cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kidney Allograft Inflammation and Fibrosis, Causes and Consequences

This study assessed the development of allograft interstitial fibrosis and inflammation (GIF+“i”), a histologic pattern associated with reduced graft survival. Included are 795 adults, recipients of kidney allografts from 2000 to 2006. GIF+“i” was diagnosed in surveillance and clinical biopsies that had no transplant glomerulopathy. With time, posttransplant increasing number of grafts showed GIF+“i” and these patients had reduced death-censored graft survival (HR = 4.33 (2.49–7.53), p < 0.0001). Development of GIF+“i” was related to prior acute cellular rejection (ACR), BK nephropathy (PVAN), increasing number of HLA mismatches, retransplantation and DGF. However, 46.4% of GIF+“i” cases had no history of ACR or PVAN. Anti-HLA antibodies at transplant did not relate to GIF+“i” and these patients had no increased frequency of new antibody formation posttransplant. Post-ACR biopsies showed that GIF+“i” developed more commonly after clinically and/or histologically more severe ACR. Graft inflammation persisted in 38.7 and 29.6% of grafts 2 and 12 months post-ACR. Twelve months post-ACR, 27.1% of biopsies developed moderate-severe GIF and 51.8% showed GIF and inflammation. Persistent inflammation and progressive GIF is often subclinical but may lead to graft failure. GIF+“i” can be initiated by multiple etiologies but it is often postinfectious or due to persistent cellular immune-mediated injury.
Custom DAQ Module for timing and energy measurements for J-Parc E14

We present a Pulse Shaping/Data Processing ADC Module for timing and energy measurements in High Energy Physics Experiments. The 6U VME Board has 16 channels at 14-BIT, 125MSPS, and was originally designed for KOTO, a Kaon experiment at Japan Particle Accelerator Research Complex (JPARC). Before being digitized, the differential inputs are amplified and shaped with low-pass filters, designed specifically for the scintillating material used in the experiment. Following shaping and sampling, data are fed to the on-board FPGA, and stored inside an adjustable pipeline memory, awaiting the trigger pulse. A digital data delay of up to 5,000 samples is possible. The Module can work independently, in a self-trigger mode, or it can be part of a large DAQ system with a unique system trigger. For sampling, the Module can use a locally generated clock, or it can work on a system level, simultaneous clock, provided at its front panel. After trigger, sets of data are packed and buffered. Depending on throughput requirements, the readout can be performed via the VME64 back plane or via the front-panel optical links. The powerful processing capabilities within the high-density FPGA allow for future design enhancements. Real-time local data processing and reduction algorithms can be implemented. The Module is fitted with two optical link transceivers at the front panel with 2.5 GBPS each. One optical link output is used for data read-out, and one for real-time total energy values. The two optical-link inputs are used to merge energy values calculated in other modules. By doing this, one can successively calculate the energy for the entire system and generate Level 1 triggers, with no additional hardware required. Design, module specifications, and test results will be described.
Microstrip antennas on synthesized low dielectric-constant substrates

Micromachining techniques using closely spaced holes have been used underneath a microstrip antenna on a high dielectric-constant substrate (/spl epsiv//sub r/=10.8) to synthesize a localized low dielectric-constant environment (/spl epsiv//sub r/=2.3). The measured radiation efficiency of a microstrip antenna on a micromachined 635-/spl mu/m thick /spl epsiv//sub r/=10.8 Duroid 6010 substrate increased from 48/spl plusmn/3% to 73/spl plusmn/3% at 12.8-13.0 GHz (including 3.3-cm feed line losses). We believe that this technique can be applied to millimeter-wave antennas (microstrip, dipoles, slots, etc.) on silicon and GaAs substrates to result in relatively wideband (3-6%) monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMIC) active antenna modules for phased-arrays and collision-avoidance systems.
Regulation of Podosome Formation in Macrophages by a Splice Variant of the Sodium Channel SCN8A

Voltage-gated sodium channels initiate electrical signaling in excitable cells such as muscle and neurons. They also are expressed in non-excitable cells such as macrophages and neoplastic cells. Previously, in macrophages, we demonstrated expression of SCN8A, the gene that encodes the channel NaV1.6, and intracellular localization of NaV1.6 to regions near F-actin bundles, particularly at areas of cell attachment. Here we show that a splice variant of NaV1.6 regulates cellular invasion through its effects on podosome and invadopodia formation in macrophages and melanoma cells. cDNA sequence analysis of SCN8A from THP-1 cells, a human monocyte-macrophage cell line, confirmed the expression of a full-length splice variant that lacks exon 18. Immunoelectron microscopy demonstrated NaV1.6-positive staining within the electron dense podosome rosette structure. Pharmacologic antagonism with tetrodotoxin (TTX) in differentiated THP-1 cells or absence of functional NaV1.6 through a naturally occurring mutation (med) in mouse peritoneal macrophages inhibited podosome formation. Agonist-mediated activation of the channel with veratridine caused release of sodium from cationic vesicular compartments, uptake by mitochondria, and mitochondrial calcium release through the Na/Ca exchanger. Invasion by differentiated THP-1 and HTB-66 cells, an invasive melanoma cell line, through extracellular matrix was inhibited by TTX. THP-1 invasion also was inhibited by small hairpin RNA knockdown of SCN8A. These results demonstrate that a variant of NaV1.6 participates in the control of podosome and invadopodia formation and suggest that intracellular sodium release mediated by NaV1.6 may regulate cellular invasion of macrophages and melanoma cells.
Effect of using 2 throat swabs vs 1 throat swab on detection of group A streptococcus by a rapid antigen detection test.

