cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cultural landscapes and ecology III: foraging/farming, food, festivities

In this, the final of three reports, I focus on several themes, including early agricultureand modern farming, foodways and the often associated festivals or celebrations thatcommemorate them. I will also cover other ground, mentioning a number of disparateworks that have appeared in the past year or two that occupy the intersection of ecologyand cultural landscape study. As I discussed in the two previous reports, the themesand topics found at this site shift over time. Of the three mentioned in the title, foodgathering and production are long-standing staples in ecology and cultural landscapestudies. Food as focus of nature/culture interactions is more recent, but still has a timedepth of several decades. Festivities have enjoyed some attention by culturalgeographers since at least Kniffen’s (1951) work on agricultural fairs. For the most part,however, the topic is a new one, associated with, if not always approached from, post-structuralist perspectives.
An introduction to OpenMP: pre-conference workshop

OpenMP is an API for shared memory parallel programming and is a straightforward way to write multithreaded programs on multi core computers. It is widely available and is supported for major C/C++ and Fortran compilers.
Genome-Wide Association Studies: Progress in Identifying Genetic Biomarkers in Common, Complex Diseases

Novel, comprehensive approaches for biomarker discovery and validation are urgently needed. One particular area of methodologic need is for discovery of novel genetic biomarkers in complex diseases and traits. Here, we review recent successes in the use of genome wide association (GWA) approaches to identify genetic biomarkers in common human diseases and traits. Such studies are yielding initial insights into the allelic architecture of complex traits. In general, it appears that complex diseases are associated with many common polymorphisms, implying profound genetic heterogeneity between affected individuals.
Research use of electronic health records: patients' perspectives on contact by researchers.

Objective The use of electronic health records (EHRs) for research has the potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment of disease, yet contact with patients based on results of EHR phenotyping has received little attention. Researchers will almost certainly discover discrepancies in EHRs that call for resolution and, in some cases, raise the ethical dilemma of whether to contact patients about a potentially undiagnosed or untreated health concern. The objective of this study was to explore patients' attitudes and opinions about potential contact by researchers who have had access to their EHRs. Materials and methods We conducted 15 focus groups in four diverse counties in the southeastern United States. We designed vignettes to describe different situations in which researchers conducting a hypothetical study might have reason to consider contact with patients. Results Many patients believed it was important for researchers to take action if they discovered information suggesting a current serious health concern. Relaying the information through patients' physicians was considered the most appropriate course of action. Across vignettes, there were significant differences between urban and rural sites. Discussion and conclusions Researchers may increasingly encounter situations involving contact with patients following EHR phenotyping. They should carefully consider the possibility of such contact when planning their studies, including the time and expertise needed to adjudicate potentially serious discrepancies. Our focus group results are one source of input for the development of ethical approaches to the research use of EHRs.
An Introduction to Random Trees

This is a brief introduction to random trees. We discuss some motivations and applications, and feature three techniques: the second moment method, generating functions, and branching processes. Little knowledge of combinatorics or probability is assumed in this article, which should be regarded more as an introduction and advertizement (and ad hoc bibliography) than as a survey. We conclude with a discussion of applications to logic and expressibility.
Electrical and structural characterization of neutron irradiated amorphous boron carbide/silicon p-n heterojunctions

Abstract The electrical and structural properties of amorphous hydrogenated semiconducting boron carbide on silicon p-n heterojunction diodes have been examined following irradiation with thermal neutrons to a maximum dose of 1.08 × 109 neutrons/cm2. Improvements in the current-voltage response of the heterojunction diode, along with a decrease in the diode ideality factor, are observed with neutron exposure. Capacitance-voltage data were used to extract the hydrogenated boron carbide carrier density and diode built-in potential, both of which decrease with irradiation. Structural and defect characterization, carried out with high resolution TEM and RBS in channeling mode, show that the hydrogenated boron carbide remains amorphous and no discernible damage occurs in the Si component of the diode. These data suggest that the observed changes in electrical properties result from irradiation induced defect passivation in the amorphous boron carbide. For n-type plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition hydrogenated semiconducting boron carbide on p-type silicon, the improvements in the heterojunction diode are quite dramatic.
Caregiver Assessment and Support

