cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Now you see it, now you don’t: Age differences in affective reactivity to social tensions.

When faced with interpersonal conflict, older adults report using passive strategies more often than do young adults. They also report less affective reactivity in response to these tensions. We examined whether the use of passive strategies may explain age-related reductions in affective reactivity to interpersonal tensions. Over 8 consecutive evenings, participants (N = 1,031; 25-74 years-old) reported daily negative affect and the occurrence of tense situations resulting in an argument or avoidance of an argument. Older age was related to less affective reactivity when people decided to avoid an argument but was unrelated to affective reactivity when people engaged in arguments. Findings suggest that avoidance of negative situations may largely underlie age-related benefits in affective well-being.
The Power of Play: How Spontaneous, Imaginative Activities Lead to Happier, Healthier Children

Best-selling author and distinguished childcare expert David Elkind takes on the "over-scheduled" child syndrome, providing parents with an understanding of, and appreciation for the powerful role of "play" in healthy emotional and academic development. In modern childhood, free, unstructured play time is being replaced more and more by academics, lessons, competitive sports and passive entertainment. While parents may worry that their children will be at a disadvantage if they are not engaged in constant learning, child development expert David Elkind reassures us that imaginative play goes far to prepare children for academic and social success, perhaps further than the panoply of educational products geared towards youngsters. To restore play's good name, best-selling author and internationally-known educator David Elkind shows how creative, spontaneous play fosters healthy mental and social development and sets the stage for academic learning. For example, children learn mutual respect and cooperation through role-playing and the negotiation of rules, which in turn prepares them for successful classroom learning. In simply playing with rocks, a child could discover properties of counting and shapes, and even a toddler's babbling is an important precursor to language. Finally, Elkind suggests ways to restore play's respected place in children's lives, at home, at school and in the larger community.
Polymetamorphism in the Silurian-Devonian Goshen Formation of western Massachusetts

Textural interpretations combined with the areal distribution of metamorphic assemblages and chemistry of muscovite and chlorite in the Silurian-Devonian Goshen Formation of western Massachusetts dictate three episodes of metamorphism during the Devonian Acadian orogeny. The first and third episodes are interpreted as prograde events and the second as retrograde. The first metamorphic event (prograde) produced kyanite and staurolite. The second event (retrograde) produced chlorite and paragonite at the expense of previously formed prograde minerals. The third event resulted locally in the prograde replacement of chlorite embayments in garnet by biotite, muscovite, and quartz. Chemical reactions are suggested for each of the three metamorphic events.
The Power to Detect Linkage in Complex Disease by Means of Simple LOD-Score Analyses

Maximum-likelihood analysis (via LOD score) provides the most powerful method for finding linkage when the mode of inheritance (MOI) is known. However, because one must assume an MOI, the application of LOD-score analysis to complex disease has been questioned. Although it is known that one can legitimately maximize the maximum LOD score with respect to genetic parameters, this approach raises three concerns: (1) multiple testing, (2) effect on power to detect linkage, and (3) adequacy of the approximate MOI for the true MOI. We evaluated the power of LOD scores to detect linkage when the true MOI was complex but a LOD score analysis assumed simple models. We simulated data from 14 different genetic models, including dominant and recessive at high (80%) and low (20%) penetrances, intermediate models, and several additive two-locus models. We calculated LOD scores by assuming two simple models, dominant and recessive, each with 50% penetrance, then took the higher of the two LOD scores as the raw test statistic and corrected for multiple tests. We call this test statistic "MMLS-C." We found that the ELODs for MMLS-C are >=80% of the ELOD under the true model when the ELOD for the true model is >=3. Similarly, the power to reach a given LOD score was usually >=80% that of the true model, when the power under the true model was >=60%. These results underscore that a critical factor in LOD-score analysis is the MOI at the linked locus, not that of the disease or trait per se. Thus, a limited set of simple genetic models in LOD-score analysis can work well in testing for linkage.
Predicting cardiothoracic voltages during high energy shocks: methodology and comparison of experimental to finite element model data

Finite element modeling has been used as a method to investigate the voltage distribution within the thorax during high energy shocks. However, there have been few quantitative methods developed to assess how well the calculations derived from the models correspond to measured voltages. Here, the authors present a methodology for recording thoracic voltages and the results of comparisons of these voltages to those predicted by finite element models. The authors constructed detailed 3D subject-specific thorax models of 6 pigs based on their individual CT images. The models were correlated with the results of experiments conducted on the animals to measure the voltage distribution in the thorax at 52 locations during synchronized high energy shocks. One transthoracic and two transvenous electrode configurations were used in the study. The measured voltage values were compared to the model predictions resulting in a correlation coefficient of 0.927/spl plusmn/0.036 (average/spl plusmn/standard deviation) and a relative rms error of 22.13/spl plusmn/5.99%. The model predictions of voltage gradient within the myocardium were also examined revealing differences in the percent of the myocardium above a threshold value for various electrode configurations and variability between individual animals. This variability reinforces the potential benefit of patient-specific modeling. >
Tracking multiple mouse contours (without too many samples)

