cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimizing the uncertainties associated with the measurement of thermal properties by the Transient thermo-reflectance method

An approach for optimizing the transient thermo-reflectance (TTR) measurement of thermal properties is presented. The influence of the most important parameters of the system on the accuracy of the TTR measurements is investigated. An overall performance criterion is defined based on the responsivity of a given system and the thermoreflectance coefficient of the sample under test. It is shown that in order to obtain the smallest measurement uncertainty one should use a metallic absorption layer with the highest possible thermoreflectance coefficient and then compute the optimum thickness of that layer by maximizing the responsivity of the TTR system. The responsivity represents the sensitivity of the TTR method to the measurement of the thermal properties of a sample and relates the overall uncertainty of a TTR measurement to the uncertainties associated with the TTR apparatus.
Language, play and work among elderly persons.

The general purpose of the study was to ascertain the meanings of play and work among elderly subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned either play or work as stimulus words and asked to write down other words they associated with the stimulus word during a one-minute trial. Results suggested that play and work were different ideas for the group of elderly subjects. Play was best defined as an enjoyable, voluntary activity often associated with a younger period in the life cycle by the subjects. Work was best defined as a required activity that few seemed to enjoy. Work was also characterized as demanding and associated with an occupational role, extrinsically motivated, and producing a considerable awareness of time. Gender difference in the meanings of play were not remarkable. Men were somewhat more likely to define play as a formal sport and outdoor related activity. Women's definitions were best distinguished by a preference for culturally oriented responses.
How distracting is distracting pain

Abstract The study was to determine the effect of preexisting pain on the perception of a painful stimulus. We conducted a cross-section study at an urban ED using convenience sampling. Adult patients who had a 20-g IV catheter placed as part of their ED care were eligible for the study. Patients were excluded for the following reasons: more than one IV attempt, altered mental status, visual impairment, intoxication, or a physical abnormality at the IV site. Patients were asked to indicate on a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS) the amount of pain they had at baseline immediately before IV placement. They were then asked to indicate on a separate VAS the amount of pain caused by the IV placement. Correlation between baseline pain and pain of the IV was assessed using Pearson's ρ. One hundred patients were enrolled in the study. The pain of IV placement did not differ significantly by gender, race, who placed the IV, or the location of the IV. The correlation between baseline pain and pain of the IV placement was poor (ρ =.14, confidence interval:−.06-.33). The response to a standardized painful stimulus among ED patients does not correlate highly with the severity of preexisting pain. (Am J Emerg Med 2003;21:43-44. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.)
Reactive oxygen species regulate hypoxia-inducible factor 1α differentially in cancer and ischemia

In exercise, as well as cancer and ischemia, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) transcriptionally activates hundreds of genes vital for cell homeostasis and angiogenesis. While potentially beneficial in ischemia, upregulation of the HIF1 transcription factor has been linked to inflammation, poor prognosis in many cancers, and decreased susceptibility of tumors to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Considering HIF1’s function, HIF1 protein and its hydroxylation cofactors look increasingly attractive as therapeutic targets. Independently, antioxidants have shown promise in lowering the risk of some cancers and improving neurological and cardiac function following ischemia. The mechanism of how different antioxidants and reactive oxygen species influence HIF1 expression has drawn interest and intense debate. Here we present an experimentally based computational model of HIF1 protein degradation that represents how reactive oxygen species and antioxidants likely affect the HIF1 pathway differentially in cancer and ischemia. We use the model to demonstrate effects on HIF1 expression from combined doses of five potential therapeutically targeted compounds (iron, ascorbate, hydrogen peroxide, 2-oxoglutarate, and succinate) influenced by cellular oxidation-reduction and involved in HIF1 hydroxylation. Results justify the hypothesis that reactive oxygen species work by two opposite ways on the HIF1 system. We also show how tumor cells and cells under ischemic conditions would differentially respond to reactive oxygen species via changes to HIF1 expression over the course of hours to days, dependent on extracellular hydrogen peroxide levels and largely independent of initial intracellular levels, during hypoxia.
EEG indices of tonic pain-related activity in the somatosensory cortices.