Neurologic illnesses do not just affect the patient but also family, friends and other members of the patient’s community. These persons are impacted by seeing the suffering of a loved one and by changes in their relationship with the patient. Depending on the needs of the patient, they may also find themselves in the role of a caregiver. Informal caregivers frequently improve the lives of patients and allow them to achieve goals of care (e.g. remaining at home) not otherwise possible. Informal caregivers can be significantly impacted by this role and sustain an increased risk for adverse physical and mental illness as well as burnout. The neuropalliative care approach thus strives to not only provide patient-centered care but also family-centered care and support for informal caregivers. As such, neurologists and all clinicians caring for patients with neurological illness should strive to assess and support the patients’ caregivers given their vital role in providing optimal care and support for the patient. In this chapter, we review the increasing role informal caregivers play in our healthcare system for neurologic illnesses and the impact this role has on caregivers’ physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. We will review the most common needs expressed by caregivers as well as techniques for rapidly assessing these needs in a clinical setting. Lastly, we will discuss how to provide support for informal caregivers, including when to draw in additional multidisciplinary resources.
Feasible Estimation of Nonparametric Generalized Random Effect Model: An Application

This paper considers some feasible estimator for nonparametric random effect panel data model when there are more than one cross section component. A brief discussion about the consistency of the estimator is also included. The paper also discusses an interesting application related to capita-labor ratio and its effect on factor share in a neo-classical set up.
Complications following allograft reconstruction for primary bone tumors: Considerations for management.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate complication rates and types following allograft reconstruction and discuss unique considerations for management. Methods Seventy-four consecutive patients underwent large segment allograft reconstruction following resection of primary musculoskeletal tumors from 1991 to 2016. Mean patient age was 32 ± 20 years (range, 5–71 years). Minimum follow-up was 2 years unless patients were lost to disease prior. Mean follow-up was 105 months. Results Thirty-five patients had complications requiring subsequent surgery at a mean of 30 months (range, 1–146 months) post-operatively. Individual complication rates were 29%, 50%, and 42% for Allograft Prosthetic Composite, Intercalary, and Osteoarticular allograft reconstruction, respectively. Risk factors for complication included age less than 30 (OR 4.5; p = 0.002), male gender (OR 2.8; p = 0.031), chemotherapy (OR 4.4; p = 0.003), lower extremity disease (OR 3.4; p = 0.025). In patients with complications, limb-retention rate was 91% and mean MSTS scores were 23.6. Conclusion Despite considerable complication rates, management with a systematic approach results in successful outcomes with limb-retention greater than 90% and mean MSTS scores of 79%. In carefully selected patients, allografts provide a reliable method of reconstruction with treatable complications occurring at a mean of 30 months.
Life-Affirming Biosensing in Public: Sounding Heartbeats on a Red Bench

"Smart city" narratives promise IoT data-driven innovations leveraging biosensing technologies. We argue this overlooks a potential benefit of city living: affirmation. We designed the Heart Sounds Bench, which amplifies the heart sounds of those sitting on it, as well as recording and playing back the heart sounds of previous sitters. We outline our design intent to invite rest, reflection, and recognition of others' lives in public space. We share results from a study with 19 participants. Participants expressed feeling connected to a shared life energy including others and the environment, and described heart sounds as feeling intimate yet anonymous. Finally, we elaborate the concept of life-affirmation in terms of recognition of others' lives, feeling connection, and respecting untranslatable differences with opacity, as a way of helping "smart city" designs embrace a multiplicity of desires.
From Ethical to Equitable Social Media Technologies: Amplifying Underrepresented Youth Voices in Digital Technology Design

Although youth of color, youth from lower socioeconomic brackets, and young women are among the heaviest users of social media technologies, their voices are almost entirely absent from current con...
Evolution of high frequency waves in shoaling and breaking wave spectra

Mathematical derivation and numerical verification of a wave transformation model in the frequency domain are discussed. The model is a fully dispersive nonlinear wave model and is derived based on the boundary value problem. Transforming the problem in the frequency domain and using multiple scale analysis in space and perturbation theory, the model is expanded up to second order in wave steepness. This fully dispersive nonlinear wave model is a set of evolution equations which explicitly contains quadratic near-resonant interactions. The comparison between the presented model, the existing fully dispersive model, and a nearshore model with different sets of laboratory and field data shows that the presented model provides significant improvements particularly at higher frequency.
Building houses and managing lawns could limit yard soil carbon for centuries.

Comparisons of soil carbon (C) pools across land uses can be confounded by site-specific history. To better quantify the response of soil C pools to residential development and use, we compared yard soils (n = 20) to adjacent mown fields and second-growth forests within land-use clusters (LUC; n = 12). Land uses within clusters shared site-specific legacies (land use and other soil forming history) prior to residential development (15–227 years ago). We analyzed soil cores to 60-cm depth for carbon, nitrogen, and bulk density. Within one LUC, we monitored soil dissolved organic carbon, moisture, and thermal regimes to explain soil C dynamics. We accounted for pre-development legacies to test how present uses affect soil properties. We found that yard soil C pools to 60-cm depth (9.07 ± 0.32 kg C m−2; mean ± SE) were smaller than fields (10.26 ± 0.44 kg C m−2) and forests (10.62 ± 0.87 kg C m−2). Fields contained more nitrogen to 60-cm depth (0.78 ± 0.043 kg N m−2) than yards (0.68 ± 0.030 kg N m−2) and forests (0.69 ± 0.057 kg N m−2). Time since development predicted decreased yard and field soil C/N, field soil N accumulation, and reduced yard bulk density. In old yards (> 150 years), where residents in recent times mowed monthly to bimonthly and left clippings on the lawn, there was evidence of soil C and N gains relative to old commercially managed yards mown weekly with clippings exported. Our study suggests land conversion to yard can limit soil C pools for centuries, with contemporary management key to that trajectory. Our research points to the importance of accounting for pre-development legacies to reveal the response of soil properties to land conversion and present use. This work can inform policies and land use intended to enhance the soil C sink and minimize development-related soil C losses.
Impact of Residents on Operative Time in Aesthetic Surgery at an Academic Institution.

