cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural determinants of alpha 2-adrenergic receptor regulation.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the mechanisms responsible for short-term agonist-promoted desensitization of the α 2 -adrenergic receptors ( α 2 ARs). It is found that desensitization is maximal with saturating concentrations of agonist, is unaffected by blockade of receptor internalization, is blocked by the β AR kinase inhibitor heparin but not by PKA inhibitors, and is associated with receptor phosphorylation. A mutated receptor consisting of a deletion of a relatively large portion of the third intracellular loop that is rich in serine and threonine residues is found to function normally but failed to undergo short-term agonist-promoted desensitization. Confirming the causal relationship between receptor phosphorylation and desensitization, this mutated receptor also failed to phosphorylate. These characteristics are all consistent with phosphorylation of the α 2 C10 receptor by a G-protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK), such as β ARK, during agonist desensitization. Indeed, in a recombinant phospholipid vesicle system, β ARK has been shown to phosphorylate purified receptor. These studies have established a molecular basis for short-term agonist-promoted desensitization of α 2 ARs, particularly the α 2 C10 subtype. Such desensitization appears to be because entirely of phosphorylation of the receptor in the model systems examined till date. Phosphorylation and desensitization is receptor subtype-specific, being observed with α 2 C10 and α 2 C2 but not α 2 C4. In addition, such desensitization is highly dependent on the expression of specific GRK isoforms, which is a factor in cell-type specificity of α 2 AR desensitization.
Rural Educator Policy Brief: AASA Transistion Memo to President Trump

Editor’s Note: In this third Rural Education Policy Brief, we share the Transition Memo originally published by AASA: The School Superintendents Association. The National Rural Education Association partners with AASA and other state and national organizations to advocate for rural education through the National Rural Education Advocacy Coalition. The NREAC monitors federal policy and lobbies about issues that impact rural schools. Each spring, the NREAC develops a legislative agenda. Readers can learn more about the NREAC at their website: http://www.aasa.org/content.aspx?id=17140. On January 10, 2017, AASA released its Transition Memo to President Trump and his administration, summarizing key issues and steps the administration can take to support public education. Because the Transition Memo succinctly addresses several national policy issues of particular relevance to rural educators, the AASA Transition Memo is reprinted here, in its entirety.
Opportunities to improve the conversion of food waste to lactate: Fine-tuning secondary factors:

Extensive research has demonstrated the potential for bioconversion of food waste to lactate, with major emphasis on adjusting temperature, pH, and loading rate of the fermentation. Each of these factors has a significant effect on lactate production; however, additional secondary factors have received little attention. Here we investigate three additional factors where opportunities exist for process improvement: freezing of samples during storage, discontinuous pH control, and holdover of fermentation broth between fermentations. Freezing samples prior to fermentation was shown to reduce the production rate of lactate by 8%, indicating freeze–thaw should be avoided in experiments. Prior work indicated a trade-off in pH control strategies, where discontinuous pH control correlated with higher lactate accumulation while continuous pH control correlated with higher production rate. Here we demonstrate that continuous pH control can achieve both higher lactate accumulation and higher production rate. Finall...
Infants' sensitivity to vowel harmony and its role in segmenting speech

Abstract A critical part of infants’ ability to acquire any language involves segmenting continuous speech input into discrete word forms. Certain properties of words could provide infants with reliable cues to word boundaries. Here we investigate the potential utility of vowel harmony (VH), a phonological property whereby vowels within a word systematically exhibit similarity (“harmony”) for some aspect of the way they are pronounced. We present evidence that infants with no experience of VH in their native language nevertheless actively use these patterns to generate hypotheses about where words begin and end in the speech stream. In two sets of experiments, we exposed infants learning English, a language without VH, to a continuous speech stream in which the only systematic patterns available to be used as cues to word boundaries came from syllable sequences that showed VH or those that showed vowel disharmony (dissimilarity). After hearing less than one minute of the streams, infants showed evidence of sensitivity to VH cues. These results suggest that infants have an experience-independent sensitivity to VH, and are predisposed to segment speech according to harmony patterns. We also found that when the VH patterns were more subtle (Experiment 2), infants required more exposure to the speech stream before they segmented based on VH, consistent with previous work on infants’ preferences relating to processing load. Our findings evidence a previously unknown mechanism by which infants could discover the words of their language, and they shed light on the perceptual mechanisms that might be responsible for the emergence of vowel harmony as an organizing principle for the sound structure of words in many languages.
Tetyana Filevska, compiler, editor, and with annotations and an introduction. Kazimir Malevich: Kyiv Period 1928-1930; Articles, Documents and Letters.