Objective: To identify EEG features that index pain-related cortical activity, and to identify factors that can mask the pain-related EEG features and/or produce features that can be misinterpreted as pain-specific. Methods: The EEG was recorded during three conditions presented in counterbalanced order: a tonic cold pain condition, and pain anticipation and arithmetic control conditions. The EEG was also recorded while the subjects made a wincing facial expression to estimate the contribution of scalp EMG artifacts to the pain-related EEG features. Results: Alpha amplitudes decreased over the contralateral temporal scalp and increased over the posterior scalp during the cold pain condition. There was an increase in gamma band activity during the cold pain condition at most electrode locations that was due to EMG artifacts. Conclusions: The decrease in alpha over the contralateral temporal scalp during cold pain is consistent with pain-related activity in the primary somatosensory cortex and/or the somatosensory association areas located in the parietal operculum and/or insula. This study also identified factors that might mask the pain-related EEG features and/or generate EEG features that could be misinterpreted as being pain-specific. These include (but are not limited to) an increase in alpha generated in the visual cortex that results from attention being drawn towards the pain; the widespread increase in gamma band activity that results from scalp EMG generated by the facial expressions that often accompany pain; and the possibility that non-specific changes in the EEG over time mask the pain-related EEG features when the pain and control conditions are given in the same order across subjects. Significance: This study identified several factors that need to be controlled and/or isolated in order to successfully record EEG features that index pain-related activity in the somatosensory cortices. 2008 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
On the synthesis of safe control policies in decentralized control of discrete-event systems

State estimation and safe controller synthesis for a general form of decentralized control architecture for discrete-event systems is investigated. For this architecture, controllable events are assigned to be either "conjunctive" or "disjunctive." A new state estimator that accounts for past local control actions when calculating the set of estimated system states is presented. The new state estimator is applied to a previous general decentralized control law. The new control method generates a controlled language at least as large as that generated by the original method if a safety condition is satisfied. An algorithm for generating locally maximal control policies for a given state estimate is also discussed. The algorithm allows an amount of "steering" of the controlled system through an event priority mechanism.
Kinetics of Drug Action in Disease States Xxxiii: Disparate Effects of Pentylenetetrazol in Rats as a Function of Renal Disease Model and Pharmacologic Endpoint

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if the pharmacodynamics of the central nervous system stimulant pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) are altered in renal dysfunction. Female rats subjected to bilateral ureteral ligation (with sham-operated controls) or injected with uranyl nitrate (with saline injected controls) were infused intravenously with PTZ until the onset of either a minimal (myoclonic jerk) or maximal (tonic hindlimb extension) seizure. Neither chemically nor surgically induced renal dysfunction caused a change in the concentrations of PTZ in CSF, serum, or brain at onset of minimal seizures. When PTZ was infused to onset of maximal seizures, the rats with chemically induced renal dysfunction required higher concentrations, whereas the ureterligated rats convulsed at lower concentrations of PTZ than did the corresponding control animals. Thus, the effects of experimental renal dysfunction on the convulsant action of PTZ are dependent on both the disease model and the endpoint used for the pharmacodynamic measurement. Apparently, renal dysfunction did not affect the PTZ-induced seizure threshold, but inhibited the spread of seizures. The increased sensitivity of ureterligated rats may be due to their pronounced retention of water, since water loading is known to increase seizure susceptibility.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INSTITUTIONAL MISSION AND STUDENTS' INVOLVEMENT AND EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES

Although institutional characteristics are assumed to influence student learning and intellectual development, this link has not been confirmed empirically. This study examined whether institutional mission, as represented by Carnegie classification, is related to student learning and development. After controlling for student background characteristics, no meaningful differences were found in students' perceptions of the college environment, levels of academic and social involvement, integration of information, or educational outcomes by Carnegie classification.
Pupil Dilation Reflects the Creation and Retrieval of Memories

It has long been known that pupils-the apertures that allow light into the eyes-dilate and constrict not only in response to changes in ambient light but also in response to emotional changes and arousing stimuli (e.g., Fontana, 1765). Charles Darwin (1872) related changes in pupil diameter to fear and other "emotions" in animals. For decades, pupillometry has been used to study cognitive processing across many domains, including perception, language, visual search, and short-term memory. Historically, such studies have examined the pupillary reflex as a correlate of attentional demands imposed by different tasks or stimuli-pupils typically dilate as cognitive demand increases. Because the neural mechanisms responsible for such task-evoked pupillary reflexes (TEPRs) implicate a role for memory processes, recent studies have examined pupillometry as a tool for investigating the cognitive processes underlying the creation of new episodic memories and their later retrieval. Here, we review the historical antecedents of current pupillometric research and discuss several recent studies linking pupillary dilation to the on-line consumption of cognitive resources in long-term-memory tasks. We conclude by discussing the future role of pupillometry in memory research and several methodological considerations that are important when designing pupillometric studies.
Design of all-passive higher-order CMOS N-path filters

In this paper, a methodology for designing all-passive higher-order N-path filters is described. The methodology extends known filter synthesis techniques for LC filters to N-path filters through the use of lumped quarter-wave transmission-line (t-line) equivalents that enable series-LC-like N-path structures. The quarter-wave t-line equivalents also isolate N-path filters from each other, allowing N-path sections to be cascaded to realize filters of arbitrary order. A tunable, nominally 6th-order, high-Q N-path bandpass filter based on this methodology has been implemented in 65nm CMOS. The filter has an insertion loss of 4.7–6.2dB, a tuning range of about 35% from 600MHz to 850MHz, and bandwidth that ranges from 9–15MHz, resulting in a Q that ranges from 40–90. The filter achieves an out-of-band (OOB) rejection of 30–50 dB, input-referred in-band (IB) and OOB 1dB compression point of 0dBm and +14dBm, and input-referred IB and OOB IIP3 of +7 and +17.5dBm respectively. The clock path DC power consumption at 700MHz is 75mW from a 1.2V supply.
Hybrid Inertial Microwave Reflectometry for mm-Scale Tracking in RFID Systems