We present a particle filtering algorithm for robustly tracking the contours of multiple deformable objects through severe occlusions. Our algorithm combines a multiple blob tracker with a contour tracker in a manner that keeps the required number of samples small. This is a natural combination because both algorithms have complementary strengths. The multiple blob tracker uses a natural multi-target model and searches a smaller and simpler space. On the other hand, contour tracking gives more fine-tuned results and relies on cues that are available during severe occlusions. Our choice of combination of these two algorithms accentuates the advantages of each. We demonstrate good performance on challenging video of three identical mice that contains multiple instances of severe occlusion.
Efficacy of PIT tags and an autonomous antenna system to study the juvenile life stage of an estuarine-dependent fish

Many marine fishes use spatially distinct habitats as juveniles and adults. Determining which juvenile habitats are most important to sustaining adult populations (i.e., which habitats are nurseries) has proven difficult, in part due to challenges in estimating survival of juveniles in putative nursery habitats. Recent technological advances have made large- scale tagging efforts a viable approach to estimating survival of juvenile fishes by increasing recapture rates and enabling the use of individual-identification tags. These techniques, using Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags and autonomous antenna detection systems (antenna), have been successfully applied in freshwater environments. This paper reports the adaptation of these techniques to estuarine mangrove creeks (salinity: 2-28%) for research of the juvenile life stage on an estuarine-dependent marine fish, Centropomus undecimalis. Retention rate of PIT tags in juveniles .120 mm standard length was 100%, with no mortality. The antenna detection field covered 48% of the creek water column, and the antenna was experimentally determined to detect approximately 67% of tagged fish that swam through. Overall recapture rate of tagged fish by the antenna was .40%. This recapture rate is higher than the sparse data typical of traditional tag-recapture studies. A time-dependent Jolly-Seber model was fit to the data, providing estimates of capture probability (0.8) and weekly apparent survival (0.41) that will be invaluable in comparing juvenile habitats of different quality (e.g., natural versus anthropogenically degraded). This research demonstrates the viability of this approach to fish research in estuarine habitats.
Mercerization of cellulose. II. Alkali–cellulose intermediates and a possible mercerization mechanism

Continued study of the five crystalline Na–celluloses, previously shown to occur as intermediates during the mercerization of cellulose and exhibiting two types of crystallographic fiber repeats, further indicates that they fall into three classes based on their unit cells and NaOH contents. In one class are Na–celluloses I and III, both containing up to 34% NaOH; in the second class are Na–celluloses IIA and IIB, marked by ca.15 A fiber repeat and containing up to 65% NaOH; and in the third class is Na–cellulose IV which is likely to be a hydrated form of cellulose II. Na–cellulose I was found to be the common first alkali–cellulose structure produced in the NaOH treatment of both cellulose I and cellulose II. Further study of this conversion step suggested a mercerization mechanism in which the alkali begins the conversion of cellulose to Na–cellulose I in the amorphous parts of the fiber. The conversion of the parallel-chain cellulose I structure to an antiparallel one is likely to occur already in this first step.
Lineage-specific gene expression and the regulative capacities of the sea urchin embryo: a proposed mechanism

Three aspects of early sea urchin development are reviewed, and conclusions derived that lead to a unified concept of how the initial specifications of differential gene activity may occur in this embryo. i. The embryo has an invariant cell lineage, and the lineage founder cells can be considered as regulatory spatial domains. That is, from each of these cells descend clones of progeny the members of which express the same set of lineage-specific genes. ii. From the extensive classical literature on blastomere plasticity, and some key modern experiments, are derived a system of inductive blastomere interactions, which accounts for the conditionality of lineage founder cell specification. That is, the fates of many of the lineage founder cells can apparently be altered if the normal spatial interrelationships within the embryo are perturbed. iii. Recent studies have been carried out by gene transfer, and are supported by in vitro analyses of DNA-protein interactions in the regulatory regions of two genes that are expressed in a lineage- specific manner. Expression of both of these markers of cell fate specification is controlled by diffusible DNA-binding factors (i.e. within each nucleus). A molecular mechanism is proposed, based on inductive effects on gene regulatory factors, which in principle provides a specific explanation of the regulative capacities for which this embryo is famous.
Role of Akt inhibition on Notch1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma: potential role for dual targeted therapy.