Review of Tetyana Filevska, compiler, editor, and with annotations and an introduction. Kazimir Malevich: Kyiv Period 1928-1930; Articles, Documents and Letters. Edited by Wendy Salmond, translated by Marta Skorupsky and Salmond (pages 123-62), Rodovid Press, 2017. 304 pp. Illustrations. Notes. List of Sources of Illustrations. Index. $55.00, cloth.
SnapShot: TCGA-Analyzed Tumors

This SnapShot provides a list of the tumor types characterized by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) program. Key findings shown are the most relevant discoveries described in each marker paper for the tumor type.
Plantation Crops, Plunder and Power: Evolution and exploitation

Over the last five centuries, plantation crops have represented the best and worst of industrialized agriculture – "best" through their agronomic productivity and global commercial success, and "worst" as examples of exploitative colonialism, conflict and ill-treatment of workers. This book traces the social, political and evolutionary history of seven major plantation crops – sugarcane, banana, cotton, tea, tobacco, coffee and rubber. It describes how all of these were domesticated in antiquity and grown by small landowners for thousands of years before European traders and colonists sought to make a profit out of them. The author relates how their development and spread were closely associated with government expansionist policies. They stimulated the exploration of far off lands, were the focus of major conflicts and led to the enslavement of both native and displaced peoples. From the southern United States, Latin America and the Caribbean, to Asia and Africa, plantation crops turned social structures upside down leading to revolution and government change. The economies of whole countries became tied to the profits of these plantations, leading to internal power struggles to control the burgeoning wealth. Open warfare routinely broke out between the more powerful countries and factions for trade dominance. This book shows that from the early 1500s to today, at least one of the plantation crops was always at the center of world politics, and that this still continues today, for example with the development of oil palm plantations in Southeast Asia. Written in an accessible style, it is fascinating supplementary reading for students of agricultural, environmental and colonial history.
The Carbon Intensity Evaluation of Coal-fired Power Plants

The global carbon dioxide emissions gradually increase in the last few decades, among which the coal-fired power plants play magnificent role. Hence the carbon balance theory is in utilization to establish the carbon emission model for combustion and desulfurization processes. In addition, the emission intensity per fuel, per capacity and hourly emission of two super critical units is calculated to evaluate the emission performance. Then the combustion factor, fuel carbon coefficient and emission factor are introduced to specifically analyze the influence element for emission process. The results show that diesel combustion and limestone-gypsum wet desulfurization process carbon emission accounts for less than 1 percent of total emissions. Moreover, the fuel carbon coefficient has more significant effect on emission factor with unburned carbon content exceeds 1 percent. Finally, the emission intensity data is discussed in details.
The Role of Water in the EcoRI-DNA Binding

In many respects, Type II restriction endonucleases are prototypical DNA-binding proteins. In order to avoid catastrophic consequences for the cell, however, these enzymes must be far more stringent in recogn ition of their target sequences and subsequent DNA cleavage than other specific sequence recognition proteins that regulate gene activity. In contrast to E. Coli Lac and λ Cro repressors, for example, that show gradually decreasing binding energies as the recognition sequence is changed (Frank et al. 1997; Takeda et al. 1992), many restriction nucleases are exquisitely specific. EcoRI will bind to its recognition sequence, GAATTC, with an association equilibrium constant Ka,sp∼1011 M−1 and to a completely nonspecific sequence with Ka,nonsp ∼107M−1. A change of even a single base pair is sufficient to decrease the binding constant at least by 103, bringing it within a factor ∼10 or less of nonspecific binding (Lesser et al. 1990).
Proteases in Lens and Cataract

The eye lens is a transparent tissue with a unique cellular architecture and pattern of development. Several proteases play pivotal roles during lens morphogenesis and thereafter to maintain the lens transparency. However, with aging, the activity of a number of lens proteases changes, resulting in the degradation of lens proteins and the accumulation of protein fragments. Recent studies suggest that some of the protein fragments that accumulate in the lens with age might be involved in aggregation of lens proteins and development of opacity, also known as cataract. In vitro and in vivo experiments show that lens opacity from α-crystallin aggregation bears the hallmarks of increased proteolysis and decreased α-crystallin chaperone activity. A number of lens proteases are now implicated in the degradation of cytoskeletal proteins, the truncation of lens crystallins, and the generation of peptides that have a role in aggregation and precipitation of lens proteins culminating in cataract. While a perfect animal model to understand the mechanisms of cataractogenesis has yet to be developed, the experimental models now available, such as transgenic mice that overexpress acylpeptide hydrolase, allow study of the lens proteases and the potential therapeutic targets.
Flow diverter for endovascular treatment of intracranial mirror segment internal carotid artery aneurysms.