This paper proposes a new fine-scale (millimeter level) radio localization and tracking scheme—Hybrid Inertial Microwave Reflectometry—for radio frequency identification and other wireless systems. The scheme combines the backscattered radio frequency signal properties, such as received signal strength and received signal phase, along with reflected inertial data from a tag-mounted accelerometer sensor. Experimental results yield a mean error of 2 mm in ranging accuracy, with a 90% confidence interval of $\pm$ 1 mm, while tracking a tag moving at a maximum speed of 1.4 m/s.
Experimental and theoretical study of the product channels of the C2H + NO reaction.

The product channels of the C2H + NO reaction were studied by transient infrared absorption spectroscopy. HCN, CO, CN, and HNO (produced from HCO secondary chemistry), were successfully detected. A...
Characterizing heterogeneity in cooperative networks from a resource distribution view-point

© by International Press. First published in Communications in Information and Systems, Vol. 14, no. 1, 2014, by International Press.
Real-Time Characterization of Physical Changes in Polyimide Film Formation: From Casting to Imidization

Drying and imidization of PMDA–ODA solutions in NMP were investigated by a novel custom designed measurement system that tracks real time weight, thickness, surface temperature, and in-plane and out-of-plane birefringence. At low temperature drying stage, the weight and thickness reductions occurred rapidly as a result of solvent evaporation. All the parameters started leveling off while the out of plane birefringence steadily increased and reached a plateau at longer drying times. When the temperature was increased for imidization reaction, additional weight loss accompanied by temporary reduction of birefringence was observed due to evaporation of bound solvent as solvent molecules decomplexed from the polymer chains and plasticized the film. During the latter stage, out-of-plane birefringence rose rapidly due to increased intrinsic birefringence of the polymer chains due to imidization reaction and orientation of polymer chains with their chain axes preferentially oriented in the film plane. Throughout...
Three-Dimensional Modeling May Improve Surgical Education and Clinical Practice.

Background. Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been used in the manufacturing industry for rapid prototyping and product testing. The aim of our study was to assess the feasibility of creating ana...
Singlet O2 Formation by O-atom Recombination on Fused Quartz Surfaces

Experimental results are presented that demonstrate O2(a 1g) ( = 0) formation by catalytic O-atom surface recombination on the walls of a room-temperature fused-quartz flow-tube reactor. Resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) is used to detect O2(a 1g) ( = 0) downstream of a nitrogen discharge flow titrated with nitric oxide to introduce oxygen atoms. A calibration procedure based on ozone photodissociation is developed to quantify O2(a 1g) ( = 0) REMPI signals. Partial pressures of O2(a 1g) ( = 0) in the range of 2.9 to 14 Torr are measured in the REMPI cell for O-atom partial pressures of 1.4to 2.9-mTorr atomic oxygen introduced at the titration port. O2(a 1g) ( = 1) could not be detected; an upper limit for the O2(a 1g) ( = 1) partial pressure is 1/5 of the O2(a 1g) ( = 0) partial pressure. A simple chemical kinetics model demonstrates that measured O2(a 1g) pressures cannot be explained by gas-phase chemistry alone and must involve O atoms participating in surface reactions. We find that collisional deactivation of O2(a 1g) on the tube walls must be included to satisfactorily model the experimentally observed pressures and trends. Modeling results also suggest that the O2(a 1g) surface production yield is 10% or more.
Mimicking Red Blood Cell Lipid Membrane To Enhance the Hemocompatibility of Large-Pore Mesoporous Silica

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been repeatedly demonstrated as potential drug-delivery devices. The study of biocompatibility and interaction of these materials with the various cell types is of great interest with regard to the development of viable pharmaceutical products. By mimicking the cholesterol, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylethanolamine composition of the outer leaflet of a human red blood cell (RBC), lipid-bilayer-coated mesoporous silica particles show considerably improved hemocompatibility over phosphatidylcholine-coated and uncoated large-pore MSN (l-MSN). These inorganic/organic composite nanomaterials are shown to be capable of interfacing with RBCs without damaging the cells even at relatively high concentrations, as observed through electron microscopy, UV–vis spectroscopy, and flow cytometry analyses. Interestingly, the absence of cholesterol in the outer bilayer composition is shown to produce toxic effects without resulting in hemolysis. By maintaining the ζ poten...
P3-18-03: In Vitro Potency of mTOR Kinase (TOR1/TOR2) Inhibitor, INK128 in ER+ and HER2 Overexpressing Breast Cancer Cells.