Background Duration of surgery is a known risk factor for increased complication rates. Longer operations may lead to increased cost to the patient and institution. While previous studies have looked at the safety of aesthetic surgery with resident involvement, little research has examined whether resident involvement increases operative time of aesthetic procedures. Objectives We hypothesized that resident involvement would potentially lead to an increase in operative time as attending physicians teach trainees during aesthetic operations. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was performed from aesthetic surgery cases of two surgeons at an academic institution over a 4-year period. Breast augmentation and abdominoplasty with liposuction were examined as index cases for this study. Demographics, operative time, and resident involvement were assessed. Resident involvement was defined as participating in critical portions of the cases including exposure, dissection, and closure. Results A total of 180 cases fit the inclusion criteria with 105 breast augmentation cases and 75 cases of abdominoplasty with liposuction. Patient demographics were similar for both procedures. Resident involvement did not statistically affect operative duration in breast augmentation (41.8 ± 9.6 min vs 44.7 ± 12.4 min, P = 0.103) or cases for abdominoplasty with liposuction (107.3 ± 20.5 min vs 122.2 ± 36.3 min, P = 0.105). Conclusions There was a trend toward longer operative times that did not reach statistical significance with resident involvement in two aesthetic surgery cases at an academic institution. This study adds to the growing literature on the effect resident training has in aesthetic surgery. Level of Evidence 2
Precarious Interventions: Designing for Ecologies of Care

In this paper, we present ethnographic account of people's everyday behavioral health experiences in the city of Jackson, Michigan to explore community forms of care work through an infrastructural lens. Detailing people's interactions with clinical processes and health policies, local resources, and diverse social worlds, we highlight problematic healthcare delivery gaps, as well as the informal (and often invisible) practices people depend upon to manage their health needs given socioeconomic hardships and cultural concerns. We also discuss the city's efforts to support local behavioral health needs through the development of a community health record. Placing fieldwork findings in conversation with the goals of this ongoing civic design project, we propose the analytic sensibility of precarious intervention to unpack the significance of the infrastructural tensions and power relations at play when people seek solutions to complex sociotechnical problems. Precarious intervention calls for CSCW research that attends to 1) the collective labor necessary to create and maintain ecologies of care in the face of infrastructural brokenness; and 2) the high-stakes and varied costs of 'engagement' for different community stakeholders.
Low incidence of brain metastasis as first site of relapse in patients with stage II and III non-small cell lung cancer

18051 Background: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality in both women and men in the United States. Despite recent advances in treatments, many patients with stage II and III no...
Closed-form theoretical model of the secondary drop size in partial coalescence—Capturing pertinent timescales and viscous forces

One of the most important outcomes of partial drop coalescence is the ratio of the secondary drop radius to the primary drop radius, known as the drop ratio, ri. This ratio is thought to be approximately constant and independent of physical parameters of the fluids involved. However, this study reveals that ambient fluid viscosity can alter the size of the secondary drop and the drop ratio consequently. Using scaling analysis, we derive a model that predicts the behavior of the drop ratio as a function of the Ohnesorge number, a dimensionless ratio of viscous to inertial forces. In addition, we present our experimental results of coalescing drops on a planar interface under the influence of surface tension gradients. A high-speed digital camera is used to observe the evolution of drops as they coalesce with a bulk liquid. We show that this process is influenced by the surface tension gradient between the drop and the bulk liquid. The ratio of the secondary drop to the primary drop in partial coalescence is smaller than the reported values for coalescence without a surface tension gradient. The analytical model derived through this study is based on a new modified Ohnesorge number that includes surface tension gradients. Our analytical model is compared against other models and the results illustrate good agreement with our experimental findings and experimental data in the literature.
Function and Quality of Life of Unilateral Major Upper Limb Amputees: Effect of Prosthesis Use and Type.

