cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Classification of Some Esterases of the Green Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

SUMMARY Aqueous extracts of green beans hydrolyzed the acetyl, propionyl, and n-butyryl esters of glycerol, phenol, sodium 2-naphthol-6-sulfonate and choline. Triolein and soluble long-chain esters of sodium 2-naphthol-6-sulfonate were not hydrolyzed. Optimum esterase activity occurred at pH 7.2. Three esterases were classified by studylng the effects of the organophosphorus compounds, diethyl p-nitrophenyl thioposphate (parathion), tetraethyl pyrophosphate (TEPP) and diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate (DEP), on the hydrolysis of nine substrates, One esterase, resistant to organophosphorus compounds, was classified as an arylesterase (EC 3. 1. 1. 2). The two esterases inhibited by organophosphours compounds were classified as carboxylesterases (EC 3. 1. 1. 1).
Temperature-aware scheduler based on thermal behavior grouping in multicore systems

Dynamic Thermal Management techniques have been widely accepted as a thermal solution for their low cost and simplicity. The techniques have been used to manage the heat dissipation and operating temperature to avoid thermal emergencies, but are not aware of application behavior in Chip Multiprocessors (CMPs). In this paper, we propose a temperature-aware scheduler based on applications' thermal behavior groups classified by a K-means clustering method in multicore systems. The application's thermal behavior group has similar thermal pattern as well as thermal parameters. With these thermal behavior groups, we provide thermal balances among cores with negligible performance overhead. We implement and evaluate our schemes in the 4-core (Intel Quad Core Q6600) and 8-core (two Quad Core Intel XEON E5310 processors) systems running several benchmarks. The experimental results show that the temperature-aware scheduler based on thermal behavior grouping reduces the peak temperature by up to 8°C and 5°C in our 4-core system and 8-core system with only 12% and 7.52% performance overhead, respectively, compared to Linux standard scheduler.
Adaptive and Maladaptive Components of Rumination? Diagnostic Specificity and Relation to Depressive Biases

The present study investigated the validity of the two-factor solution of items selected from the Rumination Scale of the Response Style Questionnaire proposed by Treynor, Gonzalez, and Nolen-Hoeksema (2003). In the first part of this study we used samples of currently depressed (MDD), formerly depressed (FD), socially anxious (SP), and healthy control participants to examine whether the brooding and reflective pondering components differentiate participants with an anxiety disorder from participants with depression. In the second part of this study we examined whether these components of rumination were differentially related to cognitive biases in depression. Overall, the MDD group exhibited higher brooding scores than did all other groups; SP and FD groups did not differ from each other but obtained higher brooding scores than did the control participants. Only the MDD and the control groups differed on the reflective pondering factor. Importantly, brooding and reflective pondering were differentially related to cognitive biases. Specifically, the correlation between brooding/reflective pondering and memory bias was not significant when depressive symptoms were partialed out. The correlation between brooding and attentional bias for sad faces, however, remained significant even when current depressive symptoms were taken into account. In sum, our results support the formulation that rumination is composed of an adaptive reflective pondering factor and a maladaptive brooding factor.
Does the Process of Constitution-Making Matter?

Constitution-making is a ubiquitous but poorly understood phenomenon. There is much speculation but relatively little evidence about the impact of different design processes on constitutional outcomes. Much of the debate reduces to the question of who is involved in the process and when. We consider two central issues in this regard. The first is the problem of institutional self-dealing, or whether governmental organs that have something to gain from the constitutional outcome should be involved in the process. The second has to do with the merits of public involvement in the process. Both of these concerns have clear normative implications and both are amenable to straightforward social scientific analysis. This article surveys the relevant research on constitution-making, describes the conceptual issues involved in understanding constitution-making, reviews the various claims regarding variation in constitution-making processes, and presents a set of baseline empirical results from a new set of data on the content and process of constitution-making.
SEKE: A computer model for low altitude radar propagation over irregular terrain

SEKE, a new site-specific propagation model for general terrain, makes use of the original Lincoln Laboratory models geometrical optics (GOPT), low altitude propagation spherical earth (LAPSE), and low altitude propagation knife edges (LAPKE) to compute multipath, spherical earth diffraction, and multiple knife-edge diffraction losses. The proper algorithm is selected based on terrain geometry, antenna and target heights, and frequency. Comparison of model predictions with measurements over several paths ranging from level to rough at five frequencies ( X -band through VHF) is presented. A brief discussion on the performance of SEKE over general terrain with respect to the expected performance of the two other general terrain-specific models (Longley-Rice and terrain integrated rough earth model (TIREM)) is given.
Family-Centered, Community-Based, Coordinated Care for Children With Special Health Care Needs

