cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Redox regulation of RhoA

We have previously shown that redox agents including superoxide anion radical and nitrogen dioxide can react with GXXXXGK(S/T)C motif-containing GTPases (i.e., Rac1, Cdc42, and RhoA) to stimulate guanine nucleotide release. We now show that the reaction of RhoA with redox agents leads to different functional consequences from that of Rac1 and Cdc42 due to the presence of an additional cysteine (GXXXCGK(S/T)C) in the RhoA redox-active motif. While reaction of redox agents with RhoA stimulates guanine nucleotide dissociation, RhoA is subsequently inactivated through formation of an intramolecular disulfide that prevents guanine nucleotide binding thereby causing RhoA inactivation. Thus, redox agents may function to downregulate RhoA activity under conditions that stimulate Rac1 and Cdc42 activity. The opposing functions of these GTPases may be due in part to their differential redox regulation. In addition, the results presented herein suggest that the platinated-chemotherapeutic agent, cisplatin, which is known for targeting nucleic acids, reacts with RhoA to produce a RhoA thiol-cisplatin-thiol adduct, leading to inactivation of RhoA. Similarly, certain arsenic complexes (i.e., arsenate and arsenic trioxide) may inactivate RhoA by bridging the cysteine residues in the GXXXCGK(S/T)C motif. Thus, in addition to redox agents, platinated-chemotherapeutic agents and arsenic complexes may modulate the activity of GTPases containing the GXXXCGK(S/T)C motif (i.e., RhoA and RhoB).
Evaluation of α‐SiC Sintering Using Statistical Methods

The effect of time and temperature on the density and strength of alpha-SiC was studied and mathematically modeled using a central composite experimental design. A sintering temperature of 2150 C for 1.7 h maximized the flexural strength and densification values. However, temperatures above 2200 C promoted abnormal grain growth, with resulting appreciable decreases in strength. Flexural strength increased exponentially with increasing density for specimens with densities less than or equal to 92 percent of theoretical.
On the theory of behavioral mechanics.

The Theory of Behavioral Mechanics is the behavioral analogue of Newton's laws of motion, with the rate of responding in operant conditioning corresponding to physical velocity. In an earlier work, the basic relation between rate of responding and sessions under two FI schedules and over a range of commonly used session values had been shown to be a power function. Using that basic relation, functions for behavioral acceleration, mass, and momentum are derived here. Data from other laboratories also support the applicability of a power function to VI schedules. A particular numerical value is introduced here to be the standard reference value for the behavioral force under the VI-60-s schedule. This reference allows numerical values to be calculated for the behavioral mass and momentum of individual animals. A comparison of the numerical values of the momenta of two animals can be used to evaluate their relative resistances to change, e.g., to extinction, which is itself viewed as a continuously changing behavioral force being imposed on the animal. This overall numerical approach allows behavioral force-values to be assigned to various experimental conditions such as the evaluation of the behavioral force of a medication dosage.
LIFESTYLES OF THE WHEELERS AND DEALERS: DRUG DEALING AMONG AMERICAN COLLEGE STUDENTS

ABSTRACT Several common motivations for participating in drug dealing are selling to ensure a personal supply, or selling for economic gain. Research on these motives typically utilizes small voluntary or compliant (incarcerated) samples. The purpose of this paper is to add to the literature regarding who is involved in the sale of illicit drugs, and to identify lifestyle characteristics of individuals involved in the drug trade. Based on a 1996 survey of 1500 college students, it provides significant support for previous qualitative research while still supplying some unique findings as well. Findings suggest the lifestyles of drug dealers vary in their criminogenic intensity. However, in many other areas of life (social activities, student life, neighborhood characteristics, and demographics), it appears that the college drug dealer is just like any other college student.
Toxicity of peroxynitrite and related reactive nitrogen species toward Escherichia coli.

The toxicity of peroxynitrite toward Escherichia coli (expressed as LD50, the concentration required to kill 50% of the bacteria) was found to be independent of bacterial cell densities over a wide experimental range, spanning 106−1010 colony-forming units/mL; the magnitude of LD50 was also pH-independent over the range pH 5.9−8.3. This highly unusual behavior can be quantitatively reproduced by a dynamical model in which (i) ONO2H is identified as the toxic form of the oxidant and (ii) the bulk of the added peroxynitrite decays to nitrate ion under these conditions. From the model, one estimates that 106−107 ONO2H molecules are required to kill a bacterium, indicating a very high intrinsic toxicity (cf. HOCl, for which LD50 = 107−108 molecules/cell of E. coli). Nearly complete protection was observed when bicarbonate ion was added to the buffer, even when concentrations of peroxynitrite exceeded 50 times the LD50 measured in the absence of bicarbonate. Consistent with previous reports, combinations of H2...
EFFECTS OF A HIGH PROTEIN DIET ON THE ANEMIA INDUCED BY HYPOPHYSECTOMY IN ADULT FEMALE RATS, INCLUDING FURTHER DETAILS ON POST-HYPOPHYSECTOMY ANEMIA