Background Persistent activation of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR1/2 signaling pathway drives aberrant cell growth and proliferation in a variety of tumor types including breast tumors. Recent works have demonstrated a strong association between mutational activation of PIK3CA or loss of function of PTEN and resistance to therapies targeted against the ER or HER2 pathway. Purpose : Since PI3K-AKT-mTOR is one of the major signaling pathways responsible for the progression of breast cancer, as well as appears to be upregulated during development of the resistance to the endocrine and trastuzumab treatment, suppression of this pathway by administration of INK128 (mTOR1/2 kinase inhibitor) may therefore be efficacious in ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer models. Experimental Design : To examine this possibility, INK128 was treated in ER+ (MCF7, BT483, T47D and MDA-MB-415), trastuzumab-sensitive HER2+ (BT474), trastuzumab-resistant (BT474HR), and PIK3CA mutated/HER2+ breast cancer cells (HCC1954 and UACC893). We have tested the effects of INK128 on the, (a) cell survival/proliferation, (b) integrin-directed cell migration, and small GTP-ase activation, (c) downstream signaling pathways for proliferation and apoptosis, and (d) 3D ON-TOP-colony formation. Results : Treatment of ER+ and HER2+ cell lines with INK128 in vitro showed that 1) cell lines were sensitive to single agent INK128 with 50% inhibitory concentration ranging from 15 nM-10 μM in ER+ cell lines and 20 nM −50 nM in HER2+ cell lines, 2) 70–80% anti-proliferative activities were observed on 3D-ON TOP colony formation assay in both ER+ and HER2+ cells, 3) INK128 dose- and time-dependently blocked downstream effectors of mTOR1/2 pathway i.e. p-AKT (at Ser473), p-P70S6K, p-S6 ribosomal protein, p-4EBP1(interestingly, potent inhibition was also observed in cell line resistant to trastuzumab), 4) INK128 also blocked AKT phosphorylation at Thr308 (although in lesser extent than at Ser473), 5) rapalog-mediated AKT activation was blocked when cells were treated with INK128, 6) in ER+ cell lines INK128 more efficiently blocked p-4EBP1 than rapalog, 7) HER3 expression was significantly upregulated following treatment of trastuzumab-resistant cells (BT474HR) with INK128, and 8) integrin-dependent cell migration was significantly abrogated with INK128 in association with inhibition of RAC1-GTP. Conclusion : Our preclinical in vitro data demonstrate that concurrent inhibition of mTOR1and mTOR2 is likely to be a more effective in both ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cells than the inhibition of mTOR1 alone. We are currently studying the effect of INK128 on downstream apoptotic signals in ER+ and HER2+ cell lines, the results of which will be presented in the meeting. INK128 was generously supplied by Inkellikine, San Diego, CA. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-18-03.
MTHFR: Addressing Genetic Counseling Dilemmas Using Evidence-Based Literature

The 5, 10 methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme is a catalyst in the folate metabolism pathway, the byproducts of which are involved in the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine. Methionine is a precursor for a major DNA methyl donor and is important for DNA methylation and gene regulation. Rare mutations in the MTHFR gene have been associated with autosomal recessive MTHFR deficiency leading to homocystinuria. In addition, two polymorphic variants in this gene (C677T and A1298C) have been implicated in a mild form of MTHFR deficiency associated with hyperhomocysteinemia. Mild to moderate hyperhomocysteinemia has been previously implicated as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Further, the presence of these variants, with and without mildly elevated levels of homocysteine, has been studied in relation to several multifactorial disorders including recurrent pregnancy loss, neural tube defects and congenital anomalies, cancer, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Given this wide spectrum of purported clinical implications and the prevalence of these polymorphisms, genetic counselors may encounter questions regarding the significance of MTHFR polymorphisms in a variety of settings. Here we present a brief background of the MTHFR polymorphisms, review of the literature regarding clinical considerations, and discussion of relevant genetic counseling aspects through case vignettes. Educational resources for patients and providers are also included.
Navigability and its Consequences: State Title, Mineral Rights, and the Public Trust Doctrine

“Navigability” and “navigable waters” are two of the most complex terms of art in American law because their meanings vary from context to context. A “navigable water” for purposes of the federal courts’ admiralty jurisdiction is not precisely the same thing as a “navigable water” for Commerce Clause purposes, and the Commerce Clause definition can be further refined in statute like the federal Clean Water Act. Other important federal law definitions of navigability govern state title to banks and beds of waterways and the scope of the federal navigation servitude. As this article will discuss, these tests overlap considerably, and attempts to distinguish them can cause confusion. State law definitions of “navigability” for state regulatory purposes complicate the multiple valences of “navigable water” even further. This article provides an overview of some of the more important definitions of “navigability” and “navigable waters.” In general, labeling a waterway as “navigable” signals that either the federal government or the public acquires some right to the waterway in question. However, if the waterway also meets the “navigable water” test for state title, complicated legal relationships among the federal government, the relevant state, the general public, and private riparian landowners almost inevitably follow.
DNA-based nanoparticle tension sensors reveal that T-cell receptors transmit defined pN forces to their antigens for enhanced fidelity

