromatography. However, samples that contain a large number of compounds often result in overlapping peaks, and for such samples, it has been found that the spectral selectivity of monochromatic emission selection reduces the interference due to compounds eluting near the compounds of analytical interest. This spectral selectivity results in greater sensitivity and a smaller quantitation error in the analysis of these complex samples.
The Laboratory Assessment of Fetal Lung Maturity

The assessment of fetal lung maturity by laboratory methods is reviewed, and the utility of the various approaches in the prediction of respiratory distress syndrome is discussed. Because of the relatively low prevalence of respiratory distress syndrome, methods with exceptionally high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity are required; such methods are rarely available for any diagnostic evaluation, and the methods with the greatest clinical acceptance in assessing fetal lung maturity have been those which require the most personnel time and skill. The consequences of laboratory testing in the environment of low prevalence diseases is discussed. Because of the clinical implications of an erroneous determination of fetal lung maturity, particularly in the case of incorrectly assessing the fetal lungs to be mature, a strong emotional overlay exists for accepting only the "reference method" or "gold standard" in this determination. This review briefly discusses the utility of commonly used methods in the context of the physical and chemical concepts. By reviewing the underlying principles of the methods, the origins of some of the frequently observed problems in this field are revealed. The emphasis is on practical application and issues of use both to clinician and laboratory in approaching this controversial and difficult area of assessment. It is demonstrated that there are several reasonably straightforward approaches which will provide appropriate clinical information more quickly, easily, and inexpensively than the methods generally requested.
Enumeration, Receptor Expression and Phagocytic Capabilities of Eosinophils of Human Colon Mucosa

Eosinophils are present in normal human intestinal mucosa, where their main functions are presumably participation in hypersensitivity reactions and defense against helminthic infestations. However, these numbers are increased in inflammatory bowel disease (1) and other conditions (2) not normally associated with allergic states or paresitosis, and their role in these disorders is unknown. Therefore, we enumerated these cells in mucosal suspensions, measured their Fc and C3b receptors and assayed their phagocytic activity.
Clinical advantages and characters of new drugs of traditional Chinese medicine base on the view point of evaluation

Base on the view point of evaluation,this article reviews and summarizes development process of new drugs of traditional Chinese medicine,confirms position and function of new drugs of traditional Chinese medi- cine on treatment of traditional Chinese medicine,elaborates clinical advantages and characters of new drugs on cur- rent stage and the fundamental principle which is used to establish administration and evaluation of new drugs of tra- ditional Chinese medicine.Meanwhile,this article raises some practical problems which affects the reflection of clin- ical advantages and characters of new drugs of traditional Chinese medicine at present,in order to discuss how to re- flect the advantages and characters of traditional Chinese medicine better,how to inherit and develop traditional Chi- nese medicine and how to promote the development and evaluation of new drugs of traditional Chinese medicine in the administration and technical evaluation of it.
S11-1 Occupational exposure to manganese and iron from welding fume in a united states cohort

Objective Welders are exposed via the inhalation route to respirable-sized ( Methods Our study on 30 typically exposed welders and 20 controls in the United States investigated the associations between occupational Mn and Fe exposure from respirable welding fume with magnetic resonance imaging (R1 and R2* mapping), indicative of brain Mn and Fe levels, and a biomarker (toenails). Multiple exposure measures including job tasks, cumulative airborne exposure based on personal respirable airborne concentrations, and metals concentrations determined in toenail samples were utilised to study the associations with regional brain Mn and Fe concentrations. Results Welders were significantly more exposed to airborne respirable Mn and Fe than the control population (Mn: 0.11 vs. 0.007 mg/m 3 , P 3 , P Conclusions Our findings suggest that typical U.S. welders are significantly exposed to Mn and Fe through welding fumes. Their exposure is associated with both increased deposition of Mn and Fe in toenails and the brain
Hostility During Training: Historical Roots of Primary Care Disparagement.