Objective To assess the effect of using 2 throat swabs vs 1 on rapid detection of group A streptococcus by the STREP A OIA MAX (hereafter, OIA MAX) test. Methods Children aged 5 to 18 years with acute pharyngitis were randomized to 1 of 2 study groups. In group 1, one throat swab was obtained, streaked first on sheep blood agar, and then used for OIA MAX testing. In group 2, two throat swabs were obtained simultaneously. One swab was streaked first on sheep blood agar and then joined with the other swab for OIA MAX testing. In both groups, the pledgets in the collection-transport tube were incubated in Todd-Hewitt broth. A positive group A streptococcus culture either by sheep blood agar or Todd-Hewitt broth was confirmed by a latex agglutination test. Results Three hundred sixty-three patients were enrolled, 177 in group 1 and 186 in group 2. Cultures were positive for group A streptococcus in 154 (42.4%) of 363 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of OIA MAX testing were 94.7% and 100.0%, respectively, in group 1, and 92.4% and 96.3%, respectively, in group 2. There was no statistical difference between the sensitivity, the specificity, and the predictive values of the OIA MAX test performed with 1 swab compared with those performed with 2 swabs (P>.10). There was no association between OIA MAX test sensitivity and the severity of pharyngitis as measured by the modified Centor criterion (history of fever, absence of cough, presence of pharyngeal or tonsillar exudates, and presence of cervical lymphadenopathy) scores. Conclusions The OIA MAX test yielded comparable sensitivity and specificity in both study groups. The use of 2 throat swabs instead of 1 swab did not increase the sensitivity of the OIA MAX test. The performance of the OIA MAX test did not depend on the severity of pharyngitis.
A Structural Basis for Electron Transfer in Bacterial Photosynthesis

Triplet data for the primary donor in single crystals of bacterial reaction centers of Rhodobacter sphaeroides and Rhodopseudomonas viridis are interpreted in terms of the corresponding x-ray structures. The analysis of electron paramagnetic resonance data from single crystals (triplet zero field splitting and cation and triplet linewidth of the primary special pair donor of bacterial reaction centers) is extended to systems of a non-crystalline nature. A unified interpretation based on frontier molecular orbitals concludes that the special pair behaves like a supermolecule in all wild-type bacteria investigated here. However, in heterodimers of Rhodobacter capsulatus (HisM200 changed to Leu or Phe with the result that the M-half of the special pair is converted to bacteriopheophytin) the special pair possesses the EPR properties more appropriately described in terms of a monomer. In all cases the triplet state and cation EPR properties appear to be dominated by the highest occupied molecular orbitals. These conclusions derived from EPR experiments are supplemented by data from Stark spectroscopy of reaction centers from Rb. capsulatus. The most red-shifted Stark band in the Rb. capsulatus heterodimer is relatively intense and is interpreted as a “pure” charge transfer band within the special pair donor. This explanation locates the energy of Bchl- M>Bchl+L> or Bchl+ M>Bchl- L>, the internal charge transfer state, anywhere from ~.1 ev to ~.3 ev above 1*[BchlM>BchlL>], the first excited singlet state of the primary donor. This internal charge transfer state has been invoked previously in the initial mechanism of electron transfer in photosynthesis.
Sorge or Selbstbewußtsein? Heidegger and Korsgaard on the Sources of Normativity