Abstract Objective To compare patient-reported outcomes of disability, activity difficulty, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) by prosthetic device use and configuration and to identify factors associated with these outcomes. Design Telephone survey. Setting General community. Participants Population-based sample of veterans (N=755) with unilateral upper limb amputation recruited from a national sample of veterans with upper limb amputation who received care at the Veterans Affairs clinic from 2010-2015. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Upper limb–related disability was measured using Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score (QuickDASH). HRQOL was measured using the Veterans RAND 12-item Health Survey Mental and Physical Component scores. Activity difficulty was assessed for 1-handed and 2-handed tasks and by questions about the need for help with activities of daily living (ADLs). Results Patients who did not use a prosthesis had more difficulty performing 1-handed tasks using the residual limb as compared with those who used body-powered prostheses. Cosmetic device users had more task difficulty than body-powered or myoelectric users. Linear regression models did not show an association between type of prosthesis used and HRQOL scores, but did show that those who did not use a prosthesis (non-users) had worse QuickDASH scores (β=9.4; P=.0004) compared to body-powered users. In logistic regression modeling, the odds of needing help with ADLs were 1.84 times higher (95% confidence interval, 1.16-2.92) for non-users compared with body-powered users. Conclusions Amputees who did not use a prosthesis or used a cosmetic prosthesis reported more difficulty in activities and greater disability as compared with those who use body-powered and myoelectric devices. Non-users were more likely to need help with ADLs as compared with those who used a body-powered prosthesis. Our findings highlight the clinical importance of encouraging prosthesis use. Further research is needed to compare physical performance by prosthesis configuration.
Alfred Kahn as a Case Study of a Political Entrepreneur: An Essay in Honour of his 90th Birthday

The success of airline deregulation challenged the claims of public choice theory, which asserts that regulation serves the purposes of the regulated firms themselves. One prominent explanation for airline deregulation is that "political entrepreneurs" can, under certain circumstances, challenge the status quo. Nonetheless, commentators have failed to examine how Fred Kahn fits the model of a political entrepreneur. By examining Kahn's success as a political entrepreneur, this Essay highlights how commentators and policymakers can gain important insights into how to spur regulatory reform and oversee regulatory reform efforts like that necessary to modernize our system of spectrum management.
Evaluation of transfer learning in data-driven methods in the assessment of unconventional resources

Abstract In a novel application of data-driven analytics to the assessment of unconventional oil and gas resources, we present a Transfer Learning framework based on a combination of unsupervised and supervised machine learning techniques on a relatively large dataset from one of the main unconventional plays in the United States. To improve the generalizability of our work, instead of focusing on building one model with the highest predictive accuracy, we focus on quantifying the changes in predicted productivity of multiple sub-basin models that are trained on data from different sub-basins in the same shale play. We present the main steps of developing a data-driven solution in the unconventional oil and gas domain and discuss the importance of taking into account the domain knowledge of petroleum engineering and geology during the process. In an unsupervised clustering problem, we show the impact of clustering variable choice guided by domain expertise. We investigate the variation of model's accuracy when trained and tested on different parts of the unconventional play. The proposed Transfer Learning framework allows quantification of the change in predictive performance of the model of one part of the unconventional play as the amount of training data taken from another part is varied. We show how a careful selection of data types can balance between three objectives: reduce overfitting of the model to training data, augment model transferability across a very large shale play, and enhance accuracy in a part or sub-basin of the play. We show that selecting the clusters based on geologic variables such as average depth of the formation and thermal maturity of the source rock instead of geographical coordinates of the wells significantly increases the predictive performance of the models. In addition, we demonstrate the increase in model accuracy after adding production data to our predictors. We also discuss the limitations associated with accessing production data in a real-world Transfer Learning workflow. The variable importance ranking interpretation of monthly production rates also supports the significance of production data. We used statistical analysis of large samples of decline curves to find optimum duration of production history for training. To address the hyperparameter fine-tuning for our machine learning algorithms, we identified optimal ranges of Random Forest hyperparameters to achieve lowest test-to-train error ratio. Finally, we demonstrate a successful application of the proposed workflow on a real dataset from the Eagle Ford basin in South Texas in a few examples of improved Transfer Learning under the domain experts' guidance. Our findings show that by using models that have been trained on a large group of wells in a mature field in a transfer learning framework we can achieve better predictive performance in a greenfield with very few wells.
A cross-institutional analysis of the effects of broadening trainee professional development on research productivity