PURPOSE The environment during medical school has been shown to dissuade students from choosing primary care careers. The purpose of this study was (1) to explore how long-standing this hostility toward primary care is historically and (2) to understand the mechanisms through which the environment conveys disparagement of primary care to students. METHODS The study is based on a qualitative analysis of 52 primary care physician oral histories. The data are from the Primary Care Oral History Collection, created by Fitzhugh Mullan and deposited in the National Library of Medicine. Transcripts were analyzed using qualitative data analysis and the constant comparative method. RESULTS Respondents (63.5%) reported experiencing discouragement or disparagement about primary care, and this proportion remained fairly high through 5 decades. Findings indicate that hostility toward primary care operates through the culture and the structure of medical training, creating barriers to the portrayal of primary care as appealing and important. Support for primary care choice was uncommon but was reported by some respondents. CONCLUSION The primary care shortage and primary care’s unfavorable representation during medical training is a multifaceted problem. The evidence reported here shows that cultural and structural factors are critical components of the problem, and have existed for decades. For policy responses to be most effective in meeting the primary care workforce problem, they must address the presence and power of persistent hostility against primary care during training.
Human Ig knockin mice to study the development and regulation of HIV‐1 broadly neutralizing antibodies

A major challenge for HIV-1 vaccine research is developing a successful immunization approach for inducing broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). A key shortcoming in meeting this challenge has been the lack of animal models capable of identifying impediments limiting bnAb induction and ranking vaccine strategies for their ability to promote bnAb development. Since 2010, immunoglobulin knockin (KI) technology, involving inserting functional rearranged human variable exons into the mouse IgH and IgL loci has been used to express bnAbs in mice. This approach has allowed immune tolerance mechanisms limiting bnAb production to be elucidated and strategies to overcome such limitations to be evaluated. From these studies, along with the wealth of knowledge afforded by analyses of recombinant Ig-based bnAb structures, it became apparent that key functional features of bnAbs often are problematic for their elicitation in mice by classic vaccine paradigms, necessitating more iterative testing of new vaccine concepts. In this regard, bnAb KI models expressing deduced precursor V(D)J rearrangements of mature bnAbs or unrearranged germline V, D, J segments (that can be assembled into variable region exons that encode bnAb precursors), have been engineered to evaluate novel immunogens/regimens for effectiveness in driving bnAb responses. One promising approach emerging from such studies is the ability of sequentially administered, modified immunogens (designed to bind progressively more mature bnAb precursors) to initiate affinity maturation. Here, we review insights gained from bnAb KI studies regarding the regulation and induction of bnAbs, and discuss new Ig KI methodologies to manipulate the production and/or expression of bnAbs in vivo, to further facilitate vaccine-guided bnAb induction studies.
Arriving on Campus

This chapter describes the participants’ experiences traveling to and arriving on campus and their experiences within their first semester of being in college. From this general focus, the chapter sharpens to discuss the participants’ adjustment and transition to a new identity as college students. Entering college for many of these students, most of whom were first generation, was more than just a matter of moving into a residence hall and finding their way around. The participants discussed finances, academic transitions, and the realities of being Black at their traditionally White college.
Stable Dihydrogen Complexes of Cobalt(−I) Suggest an Inverse trans-Influence of Lewis Acidic Group 13 Metalloligands

A triad of d10 cobalt dihydrogen complexes was synthesized by utilizing Lewis acidic group 13 metalloligands, M[N((o-C6H4)NCH2PiPr2)3], where M = Al, Ga, and In. These complexes have formal Co(−I) oxidation states, representing the only coordination complexes in which dihydrogen is bound to a subvalent transition metal center. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction and NMR studies support the assignment of these complexes as nonclassical dihydrogen adducts of Co(−I).
Do photoreceptor cells cause the development of retinal vascular disease

The retinal vasculature is affected in a number of clinically important retinopathies, including diabetic retinopathy. There has been a considerable amount of research into the pathogenesis of retinal microvascular diseases, but the potential contribution of the most abundant cell population in the retina, photoreceptor cells, has been largely overlooked. This review summarizes ongoing research suggesting that photoreceptor cells play a critical role in the development of retinal vascular disease in diabetic retinopathy and other retinopathies.
Abstract IA14: Targeting Ras