Hypophysectomy induces a profound anemia in the rat (Stewart, Greep, and Meyer, 1935; Meyer, Stewart, Thewlis, and Rusch, 1937; Vollmer, Gordon, Levenstein, and Charipper, 1939; Crafts, 1941). Injections of thyroxine (Meyer, Thewlis, and Rusch, 1940; Vollmer, Gordon, and Charipper, 1942; Crafts 1946a), a combination of thyroxine, iron, and copper (Crafts, 1946a), and of androgen (Vollmer and Gordon, 1941; Vollmer, Gordon, and Charipper, 1942; Crafts, 1946b) prevented all aspects of this anemia except for the decrease in hemoglobin values. Since the above treatments did not produce a normal hemoglobin, the metabolism of iron was investigated following hypophysectomy. A decrease in volume of gastric juice and a decrease in serum iron was found following hypophysectomy in adult female rats, but the concentration of storage iron was increased (Crafts and Walker, 1947a and b). Utilizing the isotope technique, it was found that there were differences in the metabolism of iron between normal and hypophysectomize...
Phase-transition behavior of a hard-core lattice gas with a tricritical point

The phase-transition behavior of a hard-core lattice gas with nearest-neighbor exclusion and next-nearest-neighbor attraction on the plane-square lattice has been determined using high- and low-density activity series including double series in the sublattice activities reported here. The model exhibits a line of second-order transition points at high temperature and a line of first-order transition points at low temperature intersecting at a tricritical point. The series for the various thermodynamic functions do not converge equally well at all temperatures, requiring the utilization of a strict criterion (outlined here) for assessing the reliability of numerical results. From the combined behavior of the thermodynamic functions we have determined the radius of convergence of the series at all temperatures, the position of the singularities (in terms of the fugacity) on the real axis approaching the intersection of the unit circle at low temperature. Along the second-order line the critical exponents are estimated to be $\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{\simeq}0.0$ (logarithmic singularity), $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\simeq}\frac{1}{8}$, and $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\simeq}\frac{7}{4}$. At the tricritical point ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{t}\ensuremath{\simeq}1$ and ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{t}\ensuremath{\simeq}1$ are in agreement with the $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$-expansion results of Stephens and McCauley for $d=2$. The density series are poorly behaved, and we can only estimate the phase diagram.
An LFA-3 cDNA encodes a phospholipid-linked membrane protein homologous to its receptor CD2

Recently the human T cell erythrocyte receptor CD2 has been shown to bind human erythrocytes through LFA-3, a heavily gly-cosylated surface protein of broad tissue distribution1,2. CD2–LFA-3 interactions are important for cytolytic conjugate formation3,4, for thymocyte adhesion5, and for T cell activation6. A complementary DNA clone encoding LFA-3 was isolated using a novel transient expression system of mouse cells11. The cDNA encodes a phospholipid-linked membrane protein whose extracellular domain shares significant homology with CD2. As CD2 is homologous with the neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM in immunoglobulin-like domains7, cellular adhesion molecules in both neural and lymphoid tissues could have a common ancestor.
Attachment, mating, and parenting : An evolutionary interpretation.

A modern evolutionary perspective emphasizing life history theory and behavioral ecology is brought to bear on the three core patterns of attachment that are identified in studies of infants and young children in the Strange Situation and adults using the Adult Attachment Interview. Mating and parenting correlates of secure/autonomous, avoidant/dismissing, and resistant/preoccupied attachment patterns are reviewed, and the argument is advanced that security evolved to promote mutually beneficial interpersonal relations and high investment parenting; that avoidant/dismissing attachment evolved to promote opportunistic interpersonal relations and low-investment parenting; and that resistant/preoccupied attachment evolved to foster “helper-at-the-nest” behavior and indirect reproduction.
Social Cognitive Factors Predicting the Health of Elders

The social cognitive model of health is primarily concerned with influences on a person's decisions to perform health behaviors. In this study, the relationships among social cognitive factors reflecting enabling skills (learned resourcefulness), internal motivation for health (health self-determinism), and help responses (coping responses) and a measure of physical and psychosocial health were examined in 137 chronically ill elders. Gender, race, and number of chronic conditions were predictors of learned resourcefulness. Learned resourcefulness was associated with the use of informal help, whereas health self-determinism was related to self-help and formal help. None of the help responses were significant predictors of health. Model testing revealed that greater resourcefulness or skill in coping with stressful situations was the most important predictor of health. Strategies are recommended to help elders achieve optimal health.
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin induces apoptotic cell death and cytochrome P4501A expression in developing Fundulus heteroclitus embryos.