Abstract Background We have shown that an Akt inhibitor, MK2206, reduces hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation. To further delineate MK2206, we sought to investigate the Notch1 pathway and hypothesize that MK2206 treatment will result in Notch1 inhibition with either subsequent or parallel Akt suppression. Methods HCC cell lines were treated with various concentrations of MK2206. Cell proliferation was determined via real-time live cell imaging. Knockdown of Notch1 was used to observe interaction between Notch1 and pAkt. Cell lysates were analyzed via Western blotting for Notch and Akt pathway targets. Results After treatment with MK2206 (up to 2 μM), there was a 60% reduction in cell viability at 48 hours with a concomitant reduction in Notch1 expression. Knockdown of Notch1 in HCC cell lines correlated with reduction in Akt phosphorylation. Conclusions MK2206 inhibits both the PI3-K/Akt and Notch1 pathways. Therefore, further characterization of MK2206 comparing the 2 pathways is warranted and the effect of dual targeting in HCC.
Introduction to Markov Chains

In Chapter 7, we saw how weighted digraphs and adjacency matrices are related. In this chapter, we consider particular types of weights and matrices that are used with Markov chains, and their associated special terms, which differ from those used previously.
Smoke and Target Color Effects on Defensive Behavior in Yellowjacket Wasps and Bumble Bees (Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Apidae) with a Description of an Electronic Attack Monitor

The defensive behavior of colonies of Vespula pensylvanica (Saussure) and Bomhus sonorus Say is assayed with an easily-constructed electronic monitor that counts the number of impacts of insects attacking Ping-Pong ball targets. Black targets are attacked, and white targets are not. The administration of smoke to colonies before disturbing them greatly reduces the number of attacks. In B. sonorus, the reduction was >2-fold and in V. pensylvanica >10-fold. This suggests mechanisms of the effect of smoke besides those that have been described for honey bees. This effect may be useful to subdue these insects during insecticide treatments to destroy their nests.
Potential impacts of climate change on groundwater resources – a global review

Groundwater is a vital resource for sustaining life. Changes in the Earth’s climate have the potential to affect both the quality and quantity of available groundwater, primarily through impacts on recharge, evapotranspiration and (indirectly) on pumpage and abstraction. Groundwater is a major contributor to streamflow in areas with relatively shallow water tables, so changes in groundwater systems may also impact surface-water systems. As a result, understanding how climate change could affect groundwater systems is a vital component of sound long-term management of our water supplies. However, predicting how climate change could impact groundwater systems is difficult. Part of the difficulty is rooted in uncertainties in the predictions of future climate. However, even if we were certain regarding future climate, forecasting future groundwater conditions would still be difficult because of the complex combinations of processes that affect groundwater recharge, discharge and quality. Better observations, increased understanding of processes and modeling capabilities will be needed to assess the future of this vital resource in the face of projected climate changes.
Effective Attenuation Anisotropy of Layered Media

Assuming that the stiffness contrasts, as well as the intrinsic velocity and attenuation anisotropy, are weak, we develop explicit first-order (linear) and secondorder (quadratic) approximations for the attenuationanisotropy parameters Q , δQ , and γQ of effective VTI (transversely isotropic with a vertical symmetry axis) media. Whereas the first-order approximation for each parameter is given simply by the volume-weighted average of its interval values, the second-order terms reflect the coupling between various factors related to both heterogeneity and intrinsic anisotropy. Interestingly, the effective attenuation for Pand SV-waves is anisotropic even for a medium composed of isotropic layers with no attenuation contrast, provided there is a velocity variation among the constituents. Contrasts in the intrinsic attenuation, however, do not create attenuation anisotropy, unless they are accompanied by velocity contrasts. Extensive numerical testing shows that the second-order approximation for Q , δQ , and γQ is close to the exact solution for most plausible subsurface models.
Normalizing the environment recapitulates adult human immune traits in laboratory mice

Our current understanding of immunology was largely defined in laboratory mice, partly because they are inbred and genetically homogeneous, can be genetically manipulated, allow kinetic tissue analyses to be carried out from the onset of disease, and permit the use of tractable disease models. Comparably reductionist experiments are neither technically nor ethically possible in humans. However, there is growing concern that laboratory mice do not reflect relevant aspects of the human immune system, which may account for failures to translate disease treatments from bench to bedside. Laboratory mice live in abnormally hygienic specific pathogen free (SPF) barrier facilities. Here we show that standard laboratory mouse husbandry has profound effects on the immune system and that environmental changes produce mice with immune systems closer to those of adult humans. Laboratory mice--like newborn, but not adult, humans--lack effector-differentiated and mucosally distributed memory T cells. These cell populations were present in free-living barn populations of feral mice and pet store mice with diverse microbial experience, and were induced in laboratory mice after co-housing with pet store mice, suggesting that the environment is involved in the induction of these cells. Altering the living conditions of mice profoundly affected the cellular composition of the innate and adaptive immune systems, resulted in global changes in blood cell gene expression to patterns that more closely reflected the immune signatures of adult humans rather than neonates, altered resistance to infection, and influenced T-cell differentiation in response to a de novo viral infection. These data highlight the effects of environment on the basal immune state and response to infection and suggest that restoring physiological microbial exposure in laboratory mice could provide a relevant tool for modelling immunological events in free-living organisms, including humans.
Thin absorber EUV photomask based on mixed Ni and TaN material