T cells are triggered when the T-cell receptor (TCR) encounters its antigenic ligand, the peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC), on the surface of antigen presenting cells (APCs). Because T cells are highly migratory and antigen recognition occurs at an intermembrane junction where the T cell physically contacts the APC, there are long-standing questions of whether T cells transmit defined forces to their TCR complex and whether chemomechanical coupling influences immune function. Here we develop DNA-based gold nanoparticle tension sensors to provide, to our knowledge, the first pN tension maps of individual TCR-pMHC complexes during T-cell activation. We show that naive T cells harness cytoskeletal coupling to transmit 12-19 pN of force to their TCRs within seconds of ligand binding and preceding initial calcium signaling. CD8 coreceptor binding and lymphocyte-specific kinase signaling are required for antigen-mediated cell spreading and force generation. Lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) mediated adhesion modulates TCR-pMHC tension by intensifying its magnitude to values >19 pN and spatially reorganizes the location of TCR forces to the kinapse, the zone located at the trailing edge of migrating T cells, thus demonstrating chemomechanical crosstalk between TCR and LFA-1 receptor signaling. Finally, T cells display a dampened and poorly specific response to antigen agonists when TCR forces are chemically abolished or physically "filtered" to a level below ∼12 pN using mechanically labile DNA tethers. Therefore, we conclude that T cells tune TCR mechanics with pN resolution to create a checkpoint of agonist quality necessary for specific immune response.
Ion chromatographic determination of four reducing anions in water utilizing Indirect Photometric Detection

Objective To establish a method for determination of 4reducing anions in water.Methods A ion chromatography combined with spectrophotometer method was approached for simultaneous determination of 4reducing anions.The mixture was separated by isocratic elution and determinated by spectrophotometer due to the color fading reaction with potassium permanganate.Results With injection of 200μl,the recovery rate was 88.0%~102.5%,the relative standard deviation was2.5%~5.7%,the detection limits(S/N=3)was 0.10μmol for arsenite,0.27μmol for sulfide,0.39μmol for sulfite and 1.50μmol for oxalate,respectively.Conclusion The proposed method was applied successfully to the determination of 4reducing anions in water.
Femoral head and neck excision arthroplasty.

Summary Femoral head and neck excision arthroplasty is a limited but valuable and necessary form of therapy in diseases of the hip. The operation produces a pain-free hip, increases the range of motion, and corrects deformity, and the results tend to be permanent. Patients who have undergone this arthroplasty have shortening of the extremity, instability, and fatigability and require some type of external support. Femoral head and neck arthroplasty consistently produces a good result, but an excellent result is not to be anticipated.
From MOM to MORE: Emerging Research on Mixed Orientation Relationships

Mixed orientation relationships (MOREs) refer to persons in a relationship whose sexual orientations do not match. To date, however, most literature on MOREs has focused somewhat narrowly on mixed orientation marriages (MOMs), in which one spouse is heterosexual and the other experiences same-sex attraction and may or may not identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. This review focuses on 14 recently published scholarly articles, noting an emerging shift in the literature from MOMs to the more broad and inclusive concept of MOREs. Relationship factors, the influence of religious identity, lesbian and bisexual female partners, intentional MOREs, and clinical practice issues are discussed. Further research on MOREs that looks beyond the traditional viewpoint of MOMs is needed in order to better understand the particular challenges, as well as the unique resiliency factors, seen within these non-traditional relationships.
Factors influencing obesity among preschoolers: multilevel approach

BACKGROUND Childhood obesity is a complex and multifaceted problem involving interactions among child, family and community environment. AIM The purpose of this study was to examine the contributing factors to early childhood obesity within a multilevel context, including child and family, childcare setting and community. METHODS A cross-sectional, quantitative research design was employed. A total of 129 preschoolers and their parents in northwest Florida participated in this study. Child height and weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Parents and directors of preschools completed survey questionnaires to assess child/family, childcare setting and community factors, respectively. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to evaluate the association of each level of factors with child BMI z-score. RESULTS Twenty-one per cent of children were overweight or obese (≥85th BMI percentile). In hierarchical multiple regression, household income, parent beliefs, attitudes and practices for child feeding, family obesogenic environment, child routines (screen time on weekends, sleep hours, bedtime) and physical activity environment were significantly related to child BMI z-score. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study provide a broader understanding of factors that influence child BMI z-score. Shaping a non-obesogenic environment by establishing healthy routines for children in the home, childcare setting and community is essential in childhood obesity prevention. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE AND HEALTH POLICY Paediatric nurses should routinely assess accurate parental perception of child weight, feeding style and child routines in well-child care visits. Healthcare professionals and health policymakers should enact policies that build a healthy environment for preschoolers in their childcare setting and community.
Diastereoselective access to substituted 4-aminopiperidines via a pyridine reduction approach

