cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variability in Winter Mass Balance of Northern Hemisphere Glaciers and Relations with Atmospheric Circulation

An analysis of variability in the winter mass balance (WMB) of 22 glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere indicates two primary modes of variability that explain 46% of the variability among all glaciers. The first mode of variability characterizes WMB variability in Northern and Central Europe and the second mode primarily represents WMB variability in northwestern North America, but also is related to variability in WMB of one glacier in Europe and one in Central Asia. These two modes of WMB variability are explained by variations in mesoscale atmospheric circulation which are driving forces of variations in surface temperature and precipitation. The first mode is highly correlated with the Arctic Oscillation Index, whereas the second mode is highly correlated with the Southern Oscillation Index. In addition, the second mode of WMB variability is highly
Rethinking the Twentieth-Century History of Mumbai

This review examines three major books on the history of Bombay. Historians of the city have tended to focus primarily on the period before 1930; this tendency has seriously limited our understanding of the dramatic transformations that have taken place in Bombay over the course of the twentieth century. Each of the studies reviewed here devotes considerable attention to developments since the 1920s. Collectively these works make a significant contribution to the appreciation of such matters as working-class politics, the changing character of workers’ neighbourhoods, land use, urban planning, and the ways the city has been imagined and experienced by its citizens. At the same time, these works all shift their analytic frameworks as they approach more contemporary periods and this restricts the authors' ability to assess fully the character of urban change. This paper calls upon historians to continue to apply the tools of social history, particularly its reliance on close microcosmic studies of particular places and groups over long periods of time, as they try to bridge the gap between the early twentieth century and the later twentieth century. At the same time, it suggests that historians need to consider Gyan Prakash's view of cities as ‘patched-up societies’ whose entirety cannot be understood through single, linear models of change.
A mathematical description of biological clocks.

Abstract The implications of a concise mathematical formulation of the effect of light pulses on circadian rhythms are presented and discussed. The description is based on a model originally proposed by Pittendrigh.
Autoionization of doubly excited Ar atoms into Ar2+ and Ar+ continuum states

Abstract Numerous doubly excited neutral states of Ar have been observed by the use of photofluorescent and photoion spectrometry. These states are observed to autoionize into Ar + satellite states and into the Ar 2+ continuum. Doubly excited Rydberg states with the configuration (3s3p 5 ) n l, n ′l′ are observed above the Ar 2+ threshold. Possible decay pathways of these states are discussed.
Wald Sequential Probability Ratio Test for Space Object Conjunction Assessment

This paper shows how satellite owner/operators may use sequential estimates of collision probability, along with a prior assessment of the base risk of collision, in a compound hypothesis ratio test to inform decisions concerning collision risk mitigation maneuvers. The compound hypothesis test reduces to a simple probability ratio test, which appears to be a novel result. The test satisfies tolerances related to targeted false alarm and missed detection rates. This result is independent of the method one uses to compute the probability density that one integrates to compute collision probability. A well-established test case from the literature shows that this test yields acceptable results within the constraints of a typical operational conjunction assessment decision timeline. Another example illustrates the use of the test in a practical conjunction assessment scenario based on operations of the International Space Station.
AUTOMATED TRACKING OF MULTIPLE C. ELEGANS WITH ARTICULATED MODELS

We present a method for tracking and distinguishing multiple C. elegans in a video sequence, including when they are in physical contact with one another. The worms are modeled with an articulated model composed of rectangular blocks, arranged in a deformable configuration represented by a spring-like connection between adjacent parts. Dynamic programming is applied to reduce the computational complexity of the matching process. Our method makes it possible to identify two worms correctly before and after they touch each other, and to find body poses for feature extraction.
The Clinical Impact of Ganciclovir Prophylaxis on the Occurrence of Bacteremia in Orthotopic Liver Transplant Recipients

Background. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection or receipt of a CMV-seropositive donor liver has been shown to be an independent predictor of bacteremia in orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients. However, prevention of CMV infection through use of intense CMV prophylaxis has not been examined to assess the impact on bacteremia in liver transplant recipients. Methods. We analyzed the impact of CMV prophylaxis on rates of bacteremia by examining 192 consecutive OLT recipients during a 2-year follow-up period. Results. There were 29 episodes of bacteremia. Univariate analysis of risk factors for bacteremia showed that invasive fungal disease, initial anti-lymphocyte immunosuppression, treatment for rejection, and use of solumedrol were significantly associated with increased risk. Receipt of ≥14 days of ganciclovir prophylaxis (hazard ratio [HR], 0.40; 95% CI [confidence interval], 0.18-0.87; P =.02), end-to-end biliary anastomosis, and receipt of <10 units of red blood cells (RBCs) were significantly associated with a decreased risk. Three-variable analysis controlling for end-to-end anastomosis and use of <10 units of RBCs, showed that use of ≥14 days of ganciclovir was still associated with a reduced risk of bacteremia (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.20-0.98; P =.0437). Conclusions. Among factors associated with bacteremia, use of prophylactic ganciclovir is independently associated with a significant reduction of bacteremia in OLT recipients.
Careers and Influence in a Mexican City: The Case of Secondary School Teachers