Lithographic patterning at the 7 and 5 nm nodes will likely require EUV (λ=13.5 nm) lithography for many of the critical levels. All optical elements in an EUV scanner are reflective which requires the EUV photomask to be illuminated at an angle to its normal. Current scanners have an incidence of 6 degree, but future designs will be <6 degrees for high-NA systems. Non-telecentricity has been shown to cause H-V bias due to shadowing, pattern shift through focus, and image contrast lost due to apodization by the reflective mask coating. A thinner EUV absorber can dramatically reduce these issues. Ni offers better EUV absorption than Ta-based materials, which hold promise as a thinner absorber candidate. Unfortunately, the challenge of etching Ni has prevented its adoption into manufacturing. We propose a new absorber material that infuses Ni nanoparticles into the TaN host medium, allowing for the use of established Ta etching chemistry. A thinner is absorber is created due to the enhanced absorption properties of the Ni-Ta nano-composite material. Finite integral method and effective medium theory-based transfer matrix method have been independently developed to analyze the performance of the nano-composite absorption layer. We show that inserting 15% volume fraction Ni nanoparticles into 40-nm of TaN absorber material can reduce the reflection below 2% over the EUV range. Numerical simulations confirm that the reduced reflectivity is due to the increased absorption of Ni, while scattering only contributes to approximately 0.2% of the reduction in reflectivity.
State space analysis and duty cycle control of a switched reactance based center-point-clamped reactive power compensator

A new approach for static reactive power compensation has been presented in this paper. Conventional thyristor controlled Static VAr Compensators (SVC) have inherent disadvantages like slow response times and poor harmonic performance as these FACTS devices are based on slow switching power electronics devices. Alternately, Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) dc-ac inverters and direct ac-ac converter structures offer higher bandwidth and push the spectral content to higher switching frequencies that are easier to filter. However, the application space of this approach is limited by the low voltage blocking capability of power devices employed in these converters. A center-point-clamped ac-ac direct power converter has been reported recently in literature which operates on the principle of neutral-point-clamped dc-ac inverter. By clamping the grid voltage to its mid-point, the center-point-clamped converter structure reduces voltage stress on the bi-directional switches by 50%. Compared to the conventional two-level and multilevel dc-ac inverters, the proposed compensator based on direct ac-ac conversion has a simpler structure and control. The operating principle as well as dynamic analysis for the proposed VAr compensation approach has been presented in the paper. A feedback controller has been designed for closed loop control. Simulation results presented in the paper verify that proposed converter offers better control of reactive power, retrofit capability, and reduced voltage stress on the bi-directional switches. Furthermore, it has been shown that leading and lagging reactive compensation can be accomplished with a smooth control of the reactance through duty cycle modulation.
Cabazitaxel, a taxane for men with hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer.

Cabazitaxel is a microtubule inhibitor in the taxane class. It is made from a yew needle precursor using a semisynthetic process. It binds to free tubulin, which is used during mitosis to form two daughter cells.
Hormonal control of oviductal ciliary activity: effect of prostaglandins

Prostaglandins have been shown to exist in the walls of the oviduct and to effect strongly oviductal muscle contractions and egg transport. Our observations, using laser light-scattering spectroscopy, indicate that the "natural" prostaglandins F2 alpha, E1, and E2 can stimulate ciliary activity in cultures of ciliated epithelium of the rabbit oviduct. These findings suggest a new alternative to explain the effect of prostaglandins on oviductal egg transport.
Surface functionalization and dynamics of polymeric cell culture substrates

The promise of growing tissues to replace or improve the function of failing ones, a practice often referred to as regenerative medicine, has been driven in recent years by the development of stem cells and cell lines. Stem cells are typically cultured outside the body to increase cell number or differentiate the cells into mature cell types. In order to maximize the regenerative potential of these cells, there is a need to understand cell-material interactions that direct cell behavior and cell-material dynamics. Most synthetic surfaces used for growth and differentiation of cells in the lab are impractical and cost prohibitive in clinical labs. This review focuses on the modification of low cost polymer substrates that are already widely used for cell culture so that they may be used to control and understand cell-material interactions. In addition, we discuss the ability of cells to exert dynamic control over the microenvironment leading to a more complex, less controlled surface.
A behavioral economic demand model modification to improve versatility