PhD-trained scientists are essential contributors to the workforce in diverse employment sectors that include academia, industry, government, and nonprofit organizations. Hence, best practices for training the future biomedical workforce are of national concern. Complementing coursework and laboratory research training, many institutions now offer professional training that enables career exploration and develops a broad set of skills critical to various career paths. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded academic institutions to design innovative programming to enable this professional development through a mechanism known as Broadening Experiences in Scientific Training (BEST). Programming at the NIH BEST awardee institutions included career panels, skill-building workshops, job search workshops, site visits, and internships. Because doctoral training is lengthy and requires focused attention on dissertation research, an initial concern was that students participating in additional complementary training activities might exhibit an increased time to degree or diminished research productivity. Metrics were analyzed from 10 NIH BEST awardee institutions to address this concern, using time to degree and publication records as measures of efficiency and productivity. Comparing doctoral students who participated to those who did not, results revealed that across these diverse academic institutions, there were no differences in time to degree or manuscript output. Our findings support the policy that doctoral students should participate in career and professional development opportunities that are intended to prepare them for a variety of diverse and important careers in the workforce.
Identification of Secreted Factors with a Role in Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cell Engraftment in the Developing Zebrafish

The hematopoietic microenvironment regulates the behavior of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) throughout vertebrate development. We sought to identify secreted factors that may play a role in HSPC engraftment in the caudal hematopoietic territory (CHT), an endothelial cell-rich vascular plexus that serves as the primary site of hematopoiesis in the developing zebrafish from 3-6 days post fertilization (dpf). We hypothesized that such factors would be highly expressed in endothelial cells relative to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). To identify these factors, endothelial cells and HSCs were purified from 3 dpf Flk1:mcherry; Runx1:GFP double transgenic zebrafish embryos and gene expression profiling was performed by microarray analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis of these data showed that zebrafish chemokines, cytokines, TGF-β, TNF, Notch and non-canonical WNT family members were enriched in the endothelial cell fraction with a nominal P ≤ 0.2. Genes from the leading edge of these gene sets were then used as candidates for gain-of-function testing. Coding sequences from candidate genes were cloned downstream of the zebrafish HSP70l promoter and microinjected into wildtype zebrafish embryos at the single-cell stage. Gene expression was induced in F0 transgenic animals by heat shock at 36 and 48 hours post fertilization. HSPC numbers were assayed by performing whole-mount in situ hybridization to identify runx1- and cmyb-expressing cells at 3 dpf. WNT5A was found to enhance HSPC numbers in this assay (P = 0.00046). We conclude non-canonical WNT family members, in particular WNT5A, regulate HSPC engraftment in the developing zebrafish.
Decapitation and Rebirth: A Headless Burial from Nasca, Peru

Decapitation was a common type of ritual sacrifice in the ancient Andes. Images of disembodied heads and decapitation were ubiquitous in the art of the Nasca culture, and the large numbers of physical remains of trophy heads found in the archaeological record of the area are unprecedented. However, few headless bodies have been recovered in the region. A burial from the site of La Tiza is the first documented decapitated burial that dates to Middle Nasca, a time of cultural transition. The debate over the role of decapitation and “trophy heads” centers on whether these heads were taken in battle or were members of the community offered up for ritual sacrifice. Regardless of who these individuals were, it is evident that decapitation and keeping of trophy heads were central to rituals of renewal. The La Tiza burial was associated with an earlier cemetery and habitation area, suggesting a relationship between rituals of fertility and regeneration and the role of the ancestors.
Fishery and Population Characteristics of Blue Catfish and Channel Catfish and Potential Impacts of Minimum Length Limits on the Fishery in Lake Wilson, Alabama

Abstract A popular recreational and commercial fishery for blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus and channel catfish I. punctatus exists at Lake Wilson, Alabama (Tennessee River). We examined the fishery, exploitation, angler size selectivity, and population demographics of these two species at Lake Wilson. In addition, we explored management strategies to enhance the fishery of trophy blue catfish. Currently, Alabama has no bag or minimum-length-limit regulations for catfish, except for the harvest of fish over 864 mm total length (TL). From April to October 2006, catfish harvest was high (8 kg/ha), and angler catch and harvest rates averaged 1.5 and 1.2 fish/h, respectively. The majority of fish harvested were between 300 and 600 mm TL, and anglers harvested larger fish in proportion to the sample population. Catfish were collected by low-frequency (15-MHz) DC electrofishing; they were aged with otoliths from 180 and 122 blue catfish and channel catfish, respectively, subsamples of 2,905 blue catfish and 699 ...
A constitutively active ERBB4/HER4 allele with enhanced transcriptional coactivation and cell-killing activities.