Anthony Leeds observed more than a decade ago, that the ways in which careers are structured in modern societies provide important clues to the social organization and development of those societies. This paper is concerned with the relationship between career patterns, class background, and personalistic values among urban Mexican schoolteachers. Informal relationships with persons of influence (palancas) are described as an example of how values of personalism can be adapted to modern social environments. The patterning of palanca ties differs between teachers from lower and middle class backgrounds, with teachers from lower class backgrounds demonstrating a significantly greater acceptance of these relatively new kinds of relationships. Similarities and differences between the findings of this research and Leeds' study of Brazilian career patterns are discussed.
In vitro cone beam computed tomography imaging of periodontal bone.

Objectives: To assess the accuracy of NewTom 9000 cone beam CT (CBCT) images for the detection and quantification of periodontal bone defects in three dimensions. Methods: A sample of 146 sites in 5 dry skulls provided the ground truth (GT). Half of the sample had bone loss of at least 3 mm. Two metal spheres at each site ensured correspondence between GT and CBCT measurements. Skulls were submerged in water and scanned with the NewTom QR-DVT-9000. A full mouth series (FMX) was obtained of each skull using photostimulable phosphor plates. Six observers measured the bone height of each site and rated the presence or absence of bone loss. Measurements were compared to GT and Az-values were calculated from receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: The Az-value for CBCT was 0.74 (standard deviation (SD) 5 0.14) and for FMX 0.48 (SD 5 0.09). The difference was significant (ANOVA: P , 0.01). The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT was lower for anterior teeth (Az 5 0.59) than for molars (Az 5 0.82) and premolars (Az 5 0.79) (Tukey’s HSD (honestly significant difference): P , 0.01). The mean absolute difference between CBCT and GT was 1.27 mm (SD 5 1.43) and between FMX and GT 1.49 mm (SE 5 1.24) (ANOVA: P , 0.01). Measurements in the anterior mandible were less accurate than in other areas (Tukey’s HSD: P , 0.01). Conclusion: The NewTom 9000 cone beam CT scanner provides better diagnostic and quantitative information on periodontal bone levels in three dimensions than conventional radiography. The accuracy in the anterior aspect of the jaws is limited. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology (2008) 37, 319–324. doi: 10.1259/dmfr/26475758
Left ventricular strain distribution in healthy dogs and in dogs with tachycardia-induced dilated cardiomyopathy

Background Recently, left ventricular (LV) strain distribution pattern has been assessed in several cardiac disease states. Tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) is an animal model of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy well characterized in terms of global LV dysfunction but with poor understanding of regional variability in LV function. We hypothesized that TIC induces specific changes in LV strain distribution pattern.
Bats with hATs: Evidence for Recent DNA Transposon Activity in Genus Myotis

Transposable elements make up a significant fraction of many eukaryotic genomes. Although both classes of transposable elements, the DNA transposons and the retrotransposons, show substantial expansion in plants and invertebrates, the DNA transposons are thought to have become inactive in mammalian genomes long ago. Here, we report the first evidence for recent activity of DNA transposons in a mammalian lineage, the bat genus Myotis. Six recently active families of nonautonomous hobo/Activator/TAM transposons were identified in the Myotis lucifugus genome using computational tools. Low sequence divergence among the individual sequences and between individual sequences and their respective consensus sequences suggest their recent expansion in the M. lucifugus genome. Furthermore, amplification and sequencing of polymorphic insertion loci in a related taxon, M. austroriparius, confirms their recent activity. Myotis is one of the largest mammalian genera with 103 species. The discovery of DNA transposon activity in this genus may therefore influence our understanding of genome evolution and diversification in bats and in mammals in general. Furthermore, the identification of a likely autonomous element may lead to new approaches for mammalian genetic manipulation.
Changes in knee laxity and ligament force after sectioning the posteromedial bundle of the posterior cruciate ligament.