Aims: Behavioral economic demand curves quantify the relationship between the price of a commodity and the consumption of that commodity and are often used to measure how an individual or group values a commodity, including drugs of abuse. The exponential model of demand proposed by Hursh and Silberberg (2008) quantifies this relationship and provides indices of demand elasticity (sensitivity to price) and demand intensity (amount of consumption unrestricted by price). One limitation of this model, however, is that it relies on consumption measured in logarithmic units, which prevents consumption values of zero units from being incorporated into analyses. Replacing zeroswithnonzerovalues also presents problems, with the specific value chosen often affecting the statistical conclusions. Methods: Here, we present a modification of this formula that allows the valid inclusion of unaltered consumption values of zero units. We compared the two functions on a large dataset of hypothetical drug purchase task data (n=1215) collected online. Results: Our model modification provides measures of demand intensity and elasticity that are highly correlated with and directly comparable to themeasures produced by the Hursh and Silberberg (2008) equation, but was able to fit 100% of the individual subject data series instead of just 69%. Conclusions: Our model provides a more flexible approach to analyzing demand data that can accommodate more datasets and provides estimates of demand intensity andelasticity that arebackward compatible with the popular Hursh and Silberberg (2008) model. Details of the model modification, curve fit comparisons, and discussion of advantages and disadvantages will be presented. Financial support: NIH/NCI grant U19 CA157345 and institutional funds to WKB.
Dysautonomia Due to Ganglionic Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Autoimmunity (S18.007)

Objective: To describe the degree of autonomic impairment associated with autoimmunity to the ganglionic nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α3-AChR). Background: The α3-AChR is present in sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric autonomic ganglia, consistent with clinical observations of widespread autonomic failure in patients with elevated titers of autoantibodies against α3-AChR. In small series, higher titers have correlated with severe pandysautonomia with orthostatic hypotension, gastrointestinal dysmotility, anhidrosis, bladder dysfunction, sicca symptoms, and impaired pupillary light reflex. Limited phenotypes with milder dysautonomia have also been described, generally with lower antibody titers. Severity and distribution of autonomic failure are quantified by the Composite Autonomic Scoring Scale (CASS), a validated measure of three indices (adrenergic, cardiovagal, sudomotor) derived from the autonomic reflex screen (ARS); thermoregulatory sweat test (TST) complements the sudomotor subscore. Methods: We searched our laboratory database of 926 α3-AChR-autoantibody-seropositive patients (≥0.05 nmol/L) for history of autonomic testing from which CASS scores could be calculated. Results: Three hundred sixty-four patients harboring α3-AChR autoantibodies underwent ARS or TST (n=220 ARS and TST, 112 ARS alone, 32 TST alone). In 359 instances of antibody titer measured contemporaneous with autonomic testing, increasing titer was significantly correlated with moderate or severe autonomic failure (CASS≥4; p<0.0001). The maximum titer for each patient, regardless of timing relative to autonomic testing, was also significantly correlated with CASS≥4 (p<0.0001). Moderate or severe impairment by each of the three CASS subscores was correlated with higher antibody titer (p<0.0001 for CASS adrenergic, cardiovagal, or sudomotor ≥1). Conclusions: CASS scores from our large cohort of patients with α3-AChR autoimmunity confirm previous claims that the severity of dysautonomia worsens with increasing antibody titer and involves adrenergic, cardiovagal, and sudomotor domains. Future work should explore the relation of antibody titer with clinical status over time to determine its usefulness as a marker of disease evolution or treatment efficacy. Disclosure: Dr. Cutsforth-Gregory has nothing to disclose. Dr. Coon has nothing to disclose. Dr. McKeon has received research support from Medimmune. Dr. Suarez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Low has received personal compensation for activities with Chelsea Therapeutics, Pfizer Inc., and WR Medical Electronics Company as a consultant.
Cell Surface THY-1 Contributes to Human Cytomegalovirus Entry via a Macropinocytosis-Like Process.

Previously we showed that THY-1 has a critical role in the initial stage of infection of certain cell types with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and that THY-1 is important for HCMV-mediated activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt during virus entry. THY-1 is known to interact with integrins and is a major cargo protein of clathrin-independent endocytic vesicles. Since macropinocytosis involves integrin signaling, is PI3K/Akt dependent, and is a clathrin-independent endocytic process, we determined whether THY-1 has a role in HCMV entry by macropinocytosis. Using electron microscopy in two cell lines that support HCMV infection in a THY-1-dependent manner, we found that HCMV enters these cells by a macropinocytosis-like process. THY-1 associated with HCMV virions on the cell surface and colocalized with virus inside macropinosomes. 5-(N-Ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride (EIPA) and soluble THY-1 blocked HCMV infection in the cell lines by ≥80% and 60%, respectively. HCMV entry into the cells triggered increased influx of extracellular fluid, a marker of macropinocytosis, and this increased fluid uptake was inhibited by EIPA and by soluble THY-1. Blocking actin depolymerization, Na+/H+ exchange, PI3K, and Pak1 kinase, which are critical for macropinocytosis, impaired HCMV infection. Neither internalized HCMV virions nor THY-1 in virus-infected cells colocalized with transferrin as determined by confocal microscopy, indicating that clathrin-mediated endocytosis was not involved in THY-1-associated virus entry. These results suggest that HCMV has adapted to utilize THY-1, a cargo protein of clathrin-independent endocytotic vesicles, to facilitate efficient entry into certain cell types by a macropinocytosis-like process. IMPORTANCE Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infects over half of the population and is the most common infectious cause of birth defects. The virus is the most important infection occurring in transplant recipients. The mechanism of how HCMV enters cells is controversial. In this study, we show that THY-1, a cell surface protein that is critical for the early stage of entry of HCMV into certain cell types, contributes to virus entry by macropinocytosis. Our findings suggest that HCMV has adapted to utilize THY-1 to facilitate entry of HCMV into macropinosomes in certain cell types. Further knowledge about the mechanism of HCMV entry into cells may facilitate the development of novel inhibitors of virus infection.
Lack of adherence to SHEA-IDSA treatment guidelines for Clostridium difficile infection is associated with increased mortality.

OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine our institution's compliance with 2010 Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and IDSA Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) treatment guidelines and their respective outcomes. METHODS We collected clinical parameters, laboratory values, antibiotic therapy and clinical outcomes from the electronic medical records for all patients hospitalized at our institution with a diagnosis of CDI from December 2012 to November 2013. We specifically evaluated whether SHEA-IDSA treatment guidelines were followed and evaluated the associations between guideline adherence and severe outcomes including mortality. RESULTS We identified 230 patients with CDI meeting inclusion criteria during the study period. Of these, 124 (54%) were appropriately treated, 46 (20%) were under-treated and 60 (26%) were over-treated. All-cause 90 day mortality was 17.4% overall; 43.5% in the under-treated group versus 12.9% in those appropriately treated (P < 0.0001) and 10.9% in those appropriately treated plus over-treated (P < 0.0001). Similarly, 90 day mortality attributed to CDI was 21.7% in those under-treated versus 8.9% in those appropriately treated (P = 0.03) and 8.2% in those either appropriately treated or over-treated (P = 0.015). Severe-complicated CDI occurred in 46 patients. In this subgroup, there was a non-significant trend towards increased mortality in under-treated patients (56.7%) compared with appropriately treated patients (37.5%, P = 0.35). Under-treatment was also associated with a higher rate of CDI-related ICU transfer (17.4% versus 4.8% in those appropriately treated, P = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS Adherence to CDI treatment guidelines is associated with improved outcomes especially in those with severe disease. Increased emphasis on provision of appropriate, guideline-based CDI treatment appears warranted.
Surface-Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectral Plasma Profiles Distinguish Individuals of a Protein C-Deficient Family with a Thrombotic Episode before the Age of 40 from Age-Matched Family Members without a History of Thrombosis.

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that differences in the low molecular weight (500–20.000 Da) proteomic profile of plasma may be detectable between members of a protein C-deficient thrombophilic family who have suffered thrombotic events before age Unfractionated plasma samples from members of a previously described large thrombophilic kindred with type I protein C deficiency were applied to ProteinChip weak cation exchange interaction chips (WCX2; Ciphergen Biosystems, Fremont, CA) and subjected to SELDI-TOF (surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight) mass spectrometry using the Ciphergen PBSII ProteinChip System (Ciphergen Biosystems, Freemont, CA, USA). Profiles were analyzed by a boosted decision-tree algorithm. When individuals who had presented with deep venous thrombosis before the age of 40 (n=21) were compared to age-matched, healthy family members (n=50), the proteomic patterns defined by the decision-tree analysis could classify the entity of DVT before age 40 with 66% sensitivity, at a specificity of 86%. When a small group of cases with history of superficial venous thrombosis (n=6) was added to the case group, the sensitivity was 87.5% at a specificity of 80%. These data support the hypothesis that members of the protein C deficient Vermont kindred II who suffer a thrombotic event before age 40 display significant differences in low-molecular weight proteomics profile compared to those who remain disease-free. This is the first study to apply SELDI-TOF technology in conjunction with a bioinformatics tool to analyze low molecular weight proteomic patterns in patients with venous thrombosis. We are presently pursuing higher resolution analysis with the prOTOF, MALDI orthogonal time of flight mass spectrometer system in order to identify specific peptides
Analysis on Motion Behavior of Spherical Shell in a Periodical Shear Flow Based on CUDA Parallel Computing Technique

The three-dimensional numerical parametrical study for movement of spherical shell in annular boundary with the effect of particle medium shear flow is researched based on GPU (Graphic Processing Unit) parallel computing. The method of three-dimensional periodic boundary is presented and reliability demonstration for results of numerical simulation is carried out through a quarter of annular periodic boundary. With the object-oriented programming approach, CUDA is applied to improve calculation efficiency. The results show that the algorithm of three-dimensional periodical boundary is feasible and effectually to enhance computational efficiency. With specific parameters, spherical shell can emerge on surface of particle medium due to shear flow.
Monoterpene 'thermometer' of tropical forest-atmosphere response to climate warming.