In June 1987, at a conference sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health and Resources Development, Department of Health and Human Services, the Surgeon General of the US Public Health Service, C. Everett Koop, MD, ScD, issued a report concerning children with special health care needs. In the report, Dr Koop identified the following seven steps to improve access to care and quality of life for these children: (1) A pledge of a national commitment to all children with special health care needs and their families, (2) encouragement of localities in the building of community-based service systems, (3) assistance in ensuring adequate preparation of providers of care, (4) development of coalitions to improve the delivery of services, (5) establishment of guidelines to control costs of services, (6) encouragement and support of the development of adequate health care financing, and (7) continuation of research and dissemination of information. Dr Koop also called for the establishment of a national agenda for families and professionals involved in the care of children with special health care needs to work together to improve the lives of these children and their families through a system of family-centered, community-based, coordinated care. In this paper, we will define what is needed to carry out this agenda, discuss some associated problems and solutions, and suggest the role that pediatricians can play. DEFINITION OF THE NEED Family-Centered Care Family-centered care is the focus of philosophy of care in which the pivotal role of the family is recognized and respected in the lives of children with special health needs.
Medication risk factors associated with healthcare-associated Clostridium difficile infection: a multilevel model case–control study among 64 US academic medical centres

Objectives The main objective of this study was to determine patient- and hospital-level medication risk factors associated with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) occurrence among patients clustered within hospitals using a multilevel model. Methods Patients with healthcare-associated (HA)-CDI were identified from among 64 academic medical centres in 2009. A frequency match was conducted; for each case, up to two controls were selected, matched on similar pre-infection length of stay and clinical service line. Patient- and hospital-level medication use, including antibacterial and gastric acid-suppressant agents, was assessed using a two-level logistic regression model. Results A total of 5967 CDI cases and 8167 controls were included in the analysis. The odds of acquiring HA-CDI increased with the following medications [OR (95% CI)]: anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus agents [1.38 (1.22-1.56)]; third- or fourth-generation cephalosporins [1.75 (1.62-1.89)]; carbapenems [1.60 (1.44-1.79)]; β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations [1.49 (1.36-1.64)]; vancomycin [1.73 (1.57-1.89)]; and proton pump inhibitors [1.43 (1.30-1.57)]. The odds of acquiring HA-CDI decreased with the following medications: clindamycin [0.74 (0.63-0.87)]; and macrolides [0.88 (0.77-0.99)]. Controlling for patient-level covariates, no hospital-level medication covariates that we analysed had statistically significant effects on HA-CDI. The odds of acquiring HA-CDI increased with the hospital proportion of patients aged ≥ 65 years [1.01 (1.00-1.02)]. Conclusions We found several medications that were associated with the risk of patients developing HA-CDI, including β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations, third- or fourth-generation cephalosporins, carbapenems, vancomycin, proton pump inhibitors and anti-methicillin-resistant S. aureus agents. There were no medication effects significant at the hospital level.
Competition of Listeria monocytogenes Serotype 1/2a and 4b Strains in Mixed-Culture Biofilms

The majority of Listeria monocytogenes isolates recovered from foods and the environment are strains of serogroup 1/2, especially serotypes 1/2a and 1/2b. However, serotype 4b strains cause the majority of human listeriosis outbreaks. Our investigation of L. monocytogenes biofilms used a simulated food-processing system that consisted of repeated cycles of growth, sanitation treatment, and starvation to determine the competitive fitness of strains of serotypes 1/2a and 4b in pure and mixed-culture biofilms. Selective enumeration of strains of a certain serotype in mixed-culture biofilms on stainless steel coupons was accomplished by using serotype-specific quantitative PCR and propidium monoazide treatment to prevent amplification of extracellular DNA or DNA from dead cells. The results showed that the serotype 1/2a strains tested were generally more efficient at forming biofilms and predominated in the mixed-culture biofilms. The growth and survival of strains of one serotype were not inhibited by strains of the other serotype in mixed-culture biofilms. However, we found that a cocktail of serotype 4b strains survived and grew significantly better in mixed-culture biofilms containing a specific strain of serotype 1/2a (strain SK1387), with final cell densities averaging 0.5 log10 CFU/cm2 higher than without the serotype 1/2a strain. The methodology used in this study contributed to our understanding of how environmental stresses and microbial competition influence the survival and growth of L. monocytogenes in pure and mixed-culture biofilms.
Searching for a bright tomorrow: Graduate education in rhetoric during the 1960s

Recent developments in human affairs and in our model of rationality have created a necessity for a rhetorical theory that is sensitive to demands for synthesis of and harmony among divergent systems of thought and, second, an opportunity for scholars in speech communication to restore the significance of rhetorical theory and practice. The significance of rhetoric for today may be realized if it is reconceptualized as an architectonic and a productive art. Such a reconceptualization will require a restructured graduate curriculum to ready students to function in academic and nonacademic society.
Two-Year Follow-up of an Adolescent Behavioral Weight Control Intervention