Purpose: Our purpose was to evaluate the role of the posteromedial (PM) bundle of the native posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in restraining posterior tibial translation and the effects of sectioning of the PM bundle on PCL forces. Methods: The PCL's femoral origin was mechanically isolated by use of a cylindrical coring cutter, and a cap of bone containing the ligament fibers was attached to a load cell that recorded resultant force in the ligament as the knee was passively extended from 120° to 0° without and with simulated tibial loading conditions. Anteroposterior laxity was also measured after load cell installation. The PM bundle was cut at its femoral origin, and all tests were repeated. Results: Cutting the PM bundle produced small but statistically significant increases in mean laxity at 0° (+1.06 mm) and 10° (+0.83 mm) of flexion; mean laxities at 30°, 45°, 70°, and 90° were unchanged. Forces in the remaining anterolateral bundle were not significantly different from those in the intact ligament for any mode of tibial loading, with the exception of the valgus moment, where sectioning of the PM bundle significantly reduced the PCL force at 0° and 5° of flexion. Conclusions: The relatively small increases in mean laxity after cutting of the PM bundle show that it plays a minor role in restraining posterior tibial translation. The minor changes in ligament force profiles after cutting of the PM bundle indicate that the remaining anterolateral bundle fibers continued to be loaded in a near-normal fashion. Clinical Relevance: This study helps to elucidate the function of the PM bundle in the native PCL. Because only small changes were seen in the biomechanical parameters tested, the rationale for reconstructing this bundle of the PCL could be questioned.
Fundamentals of the Flexibility Method

Basic concepts of the flexibility method (also called the force method) are described in this chapter. The flexibility method is a generalization of the Maxwell-Mohr method developed by J. C. Maxwell in 1864 and O. C. Mohr in 1874. In this approach statically indeterminate structures are analyzed by writing compatibility equations in terms of flexibility coefficients and selected redundants. Also involved in such equations are displacements calculated for a statically determinate version of the original structure (with the redundants released). Because the flexibility method requires extensive use of calculated displacements, the material in Appendix A will be referenced frequently.
Prediction of Binding Sites of Peptide Recognition Domains: An Application on Grb2 and SAP SH2 Domains

Determination of the binding motif and identification of interaction partners of the modular domains such as SH2 domains can enhance our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of protein-protein interactions. We propose here a new computational method to achieve this goal by integrating the orthogonal information obtained from binding free energy estimation and peptide sequence analysis. We performed a proof-of-concept study on the SH2 domains of SAP and Grb2 proteins. The method involves the following steps: (1) estimating the binding free energy of a set of randomly selected peptides along with a sample of known binders; (2) clustering all these peptides using sequence and energy characteristics; (3) extracting a sequence motif, which is represented by a hidden Markov model (HMM), from the cluster of peptides containing the sample of known binders; and (4) scanning the human proteome to identify binding sites of the domain. The binding motifs of the SAP and Grb2 SH2 domains derived by the method agree well with those determined through experimental studies. Using the derived binding motifs, we have predicted new possible interaction partners for the Grb2 and SAP SH2 domains as well as possible interaction sites for interaction partners already known. We also suggested novel roles for the proteins by reviewing their top interaction candidates.
Elliptically polarized leaky-wave array

This paper describes the application of Bethe's small-aperture theory and leaky-wave antenna theory to the design of planar arrays of rectangular waveguides radiating through small apertures arranged periodically in their broad walls. Such arrays can be designed to have any polarization, including circular, by suitable selection of the shape and orientation of the small apertures. These arrays have narrow beamwidths, and scan with frequency in a plane normal to the broad walls of the waveguides. A circularly polarized array at X -band was designed, and a single-wavegnide section of it was built to test the practicality of the design.
Linear Recursive Tracking of Fast Rayleigh-Faded MIMO Channels

The problem of linear tracking of fast Rayleigh-faded MIMO channels is considered. Due to computational complexity limitations, Kalman filters based on low-order autoregressive (AR) models are often used although realistic Rayleigh-faded channels cannot be properly approximated by low-order AR models. By increasing the order of the AR model, the channel tracking performance is considerably improved, but the resulting computational complexity may become large. In this paper, the filters used to track the channel are restricted to have a recursive structure, based on the previous estimate and new observation. The knowledge of the autocorrelation function of the channel taps is used to derive filters that are significantly less complex than high-order AR model based Kalman filters at the price of only a minor degradation in performance.
Androgen regulation of muscle fiber type in the sexually dimorphic larynx of Xenopus laevis

We used histochemical techniques [assays for adenine triphosphatase (ATPase) and succinate dehydrogenase (SDHase) activity] to identify muscle fiber types in the larynx of Xenopus laevis. Male muscle is made up of one fiber type, medium-sized fibers (approximately 9 microns2) that stain lightly for acid-stable ATPase and intensely for SDHase activity. In contrast, the female has 3 fiber types: small fibers (approximately 6 microns2) that stain intensely for ATPase and SDHase, medium-sized fibers (approximately 13 microns2) with moderate staining for ATPase and dark staining for SDHase, and large fibers (approximately 15 microns2) with little SDHase or ATPase activity. Long- term castration (6 months) has no effect on histochemical staining of adult male fibers. Long-term testosterone treatment (5 months) increases the proportion of medium-sized, moderately staining fibers in adult females, and reduces the proportion of both the small, darkly staining fibers and the large, lightly staining fibers. At metamorphosis, both males and females have 3 fiber types whose ATPase activity is similar to that of the adult female. However, no SDHase activity is observed. Treatment of juveniles for 3 weeks with testosterone results in nearly complete masculinization of muscle fibers, as judged by increased cross-sectional area, homogeneous ATPase staining, and a marked increase in SDHase activity. Thus, juvenile muscle is considerably more responsive to testosterone than is adult female muscle. We propose that the uniform metabolic properties of male laryngeal muscle contribute to the production of the rapid (66 Hz) mate call vocalizations characteristic of this species. Further, our results suggest that androgens direct the masculinization of laryngeal muscle fibers during postmetamorphic development.
Immunologic properties of mouse thymus cells. Identification of t cell functions within a minor, low-density subpopulation.