We describe herein a diastereoselective approach to access substituted-4-aminopiperidines from pyridine precursors. This methodology has successfully been applied to synthesize 2-alkyl substrates as well as more complex molecular entities of interest to the pharmaceutical industry.
Review: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is not effective for chronic low-back pain

Source Citation Milne S, Welch V, Brosseau L, et al. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic low back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2001;(2):CD003008 (latest version 3 Au...
Does Sustainability Increase Financial Performance? A Quantitative Comparison between the S&P 500 and S&P 500 ESG Factor Weighted Index

As the business environment continues to be influenced by stakeholder forces, including sustainability reporting and sustainable operations, a question that continues to be asked is if such a mindset delivers financial returns. While there is increased interest and attention on the areas of sustainability reporting and financial returns, quantitatively addressing this question is a complicated task. Leveraging the proliferation of ETFs, this analysis compares the performance of the S&P 500 ESG Factor Weighted Index versus the S&P 500 during the period 2014-2016. As business decisions are driven in large part by the financial performance of the organizations, this research is applicable to both practitioner and academic members of the accounting community. Additionally, the second aspect of this research attempts to establish a connection between sustainability, integrated reporting, and begin the analysis whether or not there appears to be a connection between performance and integrated reporting.
Evaluating the Association between Enlarged Perivascular Spaces and Disease Worsening in Multiple Sclerosis.

Background and purpose Enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVSs) have been associated with relapses and brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS). We investigated the association of EPVS with clinical and MRI features of disease worsening in a well-characterized cohort of relapsing-remitting MS patients prospectively followed for up to 10 years. Methods Baseline EPVSs were scored on 1.5T MRI in 30 converters to moderate-severe disability, and 30 nonconverters matched for baseline characteristics. Results EPVS scores were not significantly different between converters and nonconverters, nor associated with accrual of lesions or brain atrophy. Conclusions Our preliminary findings from a relatively small study sample argue against a potential use of EPVS as early indicator of risk for disease worsening in relapsing-remitting MS patients in a clinical setting. Although the small sample size and clinical 1.5T MRI may have limited our ability to detect a significant effect, we provided estimates of the association of EPVS with clinical and MRI indicators of disease worsening in a well-characterized cohort of MS patients.
Temperature measurement of rare-earth-doped optical fibers using a variant of the differential luminescence thermometry (Conference Presentation)

Measurement of cooling efficiency and temperature of the doped optical fiber is critical for the development of optical refrigerators and radiation balanced lasers. Measuring the optical fiber temperature, especially for single mode fibers, is challenging. Non-contact thermometry is required because a temperature sensor which is in thermal contact with the fiber can potentially be a heat load when exposed to the scattered pump power and fiber luminescence and can lead to inaccuracies in thermometry. One of the best non-contact methods is using differential luminescence thermometry (DLT). DLT works based on the fact that the 4f electrons in rare-earths are shielded from the surroundings and host field transitions; therefore, the temperature-induced intensity changes in rare-earth material luminescence are mainly caused by changes in Boltzmann population of emitting states. We propose a variant of DLT for finding a relation between the spontaneous emission of the fiber and the temperature. Our method is based on the normalized correlation between the spontaneous emission spectrum at each temperature and the reference spontaneous emission. In this method, we chose a section of the spontaneous emission spectrum as the reference and calculate the normalized correlation factor of the spontaneous spectrum at each temperature with the reference spontaneous spectrum. We make a calibration curve, and based on the calibration curve we estimate the temperature difference from the reference. Comparisons with the conventional DLT will be presented.
Predicting early cognitive decline in newly-diagnosed Parkinson's patients: A practical model.

Abstract Objective To create a multivariable model to predict early cognitive decline among de novo patients with Parkinson's disease, using brief, inexpensive assessments that are easily incorporated into clinical flow. Methods Data for 351 drug-naive patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease were obtained from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative. Baseline demographic, disease history, motor, and non-motor features were considered as candidate predictors. Best subsets selection was used to determine the multivariable baseline symptom profile that most accurately predicted individual cognitive decline within three years. Results Eleven per cent of the sample experienced cognitive decline. The final logistic regression model predicting decline included five baseline variables: verbal memory retention, right-sided bradykinesia, years of education, subjective report of cognitive impairment, and REM behavior disorder. Model discrimination was good (optimism-adjusted concordance index = .749). The associated nomogram provides a tool to determine individual patient risk of meaningful cognitive change in the early stages of the disease. Conclusions Through the consideration of easily-implemented or routinely-gathered assessments, we have identified a multidimensional baseline profile and created a convenient, inexpensive tool to predict cognitive decline in the earliest stages of Parkinson's disease. The use of this tool would generate prediction at the individual level, allowing clinicians to tailor medical management for each patient and identify at-risk patients for clinical trials aimed at disease modifying therapies.
Vibrations and Normal Modes