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the 24-month outcomes of a randomized controlled trial of a group-based behavioral weight control (BWC) program combined with either activity-based peer intervention or aerobic exercise. METHODS: At baseline, 118 obese adolescents (68% female; BMI = 31.41 ± 3.33) ages 13 to 16 years (mean = 14.33; SD = 1.02) were randomized to receive 1 of 2 weight loss interventions. Both interventions received the same 16-week group-based cognitive-behavioral treatment, combined with either aerobic exercise or peer-based adventure therapy. Eighty-nine adolescents (75% of original sample) completed the 24-month follow-up. Anthropometric and psychosocial measures were obtained at baseline, at the end of the 16-week intervention, and at 12 and 24 months following randomization. RESULTS: An intent-to-treat mixed factor analysis of variance indicated a significant effect for time on both percent over 50th percentile BMI for age and gender and standardized BMI score, with no differences by intervention group. Post hoc comparisons showed a significant decrease in percent overweight at 4 months (end of treatment), which was maintained at both 12- and 24-month follow-up visits. Significant improvements on several dimensions of self-concept were noted, with significant effects on physical appearance self-concept that were maintained through 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: Both BWC conditions were effective at maintaining reductions in adolescent obesity and improvements in physical appearance self-concept through 24-month follow-up. This study is one of the first to document long-term outcomes of BWC intervention among adolescents. * Abbreviations: ANOVA — : analysis of variance BWC — : behavioral weight control BWC+EXER — : behavioral weight control plus aerobic exercise BWC+PEAT — : behavioral weight control plus peer-enhanced adventure therapy Percent overBMI — : percent over 50th percentile BMI for age and gender PSEQ — : Physical Self-Efficacy Questionnaire WEL — : Weight Efficacy Life-Style Questionnaire z-BMI — : standardized BMI score
Intraventricular CCK inhibits food intake and gastric emptying in baboons

To evaluate the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) as a physiological regulator of meal size and gastric emptying in the baboon, we measured plasma CCK bioactivity during 30-min meals alone and after intravenous or intraventricular infusions of CCK COOH-terminal octapeptide (CCK-8). Both intravenous (2 micrograms/kg) and intraventricular (1 microgram/kg) CCK-8 administration resulted in plasma CCK elevations comparable with normal prandial CCK levels: peak plasma levels were 4.1 +/- 0.9, 7.1 +/- 1.1, and 4.9 +/- 2.2 pM for pooled intravenous and intraventricular control, intravenous, and intraventricular conditions. Also, both treatments appeared to reduce gastric emptying as indicated by a significant suppression of postprandial plasma insulin and glucose levels. However, only intraventricular CCK reliably reduced meal size (percent of control meal size was 91 +/- 5% or 43 +/- 19% with intravenous or intraventricular CCK). We conclude that circulating endogenous CCK is a potent postprandial endocrine regulator of gastric emptying. However, the ability of CCK to decrease meal size may require direct interaction with the central nervous system.
Proteomics of Xenopus development

Modern mass spectrometry-based methods provide an exciting opportunity to characterize protein expression in the developing embryo. We have employed an isotopic labeling technology to quantify the expression dynamics of nearly 6000 proteins across six stages of development in Xenopus laevis from the single stage zygote through the mid-blastula transition and the onset of organogenesis. Approximately 40% of the proteins show significant changes in expression across the development stages. The expression changes for these proteins naturally falls into six clusters corresponding to major events that mark early Xenopus development. A subset of experiments in this study have quantified protein expression differences between single embryos at the same stage of development, showing that, within experimental error, embryos at the same developmental stage have identical protein expression levels.
Furthering disability rights through inclusive education and employment

BACKGROUND: Despite disability rights advocacy and the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, people with disabilities continue to be under employed in America. For the past 20 years vocational rehabilitation agencies have developed effective strategies to better prepare people for employment however, employment outcomes have not increased. OBJECTIVE: This article examines common employment strategies as they related to the medical model of disability and asserts that perhaps it is time to shift the focus of our efforts to examine and address employers’ misconceptions and bias’ regarding people with disabilities. CONCLUSION: The social model of disability is presented as an alternative that seeks to target change in attitude and awareness of those without disability through employer and inclusive education.
The Challenges of Sliding Wear

The production of nanocrystalline wear debris containing components from the worn specimen, from the counterface and from the environment does not support any of the better known wear models or wear equations based on adhesion, delamination, fatigue or oxidation. In this presentation, plastic deformation, mechanical mixing and patterns of flow determined from experiments will be compared with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and a continuum analysis of two ‘fluids’ shearing in opposite directions. Together, these suggest generic behavior that needs to be included in any realistic sliding wear model.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Multi-plate dry clutch design and analysis for dual speed rotorcraft applications