Fundulus heteroclitus embryos were exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) during early development using nanoinjection or water bath exposure. TCDD caused developmental abnormalities that included hemorrhaging, loss of vascular integrity, edema, stunted development and death. The LC50 and LD50 of TCDD for Fundulus embryos were ∼19.7±9.5 pg TCDD/μl (water bath) and 0.25±0.09 ng TCDD/g embryo (nanoinjection). To identify a possible cause for these developmental abnormalities we analyzed the effects of TCDD on apoptotic cell death and cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) expression in the embryos. TCDD exposure increased apoptotic cell death in several tissues including brain, eye, gill, kidney, tail, intestine, heart, and vascular tissue. CYP1A expression was also increased in the TCDD-exposed embryos predominantly in liver, kidney, gill, heart, intestine, and in vascular tissues throughout the embryo. There was co-occurrence of TCDD-induced apoptosis and CYP1A expression in some, but not all, cell types. In addition the dose response relationships for apoptosis and mortality were similar, while CYP1A expression appeared more sensitive to TCDD induction.
MicroRNA-30c-2* limits expression of proadaptive factor XBP1 in the unfolded protein response.

Stress in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR), a multifaceted signaling system coordinating translational control and gene transcription to promote cellular adaptation and survival. Microribonucleic acids (RNAs; miRNAs), single-stranded RNAs that typically function as posttranscriptional modulators of gene activity, have been shown to inhibit translation of certain secretory pathway proteins during the UPR. However, it remains unclear whether miRNAs regulate UPR signaling effectors directly. In this paper, we report that a star strand miRNA, miR-30c-2* (recently designated miR-30c-2-3p), is induced by the protein kinase RNA activated–like ER kinase (PERK) pathway of the UPR and governs expression of XBP1 (X-box binding protein 1), a key transcription factor that augments secretory capacity and promotes cell survival in the adaptive UPR. These data provide the first link between an miRNA and direct regulation of the ER stress response and reveal a novel molecular mechanism by which the PERK pathway, via miR-30c-2*, influences the scale of XBP1-mediated gene expression and cell fate in the UPR.
Hepatic steatosis is associated with fibrosis, nucleoside analogue use, and hepatitis C virus genotype 3 infection in HIV-seropositive patients.

Background. We conducted a study to determine the prevalence and factors associated with hepatic steatosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-seropositive patients with hepatitis C and to investigate whether steatosis is associated with liver fibrosis. Methods. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted in 4 hospitals that serve community-based and incarcerated HIV-infected patients who had undergone a liver biopsy for evaluation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection during the period of 2000-2003. Demographic characteristics and medication and laboratory data were collected from the time of the biopsy. A pathologist blinded to all clinical data evaluated the specimens. The primary outcome was presence or absence of steatosis. Results. Of 260 HIV-HCV-coinfected patients, 183 met inclusion criteria and had a biopsy specimen adequate for review. Steatosis was present in 69% of patients (graded as minimal in 31%, mild in 27%, moderate in 18%, and severe in 1%). Factors associated with steatosis included use of dideoxynucleoside analogues, such as didanosine and stavudine (odds ratio [OR], 4.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.55-13.82). There was a trend toward presence of steatosis and use of other nucleoside analogues or infection with HCV genotype 3 (OR, 2.65 [95% CI, 0.95-7.41] and 3.38 [95% CI, 0.86-13.28], respectively). The presence of steatosis was associated with fibrosis (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.03-1.81). Conclusions. In this multiracial population of HIV-HCV-coinfected patients, steatosis was prevalent and was associated with severity of liver fibrosis. Use of nucleoside analogues (particularly didanosine and stavudine) and HCV genotype 3 infection were associated with hepatic steatosis. The development of steatosis is multifactorial in nature and may play a contributory role in the progression of liver disease in HIV-infected patients.
Considerations for Improving High to Low Dose Extrapolation for Regulatory Risk Assessment

The USEPA risk assessment practices for high to low dose extrapolation have evolved in response to scientific developments, regulatory need, stakeholder concerns and to further the Agency's mission...
Engineering model for coupling wicks and electroosmotic pumps with proton exchange membrane fuel cells for active water management