BackgroundTo evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the pipeline embolization device in the treatment of unruptured intracranial mirror segment aneurysms.MethodsOut of a total of 338 subjects, 14...
Effect of Compliant Layers Within Piezoelectric Composites on Power Generation Providing Electrical Stimulation in Low Frequency Applications

For patients that use tobacco or have diabetes, bone healing after orthopedic procedures is challenging. Direct current electrical stimulation has shown success clinically to significantly improve bone healing in these difficult-to-fuse populations. Energy harvesting with piezoelectric material has gained popularity in the last decade, but is challenging at low frequencies due to material properties that limit total power generation at these frequencies. Stacked generators have been used to increase power generation at lower voltage levels but have not been widely explored as a load-bearing biomaterial to provide DC stimulation. To match structural compliance levels and increase efficiency of power generation at low frequencies, the effect of compliant layers between piezoelectric discs was investigated. Compliant Layer Adaptive Composite Stacks (CLACS) were manufactured using five PZT discs connected electrically in parallel and stacked mechanically in series with a layer of low modulus epoxy between each disc. The stacks were encapsulated, keeping PZT and overall volume constant. Each stack was electromechanically tested by varying load, frequency, and resistance. As compliant layer thickness increased, power generation increased significantly across all loads, frequencies, and resistances measured. As expected, increase in frequency significantly increased power output for all groups. Similarly, an increase applied peak-to-peak mechanical load also significantly increased power output. The novel use of CLACS for power generation under load and frequencies experienced by typical orthopedic implants could provide an effective method to harvest energy and provide power without the use of a battery in multiple low frequency applications.
MRI-Based Apparent Diffusion Coefficient for Predicting Pathologic Response of Rectal Cancer After Neoadjuvant Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) during DWI for predicting complete pathologic response of rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy....
Multinational Enterprises, Employee Safety and the Socially Responsible Supply Chain: The Case of Bangladesh and the Apparel Industry

This article address the issue of employee safety and the social responsibility of multinational apparel retailers who contract with Bangladesh manufacturers in their global supply chain. Both the Alliance for Bangladesh Worker Safety and the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh have been identified as the two primary facilitators for global apparel industry efforts to actively address this serious human rights issue; thus, they have the potential to help drive the success of the industry's corporate citizenship efforts to successfully manage the issue of fire and building safety in Bangladesh. The article further explores these relationships within the context of the “global corporate citizenship” concept, and develops a rationale for the limits of a socially responsible supply chain. In the context of global corporate citizenship, the article describes the existing state of these two industry organizations remediation efforts to ensure a stable supply chain in Bangladesh, and offers an analysis of existing industry nonmarket strategy approaches to improving contractor's factory fire and building safety environments for their employees. Lastly, a comprehensive set of nonmarket strategies for multinational apparel retailers is recommended when addressing their global corporate citizenship commitments to a safe working environment for Bangladesh garment manufacturing employees.
“I’m Sorry You Interpreted My Behavior the Way You Did”: Toward A New Understanding of the Nuances of Mortification

The study uses content analytic and grounded theory approaches to analyze 409 cases of public apologia from 351 different incidents in order to develop a typology of mortification-specific strategi...
A CMOS Distributed Sensor System for High-Density Wireless Neural Implants for Brain-Machine Interfaces

Current state-of-the-art Brain-Machine Interfaces (BMIs) rely on invasive “passive” microelectrode technologies, which are prohibitively challenging to scale beyond several hundred channels due to physical constraints. Further performance enhancement in BMIs relies on the ability to develop implantable sensor technologies that would be scalable to thousands of channels without significant biological overhead. In this work., we describe prototype testing of a distributed sensor system of CMOS “Neurograins,” which provide a high density network of autonomous implantable neural sensors. These Neurograins are wirelessly powered using near-field RF at ~1 GHz and at densities up to 250 chips/cm2, A 3-coil system is used to enhance the wireless signal transfer function. Telemetry is accomplished using RF backscatter with TDMA networking at a data rate of 10 Mbps, and Bit Error Rates (BER) <0.1% (measurement limit). An asynchronous periodic, packetized multiple access network is demonstrated for initial Neurograin arrays. Benchtop measured results incorporate a physiologic model for RF attenuation - a “Brain phantom” - to accurately mimic the biomedical scenario.
Examining long-term trends in politics and culture through language of political leaders and cultural institutions

From many perspectives, the election of Donald Trump was seen as a departure from long-standing political norms. An analysis of Trump’s word use in the presidential debates and speeches indicated that he was exceptionally informal but at the same time, spoke with a sense of certainty. Indeed, he is lower in analytic thinking and higher in confidence than almost any previous American president. Closer analyses of linguistic trends of presidential language indicate that Trump’s language is consistent with long-term linear trends, demonstrating that he is not as much an outlier as he initially seems. Across multiple corpora from the American presidents, non-US leaders, and legislative bodies spanning decades, there has been a general decline in analytic thinking and a rise in confidence in most political contexts, with the largest and most consistent changes found in the American presidency. The results suggest that certain aspects of the language style of Donald Trump and other recent leaders reflect long-evolving political trends. Implications of the changing nature of popular elections and the role of media are discussed.
Synthetic and Biorational Fungicides Compared for the Control of Three Foliar Diseases of Flowering Dogwood