In a recent criticism of Christine Korsgaard, Robert Pippin remarks that a central feature of post-Kantian German thought is the ‘exclusively practical, nonmetaphysical status’ it attributes to subjectivity. The transcendental tradition— represented here by Korsgaard’s Kant-inspired theory—rejects the metaphysical conception of the subject as a substance with certain fixed properties, arguing instead that subjectivity is an achievement, something which I can succeed or fail at being. It is easy to see that Heidegger also belongs to this tradition, at least in Being and Time. There we read that ‘the ‘‘essence’’ of [Dasein] lies in its ‘‘to be’’‘ and that Dasein is such that ‘in its very being that being is an issue for it’ (Heidegger 1962: 67, 32; 1953: 42, 12). For Korsgaard this non-metaphysical conception of subjectivity underlies an account of normativity, an explanation of how standards—including the standards that measure success or failure at being a subject—can bind you, can provide you with reasons for acting in some ways and with obligations that forbid you from acting in others (Korsgaard 1996: 101). Her argument is complicated, but it turns on characterizing subjectivity as selfconsciousness: normative concepts do not arise as answers to theoretical questions; rather they exist ‘because human beings have normative problems. And we have normative problems because we are self-conscious rational animals, capable of reflection about what we ought to believe and do’ (Korsgaard 1996: 46). Self-consciousness thus gives rise to the normative, and the normative, ‘obligation . . . makes us human’ (Korsgaard 1996: 5). A similar stance toward normativity can be found in Heidegger. Truth, by all accounts, is a normative notion, a standard for the evaluation of the success or failure of propositions. And Heidegger famously argues that ‘ ‘‘[t]here is’’ truth only in so far as Dasein is and so long as Dasein is. . . . Before there was any Dasein, there was no truth; nor will there be any after Dasein is no more’ (Heidegger 1962: 269; 1953: 226). This is not because ‘there were no such entities’ as are pointed out in true assertions; rather, it is because such entities could not have had the status of norms, since that status depends on a condition that did not obtain, namely, Dasein’s ability to ‘bind itself’ to entities, be ‘beholden’ to them. More generally, the concept of being (Sein) in Heidegger exhibits a normative structure, and being cannot be divorced from Dasein’s understanding of being (Seinsverstandnis): ‘[O]nly so long as Dasein is (that is, only so long as an understanding of being is ontically possible), ‘‘is there’’ being’ (Heidegger 1962:
Bayesian Reliability Prognosis for Systems with Heterogeneous Information

A Bayesian methodology for prognosis of system reliability with heterogeneous reliability information is presented. Available information may be in the form of physics-based or experiment-based mathematical models, historical reliability data, or expert opinion. Such information typically describes the failure rates of individual components of the system and does not provide information on dependencies between them. The Bayesian methodology presented in this paper addresses this concern by learning the conditional probabilities in the Bayes network as observations about the system are made. First, the component and system faults are defined and the failure event tree is established. Bayesian priors for probabilities of both individual failure events and the conditional probabilities between them are established using various types of experimental data, expert opinion, or simulation data. Both the priors and conditional probabilities are updated as new data is collected, leading to an updated prognosis of system reliability. The methodology is demonstrated on an automobile startup system. 1
Preservation solutions for cardiac and pulmonary donor grafts: a review of the current literature

Hypothermic preservation of donor grafts is imperative to ameliorate ischemia related cellular damage prior to organ transplantation. Numerous solutions are in existence with widespread variability among transplant centers as to a consensus regarding the optimal preservation solution. Here, we present a concise review of pertinent preservation studies involving cardiac and pulmonary allografts in an attempt to minimize the variability among institutions and potentially improve graft and patient survival. A biochemical comparison of common preservation solutions was undertaken with an emphasis on Euro Collins (EC), University of Wisconsin (UW), histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate (HTK), Celsior (CEL), Perfadex (PER), Papworth, and Plegisol. An appraisal of the literature ensued containing the aforementioned preservation solutions in the setting of cardiac and pulmonary transplantation. Available evidence supports UW solution as the preservation solution of choice for cardiac transplants with encouraging outcomes relative to notable contenders such as CEL. Despite its success in the setting of cardiac transplantation, its use in pulmonary transplantation remains suboptimal and improved outcomes may be seen with PER. Together, we suggest, based on the literature that the use of UW solution and PER for cardiac and pulmonary transplants, respectively may improve transplant outcomes such as graft and patient survival.
DRUM-PD: The use of a drum circle to improve the symptoms and signs of Parkinson's disease (PD).

Background Physical therapy can improve motor function in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Music performance may be used to improve motor skills by rhythmic entrainment. Drumming has long been a part of traditional healing rituals worldwide and is increasingly being utilized as a therapeutic strategy. Methods This pilot controlled prospective and cohort trial assessed feasibility and effects of twice-weekly group West African drum circle classes for 6 weeks on PD patients’ quality of life, symptoms, motor findings, cognition, and mood. Ten patients with PD were recruited into the drum circle group. Ten patients with PD were matched pairwise to each of the drum circle participants and enrolled in a no-intervention control group. Both groups completed the PD-specific Parkinson Disease Questionnaire (PDQ)-39 quality of life assessment and the Geriatric Depression Scale and underwent motor and cognitive assessments by a rater blinded to group at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Results Drummers had significantly improved PDQ-39 scores from baseline to 6 weeks (−5.8; P = 0.042), whereas the control group's scores were unchanged. Walking performance was significantly faster at baseline for controls; after 6 weeks of drumming, this difference was no longer significant and remained nonsignificant at 12 weeks. The drummers trended (P = 0.069) toward improvement in walking from baseline to 12 weeks. Other outcomes did not significantly change from baseline to 6 or 12 weeks. Conclusions Drum circle classes significantly and reversibly improved quality of life in patients with PD. This pilot trial's findings merit larger controlled investigations comparing drumming classes to established interventions in PD, such as physical therapy.
Scaling up nanoscale water-driven energy conversion into evaporation-driven engines and generators