This paper describes the analysis and minimum weight design of a multi-disk clutch system for application in a two-speed rotorcraft transmission. The analysis and design method presented account for component stress limits and thermal requirements for a specified shift profile. The stress analysis is based on idealized structural models with closed-form stress field approximations for each clutch component including; centrifugal stress, torque and bending stress, axial clutch engagement loads and clutch disk thermal stresses. The clutch disk temperature rise and power dissipation are evaluated using a constant load torque clutch engagement model. The results show that the carbon-carbon clutch achieves significant weight savings compared with an equivalent steel clutch due to its higher allowable clutch temperature rise. The design procedure presented in this paper offers a rapid approach for overall sizing of multi-disk clutch systems.
The nucleotide sequence ofBeneckea harveyi 5S rRNA

The complete sequence of the 5S rRNA from the bioluminescent bacterium,Beneckea harveyi has been determined to be p U G C U U G G C G\(\mathop A\limits^{10} \) C C A U A G C G A\(\mathop U\limits^{20} \) U U-G G A C C C A\(\mathop C\limits^{30} \) C U G A (U) C U U C\(\mathop C\limits^{40} \) A U U C C-G A A C\(\mathop U\limits^{50} \) C A G A A G U G A\(\mathop A\limits^{60} \) A C G A A U U A-G\(\mathop C\limits^{70} \) G C C G A U G G U\(\mathop A\limits^{80} \) G U G U G G G G C\(\mathop U\limits^{90} \) U-C C C C A U G U\(\mathop G\limits^{100} \) A G A G U A G G A\(\mathop C\limits^{110} \) A U C G-C C A G G\(\mathop C\limits^{120} \) U (U)OH.
Analysis on the climatic factors of the main producing areas of Juglans sigillata in Yunnan province

The effects of climatic factors on geographical distribution of Juglans sigillata were analyzed based on the datas of the 11 climatic factors of 40 counties in Yunnan province.The results showed that Juglans sigillata had the higher requirement for the water and temperature.The temperature(included July average temperature,January average temperature,annual average tempearture and ≥10℃ accumulated temperature) was the basic dominant factor,the influence of temperature to the distribution of Juglans sigillata was the largest.The water(included annual rainfall and average relative humidity) was the second leading factor,the influence of water to the distribution of Juglans sigillata was the second largest.
Heterogeneous regulatory changes in cell surface membrane receptors coupled to a positive inotropic response in the failing human heart.

The failing human ventricular myocardium undergoes heterogeneous changes at the receptor level that have some impact on the ability of the failing myocardium to respond to inotropic stimuli. In the failing human ventricular myocardium the β l-adrenergic receptor is profoundly down-regulated, the β 2-adrenergic receptor is only slightly decreased, α l-adrenergic receptors are unchanged and VIP receptors appear to be increased in density or affinity. These changes have implications for therapeutic strategies for heart failure and for the natural history and pathogenesis of heart muscle disease.
Traumatic brain injury decreases AMP-activated protein kinase activity and pharmacological enhancement of its activity improves cognitive outcome

Prolonged metabolic suppression in the brain is a well-characterized secondary pathology of both experimental and clinical traumatic brain injury (TBI). AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) acts as a cellular energy sensor that, when activated, regulates various metabolic and catabolic pathways to decrease ATP consumption and increase ATP synthesis. As energy availability after TBI is suppressed, we questioned if increasing AMPK activity after TBI would improve cognitive outcome. TBI was delivered using the electromagnetic controlled cortical impact model on male Sprague-Dawley rats (275-300 g) and C57BL/6 mice (20-25 g). AMPK activity within the injured parietal cortex and ipsilateral hippocampus was inferred by western blots using phospho-specific antibodies. The consequences of acute manipulation of AMPK signaling on cognitive function were assessed using the Morris water maze task. We found that AMPK activity is decreased as a result of injury, as indicated by reduced AMPK phosphorylation and corresponding changes in the phosphorylation of its downstream targets: ribosomal protein S6 and Akt Substrate of 160 kDa (AS160). Increasing AMPK activity after injury using the drugs 5-amino-1-β-d-ribofuranosyl-imidazole-4-carboxamide or metformin did not affect spatial learning, but significantly improved spatial memory. Taken together, our results suggest that decreased AMPK activity after TBI may contribute to the cellular energy crisis in the injured brain, and that AMPK activators may have therapeutic utility. Increased phosphorylation of Thr172 activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) under conditions of low cellular energy availability. This leads to inhibition of energy consuming, while activating energy generating, processes. Hill et al., present data to indicate that TBI decreases Thr172 phosphorylation and that its stimulation by pharmacological agents offers neuroprotection and improves memory. These results suggest that decreased AMPK phosphorylation after TBI incorrectly signals the injured brain that excess energy is available, thereby contributing to the cellular energy crisis and memory impairments.
Experimental study on air change effectiveness in mixing ventilation