Abstract The biorational fungicides Neem Concentrate, SunSpray Ultra Fine Oil®, Rhapsody® were compared with the synthetic fungicides Eagle® 40W, Immunox®, Liquid Systemic Fungicide®, and 3336™ 50W...
Chrysotile, Crocidolite, and Anthophyllite Facilitation of Transfection of Cultured Mouse Cells by Polyomavirus DNA

Three decades have elapsed since the discovery that the silicates talc and fuller’s earth are potent facilitators of transfection of mammalian cells. Although the possibility of a role for silicate facilitation in silicate-induced carcinogenesis was suggested in 1971, testing for facilitation by the important carcinogen asbestos apparently did not occur until 1984. There then appeared reports showing asbestos facilitated transfection of cultured mammalian cells by various viral RNAs and plasmid and polyomavirus DNA.
Acyl CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitors: ureas bearing heterocyclic groups bioisosteric for an imidazole

Abstract A series of compounds bearing heterocyclic substituents were prepared, and evaluated for inhibition of the ACAT enzyme. The heterocyclic groups were compared in terms of in vitro potency against their diarylimidazole analogues. Data for the purposes of QSAR were also collected. Our goal is a systemic ACAT inhibitor, which would be a potential antihypercholesterolemic and antiatherosclerotic agent.
Ending Reliance on Statistical Significance Will Improve Environmental Inference and Communication

Recently, there has been much discussion about the role of the p-value in scientific research. The American Statistical Association has published an editorial that presents guidelines for the use and interpretation of p-values. Numerous authors have commented and criticized its use as a means to identify scientific importance of results and have called for an end to using the term “statistical significance.” Recent articles in Estuaries and Coasts were evaluated for reliance on the use of statistical significance and reporting errors were identified. Suggestions are made for improving what is reported related to statistical testing. Focus should be on scientific importance of estimates, estimation of the size of the effect and the certainty in the size of the effect instead of simply reporting a p-value and relying on hypothesis tests.
Plasma expansion towards an electrically insulated surface

The problem of plasma expansion into a vacuum is revisited with the addition of a finite boundary condition; an electrically insulated surface. As plasma expands towards a charge-accumulating surface, the leading electron cloud charges the surface negatively, which in turn repels electrons and attracts ions. This plasma–surface interaction is shown to result in a feedback process which accelerates the plasma expansion. In addition, we examine the decrease in (negative) surface potential and associated near-surface electron density. To investigate this plasma coupling with an electrically floating surface, we develop an analytic model including four neighbouring plasma regions: (i) undisturbed plasma, (ii) quasi-neutral self-similar expansion, (iii) ion front boundary layer and (iv) electron cloud. A key innovation in our approach is a self-contained analytic approximation of the ion front boundary layer, providing a spatially continuous electric field model for the early phase of bounded plasma expansion.
Chapter 3 – Historical Methods

Publisher Summary The human identity testing community has used a variety of techniques including single-locus probe and multi-locus probe restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods and more recently polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based assays. Numerous advances have been made in the past quarter of a century in terms of sample processing speed and sensitivity. Instead of requiring large bloodstains with well-preserved DNA, tiny amounts of sample—as little as a few cells in some forensic cases—can yield a useful DNA profile. The gamut of DNA typing technologies used during the past several decades for human identity testing is compared in this chapter. The various DNA markers have been divided into four quadrants, viz., pre-DNA years (1900–1985); first decade of DNA testing (1985–1995); early PCR-based DNA testing; and second decade of DNA testing (1995–2005), based on their power of discrimination, that is, their ability to discern the difference among individuals, and the speed at which they can be analyzed. New and improved methods have developed over the years such that tests with a high degree of discrimination can now be performed in a few hours. The methods discussed in the chapter are blood group typing; protein profiling; RFLP with single-locus variable number of tandem repeat probes; DQA1 PM; D1S80; silver-stained short tandem repeats (STRs); fluorescent STRs; and mitochondrial DNA sequencing.
Controlling grain nucleation and morphology by laser beam shaping in metal additive manufacturing

Abstract Gaussian laser intensity profiles are standard in laser-based metal additive manufacturing, although recent work in single-layer melt tracks showed that beam shaping could offer a feasible route towards microstructural control. Since thermal cycling and grain orientation templating in multilayer builds can alter microstructures, we compare three-dimensional 316 L stainless steel cubes built using Gaussian and elliptical laser intensity profiles. Microstructural characterization confirms that elliptical beams result in a modified and improved microstructure compared to Gaussian beams. This assessment favoring the elliptical beam is based on: (1) the observed refinement of the columnar and equiaxed grains; (2) more importantly, the volume fraction occupied by equiaxed grains increases dramatically such that the average grain area is reduced by nearly 50%; (3) reduced texture in cubes built using an elliptical beam. The random orientation of small equiaxed grains in samples built using an elliptical beam also suggests a higher nucleation frequency. High-fidelity finite element simulations that deliver accurate thermal profiles by incorporating laser ray tracing and fluid dynamics were performed. Using a time-dependent solidification map based on local thermal gradients (G) and growth rates (R), our simulation results confirm the experimentally observed trend that an elliptical beam results in a favorable thermal profile.
Ultraslow dynamics in a translationally invariant spin model for multiplication and factorization