Harvesting energy from evaporation is constrained by the limited transport kinetics of materials and the slowly changing humidity of the environment. Chen et al. follow hierarchical design strategies to overcome these problems and create engines that start and run when placed at air-water interfaces.
Mary Richmond and the Causal Ontological Status of Relatedness

Mary Richmond introduced her view of how we as social workers can gather knowledge (data) about our clients in the early 20th century. Her work represents a form of qualitative research that we are only now beginning to understand fully. Human experience is complex and encompasses physical, cognitive, and social realms. With her foundational book Social Diagnosis (1917), Richmond described how we can study individual people in order to arrive at the very best ways of helping them.
The Distribution of Residual Cancer in Radical Prostatectomy Specimens in Stage a Prostate Cancer

To assess the volume and distribution of residual cancer after transurethral resection of the prostate in stage A cancer patients 42 step-sectioned radical prostatectomy specimens were examined, and the volume, location, grade and extracapsular extension of the residual tumor were recorded. A total of 13 patients had stage A1 tumors (5% or less tumor in the transurethral resection specimen and a Gleason sum of 7 or less) and 29 had stage A2 disease. Residual cancer was present in the radical prostatectomy specimen in 41 patients (98%) with a mean volume of 1.28 cc. The location of residual cancer, that is multifocal (76%), peripheral (81%) and distal to the verumontanum (66%), makes complete removal or even identification of residual tumor (restaging) by repeat transurethral resection improbable. Of the stage A1 cancer patients 4 (30%) had more than 1 cc residual tumor volume, extracapsular extension or seminal vesicle invasion. On the other hand, 14 of the stage A2 cancer patients (48%) had less than 1 cc residual tumor completely confined to the gland. Foci of residual cancer were found in the transition zone in 67% and in the peripheral zone in 90% of the patients. The grade of the residual peripheral zone cancer was significantly higher than that of the transition zone cancer in the same gland (p = 0.0004). Eight of 13 instances of extracapsular extension and all 5 of seminal vesicle invasion were directly attributable to peripheral zone cancer. These observations imply that the greatest threat to patients with stage A prostate cancer may be a separate, associated cancer in the peripheral zone rather than the primary transition zone cancer incidentally removed at transurethral resection.
G2 Interpolation for polar surfaces

ABSTRACTIn this paper, we present a G2 interpolating scheme for Polar surfaces, so that polar surfaces can be used in high precision CAD/CAM applications as well. The new scheme is Bezier crust based, i.e., the interpolating surface is generated by parametrically attaching an especially selected bi-degree 5 Bezier surface to a Catmull-Clark subdivision surface. While Bezier crust based scheme handles quad faces only, we show that through a conversion process, we can handle triangular faces in the Polar part as well. Curvature continuity of the generated limit surface of our new scheme is consistent with the corresponding Polar surface. In case of a PCCS, the generated limit surface of our new scheme is G2 on the Polar part.
Abstract 295: The cytosine deaminase APOBEC3B affects responses to therapy in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells

Endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, or both represent the mainstay of therapy for estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. However, acquired (secondary) drug resistance is a major clinical problem. We identified APOBEC3B (A3B), a DNA cytosine deaminase, as a source of DNA mutagenesis driving tumor evolution and contributing to poor clinical outcomes in several cancers by catalyzing genetic changes required for drug resistance and metastasis. A3B accounts for up to half of the mutational load in breast carcinomas expressing this enzyme. High levels of A3B correlate with poor clinical outcomes in tamoxifen treated patients. To evaluate the role for A3B in resistance to therapy, we used the ER+ MCF-7L breast cancer cell line. These cells have modestly elevated levels of endogenous A3B and we suppressed A3B levels by shRNA and enhanced levels by transduction. In vitro, alterations in A3B levels do not affect monolayer growth or cell doubling times. However, in vitro response to tamoxifen was prolonged in MCF-7L cells with suppressed A3B. In a xenograft model, MCF-7 cells with suppressed A3B remained responsive to tamoxifen for a longer period of time compared to wild type cells. Cells with overexpression of A3B had a very short period of tamoxifen suppression compared to wild-type cells. These data suggest high A3B levels are associated with a shorter period of response to tamoxifen. To evaluate the role for A3B in chemotherapy resistance, we treated cells with 5-fluorouracil. In contrast to tamoxifen therapy, cells with elevated A3B levels remained responsive to fluorouracil for longer periods of time compared to wild-type cells. Since A3B converts cytosine to uracil (C-to-U), we speculate that A3B enzymatic activity might enhance sensitivity to a fluoropyrimidine. Thus, the ability of A3B to affect therapeutic resistance in breast cancer may be dependent on the type and mechanism of drug treatment. Citation Format: Kelly S. LaPara, Emily Law, Reuben Harris, Douglas Yee. The cytosine deaminase APOBEC3B affects responses to therapy in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 295.
Management of the Surgical Patient with Thrombotic and Bleeding Diathesis