Any molecule, even a homonuclear diatomic molecule, has a variety of distinct motions in three-dimensional space. It can translate in three different spatial directions, rotate about two orthogonal axes associated with significant moments of inertia, and vibrate along the internuclear axis. In general, however, a molecule moving in space will display all such motions. The observer really observes the motion of the two atoms of the molecule. These atomic motions must be resolved into molecular motions such as translation, rotation, and vibration.
Status of treatment of depression.

AbstractBackground.Depression is a common and highly treatable disorder, with most patients returning to predepression levels of functioning. Patients with depression must be carefully assessed for the presence of comorbid psychiatric or medical disorders, as well as psychosocial stresses.Methods.I
Low-Level Automated Light-Duty Vehicle Technologies Provide Opportunities to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Gasoline is the main source of energy used for surface transportation in the United States. Reducing fuel consumption in light-duty vehicles can significantly reduce the transportation sector’s imp...
Abstract TP87: Hemodynamic Differences Observed between Growing and Stable Symmetric MCA Bifurcation Aneurysms

Introduction: The analysis of symmetric aneurysms can control for genetic differences in studies of aneurysm growth. This study aims to evaluate the differences in hemodynamic flow between growing ...
Coordination and Fragility in Liquidity Provision

We study liquidity provision by decentralized financial intermediaries (i.e., dealers) in a dynamic model of asset markets. When inventory cost is low (high), dealers provide more (less) liquidity by holding more (less) inventory, the market is liquid (illiquid), and interdealer trading is active (inactive). When inventory cost is medium, a dealer provides more liquidity if and only if other dealers do so, leading to strategic coordination motives and multiple equilibria. Switching between equilibria implies the potential for liquidity declines without fundamental shocks. A small trading friction among dealers effectively reduces inventory cost and hence reduces the possibility of multiple equilibria.
Response of a Composite-Adjacent Box Beam Bridge with Skewed Beams under Static and Quasi-Static Loads

AbstractAdjacent box beams are widely used for constructing short- and medium-span bridges on roadways throughout the United States. The performance of a straight, noncomposite-adjacent box beam br...
The endothelial cytoskeleton: Multifunctional role of the endothelial actomyosin cytoskeleton

The mammalian cytoskeleton plays an essential role in providing the mechanical support necessary to maintain cell shape, cell motility and movement and in signaling transducing functions. The key cytoskeletal components are three inter-communicating networking protein fi laments: actin microfi laments, microtubules, and intermediate fi laments. Endothelial cells comprise the lining of the inner vessel wall and display a highly dynamic regulation of vascular integrity via opening and closing of paracellular gaps in response to infi ltrating cells, ischemia or infl ammatory processes (Dudek and Garcia 2001). As endothelial cells have direct contact with circulating blood cells and lymphatic fl uid, the cytoskeleton plays a critical role in mechanotransduction, angiogenesis and apoptosis and in the vascular response to infl ammation, serving as the major regulator of the endothelial “gate-keeper” function via effects on paracellular gap1Institute for Personalized Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. 2Earl Bane Professor of Medicine, Pharmacology & Bioengineering, Chicago, IL 60612. Email: jggarcia@uic.edu *Corresponding authorregulation, leukocyte diapedesis and barrier regulation (Dudek and Garcia 2001, Garcia et al. 1986, Hirata et al. 1995, Majno and Palade 1961).
Characterization and epitope identification of the T cell response in non-allergic individuals exposed to mouse allergen.