In the normal breast, ERBB4 regulates epithelial differentiation and functions as a nuclear chaperone for signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 5A, thereby stimulating milk-gene expression. In addition, ERBB4 functions as a proapoptotic protein, suppressing the growth of malignant cells. We hypothesize that these ERBB4 activities can be marshaled to suppress the growth of breast tumors. To this end, we have created an ERBB4 allele harboring an activating transmembrane mutation (ERBB4-CA) by substituting isoleucine 658 for glutamic acid. This base substitution forms a valine-glutamic acid-glycine activation domain first identified in oncogenic ERBB2/HER2/Neu. Ectopic expression of ERBB4-CA in HEK293T cells resulted in a fivefold increase in receptor tyrosine phosphorylation. Functionally, ERBB4-CA exhibited higher levels of nuclear translocation than wild-type ERBB4, leading to significantly enhanced ERBB4-induced STAT5A simulation of the β-casein promoter. Activated ERBB4 has been demonstrated to induce cell killing of breast tumor cells. Significantly, ERBB4-CA potentiated the proapoptotic function of ERBB4 in each breast, prostate and ovarian cancer cell line tested. Untransformed cell lines were resistant to both ERBB4 and ERBB4-CA-mediated apoptosis underscoring the potential utility of active ERBB4 signaling for the therapeutic intervention of human cancer.
Imaging findings of pancreatoblastoma in 4 children including a case of ectopic pancreatoblastoma

Background Pancreatoblastoma is a rare primary pancreatic neoplasm of children. The tumour may arise from any portion of the pancreas, but no tumour originating from ectopic pancreatic tissue has been reported in the English medical literature.
The Mechanistic Basis for Electronic Effects on Enantioselectivity in the (salen)Mn(III)-Catalyzed Epoxidation Reaction

Enantioselectivity in the (salen)Mn-catalyzed asymmetric epoxidation reaction correlates directly with the electronic properties of the ligand substituents, with complexes bearing electron-donating substituents affording highest ee's. Several lines of evidence point to a single factorcontrol of the position of the transition state along the reaction coordinateas being responsible for the electronic effects on enantioselectivity. Analysis of the epoxidation of cis-β-deuteriostyrene reveals that electron-rich catalysts display a more pronounced secondary inverse isotope effect than electron-deficient catalysts. A strong correlation between ΔΔH⧧ and the electronic character of the catalyst is also observed. The conclusion that enantioselectivity is tied to the position of a transition state along the reaction coordinate may hold general implications for the design of asymmetric catalysts, particularly those that effect reactions without substrate precoordination.
Comparison of high-frequency chest wall oscillation and oscillating positive expiratory pressure in the home management of cystic fibrosis: a pilot study.

Enhanced airway clearance is thought to result in better-maintained pulmonary function in cystic fibrosis (CF). Postural drainage, percussion, and vibration (PDPV) have been the primary airway clearance technique (ACT) employed in CF for over 40 years. Two new airway clearance modalities are high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) and oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP). This pilot study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of these techniques during home use, assess patient satisfaction with them as compared to PDPV, and assess the feasibility of performing a definitive comparative trial. The prospective, randomized, multicenter crossover trial was conducted at three urban academic CF Care Centers. Twenty-nine CF patients, 9-39 years of age, participated. Subjects performed 4 weeks each of HFCWO and OPEP following 2-week lead-in/washout periods. Spirometry, lung volumes, National Institutes of Health and Petty Scores, and a satisfaction survey were performed at baseline and after each treatment period. An ACT preference survey was completed at the conclusion of the study. Twenty-four subjects completed both therapies. There were no statistically significant differences between therapies for spirometry, lung volumes, or clinical scores. No significant safety issues arose during the study period. Compliance between therapies was similar. Significant differences among therapies existed in patient satisfaction. Given a choice of therapy, 50% of subjects chose HFCWO, 37% OPEP, and 13% PDPV. This study suggests that HFCWO and OPEP are safe and as effective as patients' routine therapies when used for airway clearance in a home setting. Patient satisfaction and preference differ among ACTs and should be considered when prescribing home therapy. A definitive, multi-center, comparative study evaluating long-term efficacy of these techniques is feasible.
Videotaped Discovery of a Reportedly Unrecallable Memory of Child Sexual Abuse: Comparison with a Childhood Interview Videotaped 11 Years Before:

This article presents the history, verbatim transcripts, and behavioral observations of a child's disclosure of sexual abuse to Dr. David Corwin in 1984 and the spontaneous return of that reportedly unrecallable memory during an interview between the same individual, now a young adult, and Dr. Corwin 11 years later. Both interviews were videotape recorded. The significance, limitations, and clinical implications of this unique case study are discussed. Five commentaries by researchers from differing empirical perspectives who have reviewed these videotape-recorded interviews follow this article.
Capillary Electrophoretic Chiral Separations Using a Sulfated β-Cyclodextrin-Containing Electrolyte

Abstract Sulfated β-cyclodextrin (SO3-β-CD) was utilized as a chiral additive for capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). Chiral separations of several uhcharged enantiomers, such as phensuximide, indapamide, etc., which are difficult to separate using neutral CDs, were achieved. The effects of SO3-β-CD concentration and the pH and ionic strength of the supporting electrolyte as well as the presence of an organic modifier, methanol, were discussed.
An analysis of the partial metabolic derepression of sea urchin eggs by ammonia: The existence of independent pathways