The functional attributes of minor subpopulations of mouse thymus cells derived by bovine serum albumin density gradient centrifugation, cortisone treatment, or selective depletion by anti-TL or anti-θ treatment have been examined. A subpopulation derived in each fashion contains the cells required to evoke graft- versus -host reactions in neonatal F1 hybrid recipients and to be stimulated by alloantigens in vitro in one-way mixed lymphocyte cultures and by phytohemagglutinin. The functions of this subpopulation are abrogated by treatment with anti-H-2 plus complement and by high concentrations of anti-θ. A tentative ordering of the various thymus cell subpopulations, on the basis of these and other data, is described.
Relationship between Vasectomy and Sexual Frequency

Abstract Introduction Men who are considering vasectomy as a means of contraception may have significant anxiety about their future sexual potency. As a result, couples may choose other forms of contraception with lower efficacy. Aim We sought to determine the relationship between vasectomy and the frequency of sexual intercourse. Methods We analyzed data from cycles 6 (2002) to 7 (2006–2008) of the National Survey of Family Growth to compare the frequency of sexual intercourse of men who had undergone vasectomy with men who had not. Analysis was performed using data from male and female responders, and excluded men who had never had sex and those below age 25. We constructed a multivariate logistic regression model to adjust for demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive, and health factors. Main Outcome Measure The main outcome measure was the sexual frequency in the last 4 weeks. Results Among male responders, a total of 5838 men met criteria for our study; 353 had undergone vasectomy. For vasectomized men, the average frequency of sexual intercourse was 5.9 times per month compared with 4.9 times for nonvasectomized men. After adjusting for age, marital status, race, education, health, body mass index, children, and income, vasectomized men had an 81% higher odds (95% confidence interval [CI] 6–201%) of having intercourse at least once a week compared with nonvasectomized men. A total number of 5211 female respondents reported 670 of their partners had undergone vasectomy. For partners of vasectomized men, the average frequency of intercourse was 6.3 times per month, compared with 6.0 times for partners of nonvasectomized men. After adjustment, women with vasectomized partners had a 46% higher odds (95% CI 5–103%) of having sexual intercourse at least once a week compared with women with nonvasectomized partners ( P = 0.024). Conclusion Vasectomy is not associated with decreased sexual frequency. This finding may be helpful to couples as they consider contraceptive options. Guo DP, Lamberts RW, and Eisenberg ML. Relationship between vasectomy and sexual frequency. J Sex Med 2015;12:1905–1910.
Towards an Independent State Constitutional Jurisprudence, or, How to Disagree with the Supreme Court and How Not to

In this brief article, Professor Adelman traces the evolution of the state constitutional jurisprudence of the Arkansas Supreme Court in its search and seizure decisions, from one in which no analysis independent of United States Supreme Court Fourth Amendment takes place, to one in which the Arkansas Supreme Court may determine for itself what is or is not an unreasonable search or seizure under the cognate state constitutional provision, Article 2, § 15 of the Arkansas Constitution. In Arkansas v. Sullivan, 532 U.S. 769 (2001), the U.S. Supreme Court summarily, per curiam, reversed a decision of the Arkansas Supreme Court which had attempted to read the Fourth Amendment more expansively (i.e., so as to provide greater protection against unreasonable search and seizure), than had recent Supreme Court precedent. The author notes that the state court could have avoided reversal rather easily by simply resting its holding expressly on the cognate state constitutional search and seizure provision, rather than on the Fourth Amendment.In this article and also in a follow-up article, Towards an independent state constitutional jurisprudence II: Arkansas Supreme Court rules state constitution requires warning prior to “Knock and Talk” searches, 2004 ARLN 3, the author notes that in search and seizure decisions after Sullivan, most notably State v. Brown, 156 S.W. 3d 722 (2004), the Arkansas Supreme Court has quickly learned and applied the lesson of Sullivan, and has embraced, under the banner of “Judicial Federalism,” its own state constitutional prerogative to “carve out its own path and speak in its own voice.”
The Safe Labiaplasty: A Study of Nerve Density in Labia Minora and Its Implications.