Abstract Background Exposure to airborne allergens is a frequent trigger of respiratory allergy and asthma in atopic individuals. While allergic patients suffer hypersensitivity reactions to these allergens, non-allergic individuals do not exhibit clinical symptoms despite environmental exposure to these ubiquitous allergen sources. The aim of this study was to characterize T cell responses in non-allergic laboratory workers, who are heavily exposed to mice allergens (Exposed Non-Allergics, ENA) and compare this data to previously published T cell responses measured in mouse (MO)-allergic patients. METHODS: Peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMC) from ENA subjects were expanded for 2 weeks in vitro with mouse urine extract and screened for IFNγ and IL-5 cytokine production in response to mouse antigen-derived peptides by ELISPOT. Ex vivo T cell reactivity in the ENA cohort was performed after 6hr stimulation with peptide pools by intracellular staining of CD154. Results Vigorous responses were detected, associated with 147 epitopes derived from 16 mouse antigens. As expected, responses in ENA subjects were somewhat lower than those observed in MO-allergics for both responder frequency and overall response magnitude. While responses in allergics were polarized towards IL-5 production and associated with low IFNγ production, ENA responses were not polarized. The composition of targeted antigens and epitopes was overall similar between the two cohorts, with the majority of T cell reactivity directed against Mus m 1 and other major urinary proteins. However, kappa-casein precursor and odorant binding protein Ib were more abundantly recognized in MO-allergics compared to ENA subjects. Additionally, T cell responses against oligopeptides derived from the low molecular weight fraction of mouse urine were also assessed. Interestingly, no difference in the response frequency, magnitude or polarization between MO-allergic and ENA individuals was observed. Finally, assessment of ex vivo T cell activation also revealed T cell reactivity in the ENA cohort, with a non-significant trend for lower responses compared to MO-allergics. Conclusion Exposure to mouse induces potent T cell responses in non-allergic individuals, targeting similar epitopes as seen in allergic patients.
Chapter Thirteen The Prayer of the Heart, and the Heart of Prayer: On the Eastern Orthodox Practice of Prayer

After discussing the Orthodox “Jesus prayer” and its relation to Orthodox prayer in general, the article outlines a “Topography of Prayer in Orthodox Practice” under ten subheadings: Divine Presence; Avoiding Representations; Descent to the Heart; the Role of Compunction; the Name of God; the Circularity of Prayer; God Praying Within Us; Stillness (hesychia); Erōs and Longing; and the Cosmic Dimension of Prayer. A concluding section discusses the essential link between prayer and action.
Dreaming of ‘nowhere’: A co-autoethnographic exploration of Utopia-dystopia in the academy

In this postformal co-autoethnographic research, the authors explore the changing landscape of American research universities from their respective locations as mid-career, post-tenure critical ped...
Statistical Intervals: A Guide for Practitioners and Researchers (2nd ed.)

The ability to quantifying certainty of an estimated or predicted quantity is key to practical and realistic decision-making. Hence, realistic and correct statistical intervals are essential to all...
eIF3a Regulation of NHEJ Repair Protein Synthesis and Cellular Response to Ionizing Radiation

Translation initiation in protein synthesis regulated by eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs) is a crucial step in controlling gene expression. eIF3a has been shown to regulate protein synthesis and cellular response to treatments by anticancer agents including cisplatin by regulating nucleotide excision repair. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that eIF3a regulates the synthesis of proteins important for the repair of double-strand DNA breaks induced by ionizing radiation (IR). We found that eIF3a upregulation sensitized cellular response to IR while its downregulation caused resistance to IR. eIF3a increases IR-induced DNA damages and decreases non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) activity by suppressing the synthesis of NHEJ repair proteins. Furthermore, analysis of existing patient database shows that eIF3a expression associates with better overall survival of breast, gastric, lung, and ovarian cancer patients. These findings together suggest that eIF3a plays an important role in cellular response to DNA-damaging treatments by regulating the synthesis of DNA repair proteins and, thus, eIIF3a likely contributes to the outcome of cancer patients treated with DNA-damaging strategies including IR.
Telehealth Adoption Among Endocrinologists During The Covid-19 Pandemic.

ABSTRACT Objective: Telehealth is a timely solution for delivering health care during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The practice of endocrinology is suited to provide virtual ca...
The Terminology of Districting

We seek to aid those interested in redistricting and gerrymandering by providing a glossary that identifies and defines (a) key geographic concepts related to districting, (b) forms of gerrymandering, (c) tools/techniques used to implement gerrymandering, and (d) metrics proposed to measure gerrymandering.
Capsular Polysaccharide of Group A Streptococcus

Most clinical isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes elaborate a capsular polysaccharide, which is composed of hyaluronic acid, a high-molecular-mass polymer of alternating residues of N-acetyl glucosamine and glucuronic acid. Certain strains, particularly those of the M18 serotype, produce abundant amounts of capsule, resulting in formation of large, wet-appearing, translucent or "mucoid" colonies on solid media, whereas strains of M-types 4 and 22 produce none. Studies of acapsular mutant strains have provided evidence that the capsule enhances virulence in animal models of infection, an effect attributable, at least in part, to resistance to complement-mediated opsonophagocytic killing by leukocytes. The presence of the hyaluronic acid capsule may mask adhesins on the bacterial cell wall. However, the capsule itself can mediate bacterial attachment to host cells by binding to the hyaluronic-acid binding protein, CD44. Furthermore, binding of the S. pyogenes capsule to CD44 on host epithelial cells can trigger signaling events that disrupt cell-cell junctions and facilitate bacterial invasion into deep tissues. This article summarizes the biochemistry, genetics, regulation, and role in pathogenesis of this important virulence determinant.