Tropical forests absorb large amounts of atmospheric CO2 through photosynthesis but elevated temperatures suppress this absorption and promote monoterpene emissions. Using 13 CO2 labeling, here we show that monoterpene emissions from tropical leaves derive from recent photosynthesis and demonstrate distinct temperature optima for five groups (Groups 1-5), potentially corresponding to different enzymatic temperature-dependent reaction mechanisms within β-ocimene synthases. As diurnal and seasonal leaf temperatures increased during the Amazonian 2015 El Nino event, leaf and landscape monoterpene emissions showed strong linear enrichments of β-ocimenes (+4.4% °C-1 ) at the expense of other monoterpene isomers. The observed inverse temperature response of α-pinene (-0.8% °C-1 ), typically assumed to be the dominant monoterpene with moderate reactivity, was not accurately simulated by current global emission models. Given that β-ocimenes are highly reactive with respect to both atmospheric and biological oxidants, the results suggest that highly reactive β-ocimenes may play important roles in the thermotolerance of photosynthesis by functioning as effective antioxidants within plants and as efficient atmospheric precursors of secondary organic aerosols. Thus, monoterpene composition may represent a new sensitive 'thermometer' of leaf oxidative stress and atmospheric reactivity, and therefore a new tool in future studies of warming impacts on tropical biosphere-atmosphere carbon-cycle feedbacks.
General and diabetes-specific stress in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Abstract Background Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is one of the most common chronic health conditions in adolescents in the United States. Adherence to the recommended treatment regimen has been reported as a source of stress for adolescents. Aim The purpose of this study was to examine the associations among general and diabetes-specific stress and glycemic control (HbA1c), self-management, and diabetes-specific quality of life (QOL) in adolescents with T1D. Methods A secondary analysis of baseline data (N = 320) from a randomized controlled trial was conducted. Adolescents completed validated measures of general and diabetes-specific stress, self-management, and diabetes-specific QOL. HbA1c levels were obtained from medical records. Results Over 50% of the sample scored at or above criteria for high general and diabetes-specific stress. Higher general and diabetes-specific stress was significantly associated with higher HbA1c, poorer self-management activities, and lower diabetes-specific QOL. Diabetes-specific stress accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in HbA1c, while general stress did not. General and diabetes-specific stress accounted for 40% of the variance in diabetes-specific QOL. Conclusions General and diabetes-specific stress are common in adolescents with T1D. Healthcare providers must be mindful of the sources of stress that adolescents with T1D face on a daily basis. General stress and diabetes-specific stress should be differentiated and may require different interventions to improve coping and outcomes.
Capillary Rise: Validity of the Dynamic Contact Angle Models

The classical Lucas–Washburn–Rideal (LWR) equation, using the equilibrium contact angle, predicts a faster capillary rise process than experiments in many cases. The major contributor to the faster prediction is believed to be the velocity dependent dynamic contact angle. In this work, we investigated the dynamic contact angle models for their ability to correct the dynamic contact angle effect in the capillary rise process. We conducted capillary rise experiments of various wetting liquids in borosilicate glass capillaries and compared the model predictions with our experimental data. The results show that the LWR equations modified by the molecular kinetic theory and hydrodynamic model provide good predictions on the capillary rise of all the testing liquids with fitting parameters, while the one modified by Joos’ empirical equation works for specific liquids, such as silicone oils. The LWR equation modified by molecular self-layering model predicts well the capillary rise of carbon tetrachloride, octam...
Pneumatic Self-Experimentation and the Aesthetics of Deviant Embodiment

In this chapter discusses the self-experimentation undertaken at Beddoes’s Pneumatic Institution, and especially the nitrous oxide trials. Both Beddoes’s and Davy’s experimental texts describe various states and behaviours that were usually associated with disability (irrationality, spastic movements, uncontrollable laughter, stuttering, mutism) as coincident to or productive of aesthetically significant experiences. To participate in self-experimentation is to accept the possibility, or even the likelihood, of pain, injury, and other forms of non-normative embodiment. For experimenters including Beddoes, Davy, Tom Wedgwood, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey, deviant embodiment paid rich dividends: many compared their experiences to the sublime, and even those who reported painful sensations were inspired to rich linguistic experimentation during and after the trials—including, I argue, in such literary works as ‘Christabel’.
A laboratory for design-directed research. Building design scholarship and academic possibility through designing

Designing is an experimental practice. Eschewing traditional concepts of designing as simply solving problems, and ideas of research as a positivist pursuit of truth, Landscope DesignLab embraces an expansive perspective of design-directed research. Using the tools of questioning, collaborating, designing, grounding and communicating, the DesignLab explores the terrains of possibility. Working within an inter-disciplinary milieu fosters strong connections, and seizes the generative possibilities of problems, questions, absences, and data.
Research directions for an open unit manufacturing process repository: A collaborative vision