We are exploring multiple ways of targeting Ras proteins and Ras-driven cancers. We have identified compounds that covalently bind to cysteine-185 on K-Ras 4B, and to the G-domain of K-Ras 4A and 4B. We are also screening for compounds that bind directly to K-Ras using a new technique referred to as Second Harmonic Generation and are developing compounds that promote phosphorylation of K-Ras4B on serine-181. In addition, we are attempting to solve novel structures of oncogenic Ras proteins on their own, or complexed with effectors, regulators and chaperones, in an attempt to identify new targeting opportunities. For example, we have solved the structure of fully processed K-Ras 4B bound to PDE-delta. This co-structure suggests several new approaches to targeting K-Ras processing. In addition to targeting K-Ras directly, we are validating downstream dependencies that are specific for K-Ras cancers, including the cytokine LIF, which is expressed at high levels in K-Ras transformed cells and plays a major role in stem-like properties of K-Ras cancers. Suppressing LIF expression using shRNA, CRISPR or monoclonal antibodies has profound effects on K-Ras tumor initiation and maintenance, and suggests new therapeutic opportunities. We are also analyzing signaling pathways that differ between Ras mutants and between Ras isoforms. These results, and their opportunities for intervention, will be discussed. Citation Format: Frank McCormick. Targeting Ras. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Targeting the Vulnerabilities of Cancer; May 16-19, 2016; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2017;23(1_Suppl):Abstract nr IA14.
Renal lithiasis and hyperparathyroidism: diagnosis, management and prognosis.

AbstractFrom 1969 to 1979, 448 patients underwent parathyroid exploration for presumed hyperparathyroidism. Of these patients 184 had associated renal calculus disease, 72 of whom (16 per cent) had metabolically active stone disease. Of these 72 patients 48 had adenomas, 18 had hyperplasia and 6 had normal glands. Of those patients with assessable disease none with adenomas has had recurrent calculi, whereas calculi continued to form in 45 per cent of the patients with hyperplastic glands and in 50 per cent of those with normal glands. Although most patients with adenomas had persistent calcium elevations 13 were identified with only intermittent hypercalcemia. Serum parathormone served to confirm the presence of parathyroid pathology. Urinary calcium levels were of no diagnostic benefit.
High spin ground state copper(II) and nickel(II) complexes possessing the 3,5-di-tert-butyl-1,2-semiquinonate radical anion

Abstract Several high spin ground-state compounds based upon ferromagnetic coupling between a metal ion and the chelating 3,5-di-tert-butyl-1,2-semiquinonate radical anion, [DTBSQ] −, as they possess unpaired electron spins in orthogonal dx2−y2/dz2 and π∗ orbitals, are described. [CuII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)](ClO4) (DPyA = 2,2′-dipyridylamine) was reinvestigated and its singlet excited state is 282 cm−1 [0.035 eV; J/kB = 406 K (H = −JSa·Sb)] above the triplet ground state. [CuII(bipy)(DBCat)(MeOH)] (bipy = 2,2-bipyridine; DBCat = 3,5-di-tert-butylcatecholate), [CuII(bipy)(DTBSQ)](BF4), [CuII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)-(THF)2](BF4) and [NiII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)(THF)2](BF4) have been structurally characterized and have high spin ground states whose low spin excited states lie 28 cm−1 (0.0034 eV), 382 cm−1 (0.047 eV), 335 cm−1 (0.042 eV), and 108 cm−1 (0.013 eV) higher, respectively. The triplet-singlet separation is 18% greater for [CuII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)(THF)2]+ than [CuII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)]+ and is ascribed to greater orthogonality of the CuII dx2−y2/dz2 and [DTBSQ] − π∗ orbitals for octahedral [Cu(DPyA)(DTBSQ)(THF)2]+ with respect to distorted square pyramidal structure of [Cu(DPyA)(DTBSQ)]+. This greater energy of the excited state correlates with the shorter than average M-ODTBSQ distance, i.e. [Cu(bipy)(DTBSQ)]+ > [CuII(DPyA)(DTBSQ)(THF)2]+ > [Ni(DPyA)(DTBSQ)(THF)2]+. The order of magnitude lower value for [CuII(bipy)(DBCat)(MeOH)] arises from a weak intradimer S = 1/2 Cu(II) interaction, not via ferromagnetic coupling between the S = 1/2 Cu(II) and [DTBSQ] − sites.
Abstract 231: Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C Couples Cross-Bridge Cycling to Calcium Transients to Provide Normal Cardiac Function