Incubation of unfertilized eggs in ammonia has been reported to initiate such late responses to fertilization as K+-conductance, DNA synthesis, chromosome condensation and cytoplasmic mRNA polyadenylation. It does not initiate such early responses as Na+-influx and the cortical reactions. We have further analyzed this metabolic derepression and find that ammonia activation does not result in the early respiratory burst and also does not initiate the late activation of Na+-dependent amino acid transport. Protein synthesis is increased, similar to that following normal fertilization. This indicates that augmentation of protein synthesis is causally linked neither to the earlier Na+-influx, cortical reactions, and respiratory burst nor to the later activation of amino acid transport. The temporal correlation between activation of transport and increased protein synthesis is therefore coincidental. The association between increased protein synthesis and establishment of K+-conductance was analyzed by abolishing K+-conductance through acidification of the sea water. This did not affect protein synthesis, indicating that K+-conductance and protein synthesis are also not causally linked. There is also no obligate link between protein synthesis and chromosome condensation. Incubation in low concentrations of ammonia results in increased protein synthesis but not chromosome condensation. Higher ammonia concentrations cause chromosome condensation but with no further increase in rate of protein synthesis. This suggests a concentration-dependent hierarchy of activation. These results are consistent with the concept that the late fertilization changes are not causally linked and proceed independently of each other. As we have not been able to disassociate the early changes, they may be obligately linked and dependent on each other.
Role of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 in regulation of renal lipid metabolism and glomerulosclerosis in diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic renal disease is associated with lipid deposits in the kidney. The purpose of our study was to determine whether there is altered regulation of the sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) in the diabetic kidney and whether SREBPs mediate the abnormal renal lipid metabolism and diabetic renal disease. In streptozotocin-induced diabetes in the rat, there were marked increases in SREBP-1 and fatty acid synthase (FAS) expression, resulting in increased triglyceride (TG) accumulation. Treatment of diabetic rats with insulin prevented the increased renal expression of SREBP-1 and the accumulation of TG. The role of hyperglycemia in the up-regulation of SREBP-1 was confirmed in renal cells cultured in a high glucose media. High glucose induced increased expression of SREBP-1a and -1c mRNA, SREBP-1 protein, and FAS, resulting in increased TG content. To determine a direct role for SREBP in mediating the increase in renal lipids and glomerulosclerosis, we studied SREBP-1a transgenic mice with increased renal expression of SREBP-1. The increase in SREBP-1 was associated with increased expression of FAS and acetyl CoA carboxylase, resulting in increased TG content, increased expression of transforming growth factor β1 and vascular endothelial growth factor, mesangial expansion, glomerulosclerosis, and proteinuria. Our study therefore indicates that renal SREBP-1 expression is increased in diabetes and that SREBP-1 plays an important role in the increased lipid synthesis, TG accumulation, mesangial expansion, glomerulosclerosis, and proteinuria by increasing the expression of transforming growth factor β and vascular endothelial growth factor.
Modulation of ζ-Protein Kinase C by Cyclic AMP in PC12 Cells Occurs Through Phosphorylation by Protein Kinase A

Although cyclic AMP (cAMP) has been reported to cross talk with the protein kinase C (PKC) system, effects of elevated intracellular cAMP on the activities of specific PKC isoforms have not been studied. We report findings from a permeabilized cell assay that was used to examine changes in the activity of the atypical PKC isoforms brought about by exposure of PC12 cells to agents that elevate intracellular cAMP. We found that increases in intracellular cAMP led to rapid stimulation of atypical PKC activity, 40-70% above control, for a sustained period of time, a response that occurred independent of the phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-sensitive PKC isoforms. Changes in intracellular cAMP levels resulted in a dose-dependent redistribution of zeta-PKC to the cytoplasm with a concomitant increase in the phosphorylation state of the enzyme. Incubation of purified zeta-PKC with increasing concentrations of PKA likewise caused a twofold increase in the phosphorylation state of zeta-PKC. In contrast to the positive effect that PKA-mediated phosphorylation had on the activity of zeta-PKC, the enzyme displayed reduced binding to ras when phosphorylated. Taken together, these findings are consistent with the hypothesis that protein phosphorylation of PKC acts as a positive effector of its enzyme activity and may serve as a negative modulator for interaction with other proteins.
Design rules for the fabrication of binary half-tone masks used for MEMS and photonic devices