The authors introduce a lattice model of classical Ising spins inspired by a reversible classical computational circuit designed to factor semi-primes. The model is disorder- and frustration-free and lacks a thermodynamic phase transition, yet it exhibits unprecedentedly slow relaxation times that scale as a double exponential of the inverse temperature.
Leisure seen differently: conclusion to the special issue on ‘Finding truth in fiction’

Most scholars in academia, and certainly those in the field of leisure studies, consider themselves to be empiricists: what we know is derived from what we see firsthand, whether it be through obse...
A Comparison of Existing Analytical Methods to Predict the Flexural Capacity of Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) Beams

Many researchers have performed experimental studies on the structural behavior of the UHPC beams to establish a reliable analytical method to calculate the flexural capacity of the section. Most of these studies were performed through limited specimens due to the high cost of UHPC. The objective of this research is to compare the accuracy of well-known existing methods to calculate the moment capacity of a reinforced UHPC beam through a parametric study. To that aim, several small-scale beams were constructed and tested to evaluate the flexural behavior and ultimate moment capacity of the UHPC beams. The performance of the tested specimens is discussed regarding the moment capacity, load-deflection curves, crack development and the modes of failure. The obtained results through the experiments were, then, used to validate the Finite Element (FE) model. Comparing the numerical and experimental results indicates that generally, the proposed numerical model can predict the structural behavior of the UHPC beams reasonably. Hence, the validated FE model was employed as a reference point to evaluate the existing analytical approaches to calculate moment capacity of UHPC beams. A series of large-scale beams with different geometries and reinforcing details were numerically simulated, and the results were compared with the results obtained through the analytical methods. Comparing the results of these methods showed that ACI544 and FHWA methods can predict the ultimate moment capacity of UHPC beams with a maximum error of 12%. Furthermore, using ACI318, suggested for normal strength concrete, leads to over design results.
Vitamin C inhibits SARS coronavirus-2 main protease essential for viral replication

There is an urgent need for anti-viral agents that treat and/or prevent Covid-19 caused by SARS-Coronavirus (CoV-2) infections. The replication of the SARS CoV-2 is dependent on the activity of two cysteine proteases, a papain-like protease, PL-pro, and the 3C-like protease known as main protease Mpro or 3CLpro. The shortest and the safest path to clinical use is the repurposing of drugs with binding affinity to PLpro or 3CLpro that have an established safety profile in humans. Several studies have reported crystal structures of SARS-CoV-2 main protease in complex with FDA approved drugs such as those used in treatment of hepatitis C. Here, we report the crystal structure of 3CLpro in complex Vitamin C (L-ascorbate) bound to the proteins active site at 2.5 [A]ngstrom resolution. The crystal structure of the Vitamin C 3CLpro complex may aid future studies on the effect of Vitamin C not only on the coronavirus main protease but on related proteases of other infectious viruses.
Multiple roles for peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase in the response to hypoxia.

The biosynthesis of many of the peptides involved in homeostatic control requires peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM), an ancient, highly conserved copper- and ascorbate-dependent enzyme. Using the production of amidated chromogranin A to monitor PAM function in tumor cells, physiologically relevant levels of hypoxia were shown to inhibit this monooxygenase. The ability of primary pituitary cells exposed to hypoxic conditions for 4 h to produce amidated chromogranin A was similarly inhibited. The affinity of the purified monooxygenase for oxygen (Km = 99 ± 19 μM) was consistent with this result. The ability of PAM to alter secretory pathway behavior under normoxic conditions required its monooxygenase activity. Under normoxic conditions, hypoxia-inducible factor 1a levels in dense cultures of corticotrope tumor cells expressing high levels of PAM exceeded those in control cells; expression of inactive monooxygenase did not have this effect. The effects of hypoxia on levels of two PAM-regulated genes (activating transcription factor 3 [Atf3] and FK506 binding protein 2 [Fkbp2]) differed in cells expressing high versus low levels of PAM. Putative hypoxia response elements occur in both human and mouse PAM, and hPAM has consistently been identified as one of the genes upregulated in response to hypoxia. Expression of PAM is also known to alter gene expression. A quarter of the genes consistently upregulated in response to hypoxia were downregulated following increased expression of PAM. Taken together, our data suggest roles for PAM and amidated peptide secretion in the coordination of tissue-specific responses to hypoxia.
Coronary artery aneurysms in children is not always Kawasaki disease: a case report on Takayasu arteritis.