Background Surgical techniques to alleviate labia minora hypertrophy are gaining popularity. Due to the rapidly growing number of labiaplasties performed around the world, there is concern for the safety of these procedures with respect to maintaining sensitivity to the genitalia and/or implications for sexual arousal. Objectives An anatomic study aimed at identifying the nerve density distribution of the labia minora was performed to provide unique insight into performing labiaplasty while preserving sensation. Methods Four fresh tissue cadaver labia minora were analyzed. Each labia minora was divided into 6 anatomic areas. The samples from each of the 6 anatomic locations were analyzed for presence of nerve bundles using both a routine hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain and a confirmatory immunohistochemical staining for S100 protein. Nerve density was analyzed under light microscopy, counted, and then expressed as percentage nerve density as well as number of bundles per square millimeter. Results Upon gross analysis, the raw data reveal that labia minora have a heterogeneous population of sensory nerves. When looking at percent nerve density, the data do not reveal any statistical differences between the anatomic locations. Conclusions Most labiaplasty techniques can be performed safely and are unlikely to cause loss of sensation as the nerve density distribution in labia minora is heterogeneous.
Some current concepts in intestinal bacteriology

Quantitative studies of the fecal flora of populations at different risk of colon cancer indicate that the relative proportions of some particular species of bacteria rather than of different genera of bacteria may be correlated with colon cancer incidence. Since the metabolic activity of different species in each genus varies widely, a shift in proportions of species could cause a major change in total metabolic activity in the individual. In samples taken from various areas of the intestinal tract and in scrapings from the intestinal wall, the composition of the flora remained relatively constant from the ascending colon to the rectum. Therefore, the bacteria in feces do reflect the flora of the large colon. The composition of the flora was not significantly affected by drastic changes in diet, but statistically significant shifts in the proportions of some species were noted in individuals under conditions of anger or fear stress. Although diet may not change the flora the individual maintains, the bacteria present may convert the different substrates provided by a high-fat diet as opposed to a high-fiber diet into metabolites that are potentially carcinogenic. The conversion of dietary components to carcinogenic compounds, identification of the bacteria capable of effecting such conversions, and the conditions favoring the proliferation of such bacteria will be investigated in greater detail.
Speciation, Conductivities, Diffusivities, and Electrochemical Reduction as a Function of Water Content in Mixtures of Hydrated Chromium Chloride/Choline Chloride

We report experiments and simulations to understand the factors that control chromium (Cr3+) electrodeposition from ionic liquid solutions. Speciation, conductivities and diffusivities in mixtures of trivalent chromium chloride, water and choline chloride (CrCl3/xH2O/yChCl) were computed from molecular dynamics simulations and compared to measured ultraviolet–visible spectra, conductivities from electrical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammograms. Computed changes in Cr3+ first solvation shell and conductivity with solution composition qualitatively agree with experimental observations. The Cr3+ first solvation shell contains predominantly H2O and Cl– and the proportion of the two ligands changes with the relative bulk concentrations of each. Conductivities and diffusivities are observed to be functions of these composition variables. Variations in observed reduction current are primarily determined by dynamical properties and are less influenced by speciation.
Sustainability in BioEnergy Academy for Teachers (BEAT): Changing Perspectives and Practices Toward “Greening” the Curricula

A holistic approach of sustainability grounded in environmental concerns, also incorporates the dimensions of culture, economy, and social justice. It can be an added attraction bringing together various disciplines to explore pathways through which sustainability can be addressed in a practical manner. A one-week summer institute on Bioenergy and Bioproducts for educators from middle and high schools, and university faculty across STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics) disciplines was hosted by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). This program is geared towards helping reform educational infrastructure by promoting multidisciplinary activities and content in the areas of sustainability, bioenergy, and bioproducts. The objectives of the Bioenergy Academy are: (1) to provide a systems-perspective in sustainability, bioenergy, and bioproducts education to STEAM educators and researchers; and (2) to develop and provide curricular materials and a set of teaching tools to educators for enhancing instruction in the areas of sustainable bioenergy and bioproducts. The Academy focuses on lessons and activities pertaining to sustainability, systems thinking, renewable energy with particular emphasis on bioenergy, bioproducts, and environment and policies related to energy issues. The participants got the opportunity to acquire concrete experiences involving teamwork, time management, and project execution skills; reflected on their learning experiences through presentations at the end of the institute; developed concepts related to organic chemistry, physics, engineering design, instrumentation, mathematics, biological, and environmental sciences; and actively experimented with feedstocks to generate biodiesel and environmentally-friendly soaps using the glycerin produced from the biodiesel. The BITES (Buildings, Industry, Transportation, Electricity, Scenarios) simulation tool developed by National Renewable Laboratory (NREL) of the United States Department of Energy (DOE) and made freely available over the internet allowed participants to play out scenarios to reduce carbon foot print based on those situations that can be realized through policy decisions leading to building improvements, reduction of industrial pollution, use of alternative fuels, electric cars, and other design modifications in the transportation sector, and cleaner and more efficient conversion technologies for electricity generation and conservation. A total of forty one educators have been trained through this program over a period of four years. The evaluation surveys (pre- and post) revealed that the educators gained substantial knowledge in the fields of sustainability, bioenergy, and bioproducts, and felt comfortable in implementing the content in their courses and laboratories.
Cerebral Autoregulation Dynamics with High-Speed Diffuse Correlation Spectroscopy