Abstract Mixing ventilation is the most common air distribution system, and often the same diffusers provide space cooling and heating. Proper diffuser selection affects characteristics of air distribution. Air distribution with all-air-heating is one of the major challenges for mixing ventilation as temperature stratification and corresponding low ventilation effectiveness may appear. The objective of this study is to provide supporting data for air distribution system designs for several of the most common types of ceiling diffusers in the cooling and heating regime. It defines operation range for selecting diffusers with: high ADPI and ventilation and temperature effectiveness. The study is based on experimental measurements in a full-scale test room. Air change effeteness was measured using CO2 tracer gas decay tests with various types of ceiling diffusers and internal loads. Also, the air flow was changed to produce different corresponding throw for the tested diffusers (T0.25), which with characteristic space length for the diffuser jet flow (L) defined T0.25/L ratio. The results show that under heating conditions the air change effectiveness significantly decreases with decrease of T0.25/L. Even for the recommended range of T0.25/L, the value of air change effectiveness and temperature effectiveness are low: 0.56 to 0.87 and 0.58 to 0.75, respectively. Under cooling conditions, air change effectiveness and the temperature effectiveness were close to or higher than 1, regardless of diffuser type. The range of T0.25/L value that can achieve good mixing under heating condition was significantly smaller than the one under cooling mode.
Cultural Orientation and Its Associations with Alcohol Use by University Students in China

Cultural orientation is defined as an individual’s cultural preferences when encountering imported culture while still living in the native culture. Data was analyzed from 1305 Chinese university students attending universities in Beijing, Kunming, and Wuhan. Cultural orientation was assessed with the Chinese Cultural Orientation Questionnaire, which assesses both Western and Traditional Chinese cultural orientations. The analysis used hierarchical logistic regression with nondrinkers as the reference group and controlling for demographic factors (age, gender, and urban/rural background). Western cultural orientation was found to significantly increase the odds of recent drinking. The results indicated that higher Western cultural orientation was, after gender, the second most important factor associated with Chinese college student drinking frequency. Traditional Chinese cultural orientation was not associated with drinking frequency. This study highlights an unexpected outcome of globalization on students who have not left their home cultures.
The Musical Aptitudes and their Relationship with Intelligence Quotient in Students of the Region de Murcia

Abstract The objective of this research is to analyse the relationship between the musical aptitudes of primary-school children of the Region de Murcia and their intelligence quotient. The participants are 85 students, 37 girls and 48 boys between the ages of 9 and 13. The instruments used to collect information, have been: the battery of differentials and generals aptitudes (BADYG-E3), which gives information about the intelligence quotient and, the tests of musical aptitudes of Seashore. The results show high and significant correlations between some of the analysed variables.
A phenyl disulfide@CNT composite cathode for rechargeable lithium batteries

Rechargeable lithium batteries are playing an important role in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage. Cathode materials in lithium batteries are mainly inorganic; however, some organic materials are also promising for these applications due to their diversified properties. Organosulfides are a unique class of materials which are low cost, abundant, and could provide high capacities. In this work, a phase extraction technique is used to prepare a core–sheath structured composite consisting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) coated with a layer of phenyl disulfide (PDS, C6H5SSC6H5), which is designated as PDS@CNT. It forms a free-standing and binder-free paper which can be made in a scalable way with high mass loading. In lithium batteries, the S–S bonds in the composite can reversibly break and form in the CNT matrix, enabling good cycling performance. The half-cell can maintain a stable open circuit voltage over a week and deliver a specific capacity of 218 mA h g−1 at 1C while retaining 70% of the initial capacity after 150 cycles.
Profiles of Children’s Thinking About Violence in Families Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence remains a pervasive and common social problem. Evidence indicates that children witness many instances of intimate partner violence. However, the structure of children’s thinking about family violence is still not well understood. This research employed latent profile analysis to identify underlying latent profiles of children’s thinking about violence using the Attitudes and Beliefs About Violence Scale. The analysis identified two latent profiles mostly differentiated by children’s beliefs about whether or not victims of violence deserve to have violence inflicted upon them. Several covariates differentiated members of the two profiles. Suggestions for intervention and practice are included.
Postpartum Depression Screening Tools: A Review.

Objective The purpose of this study was to analyze the accuracy of screening tools in detecting postpartum depression (PPD). Methods A review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Clinical Key, and Google Scholar from the years 2001–2016 with a modified PRISMA method. The keywords, “postnatal depression screening,” “antenatal depression screening,” and “maternal depression” were used in the search. Sixty-eight articles were reviewed, and 36 further analyzed. Results The accuracy of screening tools was dependent upon a number of factors. The studies reviewed differed in the types of screening tools tested, the combination of screening tools administered, the timing in which screening tools were administered, the geographic location of patients screened, and the reference standard(s) used. Conclusions No tool could be deemed best at accurately detecting PPD on the basis of sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, there was no recommended time duration in which screening should be done. Thus, further research is needed to elucidate the accuracy of PPD screening tools, and the best criteria to determine this.
Parallel machine makespan minimization subject to machine availability and total completion time constraints