An increasing number of patients are being treated with anticoagulants; heparin and vitamin K antagonists, e.g., warfarin, are still the most commonly prescribed agents. Common indications for anticoagulation include atrial fibrillation, venous thromboembolism, and mechanical heart valves. Advances in therapeutics have led to the availability of direct-acting anticoagulants such as the direct factor Xa inhibitors and direct thrombin inhibitors. Physicians are often faced with perioperative management of patients on anticoagulants, an “acquired” bleeding tendency, or management of patients who have had complications of anticoagulants, e.g., heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and, although rare, may be faced with perioperative management of patients with congenital bleeding disorders.
Investigating the linguistic and pedagogical affordances of an L2 open reading environment via eComma: An exploratory study in a Chinese language course

Abstract This exploratory, small-scale, qualitative study investigates the linguistic and pedagogical benefits and challenges of using a digital annotation tool (called eComma) to facilitate second language (L2) reading in a second-semester, university-level Chinese language course. The goals of the study are to analyze the effects of social reading on learners' understanding of Chinese literary texts and investigate how an L2 teacher might effectively incorporate this activity in his/her classroom. The results indicate that students predominantly used the social reading experience to query fellow students about the meaning of vocabulary/Chinese characters in the digital, literary texts used in the study. eComma allowed students to co-construct meaning and scaffold their learning while engaged in close readings of the Chinese literary texts outside of the physical classroom. Drawbacks of social reading in this environment include students' frustrations with some technical aspects of the eComma tool and the instructor's concerns about meaningfully bridging students' social reading experiences outside of the class with in-class discussions/activities. Pedagogical suggestions regarding L2 open/social reading include adding timing constraints to promote more virtual interaction, better integrating students' virtual comments into classroom discussion/activities, and offering more structure for novice learners.
Changes in Forest Composition and Potential Feeding Tree Availability on a Small Land-Bridge Island in Lago Guri, Venezuela

Fragmentation of tropical forests affects the viability of primate populations worldwide. A recent assessment of habitat loss in Latin America has estimated that 9.7% of extant forest was lost between 1980 and 1995 (Chapman and Peres, 2001). Forest fragmentation has many causes (e.g., human encroachment for settlements, agricultural practices, logging, and flooding, Alvarez et al., 1986; Cosson et al., 1999; Chapman and Peres, 2001), but these causes share a common phenomenon. Disruption of contiguous forest creates disjunct patches of forest separated by different types of land use, vegetation, or water, in the case of flooding (Alvarez et al., 1986; Saunders et al., 1991; Terborgh et al., 1997; Cosson et al., 1999). Forest remnants are both smaller, when compared to contiguous forest, and isolated from other forest patches (Saunders et al., 1991). The nature of the surrounding modified habitats—or matrix—imposes a variety of novel (and often detrimental) effects on the plant and animal species still residing within a given fragment (Cosson et al., 1999). In the case of land-bridge islands, water as a barrier has a powerful effect, both in terms of limiting dispersal of resident species and providing an unusable habitat for those species (Turner, 1996; Terborgh et al., 1997; Cosson et al., 1999).
Community College Faculty and Conceptualizations of Disciplinary Writing

In this manuscript, the authors use metaphor analysis to uncover community college faculty conceptualizations about disciplinary writing. The findings suggest that faculty have multiple beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions of disciplinary writing and tend not to articulate differences between disciplinary writing practices and general writing practices. Implications of this study include the importance of faculty considering how their conceptualizations of writing can support students' understandings of, and practices in, writing throughout the college experience.
Biodiversity and Human Health

Biodiversity supports and protects human health in many ways, and the continuing loss of biodiversity will compromise this support system. Some species currently or potentially of conservation concern provide animal models important for basic biomedical research. Others contain substances that can be used or modified to produce medicines of enormous health benefit. Biodiversity is critical for reducing impacts of disease on crop production, for increasing nutritional diversity, and for providing insurance against climate change and other environmental changes. High biodiversity reduces the rates of transmission of various human pathogens, including the agents of Lyme disease, West Nile fever, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, and schistosomiasis. Areas with high diversity of free-living organisms also appear to maintain high diversity of parasites and pathogens, and some have argued that these areas might be “hot spots” for disease emergence. However, reductions in native biodiversity associated with human activities are consistently associated with increases in disease risk and incidence.
A Rare SK2 Channel Variant Confers a Gain-of-Function Phenotype