A 40-year old American has a 20% chance of developing heart failure (HF) in his/her lifetime. Although cross-bridge cycling forms the basis for contraction and relaxation of the heart, mechanisms that modulate cross-bridge cycling are not completely understood, nor are the alterations in these processes in HF. Cardiac myosin binding protein-C (MyBPC3) is a component of heart muscle that is believed to regulate cross-bridge cycling kinetics. We hypothesize that MyBPC3 tunes cross-bridge cycling to the [Ca2+]i transient to produce normal cardiac function, which we tested using our MyBPC3 knockout (KO) mouse. Echocardiography showed that MyBPC3(KO) hearts exhibited abbreviated aortic ejection durations (AED) and AED/(period between heart beats) ratio compared to WT. MyBPC3(KO) hearts also had smaller velocity-time integrals which indicate smaller stroke volumes as a result of abbreviated ejection. Brain natriuretic peptide expression level, heart weight/body weight, and lung weight/body weight were all increased in MyBPC3(KO) mice, consistent with HF. MyBPC3(KO) mice also exhibit increased 1-year mortality. We used simultaneous twitch force and intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i measurements on intact papillary muscles to evaluate the consequences of losing cross-bridge cycling regulation on force response to changing [Ca2+]i transients. MyBPC3 (KO) myocardium exhibited abbreviated contractions despite slower calcium transients and an inability to accelerate relaxation with respect to peak contraction. Therefore, loss of MyBPC3-mediated coupling of cross-bridge cycling to the [Ca2+]i transient was associated with contractile dysfunction and HF.
Mindfulness: “The End of Suffering”

A recurrent principle in this book is that in order to properly care for our patients, we must first take care of ourselves. Rejecting our own needs for the benefit of our patients may seem like a noble intention, but it is inherently dysfunctional. The consequences—burnout, damaged relationships, and illness—are real (Shanafelt et al., Arch Intern Med 172:1377–1385, 2012) and have been well-publicized (Farber and Heifetz, Prof Psychol 13:293, 1982). Failure to manage our own emotions and relationships contributes to professional dissatisfaction; leaves us vulnerable to divorce and social isolation; and increases risk of depression and substance abuse (Judge and Bono, J Appl Psychol 86:80–92, 2001; Judge et al., J Appl Psychol 90:257–268, 2005; Shanafelt et al., Arch Intern Med 172:1377–1385, 2012). We simply cannot give to others when our own emotional well is dry (Farber and Heifetz, Prof Psychol 13:293, 1982).
Oxytocin, Tolerance, and the Dark Side of Addiction

Substance use disorders blight the lives of millions of people and inflict a heavy financial burden on society. There is a compelling need for new pharmacological treatments as current drugs have limited efficacy and other major drawbacks. A substantial number of animal and recent clinical studies indicate that the neuropeptide, oxytocin, is a particularly promising therapeutic agent for human addictions, especially alcohol use disorders. In preliminary trials, we found that oxytocin administered by the intranasal route, which produces some neuropeptide penetration into the CNS, potently blocked withdrawal and reduced alcohol consumption in heavy drinkers. A considerable body of earlier animal studies demonstrated that oxytocin inhibits tolerance to alcohol, opioids, and stimulants as well as withdrawal from alcohol and opioids. Based on these preclinical findings and our clinical results, we hypothesize that oxytocin may exert therapeutic effects in substance dependence by the novel mechanism of diminishing established tolerance. A newer wave of studies has almost unanimously found that oxytocin decreases self-administration of a number of addictive substances in several animal models of addiction. Reduction of established tolerance should be included among the potential explanations of oxytocin effects in these studies and changes in tolerance should be examined in future studies in relationship to oxytocin influences on acquisition and reinstatement of self-administration as well as extinction of drug seeking. Oxytocin efficacy in reducing anxiety and stress responses as well as established tolerance suggests it may be uniquely effective in reducing negative reinforcement (Koob's "dark side" of addiction) that maintains chronic substance use.
HullRad: Fast Calculations of Folded and Disordered Protein and Nucleic Acid Hydrodynamic Properties.