We present theoretical and experimental studies of an active water management system for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells that uses integrated wicks and electroosmotic (EO) pumps. The wicks and EO pumps act in concert to remove problematic excess liquid water from the fuel cell. In a previous paper, we showed that this system increases maximum power density by as much as 60% when operating with low air stoichiometric ratios and a parallel channel flow field. The theoretical model we develop here accounts for several key factors specific to optimizing system performance, including the wick’s hydraulic resistance, the variation of water pH, and the EO pump’s electrochemical reactions. We use this model to illustrate the favorable scaling of EO pumps with fuel cells for water management. In the experimental portion of this study, we prevent flooding by applying a constant voltage to the EO pump. We experimentally analyze the relationships between applied voltage, pump performance, and fuel cell performance. Further, we identify the minimum applied pump voltage necessary to prevent flooding. This study has wide applicability as it also identifies the relationship between active water removal rate and flooding prevention. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Early Christian Sarcophagi of the Lateran Museum and Their Historical Suggestiveness

In the Lateran Museum at Rome perhaps the largest and most interesting collection of ancient Christian sarcophagi in the world has been gathered together. It is hard to say just how many different specimens are represented. At least thirty-eight are more or less complete; and there are, besides, numerous fragments of others, some of which have doubtless been reckoned in the larger estimates sometimes given. A few were found in the various catacombs which like the encampments of a besieging army encircle the walls of Rome. The majority came from the early basilicas, which sprang up so rapidly after Constantine's Edict had proclaimed that the victory of these Christian hosts had indeed been won. It would be difficult to assign an exact date to many of these sarcophagi; but in general it may be said that they represent the fourth and fifth centuries, with a few specimens from still earlier generations, and a few others which reach forward into the sixth century.
The analysis of indigoid dyes by mass spectrometry

High–resolution mass spectrometry provides an expeditious technique for positively identifying indigoid dyes of molluscan origin. Indigoids on modern and ancient textile fibres, as well as indigoid mixtures produced by reactions, are discussed. Steam treatment of the fibre or isolation of the dye by solvent extraction permits the analysis by mass spectrometry of dyes which bind more tightly to fibres, such as 6, 6′-dibromoindigotin (C. I. 75800, Natural Vat Dye). The demonstration of the stepwise photolytic denomination of the leuco base of 6, 6′-dibromoindigotin may be of more far-reaching significance in distinguishing between natural and intentional mixtures of indigotin and its dibromo derivative.
Emerging role of Notch in stem cells and cancer

The Notch signaling pathway is known to be responsible for maintaining a balance between cell proliferation and death and, as such, plays important roles in the formation of many types of human tumors. Recently, Notch signaling pathway has been shown to control stem cell self-renewal and multi-potency. As many cancers are thought to be developed from a number of cancer stem-like cells, which are also known to be linked with the acquisition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT); and thus suggesting an expanding role of Notch signaling in human tumor progression.
Formation of BCR oligomers provides a mechanism for B cell affinity discrimination.

B cells encounter antigen over a wide affinity range, from KA=105 M−1 to KA=1010 M−1. The strength of B cell antigen receptor (BCR) signaling in response to antigen increases with affinity, a process known as “affinity discrimination”. In this work, we use a computational simulation of B cell surface dynamics and membrane-proximal signaling to show that affinity discrimination can arise from the formation of BCR oligomers. It is known that BCRs form oligomers upon encountering antigen, and that the size and rate of formation of these oligomers both increase with affinity. In our simulation, we have introduced a requirement that only BCR-antigen complexes that are part of an oligomer can engage cytoplasmic signaling molecules such as Src-family kinases. Our simulation shows that as affinity increases, BCR signaling activity increases in addition to the number of collected antigen. Our results are also consistent with the existence of an experimentally-observed threshold affinity of activation at KA=105–106 M−1 (no signaling activity below this affinity value) and affinity discrimination ceiling of KA=1010 M−1 (no affinity discrimination above this affinity value). Comparison with experiments shows that the time scale of BCR oligomer formation predicted by our model (less than 10 s) is well within the time scale of experimentally observed association of BCR with Src-family kinases (10–20 s).
Estimating relative position and yaw with laser scanning radar using probabilistic data association

Many vehicle following applications require that the relative position and sometimes yaw between vehicles be measured by the following vehicle. Typically, vision and radar systems are used to obtain the relative position, and, while relative yaw can be measured, the accuracy may sometimes be unacceptable. The focus of this paper is on robust, accurate estimation of target position and yaw relative to the sensor of interest, a laser scanning radar (LIDAR) sensor. A probabilistic data association algorithm, developed by Bar-Shalom (1978) for standard radar sensors, is adapted for use with the LIDAR sensor and for estimation of the relative yaw. Computational concerns for real-time implementation necessitate the use of various pre-filtering and filter restructuring techniques. Tests of the algorithm on actual LIDAR data recorded outdoors show the exceptional performance of the estimator.
The Role of Homeostasis in Adipose Tissues upon the Regulation of Food Intake of White Leghorn Cockerels