We demonstrate the bedside measurement & characterization of cerebrovascular autoregulation (CVAR) dynamics from 10 healthy volunteers, using a new diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) instrument for high-speed measurement of cerebral blood flow.
Differential Cytotoxicity and DNA Cross-linking Produced by Polymeric and Monomeric Activated Analogues of Cyclophosphamide in Mouse L1210 Leukemia Cells

4-S-(hexane-6-ol)-sulfidocyclophosphamide (monomer) and a compound composed of this derivative covalently bound to divinylether-maleic acid copolymer (DIVEMA) spontaneously hydrolyze in vitro with half-lives of hydrolysis of 9 and 48 min respectively, to form 4-hydroxycyclophosphamide. In turn, 4-hydroxycyclophosphamide further degrades to phosphoramide mustard with a half-life of 312 min. Sulfido-CP (cyclophosphamide) monomer, DIVEMA-sulfido-CP polymer, and phosphoramide mustard are qualitatively similar in producing DNA interstrand cross-links, as measured by alkaline elution, when incubated with mouse L1210 leukemia cells for 20 min. DNA interstrand cross-linking in L1210 cells increases for up to 6 hr following drug treatment and then decreases until it is completely removed within 18 hr for all three drugs. However, quantitatively more phosphoramide mustard (150 µM) is required than monomer (30 µM) to produce comparable amounts of cross-linking. An equivalent amount of monomer hydrolytically released by the polymer within 20 min is one-half as potent as monomer alone in producing crosslinks. Similar concentration relationships are observed in cytotoxicity assays (L1210 soft agar colony formation). These in vitro data suggest that (a) the activated monomer or some degradation product prior to phosphoramide mustard is taken up by L1210 cells; (b) the polymer hydrolyzes extracellularly to a monomeric species before cellular uptake; and (c) tumor endocytotic uptake of polymer appears negligible in L1210 cells. In vivo antitumor studies with ascites L1210 in BGD2F1 mice indicate that the monomer (200 mg/kg, LD10) is cytotoxic to tumor cells (5 log tumor cell kill). However, the polymer at a dose equitoxic to the mice (100 mg/kg, LD10) is less cytotoxic than monomer to tumor cells (1 log tumor cell kill).
Characterization of Human and Murine T-Cell Immunoglobulin Mucin Domain 4 (TIM-4) IgV Domain Residues Critical for Ebola Virus Entry

ABSTRACT Phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) receptors that are responsible for the clearance of dying cells have recently been found to mediate enveloped virus entry. Ebola virus (EBOV), a member of the Filoviridae family of viruses, utilizes PtdSer receptors for entry into target cells. The PtdSer receptors human and murine T-cell immunoglobulin mucin (TIM) domain proteins TIM-1 and TIM-4 mediate filovirus entry by binding to PtdSer on the virion surface via a conserved PtdSer binding pocket within the amino-terminal IgV domain. While the residues within the TIM-1 IgV domain that are important for EBOV entry are characterized, the molecular details of virion–TIM-4 interactions have yet to be investigated. As sequences and structural alignments of the TIM proteins suggest distinct differences in the TIM-1 and TIM-4 IgV domain structures, we sought to characterize TIM-4 IgV domain residues required for EBOV entry. Using vesicular stomatitis virus pseudovirions bearing EBOV glycoprotein (EBOV GP/VSVΔG), we evaluated virus binding and entry into cells expressing TIM-4 molecules mutated within the IgV domain, allowing us to identify residues important for entry. Similar to TIM-1, residues in the PtdSer binding pocket of murine and human TIM-4 (mTIM-4 and hTIM-4) were found to be important for EBOV entry. However, additional TIM-4-specific residues were also found to impact EBOV entry, with a total of 8 mTIM-4 and 14 hTIM-4 IgV domain residues being critical for virion binding and internalization. Together, these findings provide a greater understanding of the interaction of TIM-4 with EBOV virions. IMPORTANCE With more than 28,000 cases and over 11,000 deaths during the largest and most recent Ebola virus (EBOV) outbreak, there has been increased emphasis on the development of therapeutics against filoviruses. Many therapies under investigation target EBOV cell entry. T-cell immunoglobulin mucin (TIM) domain proteins are cell surface factors important for the entry of many enveloped viruses, including EBOV. TIM family member TIM-4 is expressed on macrophages and dendritic cells, which are early cellular targets during EBOV infection. Here, we performed a mutagenesis screening of the IgV domain of murine and human TIM-4 to identify residues that are critical for EBOV entry. Surprisingly, we identified more human than murine TIM-4 IgV domain residues that are required for EBOV entry. Defining the TIM IgV residues needed for EBOV entry clarifies the virus-receptor interactions and paves the way for the development of novel therapeutics targeting virus binding to this cell surface receptor.
Numerical Simulation Analysis for the base isolation System of the Frame Structure