Sequencing the DNA from a 52-year-old female with modest QTc interval prolongation (460 ms) revealed pro-arrhythmic or drug-induced QTc-prolonging variants in the genes KCNE1 (p.S38G), encoding for the beta subunit (minK) of a slowly activated cardiac potassium channel, and ANK2 (p.P2835S), encoding for the adapter protein ankyrin-B, respectively, as well as KCNN2 (p.F503L), encoding for the pore-forming subunit of the type 2 small conductance, calcium-activated potassium (SK2) channel. Whereas electrophysiological consequences of KCNE1 and ANK2 variants have been described previously, the impact of KCNN2 variants, specifically F503L, on SK2 channel function is unknown. We first characterized the properties of F503L KCNN2 by heterologous expression of the variant and wild type in HEK293 cells. F503L KCNN2 expression led to a ∼22% decrease in the average EC50 for Ca2+ activation of SK2 channels (478±25 nM vs 610±47 nM; mean ± SEM; P 0.05). We next tested the impact on macroscopic SK currents in cardiomyocytes isolated from “knock-in” mice heterozygous for the KCNN2 variant. Whole-cell SK current density-voltage relationships recorded from 7 wild type- and 9 variant-expressing myocytes exhibited strong inward rectification at potentials positive to the K+ equilibrium potential (−78 mV). Average inward SK current density was ∼2.5-fold larger in variant compared to wild type myocytes (e.g., at −120 mV, 6.1±0.7 pA/pF versus 2.4±0.4 pA/pF; P<0.05; intrapipette free [Ca2+] was 1 μmol). Outward SK currents at potentials between 0 and +40 mV were markedly increased in variant compared to wild type cells (e.g., at +40 mV, 1.0±0.3 pA/pF vs 0.2±0.1 pA/pF; P<0.05). These findings support the intriguing possibility that an increase in outward SK currents associated with a gain-of-function KCNN2 variant could mitigate the possible combined effect of pro-arrhythmic or drug-induced QTc-prolonging variants in KCNE1 and/or ANK2.
Modeling the acceptability of crowdsourced goods deliveries: Role of context and experience effects

Abstract Crowdshipping is a frontier in logistics systems designed to allow citizens to connect via online platforms and organize goods delivery along planned travel routes. The goal of this paper is to highlight the factors that influence the acceptability and preferences for crowdshipping. Through a survey using stated choice scenarios discrete choice models controlling for context and experience effects are specified. The results suggest that distinct preference patterns exist for distance classes of the shipment. In the local delivery setting, senders value transparency of driver performance monitoring along with speed, while longer shipments prioritize delivery conditions and driver training and experience. The model developed in this paper provides first key insights into the factors affecting preferences for goods delivery with occasional drivers.
A method for high transfection efficiency in THP-1 suspension cells without PMA treatment.

Abstract Adherent cells such as mouse RAW cells or human cancer U2OS cells are beneficial to DNA transfection, with 20%–60% transfection efficiency. However, this DNA transfection is rarely used on suspension cells due to its low transfection efficiency (≤5%). We recently found a new DNA transfection method to increase the efficiency up to 13.5% in suspension cells without PMA treatment. We also found that DNA transfection of human TNFAIP1 or CXCL1 recombinant plasmid DNA in THP-1 cells induces a high level of TNF-α protein. Overall, this new method is simple yet efficient and can be used for the overexpression of DNA in suspension cells.
Parathyroid Hormone: Chemical and Immunochemical Studies of the Active Molecular Species

This chapter discusses the chemical and immunochemical studies of the active molecular species. Bovine parathyroid hormone has been isolated in the form of three homogeneous isohormones and the porcine hormone has also been purified. The presence of hormonal fragments appears to explain the nonparallel responses produced in the radioimmunoassay by hormone in peripheral plasma. It is observed that such nonparallel slopes using one or more antisera in the radioimmunoassay with most peripheral plasma samples tested, while hormone in blood directly from the parathyroid glands has been, without exception, completely parallel with hormone extracted from the glands. One explanation for the nonparallel slopes seen in the radioimmunoassay of parathyroid hormone in peripheral plasma may be the presence in the assay antiserum of two or more antibodies with different antigenic determinants and different affinity constants for the hormone. Thus, when one fragment is present at greater concentrations than the other, a change in displacement slope can be predicted. Alternately, the cleavage of the intact hormone at an important antigenic site of the molecule may change the displacement slopes.
The Role for Myc in Coordinating Glycolysis, Oxidative Phosphorylation, Glutaminolysis, and Fatty Acid Metabolism in Normal and Neoplastic Tissues.