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE White Leghorn cockerel normally accumulates little fat in its adipose tissues. Presumably the dipose tissues are under homeostatic control which regulates the amount of fat in the adipose tissues. Control over homeostasis in the adipose tissues seems to reside in the hypothalamus since lesions in the ventromedial area of the hypothalamus cause hyperphagia and obesity (Lepkovsky and Yasuda, 1966); the lesions may have acted centrally and evoked urges to eat (appetite); or the lesions acted indirectly and upset homeostasis in the adipose tissues and elicited the accumulation of abnormally large amounts of fat in the depots. The accumulation of fat in the adipose tissues, evoked by the diversion of food energy to the depots, was accompanied by a compensatory increase in food intake. The objective of this study was to secure information on the effect of the forced feeding of excessive amounts of food into White Leghorn cockerels…
Natural Resource Use Strategies in a Forest-Adjacent Ugandan Village

This study documents natural resource use in a forest-adjacent western Ugandan village, and explains how what superficially appears to be a sustainable scenario is in fact quite unstable. Kibwona village is adjacent to Kasokwa Forest, comprised of a small Central Reserve owned by the National Forest Authority (NFA) and several contiguous community forests. Firewood and water collection is legal. However, empirical observations of women's daily activity budgets and details of resource acquisition show on average, women spent less than 5% of the time collecting natural resources. This is true for resources both in and out of the forest. This may be simply because firewood within household compounds, gardens and woodland-bush areas is abundant, accessible, and closer than the (also close) forest. However, two additional reasons for this behavior may, in fact, hinder long-term sustainability: (1) Many locals also plant eucalyptus trees for firewood, poles, and timber, which, although it is fast growing and makes good firewood, is water-draining and hard on the soils and thus a high cost to subsistence farmers. (2) Fears of harassment by NFA officials when collecting firewood inhibit local people from even entering the forest. Decentralized, collaborative forest management will not happen under oppressive and fear-based relationships, nor can a sustainable firewood supply be based on eucalyptus.
MHC Class-II Molecules and Autoimmunity

ty complex, autoimmunity, HLA class-II genes, disease associations, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis Abstract Molecular and genetic studies of HLA class- II genes provide new insights into the basis for MHC associations with autoimmunity. Polymorphisms among class-II genes identif y specific haplotypes associated with auto­ immune diseases such as type-I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and pemphigus vulgaris. In some cases, single genes within those haplot ypes are themselves implic ated in disease susc eptibility. Interactions, both cis and trans, between candidate susceptibility genes suggest a number of possible mechanisms critical for autoimmune triggering events involving class-II molecules. Amino acid sequence comparisons between products of candidate susceptibility genes and other class- II genes pinpoint a limit ed number of critical sites within HLA molecules which appear to be respon­
Influence of Carbon Nanofiber Content and Surface Treatment on Mechanical Properties of Vinyl Ester

SUMMARY This paper discusses the effects of carbon nanofi ber surface treatment (purifi cation and chemical functionalization) and carbon nanofi ber volume fraction on mechanical properties of thermoset vinyl ester polymer nanocomposites under tensile and fl exural loadings. Highly graphitic carbon nanofi bers were surface treated by addition of functional groups to their surface, which provided a stronger composite as compared to conventional composites due to better bonding of the fi bers to the polymer matrix. It was found that addition of up to 1 wt.% functionalized carbon nanofi bers provided increases in mechanical properties over the addition of higher volume fraction of carbon nanofi bers.
N,N‐Dichloro‐4‐methylbenzenesulfonamide [Dichloramine‐T]

[473-34-7] C7H7Cl2NO2S (MW 240.11) InChI = 1S/C7H7Cl2NO2S/c1-6-2-4-7(5-3-6)13(11,12)10(8)9/h2-5H,1H3 InChIKey = ARGDYOIRHYLIMT-UHFFFAOYSA-N Alternate Names: dichloramine-T. Physical Data: melting point/freezing point 79–83 °C (174–181 °F). Solubility: benzene, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, dichloromethane, acetonitrile, petroleum ether (slightly soluble), glacial acetic acid. Form Supplied in: white solid; widely available commercially. Preparative Methods: reagent purity was assayed by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: handle and store under dry inert atmosphere. Air and light sensitive. The container should be tightly closed and kept in a dry and well-ventilated place. Recommended storage temperature is −20 °C (Ref. MSDS from Sigma Aldrich). N-Chlorosulfonyl amide derivatives such as chloramine-T (TsNClNa), dichloramine-T (TsNCl2, N,N-dichloro-4-methylbenzenesulfonamide), and N,N-dichloro-2-nitrobenzenesulfonamide (2-NsNCl2) are known to react with various functional groups and to extensively participate in many chemical transformations. The early developments in this research area stemmed from the synthesis of chloramine-T and related aryl sulfonamide derivatives. Importance of these reagents was shown by the recognition of their disinfectant and antiseptic properties. WW1 provided additional impetus to chloramine-T chemistry because of the facile reaction with mustard gas (ClCH2CH2)2S to give a relatively innocuous crystalline sulfimide adduct.1 The diverse reactions of chloramine-T and related sulfonamide derivatives with a range of functional groups have been investigated.1 Among these sulfonamide derivatives, dichloramine-T has been extensively employed as the nitrogen and chlorine source in a myriad of reactions.
Predictions of Future Subsidence Along Friant-Kern Canal in California