Gray scale lithography is becoming a popular technique for producing three-dimensional structures needed in fabricating photonics and MEMS devices. The structures are printed using a variable transmission mask to yield the required continuous tone intensity during image formation. In binary half tone imaging (i.e., BHT), the transmission through the mask is adjusted by varying the open area of sub-patterns. Design rules, fabrication tradeoffs and a layout methodology employing a novel primitive cell to aid in constructing the BHT masks are discussed Simulation is leveraged to tie the BHT design with expected imaging results. The overall process is exercised by fabricating a specific grayscale design for use in a photonic application. The BHT mask approach to gray scale lithography is a viable method to fabricate three-dimensional images offering MEMS and photonics communities a cost effective alternative to gray scale masks which rely on specialty materials and films.
Growth factors modify the epidermal growth factor receptor through multiple pathways

Previous results have shown that tumor promoters modify the properties of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor through the activation of protein kinase C. Diacylglycerol-generating factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and p28sis should activate protein kinase C and alter EGF receptor properties in a similar manner. To test directly the involvement of protein kinase C in the action of media from v-sis-transformed cells on the EGF receptor, Swiss 3T3 cells were first extensively treated with various concentrations of the tumor-promoter phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu) This treatment reduced levels of active protein kinase C in the cells, making them less responsive to subsequent rechallenge with the tumor promoter. The results demonstrate that there are at least two components to the action of media from v-sis transformed cells on EGF binding: a labile factor that confers protein kinase C independence and a stable factor that appears to be dependent on protein kinase C. The action of the first factor cannot be mimicked by transforming growth factor-β or EGF in either the presence or absence of PDGF. The action of the second factor is similar to that of PDGF. These findings indicate that heterologous regulation of the EGF receptor can occur through both protein kinase C-dependent and -independent pathways.
Physical processes and the infrared problem in gauge theories

Abstract Some aspects of the perturbative study of the infrared structure of Yang-Mills theories are discussed. First of all, the computational details of a previously reported result are presented. It is shown through lowest non-trivial order that production and detection of massive quarks in quantum chromodynamics is infrared finite in terms of an appropriately defined renormalized coupling constants. This is conjectured to be true to all orders. The implications of this Block-Nordsieck like result for quark confinement are discussed. It is emphasized that there are assumptions implicit in the use of perturbation theory which could be wrong in a non-perturbative solution. The language of the renormalization group is used to elucidate these possibilities.
The Influence of the Stiffness and Damping Properties of the Elastic Support on a Wave Journal Bearing Sleeve Motion

The motion of a wave bearing sleeve exposed at a differential pressure at the axial ends and supported by an elastic element is considered in this paper. The influence of the stiffness and damping properties of the elastic element and of the wave amplitude on the sleeve motion is analyzed. It was found that the wave amplitude ratio and the damping of the elastic element support have an important influence on the dynamic behavior of the wave bearing. The stiffness of the elastic support does not significantly affect the bearing behavior.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Mortality risk after head injury increases at 30 years

Abstract Background Age has long been recognized as a critical factor in predicting outcomes after head injury, with individuals older than 60 years predicted to have a worse outcome than those younger than 60. The object of this study was to determine the effect of age by decade of life beginning at birth in patients with head injuries of all levels of severity. Study design The New York State Trauma Registry was searched for head injuries from January 1, 1994 to December 31, 1995; the 13,908 cases found were placed into age groups by decade. Data were sought for each patient on demographics, Glasgow Coma Score, ICD-9 injury code, New Injury Severity Score (NISS), and mechanism of injury. These data were analyzed with chi-square and one-way ANOVA tests, with significance set at p Results The risk of dying was significantly increased in patients beginning at 30 years of age compared with those in the younger age groups, with the greatest increases occurring after age 60 (p Conclusions The risk of dying for patients suffering head injuries increases as early as 30 years of age, making it necessary for health-care providers to consider increased monitoring and treatment for patients in this younger age group.
Gas Vacuole Development in a Blue-Green Alga

De novo productioni of gas vacutoles can be induced in the blue-green alga Nostoc muscorum by transferring the cells from a defined medium to distilled water. The unusual ultrastructure of the gas vacuole membranes permits their easy recognition when specimens are prepared for electron microscopy by freeze-etching. The youngest gas vacuoles are biconical organelles; 48 hours after induction the gas vacuoles reach their miaximum observed length when they are cylinders (1.5 by 0.1 µ) with cornical ends.
Tunneling and thermal emission of electrons from a distribution of deep traps in SiO/sub 2/ (nMOSFET)

Both field-induced, or tunneling, and thermal emission of electrons from deep traps in the gate oxides on n-channel LDD CMOS devices have been observed and characterized. Experimental results show that the deep trapping effects at room temperature are similar to the shallow-level trapping effects observed by others below room temperature. In this case, however, the time constants involved are very long. This model and physical mechanisms can explain the apparent saturation observed under AC stress conditions, and also the differences observed between AC use conditions and DC stress. >