Background Coronary artery (CA) aneurysms in children are a rare but potentially life-threatening finding and are highly associated with Kawasaki disease (KD). Case presentation We describe a four-year-old female with a vasculitis and CA aneurysms. She had a prolonged course with recurrent fever and systemic inflammation several times upon discontinuation of steroid treatment. Due in part to the CA aneurysms, she initially was diagnosed with KD but due to the unusual clinical course, further evaluation was performed. Abdominal and chest MRI/A revealed diffuse aortitis suggestive of a large vessel vasculitis, specifically Takayasu arteritis. With treatment targeted for Takayasu arteritis, there was resolution of fever and inflammation and the CA aneurysms improved. Conclusions This case demonstrates the utility in broadening the differential diagnosis in cases of presumed KD with CA involvement in which the clinical course is atypical for KD.
Stochastic approach for determining properties of randomly structured materials: Effects of network connectivity

Abstract Nanoporous (NP) materials have promising potential uses in energy storage, catalysis, and high-radiation environments. However, wide application of NP materials—or other emerging materials with similarly complex and/or random structures—requires an understanding of and predictive models for structure–property relationships governing materials behavior. Structural complexity and randomness have been a longstanding challenge to understanding and modeling such materials. Here, we describe the Kentucky Random Structures Toolkit (KRaSTk), which addresses this challenge by allowing the stochastic generation of sets of many model representative volume elements (mRVEs) from a physically-motivated geometric seed description, and the calculation (via FEM) of both expected bulk effective properties and length-scale-dependent distributions of local properties. We demonstrate the applicability of this approach by showing that changes in network connectivity in a random, ligamented NP material have an effect on both elastic and bulk modulus that is independent of solid fraction, and is related to the presence of short-range disorder. The effect of varying network connectivity can be accounted for by adding a power law term to the Gibson-Ashby model for the stiffness of porous structures, such that E * / E s = C E ϕ 2 ( N C * − 3 ) n E and K * / K s = C K ϕ 2 ( N C * − 3 ) n K , for N C * the effective network connectivity. These findings highlight the potential of the stochastic mRVE approach implemented in KRaSTk for modeling and exploring the effects of complex and random structure that drive novel behaviors in emerging porous, nanocrystalline, or additively manufactured materials.
Federal Regulation of Hospital Resident Work Hours: Enforcement with Real Teeth

In recent years, there has been an increase in the public’s awareness of medical errors committed by hospital interns and residents who have been acutely and chronically sleep-deprived as a result of extremely long work hours. This awareness has resulted in increased public concern regarding patient safety in teaching hospitals across the United States, as well as increased concerns regarding the safety and education of hospital residents themselves. To address these concerns, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) appointed the Work Group on Resident Duty Hours and the Learning Environment in September 2001 to establish guidelines that “emphasize the responsibilities of programs, sponsoring institutions, and the accrediting body relating to safe patient care and an appropriate learning environment for residents.” While the ACGME Work Group deliberated on and finalized these guidelines, bills were introduced in both chambers of the United States Congress that would have established federal statutory restrictions on resident work hours. At the same time, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of the United States Department of Labor considered a petition submitted by the
Resistance to catabolite repression of histidase and proline oxidase during nitrogen-limited growth of Klebsiella aerogenes.

Abstract In Klebsiella aerogenes β-galactosidase and histidase are subject to strong catabolite repression by glucose in the presence of a good source of nitrogen. Under conditions of nitrogen limitation, the catabolite repression of histidase is relieved, while β-galactosidase remains strongly repressed. Exogenous adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate relieves the catabolite repression of both histidase and β-galactosidase. A mutant which requires exogenous adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate for the synthesis of many catabolite-sensitive enzymes is able to utilize histidine and synthesize histidase at a rapid rate under conditions of nitrogen limitation in the absence of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate. Proline oxidase, like histidase, is subject to catabolite repression and is synthesized rapidly in the presence of glucose when the supply of nitrogen is limited. The adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate requiring mutant is able to utilize proline as a sole nitrogen source in the presence of glucose without exogenous adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate. In Salmonella typhimurium, histidase is strongly repressed by glucose, even in nitrogen-starved cells. When histidase genes from S. typhimurium were transferred on an episome to cells of K. aerogenes carrying a deletion of the histidase gene, catabolite repression of histidase was relieved by nitrogen limitation. It is concluded that in K. aerogenes certain catabolitesensitive enzymes which degrade nitrogenous compounds are synthesized rapidly in the presence of glucose if the supply of nitrogen is limited. This rapid synthesis is mediated by a cytoplasmic factor which acts independently of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate.
THERAPY IN CONGENITAL HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA: PHENOBARBITAL AND DIETHYLNICOTINAMIDE