In this paper, we study the parallel machine scheduling subject to machine availability constraint. The jobs can be resumed after being preempted by another job or interrupted by the unavailable intervals. The goal is to minimize the makespan subject to the constraint that the total completion time is minimized. We study two different machine unavailability models. In the first model, each machine has a single unavailable interval which starts from time 0. In the second model, each machine can have multiple unavailable intervals, but at any time, there is at most one machine unavailable. For each model, we show that there is an optimal polynomial time algorithm.
Needed: More Economic Analyses of Management

Management is an important and understudied factor of production. This essay argues for the value for economists of studying management and offers a brief, selective review of the burgeoning recent...
Retinoids as Chemopreventive Agents: Alone and in Combination

The role of retinoids in cancer chemoprevention has been the subject of numerous studies. The rationale for the use of retinoids as chemopreventive agents or inhibitors of carcinogenesis dates back more than 60 years. As early as 1922, Mori (35) observed that a deficiency in vitamin A led to metaplastic changes of the epithelium of the respiratory tract; the normal ciliated columnar epithelium became flattened, lost nuclei, and became cornified while the underlying cells exhibited typical keratohyalin granules. Subsequent studies by Wolbach and Howe (47) extended these observations to epithelia of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts. These observations of Mori and those of Wolbach and Howe on the development of such retinoid deficient squamous metaplasia indicated a process closely akin to that induced by certain chemical carcinogens (9). A more direct link between retinoids and cancer appeared in 1926 when Fujimaki (5) observed the development of carcinomas of the stomach in rats maintained on a vitamin A deficient diet. More recently, other investigators have shown that animals fed a diet deficient in retinoids and subsequently exposed to chemical carcinogens develop a greater than normal incidence of cancers and putative precursors to these malignancies (37).
The Heat Equation Approach to Hermitian-Einstein Metrics on Stable Bundles

In this chapter we discuss here the problem of the existence of Hermitian-Einstein metrics on stable bundles. The case of stable bundles over compact complex curves was done by Narasimhan and Seshadri [N-S] and alternative proof later given by Donaldson [D1]. Donaldson [D2] treated the case of stable bundles over compact algebraic surfaces by using the heat equation method. Recently a paper of Uhlenbeck and Yau [U-Y] dealt with the problem for stable bundles over a compact Kahler manifold by using the continuity method. A recent preprint of N. P. Buchdahl [Bu] considered the case of stable bundles over compact complex surfaces that admit a ∂†-closed positive definite (1.1)-form. A most recent preprint of Donaldson [D3] carried over his treatment of the surface case to higher dimension. Simpson [Si] in his Harvard University dissertation under the direction of W. Schmid proved the existence of Hermitian-Einstein metrics for stable systems of Hodge bundles without the restriction of algebraicity.
Particle Size Critical Supersaturation Relationships

A small degree of variability of size-Sc measurements has been cited as evidence that CCN might be deduced from particle size measurements alone. However, we present size-critical supersaturation (Sc) measurements with a greater range of variability that casts doubt on this concept.
Feline congenital erythropoietic porphyria: two homozygous UROS missense mutations cause the enzyme deficiency and porphyrin accumulation.

The first feline model of human congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP) due to deficient uroporphyrinogen III synthase (URO-synthase) activity was identified by its characteristic clinical phenotype, and confirmed by biochemical and molecular genetic studies. The proband, an adult domestic shorthair cat, had dark-red urine and brownish discolored teeth with red fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Biochemical studies demonstrated markedly increased uroporphyrinogen I in urine and plasma (2,650- and 10,700-fold greater than wild type, respectively), whereas urinary 5-aminolevulinic acid and porphobilinogen were lower than normal. Erythrocytic URO-synthase activity was T (p.S47F) in exon 3 and c.331G>A (p.G111S) in exon 6, both of which were homozygous, presumably owing to parental consanguinity. Neither was present in 100 normal cat alleles. Prokaryotic expression and thermostability studies of the purified monomeric wild-type, p.S47F, p.G111S, and p.S47F/G111S enzymes showed that the p.S47F enzyme had 100% of wild-type specific activity but ∼50% decreased thermostability, whereas the p.G111S and p.S47F/G111S enzymes had about 60% and 20% of wild-type specific activity, respectively, and both were markedly thermolabile. Molecular modeling results indicated that the less active/less stable p.G111S enzyme was further functionally impaired by a structural interaction induced by the presence of the S47F substitution. Thus, the synergistic interaction of two rare amino acid substitutions in the URO-synthase polypeptide caused the feline model of human CEP.
A parallel genetic algorithm for propensity modeling in consumer finance

We consider the problem of propensity modeling in consumer finance. These modeling problems are characterized by the two aspects: the model needs to optimize a business objective which may be nonstandard, and the rate of occurence of the event to be modeled may be very low. Traditional methods such as logistic regression are ill-equipped to deal with nonstandard objectives and low event rates. Methods which deal with the low event rate problem by learning on biased samples face the problem of overlearning. We propose a parallel genetic algorithm method that addresses these challenges. Each parallel process evolves propensity models based on a different biased sample, while a mechanism for validation and cross-pollination between the islands helps address the overlearning issue. We demonstrate the utility of the method on a real-life dataset.
Venous thromboembolism events after thoracic surgery: global steps toward prevention.