Abstract Hydrodynamic properties are useful parameters for estimating the size and shape of proteins and nucleic acids in solution. The calculation of such properties from structural models informs on the solution properties of these molecules and complements corresponding structural studies. Here we report, to our knowledge, a new method to accurately predict the hydrodynamic properties of molecular structures. This method uses a convex hull model to estimate the hydrodynamic volume of the molecule and is orders of magnitude faster than common methods. It works well for both folded proteins and ensembles of conformationally heterogeneous proteins and for nucleic acids. Because of its simplicity and speed, the method should be useful for the modification of computer-generated, intrinsically disordered protein ensembles and ensembles of flexible, but folded, molecules in which rapid calculation of experimental parameters is needed. The convex hull method is implemented in a Python script called HullRad. The use of the method is facilitated by a web server and the code is freely available for batch applications.
2D MoS 2 as an efficient protective layer for lithium metal anodes in high-performance Li–S batteries

Among the candidates to replace Li-ion batteries, Li–S cells are an attractive option as their energy density is about five times higher (~2,600 Wh kg−1). The success of Li–S cells depends in large part on the utilization of metallic Li as anode material. Metallic lithium, however, is prone to grow parasitic dendrites and is highly reactive to several electrolytes; moreover, Li–S cells with metallic Li are also susceptible to polysulfides dissolution. Here, we show that ~10-nm-thick two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 can act as a protective layer for Li-metal anodes, greatly improving the performances of Li–S batteries. In particular, we observe stable Li electrodeposition and the suppression of dendrite nucleation sites. The deposition and dissolution process of a symmetric MoS2-coated Li-metal cell operates at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with low voltage hysteresis and a threefold improvement in cycle life compared with using bare Li-metal. In a Li–S full-cell configuration, using the MoS2-coated Li as anode and a 3D carbon nanotube–sulfur cathode, we obtain a specific energy density of ~589 Wh kg−1 and a Coulombic efficiency of ~98% for over 1,200 cycles at 0.5 C. Our approach could lead to the realization of high energy density and safe Li-metal-based batteries. An ~10-nm-thick MoS2 layer stabilizes lithium metal anodes and the composite can be used in full-cell Li–S batteries with enhanced performances.
A comparison of growth rate of late Holocene stalagmites with atmospheric precipitation and temperature, and its implications for paleoclimatology

Abstract Growth rate of stalagmites can vary with many factors of physical environment, ecology, and karst hydrogeology, to the extent that growth rates calculated from a carefully selected set of data from 80 stalagmites from around the world vary by a factor of 400 from smallest to largest. Growth rates of those 80 stalagmites nonetheless collectively show correlations to atmospheric precipitation and temperature that are non-trivial (r2 = 0.12 and 0.20, respectively) and unlikely to have arisen randomly (p = 0.002 and 0.00002). Those global relationships are also supported by previously published studies of individual drip sites. The general trend of growth rates is not a monotonic increase with precipitation; instead, it reaches a maximum at annual precipitation rates between 700 and 2300 mm/year, which both counters many model predictions that growth rates should increase monotonically with drip rate and complicates use of growth rate as a proxy for past precipitation. The general trend of growth rates among the 80 stalagmites is a monotonic increase with temperature. However, the low values of r2 in both of these general trends indicate that growth rate can be at best a qualitative rather than quantitative proxy of past conditions. Growth rate shows no statistically significant relationship to effective precipitation, seemingly because of the confounding effect of temperature. Growth rates of aragonite-bearing stalagmites are commonly greater than rates in stalagmites in which calcite is the only carbonate mineral, suggesting both the need for careful identification of mineralogy and the special applicability of aragonitic stalagmites in high-resolution studies. Aragonite has exceptionally great frequency in settings with low effective atmospheric precipitation, supporting previous linkages of that mineral to warm dry environments. Closely-spaced sampling used in recent paleoclimatological studies suggests that unexploited long-term low-resolution records of past climate may exist in surprisingly small slow-growing stalagmites from exceptionally cold and/or dry regions.
Who is that? Expanding the clinical encounter.