Two different drugs, phenobarbital and diethylnicotinamide (Coramine), were compared for their efficacy in treating congenital hyperbilirubinemia. Phenobarbital is known to be effective in reducing bilirubin levels in children and adults. The therapeutic effect of oral diethylnicotinamide has not been evaluated; the drug has only been used intramuscularly in newborn twins. Two sisters, ages 4 and 10, with the clinical picture of the Crigler-Najjar syndrome were given therapeutic trials of phenobarbital and diethylnicotinamide. Both drugs lowered the serum bilirubin levels, but there were quantitative differences in their lowering effect. Phenobarbital (4 mg/kg/day, orally) caused a marked drop of the total bilirubin (from 23.6 to 4.8 mg/100 ml in the older child and from 11.6 to 2.4 mg/100 ml in the younger child), and both children became anicteric. Diethylnicotinamide (60 mg/kg/day, orally) was less effective in lowering their bilirubin. The lowest levels achieved in these two patients were 13.2 mg/100 ml and 8.8 mg/100 ml, respectively, and both remained jaundiced. There was also an enhanced lowering effect observed with a larger dose of phenobarbital (5 mg/kg/day) which was not observed when a larger dose of diethylnicotinamide (100 mg/kg/day) was administered. These studies suggest that phenobarbital is the agent of choice for therapy of congenital hyperbilirubinemia. The medical indications for therapy are the prevention of kernicterus and the psychological advantage of rendering these children anicteric.
Examination of the function of active site lysine 329 of ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase as revealed by the proton exchange reaction.

Diverse approaches that include site-directed mutagenesis have indicated a catalytic role of Lys-329 of ribulosebisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase from Rhodospirillum rubrum. To determine whether Lys-329 is required for the initial enolization of ribulose bisphosphate or for some subsequent step in the overall reaction pathway, the competence of position 329 mutant proteins (devoid of carboxylase activity) in catalyzing exchange of solvent protons with the C-3 proton of substrate has now been examined. Irrespective of the amino acid substitution for Lys-329, the mutant protein retains 2–6% of the wild-type activity in the proton exchange reaction. The complete stability of ribulose bisphosphate during the enolization catalyzed by mutant protein suggests that the major effect of Lys-329 is to facilitate the addition of gaseous substrates (CO2 or O2) to the enediol intermediate. The exchange reaction requires Mg2+, is CO2-dependent, and is inhibited by the transition-state analogue 2-carboxyarabinitol 1,5-bisphosphate. A mutant protein in which Lys-191, the site for carbamylation by CO2 in an obligatory activation step, is replaced by a cysteinyl residue totally lacks proton exchange activity. Barely detectable exchange activity (∼0.2% of wild-type) is displayed by the Lys-166 → Cys mutant protein, consistent with the previously implicated role of Lys-166 in the deprotonation of ribulose bisphosphate. Retention of exchange activity by the Glu-48 → Gln mutant protein, which is slightly active in overall carboxylation, demonstrates that active site Glu-48, like Lys-329, exerts its major effect at some step subsequent to the initial enolization.
Exploring Complex Engineering Learning Over Time with Epistemic Network Analysis

Recently, K-12 engineering education has received increased attention as a pathway to building stronger foundations in math and science and introducing young people to the profession. However, the National Academy of Engineering found that many K-12 engineering programs focus heavily on engineering design and science and math learning while minimizing the development of engineering habits of mind. This narrowly-focused engineering activity can leave young people – and in particular, girls – with a limited view of the profession. This study describes Digital Zoo, an engineering learning environment that engaged girls in authentic engineering activity in order to link the development of engineering skills and knowledge to engineering ways of thinking. Specific activities from an engineering practicum were recreated in the learning environment, where ten middle school girls from diverse backgrounds role-played as engineers designing solutions to a client-based project. Responses on pre, post, and follow up interviews suggest the participants were able to develop each of the five epistemic frame elements – engineering skills, knowledge, identity, values, and epistemology – as a result of Digital Zoo. In situ data from the intervention was analyzed with a sophisticated mixed methods approach that integrated qualitative methods with a new quantification technique, Epistemic Network Analysis. These techniques allowed for the exploration of complex thinking and learning throughout the different activities of Digital Zoo. The results of this analysis identified client-focused activity and notebook-based reflection as two activities within Digital Zoo that fostered key linkages to engineering values and epistemology.
Language Is Complex

In this commentary, we consider three good ideas from Verbal Behavior that have become central to some recent cognitive theories of language learning and use: social contingencies, multiple causality, and piecemeal syntactic growth. Following this, we identify two weaknesses of the book that may still invite new avenues of application of a behavioral framework to language: comprehension precedes production, and the vast complexity of syntax in normal usage. We end by briefly considering how behavioral, cognitive, and other frameworks should seek ways to integrate in an attempt to tackle the daunting complexity of language behavior.
The Continental Axis Theory Revisited

This paper provides an empirical test of Jared Diamond’s acclaimed continental axis theory of economic transformation. This variable is the most difficult of Diamond’s several explanatory factors to test, given that the number of continents is too few for statistical analysis. This paper provides a test of one observable implication of this thesis, namely that indigenous languages are more likely to be superseded by imperial languages the more state expansion moves either east or west. It provides significant (though not substantively large or robust) confirmation of it.
Evaluation measures for a model base for an information system architecture DSS