The 244.3-km-long, mostly concrete-lined Friant-Kern Canal, an early key facility of the Central Valley Project of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, extends from Friant Dam to the Kern River near Bakersfield and is situated in the southeastern part of California9s San Joaquin Valley. The canal has a diversion capacity of 170 m 3 /s. About 48.3 km of the alignment, between MP (milepost) 95 and MP 125, are on the periphery of the major Tulare-Wasco subsiding area. The postconstruction subsidence within the reach locally exceeded 1.5 m. The exact causes of subsidence along the canal are unknown, but most of the subsidence is probably caused by a distant irrigational overdraft of confined ground-water aquifer systems. Some tectonic movements are also possible. Postconstruction ground-water levels along the canal are generally rising. Data on past subsidence are incomplete, and the results of some 12 construction and postconstruction canal levelings are confusing. Subsidence interfered with canal operation, resulting in rehabilitation of a 26.67-km-long reach of the canal in 1976/77 and in the raising of three subsided pumping plants in 1979–81, at a total cost of about $4,700,000. Prerehabilitation estimates of future subsidence were made in 1975 and in 1979. Due to the uncertain nature of subsidence and the poor quality of basic data the method and results of estimates are questionable. The 1975 estimates for the 37-km-long canal reach, based on data obtained at the compaction recorder site at Terra Bella (MP 101.67), in an area of maximal subsidence of an apparently exponential character, yielded values of 0.61 or 0.91 m for ultimate subsidence after January 1975. These values were prorated for the entire reach, assuming the values of past and future recorded subsidence to be proportional. The 1979 estimates made for three pumping plant sites were based on past subsidence and on past and estimated future decline of ground water in 1990, 2000, and 2020. The total amount of future subsidence at the sites ranged from about 1.2 to 1.7 m in 1990, from 2 to 2.9 m in 2000 and from 4.2 to 6.1 m in 2020. The quality of future levelings along the canal is questionable because of apparent instability of reference bench marks. It is recommended, therefore, to conduct systematic (once every 2–3 years) measurements of depth of water at check structures and selected bridges in the standstill canal (1979–80 measurements of this type indicate the possibility of some local tectonic uplift and downwarp).
Blazing the trail to a service-driven culture.

Abstract Newton Memorial Hospital, Newton, New Jersey, decided it was time to aim for excellence when Press-Ganey ranked it in the 13th percentile for customer satisfaction. Newton management recommitted to the hospital's vision to be the premier, community-based health-care provider, not just in its area but in the nation. Its Press-Ganey score then skyrocketed to the 82nd percentile. In this article, the author explains how Newton changed its culture for the better by taking eight actions: committing to service, committing to leadership training, committing to employees, measuring only important things, aligning behaviors to the organization, building individual accountability, communicating, and rewarding and recognizing employees. To start the change, Newton chose a new strategic direction that put the hospital's mission into practical terms for management and staff. The hospital also would strive to decrease patient length of stay, to decrease cost per Case Mix Index adjusted, and to increase volume.
“Face validity” is not a legitimate type of validity evidence!

Abstract The American Journal of Surgery (AJS) is a long-standing leader among surgery publications and has published high-quality research dating back to 1926. To preserve AJS's reputation, it is necessary to identify issues that may affect the journal, and subsequently the broader field of surgery, in a negative way, and attempt to resolve those issues. To that end, I would like to address the issue of citing "face validity" as a type of validity evidence. In a review of AJS articles since 2006, 30 articles have consisted of researchers citing face validity as part of their validity evidence. This is problematic because validity theorists (scholars who dedicate their careers to studying validity and what constitutes acceptable types of validity evidence) have universally agreed there is no such thing as "face validity". Thus, the purpose of this article is to encourage surgeons to study recent, and authoritative, works on validity theory, so they can better articulate the trustworthiness of their research findings and be more informed consumers of research.
New Indications for Renal Infarction