In order to study the aseismic behavior of a six-storey reinforced concrete frame structure,the interlaminar shear simplified model was adopted in the base isolation structure to study the seismic response,comparison analysis of the calculation result was undertaken before and after isolation,the results show that the base isolation technique can obviously reduce the seismic response of the upside structure.
286 IMMUNOLOGICAL AND VIROLOGIC RESPONSE OF A PHARMACIST-MANAGED MEDICATION ADHERENCE PROGRAM IN HIV-INFECTED WOMEN, ADOLESCENTS, AND CHILDREN.

Objective To demonstrate that a pharmacist-managed medication adherence program can increase medication adherence in the treatment of HIV-infected women, adolescents, and children resulting in improvement of their immunological and virologic markers. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of HIV-infected women, adolescents, and children who attended the Family Specialty Clinic from January 2003 through December 2004. The study cohort included patients who received medication adherence counseling from January through December 2004. This group of patients was then compared with patients who were stable on their antiretroviral regimen the year prior to initiation of the medication adherence counseling program (those seen at the clinic from January through December 2003). Epidemiological and laboratory data, including HIV-1 RNA (viral load) and CD4+ T cell counts, were also collected. Results Forty patients were eligible and included in the study. Majority of the patients were female (80%), mainly African American (90%), and most of these women (30%) were between 20 and 29 years of age. A total of 72 medication adherence interventions occurred during the study period. Mean medication adherence interventions by clinical pharmacists occurred 1.8 times. There was a small but not statistically significant improvement between mean viral load and CD4+ T cell count of patients at baseline (16,464 copies/mL and 646 cells/mm3) compared to after medication adherence intervention (14,218 copies/mL and 617 cells/mm3, p = .84 and .39). There were 35 clinic appointments missed at baseline compared to 48 missed visits after medication adherence interventions (p = .15). Conclusion We therefore conclude that our medication adherence program initiated over a period of 1 year did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in immunological and virologic outcome. However, further study over a longer time interval may be necessary to determine benefit of a medication adherence program in the treatment of HIV-infected women, adolescents, and children.
An elective course to enhance students’ knowledge and confidence in natural products

Abstract Background To create and evaluate the impact of an elective course in increasing knowledge and developing students’ confidence to counsel patients in the area of natural products (NP). Educational activity A 2-hour elective course was designed to create an opportunity for students to learn about the role of natural products in pharmacognosy, ethnobotany, alternative, and traditional medicine. The course employs lectures, active learning activities, student presentations, group discussions, and a simulation practical examination. Critical analysis of the educational activity Student knowledge was assessed based on grades. A pre-course and post-course survey was used to describe students’ confidence in the appropriate uses of NP and knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine. End-of-course evaluations were used to assess students’ satisfaction with the course. Conclusions Students agreed that this course gives them the knowledge and confidence to communicate with patients about NP, identify dietary supplement/drug interactions, and report adverse effects, while believing that conventional medicine could benefit from alternative medicine approaches.
A Practical Guide to Writing and Reviewing Abstracts for Pediatric Academic Meetings.

Writing and reviewing abstracts for academic meetings are essential skills for any academic pediatrician. An accurate and reliable peer review process is critical for fair determination of which abstracts are accepted for presentation at these meetings. Unfortunately, studies of abstract review practices across many fields in medicine have found that there is often poor concordance in scores among abstract reviewers,1–5 with some scores being so divergent that they are no different from what would be expected if assigned randomly.6,7 However, several studies have examined the development of abstract and journal article rating criteria and have found that the use of a standardized scoring process is feasible and can lead to better interrater agreement.8–15 The highest levels of interrater reliability occur with the more objective criteria such as those focusing on methods and analysis.3,11,15 The objectives of this commentary are to provide a guide on how to write an abstract for an academic meeting and an example of a structured abstract scoring system with relative weights of importance for the criteria, with the highest weight placed on methods and analysis. We will first discuss the key components that should be present in individual sections of the abstract (title, Background and Objectives, Methods and Analysis, Results, and Conclusions); the components that are part of our abstract scoring system are summarized in Table 1. We will then elaborate on additional criteria that can be incorporated into an abstract scoring system by using examples from the guidelines that have been used by the Academic Pediatric Association (APA) in their mentored abstract review process with fellows for the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) meetings since the fall of 2011. The 7-point scale and some of the guidelines were designed based on …
MicroForwarder.js: an NDN Forwarder Extension for Web Browsers