Criteria are investigated for a model of an information system architecture. Operational definitions are developed and evaluation measures are presented. These measures can be used as a basis for the evaluation and comparison of modeling frameworks for use as a model base in a decision support system (DSS) for the development of models of distributed information system architectures. >
Empathy Works, Obedience Doesn't

This is an elaboration of a theory of how to make peace instead of making war on crime and personal violence. From a warmaking perspective safety from crime and personal violence lies essentially in making individuals obedient to commands from the proper authorities. From a peacemaking perspective as proposed here, safety from personal violence lies essentially in building empathy rather than in commanding obedience. Signs of obedience like remorse are inherently unreliable indicators that people are safe company. When it comes to safety from personal violence, empathy works, obedience doesn't.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction vs TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction: Solving Problems in a More Simple Way

Background : The surgical management of breast cancer is clearly evolving towards less invasive procedures. We are turning away from high priced medicine and are turning toward solving problems in more practical, simple and inexpensive ways. The purpose of this study was to evaluate immediate breast reconstruction with expanders and implants versus pedicled TRAM Flaps in terms of costs, complication rates, revision rates, operating room time, length of hospital stay and number of secondary procedures. Methods : A review of 152 immediate breast reconstructions over a 10 year period from april 2000 and December 2010 performed at our Institution, reconstructive techniques included TRAM Flaps in 70 patients and tissue expanders followed by implants in 82 patients. Results : In the TRAM Flap group the mean operative time was 5.1 hours, the mean length of hospital stay was 4.2 days and revision surgeries were performed in 6 patients (8.5%). In the implant based group the mean operative time was 2.6 hours (including the mastectomy), the mean length of hospital stay was 1.9 days and revision surgeries were performed in 6 patients (7.3%). On the basis of this review of autologous and prosthetic breast reconstruction in a 10 year period with a mean follow up time of 5.1 years for both groups, prosthetic reconstruction was significantly less expensive.
Modulation of Pressure-Natriuresis by Renal Medullary Reactive Oxygen Species and Nitric Oxide

The renal pressure-natriuresis mechanism is the dominant controller of body fluid balance and long-term arterial pressure. In recent years, it has become clear that the balance of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species within the renal medullary region is a key determinant of the set point of the renal pressure-natriuresis curve. The development of renal medullary oxidative stress causes dysfunction of the pressure-natriuresis mechanism and contributes to the development of hypertension in numerous disease models. The purpose of this review is to point out the known mechanisms within the renal medulla through which reactive oxygen and nitrogen species modulate the pressure-natriuresis response and to update the reader on recent advances in this field.
Disorder-induced valley-orbit hybrid states in Si quantum dots

Quantum dots in silicon are promising candidates for implementation of solid-state quantum information processing. It is important to understand the effects of the multiple conduction band valleys of silicon on the properties of these devices. Here we introduce a novel, systematic effective mass theory of valley-orbit coupling in disordered silicon systems. This theory reveals valley-orbit hybridization effects that are detrimental for storing quantum information in the valley degree of freedom, including non-vanishing dipole matrix elements between valley states and altered intervalley tunneling.
Lobar Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Although intracerebral hemorrhage is a less frequent cause of stroke than cerebral infarction, it is more often fatal. It is usually attributed to hypertensive small-vessel disease, and the most common sites of hemorrhage are the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and pons. Treatment is largely restricted to the control of hypertension and rehabilitation. In some patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, however, the hemorrhage is lobar in location, such as in the frontal, parietal, temporal, or occipital cortex, and such patients often do not have hypertension.1 This category of hemorrhage, referred to as lobar intracerebral hemorrhage, may represent a distinct pathogenetic subgroup. Cerebral amyloid . . .
INFECTIOUS HEPATITIS AND THE ROLE OF CHEMOTHERAPEUTICS IN VIRAL DISEASES TRANSMITTED BY BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS: SERIES III.

Summary It is our belief that the monoalkylating agents have a potential role in the prevention of blood and plasma transmitted viral disease. Their added role as protein stabilizers is also to be recognized. Monoiodoacetate in a 0.02 molar concentration would seem to be an effective protein stabilizer and it also demonstrates desirable antibacterial and antiviral propensities. In 0.02 and 0.04 molar strengths there is varying bactericidal effect from sodium monochloroacetate but no uptake is indicated at this concentration by the viruses tested. However at 0.1 molar concentration an uptake by the viruses seems to be in evidence. Monochloroacetamide has approximately the same degree of therapeutic potential (and also toxicity) as monoiodoacetate. Although sodium monobromoacetate demonstrated potent antibacterial and antiviral effect, it is inherently too toxic to use clinically when multiple parenteral transfusions may be needed.