That cancer cells show patterns of metabolism different from normal cells has been known for over 50 years. Yet it is only in the past decade or so that an appreciation of the benefits of these changes has begun to emerge. Altered cancer cell metabolism was initially attributed to defective mitochondria. However, we now realize that most cancers do not have mitochondrial mutations and that normal cells can transiently adopt cancer-like metabolism during periods of rapid proliferation. Indeed, an encompassing, albeit somewhat simplified, conceptual framework to explain both normal and cancer cell metabolism rests on several simple premises. First, the metabolic pathways used by cancer cells and their normal counterparts are the same. Second, normal quiescent cells use their metabolic pathways and the energy they generate largely to maintain cellular health and organelle turnover and, in some cases, to provide secreted products necessary for the survival of the intact organism. In contrast, undifferentiated cancer cells minimize the latter functions and devote their energy to producing the anabolic substrates necessary to maintain high rates of unremitting cellular proliferation. Third, as a result of the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells, a larger fraction of the metabolic intermediates normally used by quiescent cells purely as a source of energy are instead channeled into competing proliferation-focused and energy-consuming anabolic pathways. Fourth, cancer cell clones with the most plastic and rapidly adaptable metabolism will eventually outcompete their less well-adapted brethren during tumor progression and evolution. This attribute becomes increasingly important as tumors grow and as their individual cells compete in a constantly changing and inimical environment marked by nutrient, oxygen and growth factor deficits. Here, we review some of the metabolic pathways whose importance has gained center stage for tumor growth, particularly those under the control of the c-Myc (Myc) oncoprotein. We discuss how these pathways differ functionally between quiescent and proliferating normal cells, how they are kidnapped and corrupted during the course of transformation, and consider potential therapeutic strategies that take advantage of common features of neoplastic and metabolic disorders.
Diagnosing and treating microtia.

Instructions for examining and diagnosing patients with microtia and an overview of reconstructive options. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Scombroid Fish Poisoning: Successful Treatment With Cimetidine

Reported is a patient with a clinical syndrome characteristic of scombroid fish poisoning after ingesting yellowfin tuna that may have been allowed to sit at room temperature for some time before preparation. The patient was treated with an intravenous infusion of cimetidine with prompt resolution of a diffuse, well demarcated, erythematous, pruritic rash. The treatment was without sequelae and permitted early discharge from the emergency department. A brief review of scombroid fish poisoning and its treatment is provided.
Evaluation of electrochemical techniques for monitoring of atmospheric corrosion phenomena

S A review is presented of past and present efforts to use electrochemical techniques to evaluate basic phenomena of atmospheric corrosion, measure time of wetness, and perform corrosion-rate measurements in outdoor exposure. This is followed by a summary of recent work carried out in the author's laboratory. Time-of-wetness measurements have been carried out continuously over a three-year period at the same location using copper/steel and copper/zinc sensors. An analysis of the monthly distribution of relative humidity and corrosion rates determined with the same sensors has resulted in correlations between them. Weight-loss measurements under thin layers of electrolytes that are drying out at RH < 100 percent have shown that, in most cases, corrosion rates are much higher under these conditions than in bulk solutions. Electrochemical measurements carried out under identical conditions show the continuous increase of corrosion rates during the drying period. A comparison of corrosion rates determined by weight loss and electrochemical techniques under thin layers of electrolytes indicates that the electrochemical data underestimate the true corrosion rates. The determination of cell factors based on weight-loss data is one approach for using the electrochemical technique in a more quantitative manner.
The efficacy of propylene glycol alginate (PGA), a food additive, in controlling Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks.

Abstract Ticks and tick-borne pathogens threaten the health of both domestic animals and humans, and are associated with a high economic burden in many countries. Tick control can be achieved with chemical acaricides, but issues remain regarding their safety as well as emerging tick resistance. Propylene glycol alginate (PGA) is a food additive commonly used in China. It has been used to kill whiteflies in agriculture as an environmentally friendly insecticide. The aims of this study were to (i) explore the efficacy of PGA to kill Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks and (ii) assess the potential to develop a new tick control acaricide containing PGA and a reduced amount of synthetic pyrethroid. Beta-cypermethrin was chosen as the reference pyrethroid in this study. PGA, beta-cypermethrin and mixes (PGA and beta-cypermethrin formulated in proportions of A = 2:1, B = 1:1, and C = 1:2) were compared for efficacy to kill larval and adult H. longicornis ticks. Overall, we found no statistically significant differences in the killing efficacy of PGA as compared to beta-cypermethrin across examined time-points post-tick exposure. At 24 h post-tick exposure, similar killing efficacy for H. longicornis larvae was recorded for beta-cypermethrin alone, PGA alone, and mixed formulations B and C. Mixed formulation C had the strongest killing effect when compared to PGA alone or mixed formulation B. Similar outcomes were observed in experiments with adult H. longicornis ticks. Based on these findings, we propose that PGA can be useful as a tick control acaricide, either as a single active ingredient or formulated together with a pyrethroid.
Aspectos Institucionais em E-learning

Uma das causas mais comuns de problemas ou falhas nas inovacoes educacionais e a pouca atencao dada aos aspectos administrativos e institucionais de implementacao, gerencia e controle do projeto. O presente artigo apresenta um enfoque para planejamento e gerencia de projetos de e-learning; baseia-se em uma cuidadosa consideracao a uma serie de aspectos institucionais que influenciaram para o sucesso de tais projetos
Scalable approximations to k-cycle transversal problems on dynamic networks