MicroForwarder.js is a Web browser extension that brings NDN packet forwarding capability to the now-ubiquitous browser platform. It enables local communication and sharing of cached data among the NDN.JS applications running in the same browser. It also allows the NDN.JS applications to share the communication channels to remote NDN forwarders and manages those channels on behalf of the apps. MicroForwarder.js is implemented in pure JavaScript based on the WebExtensions API and can be installed on the latest versions of Firefox and Chrome without requiring custom-built browser platform.
From Professional Development to the Classroom: Findings from CS K-12 Teachers

The CS for All initiative places increased emphasis on the need to prepare K-12 teachers of computer science (CS). Professional development (PD) programs continue to be an essential mechanism for preparing in-service teachers who have little formal background in CS content, skills, and teaching pedagogy. While increased investment by federal agencies and the industry has raised the number of CS PD opportunities for K-12 teachers, there has been limited study of how teachers apply what they learn back in their classroom. This paper describes an in-depth qualitative study through interviews of 28 elementary, middle and high school teachers who participated in summer PD in preparation of teaching a full CS course or integrate CS modules into existing courses (e.g., science, engineering, business, technology, etc). The interview protocol focused on educators' involvement in the PD, specific skills and strategies they learned, whether and how they have been able to apply these new skills in the classroom, what facilitated or impeded this application, and how students have responded.
Beyond the Label: Steering the Focus Toward Safe and Effective Prescribing.

* Abbreviations: EHR — : electronic health record FDA — : US Food and Drug Administration Each year, hundreds of millions of prescription medications are dispensed to pediatric patients.1 A significant proportion of prescriptions are used in an off-label manner, outside the specifications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), rendering off-label prescribing a “public health issue for infants, children and adolescents,” as described by the Committee on Drugs for the American Academy of Pediatrics.2 The committee also explicitly states that off-label use “does not imply an improper, illegal, contraindicated or investigational use.” Yet, when used in research, clinical practice, or even the lay media, the term off-label commonly carries a negative connotation. This interpretation probably reflects the sense of uncertainty in understanding the risk–benefit balance of a medication without FDA review and approval. However, prescribing according to the package insert does not necessarily translate to the safe and effective use of a medication.3 The clinical trial data required for FDA approval often represent highly select populations in controlled settings with limited follow-up. These data may not translate well to real-world use, hence the need for postmarketing surveillance and research. Conversely, lack of pediatric labeling for a medication does not necessarily indicate a lack of evidence. It may simply mean the pharmaceutical company has not submitted an application for FDA approval to add a new indication or population. This apparent paradox gives us the opportunity to consider how we, the pediatric community of clinicians, researchers, and policymakers, think about the issue of off-label prescribing and how best to direct … Address correspondence to Angela S. Czaja, MD, MSc, Mailstop 8414, 13121 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045. E-mail: angela.czaja{at}childrenscolorado.org
The evolving concept of cancer stem-like cells in thyroid cancer and other solid tumors

The cancer stem-like cell (CSC) hypothesis postulates that a small population of cells in a cancer has self-renewal and clonal tumor initiation properties. These cells are responsible for tumor initiation, growth, recurrence and for resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. CSCs can be characterized using markers such as SSEA-1, SSEA-4, CD44, CD24, ALDEFLUOR and others. CSCs form spheres when they are cultured in serum-free condition in low attachment plates and can generate tumors when injected into immune-deficient mice. During epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), cells lose cellular adhesion and polarity and acquire an invasive phenotype. Recent studies have established a relationship between EMT and increased numbers of CSCs in some solid malignancies. Non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to have important roles during EMT and some of these molecules also have regulatory roles in the proliferation of CSCs. Specific lncRNAs enhanced cell migration and invasion in breast carcinomas, which was associated with the generation of stem cell properties. The tumor microenvironment of CSCs also has an important role in tumor progression. Recent studies have shown that the interaction between tumor cells and the local microenvironment at the metastatic site leads to the development of premetastatic niche(s) and allows for the proliferation of the metastatic cells during colonization. The role of exosomes in the microenvironment during the EMT program is currently a major area of research. This review examines CSCs and the relationship between EMT and CSCs in solid tumors with emphasis on thyroid CSCs. The role of non-coding RNAs and of the microenvironment in EMT and in tumor progression are also examined. This review also highlights the growing number of studies that show the close association of EMT and CSCs and the role of exosomes and other elements of the tissue microenvironment in CSC metastasis. A better understanding of these mechanisms will lead to more effective targeting of primary and metastatic malignancies.
Seasonal Patterns in Host-Free Survival of the Boll Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in the Subtropics

The overwintering ecology of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, in the subtropics is poorly understood. Knowledge of seasonal patterns of host-free survival may be important to eradicatio...
The Influence of an Extreme Warm Spell on Public Support for Government Involvement in Climate Change Adaptation

An emerging literature discusses the effects of short-term temperature fluctuations on public opinion toward climate change. Yet, prior literature has not explored potential opinion-influencing eff...