AbstractTwo patients with stage D transitional cell carcinoma of the kidney presented with recurrent massive hematuria. Both had prompt cessation of bleeding following renal infarction. Another patient had malignant hypercalcemia related to metastatic renal cell carcinoma and became normocalcemic after renal infarction. Angiographic renal infarction offers a rational alternative to conventional therapy in the management of these 2 problems.
Tracking Ontogenentic Food Habits of Early Life Stages of White and Yellow Perch in Albemarle Sound, North Carolina

Abstract: White Perch (Morone americana) and Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) are percid fishes common to the Albemarle Estuarine System (AES) in North Carolina. Both species have well established recreational and commercial fisheries in the AES. The juvenile stages of these two species commonly occur in the same areas and likely share food resources. We investigated the feeding habits of juvenile White Perch and Yellow Perch in the AES from June through October 2005. The diets of both species were made up entirely of aquatic invertebrates, with copepods and cladocerans contributing (>90% by number) to the diet of juvenile White Perch. Mysid shrimp and amphipods were the primary source of White Perch dietary weight. Juvenile White Perch exhibited a marked change in prey with increased size, switching from smaller pelagic prey (e.g., copepods and cladocerans) to larger epibenthic prey (e.g., mysid shrimp and amphipods). Amphipods also were the primary prey of juvenile Yellow Perch, which differs from the ma...
Bombesin and epidermal growth factor stimulate the mitogen-activated protein kinase through different pathways in Swiss 3T3 cells

Both bombesin and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are potent mitogens in Swiss 3T3 cells that nonetheless have dissimilar receptor structures. To explore possible common intracellular events involved in the stimulation of cellular growth by these two peptides, we have evaluated the regulation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. Exposure of Swiss 3T3 cells to bombesin, EGF or the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) causes the rapid and transient stimulation of the enzyme activity. Pretreatment of cells with the protein kinase inhibitor H-7, or down-regulation of cellular protein kinase C by prolonged exposure to PMA, causes a decrease of over 90% in the activation of MAP kinase by bombesin. In contrast, these treatments have no effect on the stimulation of MAP kinase by EGF. The stimulation of MAP kinase activity by bombesin is dose-dependent, occurring over a narrow concentration range of the peptide. Both EGF and bombesin stimulate the phosphorylation of an immunoprecipitable MAP kinase protein migrating at 42 kDa on SDS/PAGE. Phosphoamino acid analysis of this phosphorylated protein reveals that EGF and bombesin stimulate phosphorylation on tyrosine, threonine and serine residues. Tyrosine phosphorylation of the enzyme, as evaluated by antiphosphotyrosine blotting of the immunoprecipitated protein, reveals that the time course of phosphorylation by both mitogens correlates with stimulation of enzyme activity. These results provide further evidence for the convergence of discrete pathways emanating from tyrosine kinase and G-protein-linked receptors in the regulation of MAP kinase.
Crowdfunding and Diaspora Philanthropy: An Integration of the Literature and Major Concepts

Crowdfunding and diaspora philanthropy are two emerging areas of research that are generating excitement in the field of philanthropic studies. However, little if any research examines the shared characteristics and advantages of these two phenomena, and if and how crowdfunding might serve to strengthen efforts in the practice of diaspora philanthropy. This article reviews relevant literature on crowdfunding and diaspora philanthropy, and then analyzes overlapping characteristics, strengths, and limitations of these practices. The article then considers the potential of crowdfunding to contribute toward diaspora philanthropy, giving particular attention to the contexts and challenges faced in philanthropy in the global South.
Learners and Learning

The complexities of learners and of learning are explored in greater detail using Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory and other concepts from systems theory. Diversity is examined closely, with attention to Aristotle’s eudaimonistic conception of what it means to develop as a person, with additional ideas from Dewey. The concept of unique potential is offered to help understand and to value individual variations among students.
High-accuracy gravity acceleration measurements at the Moon from the GRAIL mission

The over-arching objective of the Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission is to understand the structure of the Moon from crust to core. The mission's stringent science measurement requirements were achievable due to the very high-accuracy gravitational accelerations measured by GRAIL and the very high-accuracy topography obtained by the laser altimeter on the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission. The measurement quality of gravitational accelerations achieved by the GRAIL spacecraft exceeded any planetary mission past or present. GRAIL was a satellite-to-satellite tracking mission that determined the acceleration of gravity by measuring the rate of change of distance between two spacecraft in the same lunar orbit but separated by several tens of km to over 200 km during two three-month periods in 2012. The mission improved the accuracy of the Moon's low-degree gravity field by more than 3 orders of magnitude and obtained the most precise measurement of the product of the mass and gravitational constant and low-degree gravity of any planetary body.
Studies on susceptibility to infection following ionizing radiation. V. Comparison of intraperitoneal and intravenous challenge at intervals following different doses of x-radiation.