Patients need to completely understand the role of any non-medical personnel present during a procedure and have the right to refuse their attendance. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Learning about Culture from Children: Lessons from Rural Sri Lanka

In this chapter, Chapin argues that research with children is crucial for developing a more robust theory of culture. Drawing on her ethnographic work with Sinhala children in a predominantly Buddhist village in central Sri Lanka, Chapin makes five points about culture. (1) People develop and assemble personal versions of cultural models through culturally patterned experience beginning in childhood, where this largely occurs through everyday interaction with important others. (2) As cultural models are derived through this kind of experience, they are imbued with emotions and motivations. (3) It is also through this process that pieces of culture may acquire psychodynamic underpinnings, giving them unconscious force. (4) As people grow and age, the human developmental life course presents varying opportunities for cultural lessons to be learned differently; at the same time, the course of that development is fundamentally shaped by culturally patterned experience. (5) Understanding these lessons about how people acquire culture beginning in childhood helps to explain both cultural patterning and cultural variation and change. Chapin illustrates these points with observations in Sri Lankan homes about hierarchy in everyday caregiving, responses to children’s demands, and the development of attachment and autonomy.
Imaging of Motor Cortex Physiology in Parkinson's Disease

There is abundant evidence that the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) is not confined to the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway but propagates along the cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical neural network. A critical node in this functional circuit impacted by PD is the primary motor cortex (M1), which plays a key role in generating neural impulses that regulate movements. The past several decades have lay witness to numerous in vivo neuroimaging techniques that provide a window into the function and structure of M1. A consistent observation from numerous studies is that during voluntary movement, but also at rest, the functional activity of M1 is altered in PD relative to healthy individuals, and it relates to many of the motor signs. Although this abnormal functional activity can be partially restored with acute dopaminergic medication, it continues to deteriorate with disease progression and may predate structural degeneration of M1. The current review discusses the evidence that M1 is fundamental to the pathophysiology of PD, as measured by neuroimaging techniques such as positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, electroencephalography, magnetoencephalography, and functional and structural MRI. Although novel treatments that target the cortex will not cure PD, they could significantly slow down and alter the progressive course of the disease and thus improve clinical care for this degenerative disease. © 2018 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Use of hepatitis C viraemic organs in kidney transplantation: a need to hit the pause button?

Innovative solutions are needed to overcome the global disparity in patients awaiting kidney transplantation versus donor organs available. A new study reports a promising new strategy of transplanting kidneys from HCV-infected donors into HCV-uninfected recipients and treating their HCV with direct-acting antivirals post-transplant — recipients achieved HCV cure with excellent one-year kidney allograft function.
Integration Constants as State Variables for Optimal Path Planning

This paper explores the advantages of a state parameterization in integration constants to optimally path plan multi-dimensional systems governed by ordinary differential equations. The idea is inherited from astrodynamics, where the integration constants of the unperturbed equations of orbital motion – orbital elements – are used to path plan optimally artificial satellites in space. This paper shows that the advantages gained from this state parameterization can be extended to other applications. In order to do so, firstly, it presents a general methodology to model the governing equations-in general non-integrable and nonlinear– using the integration constants of a reduced integrable part. Subsequently, it formalizes the optimal path planning problem in integration constant space, where a geometric interpretation of the minimum input cost path is provided together with an algorithmic procedure to identify it. It is shown that working in integration constant space simplifies the path planning. In particular, the integrable dynamics can be exploited intrinsically, while the part of the dynamics which is not integrable can be isolated and compensated.
Radiation-Induced Solute Segregation in Alloys