In 1856, Rudolf Virchow summarized the risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) with a triad: hypercoagulability, endothelial injury, and venous stasis (1). Since that time there have been numerous advancements in the assessment and prevention of VTE. Currently, there are several guidelines for the prevention of VTE including American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and European Society of Medical Oncology; however, none of these guidelines specifically discuss patients undergoing lung cancer resection.
Clostridioides difficile infection and recurrence among 2622 solid organ transplant recipients

BACKGROUND Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is common after solid organ transplant (SOT) and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. METHODS We assessed incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of CDI among SOT patients at a large multi-organ transplant center. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for initial and recurrent CDI. RESULTS A total of 2622 SOT patients were included. 224 (8.5%) had CDI 1 year post-SOT. The highest incidence of CDI was among pancreas recipients (12.5%) followed by lung (11.7%), liver (11.0%), heart (10.8%), and kidney (5.8%). Median time to CDI was 56 days (range 2-354) post-SOT. About 64% of patients had severe CDI. About 56.3% were treated with metronidazole, 13.8% with oral vancomycin, and 28.6% with both. About 28.6% of patients had recurrent CDI. In multivariable modeling, lung transplant recipient status was the only significant predictor of recurrent CDI (OR 4.97, 95% CI 2.11-11.78, P < .001) controlling for age, severe CDI, and pre-SOT CDI. Post-SOT CDI nearly doubled the risk of mortality at one year, in particular among those with severe CDI. CONCLUSIONS In summary, CDI is highly prevalent, occurs early in the post-transplant period, usually severe, with a high rate of recurrence, and associated with increased mortality within 1 year after transplant. The early post-transplant period may be a crucial window to reduce CDI rates.
Current Imaging Approaches and Challenges in the Assessment of Carotid Artery Disease

Modern advances now allow for carotid plaque vulnerability to be assessed through noninvasive imaging techniques. Further paradigm shift has expanded imaging evaluation of carotid disease beyond stenosis measurement to thorough evaluation of carotid plaque characteristics. Key imaging features such as plaque ulceration, neovascularity, thickness of fibrous cap, and the presence of intraplaque hemorrhage can now be used to stratify risk of global plaque rupture. In this chapter, we focus on the three primary imaging modalities used to assess carotid plaque (MRI, CT, and ultrasound) and focus on imaging features of lipid-rich necrotic core and intraplaque hemorrhage on each. Additionally we discuss novel techniques within each modality used to evaluate plaque and consider relative merits.
The (re)construction of ideologies of English-speaking elites at a global corporation in Japan

Drawing on the notions of indexicality and community of practice, this article explores ways in which Japanese employees use English in otherwise Japanese speech in intracultural business meetings ...
NEMS Electrostatic RF Wakeup Switch with Pt FIB Contact

Recent pushes to reduce wireless sensor node power consumption have targeted sensors detecting the signal of interest, e.g. acoustic, acceleration, rotation, and use the energy in the signal to trigger switches. Regardless of the sensing modality however, all wireless sensors include some form of data communication radio, which in many cases is constantly consuming power. We take inspiration from a very low sub-threshold current and low switching-energy NEMS switch to implement a near zero-power laterally actuated NEMS electrostatic RF wake-up switch to reduce passive power draw by the RF electronics [1]. The switch is operated by holding a mechanical contact gap just outside of thermal fluctuations and an RF signal acts to physically close the switch. Focused ion beam is utilized to achieve sub-100 nm platinum contact gaps, allowing for below 3V operation and improved reliability. Preliminary results are presented from a custom vacuum probe station utilizing a switch position control loop for the contact-based switch operating off resonance.
Significance of New, Isolated T-wave Inversion in Multiple Electrocardiogram Leads with Regadenoson Injection in Patients with Normal Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: An Observational Report of 5 Consecutive Cases.

Introduction The pharmacologic (regadenoson) stress myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is used widely in patients who cannot exercise for detecting coronary artery disease (CAD). The interpretation of these studies depends primarily on the imaging results because the sensitivity of electrocardiograms (ECG) in this setting is poor. Prior study showed that effects of regadenoson on ST-segment occurred infrequently and had low sensitivity for detecting CAD. The significance of T-wave inversion in multiple ECG leads without ST-segment depression with regadenoson injection in patients with normal MPI is described and reported. Methods ECGs were reviewed retrospectively in 64 patients who had regadenoson MPI and coronary angiography for evaluation of CAD from June 1, 2016 to August 31, 2018. Five cases were identified with new, isolated T-wave inversion in multiple ECG leads. Results All five cases had new and isolated T-wave inversion in multiple leads without ST segment depression with regadenoson injection and normal MPI. At coronary angiography, three of the five cases showed obstructive coronary artery disease who received coronary percutaneous intervention. One case had nonobstructive coronary artery disease and one had a normal coronary artery. Conclusions Despite nonspecific ST-T changes on baseline ECGs and normal MPI in all patients, three of five cases had obstructive CAD by coronary angiography. New, isolated T-wave inversion in multiple ECG leads with regadenoson injection were observed in our patients with normal MPI. These ECG findings may be associated with false negative MPI. Therefore, careful observation and scrutiny of all ECG changes, especially new, isolated T-wave inversion in multiple ECG leads during regadenoson MPI is advisable to identify potential obstructive CAD despite normal MPI findings.
The Costs and Benefits of Regionalized Care for Children