Abstract The design of manufacturing systems can see dramatic improvements through the use of digital technologies for modeling and simulation prior to deployment. At the 2017 ASME International Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference held jointly with the 45th SME North American Manufacturing Research Conference, researchers met within a workshop to discuss structuring and presenting research for modeling manufacturing processes to support life cycle assessment. Workshop participants explored a vision for using standard formats to represent manufacturing processes in a community-based repository and identified research opportunities and challenges. This paper places these resulting research directions into a plan for implementing the vision.
DEM Extensions: Electrically Driven Deposition of Polydisperse Particulate Powder Mixtures

A key part of emerging advanced additive manufacturing methods is the deposition of specialized particulate mixtures of materials on substrates. For example, in many cases these materials are polydisperse powder mixtures whereby one set of particles is chosen with the objective to electrically, thermally, or mechanically functionalize the overall mixture material and another set of finer-scale particles serves as an interstitial filler/binder. Often, achieving controllable, precise deposition is difficult or impossible using mechanical means alone.
Selective CD28 Inhibition Modulates Alloimmunity and Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy in Anti-CD154-Treated Monkeys.

BackgroundSelective CD28 inhibition is actively pursued as an alternative to B7 blockade using cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 Ig based on the hypothesis that the checkpoint immune regulators cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 and programmed death ligand 1 will induce tolerogenic immune signals. We p
Diagnostic Issues in Treating Brain Tumors

A variety of diagnostic issues are encountered during the course of treatment of brain tumors. Awareness of these problems and proper use of the currently available imaging modalities are important for avoiding errors and achieving the maximal therapeutic results.
Learning Pain Assessment and Management: A Goal of the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium

Background Relief of pain for patients requires that palliative care practitioners have knowledge and skill in both pain assessment and the use of pharmacologic and complementary therapies. Method Pain assessment and management and the teaching strategies suggested within the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium curriculum are presented. Results By addressing the pain experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses and those at the end of life, the quality of care can be greatly improved. As a multidimensional phenomenon that relates to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, the relief of pain enhances the quality of life of patients and lessens the stress experienced by family caregivers. Conclusion The relief of pain and suffering is consistent with the philosophy and goals of nursing as a profession and is a nursing responsibility.
Studies of the Mechanism of Tyrosine Phenol-lyase: Kinetics and Site-Directed Mutagenesis

The binding of phenol and analogues to complexes of Citrobacter freundii tyrosine phenol-lyase (TPL) with L-alanine and D-alanine affects the equilibria between external aldimine and quinonoid complexes. The results demonstrate that there are two distinct quinonoid intermediates formed from either D- or L-alanine, and suggest that the interconversion of quinonoid intermediates is rate-limiting in the racemization of alanine. Histidine-343 is in the active site of TPL. and it was mutated to alanine to evaluate the role in catalysis. H343A TPL is active, indicating that this group is not one of the essential bases. However, the pH dependence of kcat is changed, and the isotope effects with α-[2H]-3-fluoro-L-tyrosine are greater for H343A TPL. Thus, His-343 appears to assist in promoting the conformational changes when substrates bind. Tyrosine-71 was also mutated to phenylalanine; however, the resultant mutant TPL has no detectable activity (<10−4 %) with L-tyrosine. The Y71F mutant enzyme binds amino acids strongly and forms quinonoid intermediates very slowly, with intense absorbance at 500 nm. Thus, Tyr-71 appears to play an essential role in the mechanism of TPL.
Airway pressure release ventilation versus conventional ventilation for the management of pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome: do we have an answer?

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a significant cause of respiratory failure in children who need to be admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The American-European Consensus Conference (AECC) and the Berlin definitions of ARDS did not address the pediatric specific practices and comorbidities (1,2). Therefore, the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) bridged the gap to define pediatric ARDS (PARDS).
The Semantic Objection to Freud’s Thesis

A common argument against the existence of unconscious mental states before, during, and after Freud’s time was what I call the “semantic objection,” that ‘mind’ simply means “consciousness” so postulating unconscious mental states is self-contradictory and a misuse of the term ‘mental.’ Freud returned again and again to dispute the semantic claim. In this chapter, I explore the history of this argument and document how common and salient it was, thus explaining why Freud took it so seriously and felt he had to address it as the starting point for his challenge to Cartesianism.
Abstract 604: Anti-apoptotic Role of Leptin in Adipose Tissue

Background: Leptin contributes to obesity-related cardiometabolic pathology. While the role of adipose tissue dysfunction in altering metabolic profile in obesity is recognized, the direct effects ...
Embolization, Therapeutic, Surgical

Endovascular embolization may be used to treat vascular and neoplastic lesions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, fistulas, and skull base and spinal tumors. Improved liquid embolic agents, coils, and stents, along with advances in endovascular techniques, have expanded indications for endovascular embolization. Endovascular embolization may be used as the primary treatment or as a surgical adjunct.