The state of knowledge of radiation-induced solute segregation (RIS) in alloys is reviewed, with special emphasis on solute segregation in steels. Background information is summarized and some theoretical perspective is provided. Examples illustrating the factors affecting RIS are presented and some important outstanding issues that impact the current understanding of RIS are discussed.
Use of the high‐affinity phosphate transporter gene, pstS, as an indicator for phosphorus stress in the marine diazotroph Crocosphaera watsonii (Chroococcales, Cyanobacteria)

The marine diazotroph Crocosphaera watsonii provides fixed carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) to open-ocean regimes, where nutrient deficiency controls productivity. The growth of Crocosphaera can be limited by low phosphorus (P) concentrations in these oligotrophic environments. Biomarkers such as the high-affinity ABC transporter phosphate-binding gene, pstS, are commonly used to monitor when such organisms are under P stress; however, transcriptional regulation of these markers is often complex and not well-understood. In this study, we interrogated changes in pstS transcript levels in C. watsonii cells under P starvation, and in response to added dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP), dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP), and changing light levels. We observed elevated relative pstS transcript levels in C. watsonii WH8501 at DIP concentrations below 60 and above 20 nmol · L-1 . Transcript levels were suppressed by both inorganic and bioavailable organic phosphorus; however, the P stress response was more sensitive to DIP than DOP sources. Increasing light intensity resulted in increased relative pstS transcript abundances independently of low external P, and seemed to exacerbate the physiological effects of P stress. The variable response to different P compounds and rapid and transient influence of high light on pstS transcript abundances suggests that pstS is an indicator of internal P status in Crocosphaera.
Screening for sleep disorders

Abstract Sleep disorders and chronically insufficient sleep are common and often debilitating conditions that are associated with numerous adverse health outcomes and enormous economic costs. Many patients with sleep problems are not routinely screened in primary care clinics, and access to sleep medicine providers as well as diagnostic equipment is limited in many parts of the world. Screening tools offer a means to identify patients with potential sleep disorders who would benefit from further evaluation. As consumer technologies become more available and affordable, many patients are also turning to wearable devices that claim to track sleep duration and quality. In this chapter, we review the more frequently used screening tools and consumer sleep technologies available for identifying patients at risk for sleep disorders.
Enabling Fast and Highly Effective FPGA Design Process Using the CAPI SNAP Framework

The CAPI SNAP (Storage, Network, and Analytics Programming) is an open source framework which enables C/C++ as well as FPGA programmers to quickly create FPGA-based accelerated computing that works on server host data, as well as data from storage, flash, Ethernet, or other connected resources. The SNAP framework is based on the IBM Coherent Accelerator Processor Interface (CAPI). From POWER8 with CAPI1.0, to POWER9 with CAPI2.0 and OpenCAPI, programmers can have access to a very simple framework to develop accelerated applications using high speed and very low latency interfaces to access an external FPGA. With SNAP, no specific hardware skill is required to port or develop an application and then accelerate it. Even more, a cloud environment is being offered as a cost effective, ready-to-use environment for a first-time right experience as well as a deeper development so that it can be achieved with very little investment.
A Case of Asymptomatic Cardiac Lipoma and Literature Review.

Abstract Primary cardiac tumours are a rare occurrence, of which lipomas comprise approximately 8%. Although mostly asymptomatic, cardiac lipomas can lead to lethal arrhythmias and significant left ventricular outflow obstruction. We present a case of an asymptomatic left ventricular lipoma managed by surgical resection and discuss diagnostic modalities and management options. Our case exemplifies how prompt surgical resection is a reasonable and safe approach in select patients even if they are asymptomatic.
A review of Transforming Sanchez School: shared leadership, equity, and evidence: by R. R. Isola and J. Cummins, Philadelphia, PA, Caslon Publishing, 2019, 216 pp., $39.95 (paperback), ISBN: 978-1-934000-41-0

In their book, Transforming Sanchez School: Shared Leadership, Equity, and Evidence, Raymond R. Isola and Jim Cummins describe their experience at Sanchez Elementary School, which serves a majority...
Vehicle miles traveled fee to complement the gas tax and mitigate the local transportation finance deficit

The objective of this research is to gather data for an urban area, evaluate, and assess the applicability of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) fee to replace or complement the gas tax, and mitigate the...