Regionalization of health care, when purposefully designed, aims to improve the quality and safety of health care delivery by directing patients to facilities with optimal resources and experience for their particular health needs.1 Although strong evidence supports regionalized care for cardiac arrest and stroke, trauma, and neonatal intensive care, considerably less is known about the regionalization of care for children with common medical conditions.1,2 In this issue of Pediatrics , Cushing et al’s3 article, “Trends in Regionalization of Emergency Care for Common Pediatric Conditions,” examines national rates of admission, interhospital transfer, and referral for children with gastroenteritis, asthma, and croup. Analyzing the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample from 2008 to 2016, Cushing et al3 found decreasing rates of admission at the hospitals where children presented for care, a slight increase (0.3%) in transfers for asthma, and unchanged transfer rates for croup and gastroenteritis. However, they identified significant increases in interhospital referral rates, which they defined as the number of children with each condition who were transferred to another hospital divided by the total number of children who were admitted or transferred. The authors use this outcome as an indicator of referral for “definitive … Address correspondence to JoAnna Leyenaar, MD, PhD, MPH, Department of Pediatrics, The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756. E-mail: joanna.k.leyenaar{at}hitchcock.org
Safety and Efficacy of Dietary Supplements for Diabetes

Results from various surveys show that 30–70% of adult people with diabetes in the United States use alternative medicine, with one-third using it specifically to improve diabetes-related symptoms (1). Individuals with diabetes may be inclined to use these products for various reasons, including a belief that “natural” means without risks, concern over medication costs, influence from family and friends, and desire for further glucose lowering in addition to that achieved with traditional medications. However, supplements have the potential to cause adverse effects, drug interactions, and toxicity. Additionally, lack of regulatory oversight in the manufacturing and marketing of supplements can lead to inconsistent quality and quantity of ingredients within products. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential for assessing safety and efficacy of therapeutic interventions. However, there are a limited number of RCTs for supplements, and conclusions are often derived from studies of weak quality. For many dietary supplements, data are lacking on important information such as mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential toxicity. The desired clinical outcome may be dependent on the mechanism of a supplement, which may affect insulin secretion, affect insulin resistance, or have multiple effects (2). The selection of a supplement might also depend on other factors, including stage of diabetes, comorbidities, and availability. There may be inconsistencies in the reconciliation of dietary supplements, which could result from individuals choosing to not disclose information on their use of supplements, providers not asking about such use, or a lack of recording such information in the medical record. In one study of 333 hospitalized patients who self-reported dietary supplement use, 20% were asked about the use of dietary supplements by the health care professional during their stay, and only 6% of all supplement users were asked, disclosed, and had documentation (3). Therefore, it is important for health care professionals to …
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 4 Deficiency Mediates Airway Inflammation in the Adult Healthy Lung

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) 4 has been shown to mediate pro-inflammatory signaling in the liver and airway epithelium in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In past reports, global FGFR4 knockout (Fgfr4-/-) mice did not show any lung phenotype developmentally or at birth, unless FGFR3 deficiency was present simultaneously. Therefore, we wanted to know whether the loss of FGFR4 had any effect on the adult murine lung. Our results indicate that adult Fgfr4-/- mice demonstrate a lung phenotype consisting of widened airway spaces, increased airway inflammation, bronchial obstruction and right ventricular hypertrophy consistent with an advanced COPD phenotype. Despite downregulation of FGF23 serum levels, IL-1 and IL-6 in the Fgfr4-/- lung and abrogation of p38 signaling, primary murine Fgfr4-/- airway cells showed increased expression of IL-1beta and TGF-beta as well as augmented secretion of IL-6, which correlated with decreased airway surface liquid depth as assessed by microOCT. These findings were paralleled by increased ERK phosphorylation in Fgfr4-/- airway cells when compared to their control wild type cells. Analysis of a murine model with constitutive activation of FGFR4 showed an attenuation of pro-inflammatory mediators in both lung and airway epithelium. In conclusion, we are the first to show an inflammatory and obstructive airway phenotype in the adult murine Fgfr4-/- lung, which might be due to upregulation of ERK phosphorylation in the Fgfr4-/- airway epithelium. Therefore, the adult global Fgfr4-/- mouse could potentially be used in the future as a novel severe COPD model.