We study scalable approximation algorithms for the k-cycle transversal problem, which is to find a minimum-size set of edges that intersects all simple cycles of length k in a network. This problem is relevant to network reliability through the important metric of network clustering coefficient of order k. We formulate two algorithms to be both scalable and have good solution quality in practice: CARL and DARC. DARC is able to efficiently update its solution under dynamic node and edge insertion and removal to the network. In our experimental evaluation, we demonstrate that DARC is able to run on networks with billions of 3-cycles within 2 h and is able to dynamically update its solution in microseconds.
Neighborhood Walkability and Aerobic Physical Activity among Latinos

Objective: In this study, we examined neighborhood social cohesion (NSC) as a moderator in the association between neighborhood walkability and meeting the aerobic physical activity guideline among US Latino adults. Methods: We used 2015 National Health Interview Survey cross-sectional data from 4525 adult US Latino participants ≥18 years of age. NSC and walkability measures were self-reported. Higher walkability scores indicating higher walkability. Aerobic activity was assessed based on self-reported frequency and duration of activity. Minutes per week of moderate and vigorous aerobic activity were then categorized based on the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Survey logistic regression was used to compute odds ratios [OR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI]. Effect modification by neighborhood social cohesion was tested by inclusion of a walkability*NSC interaction term. Results: A one-unit higher walkability score was associated with higher odds of meeting the aerobic activity guideline (OR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.11). After adding NSC to the model, the association remained statistically significant (OR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.10). The walkability*NSC interaction term was not statistically significant. Conclusions: NSC did not moderate the association between neighborhood walkability and meeting the aerobic activity guideline among US Latino adults.
Physical Activity During Early Childhood: The Importance of Parental Modeling:

Increasing physical activity (PA) is a critical issue in improving overall health. Prior attempts by public health campaigns to promote PA through health-focused messaging have faced challenges. As PA and sedentary behaviors are developed during the early childhood period (ages 0 to 5 years), this stage represents a unique opportunity for clinicians to encourage activity at the family level. Clinicians should discuss the holistic benefits of PA, including the development of social skills and relationships, motor skills that could be applicable to sports later in life, and cognitive skills that could translate to academic achievements in school. For PA to occur in children, parents should also be engaged in and model the PA behaviors, increasing the likelihood of young children learning to be physically active.
Abstract TP125: Stent as a Treatment for Cranio-Cervical Artery Dissection: Improved Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events-Free Survival

Introduction: Cranio-Cervical Artery Dissection (CeAD) is a relatively common cause of cerebrovascular event in young subjects for which no clear treatment strategy is established. We evaluated the...
Watery Relations and Creations: Ancient Maya Engagement with the Cara Blanca Pools

Many archaeologists have sought to interpret the archaeological record with an understanding that non-humans are active constituents within myriad human ontologies. I suggest that to truly understand the spaces with which we exist, we need not invite non-humans into our ontologies, but rather reincorporate ourselves into theirs. This approach decenters humans and puts forth an ontology of matter, within which diverse human ontologies can unfold but to which we are all subject. A closer look at water, specifically at the ancient Maya pilgrimage site of Cara Blanca, Belize, offers an example of how humans exist as only one part of many that participate in the formation of landscapes and shows how water's affect preempts cultural relationships with water. The inherent qualities of water are affective, and it is this affect that integrates Cara Blanca. I introduce my adoption of the concept of kinesis, a territorializing force that allows for the possibility of non-humans to cause history. Thus, I follow water through the archaeological data, elucidating how water's kinesis created possibility at Cara Blanca.
Adaptive Two-Stage Bayesian Model Averaging for Estimating the Impact of Hazards on Power System Service

A wide variety of weather conditions, from windstorms to prolonged heat events, can have substantial impacts on power systems, posing many risks and inconveniences due to power outages. Being able to accurately estimate the probability distribution of the number of customers without power by using data about the power utility system and environmental and weather conditions has the potential to help utilities restore power more quickly and efficiently. We propose a new algorithm based on Bayesian model averaging (BMA) in order to form an ensemble model predicting daily distributions of customers interruptions. The proposed algorithm has three main characteristics: (i) the base learners can be any type of probabilistic prediction model and no limiting assumptions are made about them, (ii) weights of the base learners in the BMA are a multinomial logistic function of the data and not necessarily the same for different records, and (iii) the base learners and their corresponding weights are updated as new data are collated. Using a large, real dataset of daily customers interruptions, we demonstrate that our approach offers more accurate probabilistic predictions than traditional approaches. It also provides more insights into the data generating process, and so, results in better support for utility restoration planning. Although our work is motivated by the power system application, our methodology and insights can be extended to other predictive modeling problems in which there are model uncertainty and data is collated gradually.
Justicia restaurativa como un modo de sanción alternativa

En nuestro pais, la poblacion tiene desconfianza de la administracion de justicia porque la considera excesivamente formalista, lenta e ineficaz para solucionar losproblemas que son sometidos a su conocimiento, razon por la cual es indispensable encontrar nuevas formas de administrar justicia que apoyen de manera cierta y significativa a la convivencia pacifica y paz social, entregando al ciudadano una solucion rapida al conflicto con una reparacion real frente a un acto lesivo de relevancia juridico penal.