Ten week old female CF-1 mice were subjected to a single total body exposure of x-radiation in one of the following doses: 300, 400, and 500 r. At intervals thereafter, susceptibility to bacterial infection was determined by intraperitoneal challenge with graded inocula of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Mice exposed to 400 or 500 r were also challenged by intravenous inoculation. The LD50 of the test microorganism in each challenge was estimated from the mortality data. Exposure to 300 r caused little increase in susceptibility to this experimental infection. 400 r caused a moderate increase on the 3rd day post-irradiation with return to normal on the 17th. Leucocyte counts (geometric means) following this dose of radiation did not fall below 1200. 500 r caused a marked increase in susceptibility which lasted from the 3rd to 11th day, during which period the leucocyte counts were below 800. On the 20th day, susceptibility to infection was normal, although the geometric mean of leucocyte counts was only 2200. Comparison of mortalities resulting from equivalent inocula introduced by the two routes (intravenous and intraperitoneal) showed no difference in unirradiated mice. However, among mice irradiated with 400 or 500 r, higher mortalities resulted from intravenous inoculation. The difference was found to be due to the establishment of a small focus of infection at the site of intravenous injection as a result of leakage of a minute fraction of inoculum into the perivenous tissues of the tail. Bacterial multiplication occurred in such foci in irradiated (leucopenic) mice, but not in unirradiated mice, nor at the site of intraperitoneal inoculation even in irradiated mice.
Risk factors for complications in the implantation of epicardial pacemakers in neonates and infants.

Background Complications related to epicardial pacemakers in infants have been reported, though limited data are available on their incidence and associated risk factors. Objective The hypothesis of the study is that younger, smaller patients and larger devices would be associated with complications in neonates and infants. Methods This is a retrospective study of all patients at a single center receiving an epicardial pacemaker at ≤12 months of age (1996–2015). Patient and device characteristics were obtained. Characteristics of patients with and without complications were compared. Results There were 86 patients with a median age of 73 days (interquartile range 13–166 days), of whom 12 (14%) had a complication. Eight (9%) needed surgical intervention, of whom 5 (6%) required explantation. Younger age (9 days vs 89 days; P = .01) and lower weight (2.91 kg vs 4.44 kg; P = .004) at implantation were associated with complications. Device characteristics were not statistically different. Patients ≤3 kg in weight and/or P 21 days were found to be at lower risk with an NPV of 96%; and regardless of age, patients weighing >4 kg had an NPV of 98%. Conclusion Young age and low weight at the time of implantation are risk factors for complications, while device characteristics appear to play a minor role. Reserving pacemaker implantation for patients >3 kg in weight and 5 days of age may predict patients at low risk of developing complications.
Prevalence of Past-Year Sexual Assault Victimization Among Undergraduate Students: Exploring Differences by and Intersections of Gender Identity, Sexual Identity, and Race/Ethnicity

A critical step in developing sexual assault prevention and treatment is identifying groups at high risk for sexual assault. We explored the independent and interaction effects of sexual identity, gender identity, and race/ethnicity on past-year sexual assault among college students. From 2011 to 2013, 71,421 undergraduate students from 120 US post-secondary education institutions completed cross-sectional surveys. We fit multilevel logistic regression models to examine differences in past-year sexual assault. Compared to cisgender (i.e., non-transgender) men, cisgender women (adjusted odds ratios [AOR] = 2.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.29, 2.68) and transgender people (AOR = 3.93; 95% CI 2.68, 5.76) had higher odds of sexual assault. Among cisgender people, gays/lesbians had higher odds of sexual assault than heterosexuals for men (AOR = 3.50; 95% CI 2.81, 4.35) but not for women (AOR = 1.13; 95% CI 0.87, 1.46). People unsure of their sexual identity had higher odds of sexual assault than heterosexuals, but effects were larger among cisgender men (AOR = 2.92; 95% CI 2.10, 4.08) than cisgender women (AOR = 1.68; 95% CI 1.40, 2.02). Bisexuals had higher odds of sexual assault than heterosexuals with similar magnitude among cisgender men (AOR = 3.19; 95% CI 2.37, 4.27) and women (AOR = 2.31; 95% CI 2.05, 2.60). Among transgender people, Blacks had higher odds of sexual assault than Whites (AOR = 8.26; 95% CI 1.09, 62.82). Predicted probabilities of sexual assault ranged from 2.6 (API cisgender men) to 57.7% (Black transgender people). Epidemiologic research and interventions should consider intersections of gender identity, sexual identity, and race/ethnicity to better tailor sexual assault prevention and treatment for college students.
Histology Rings True

A 58-year-old man with rheumatoid arthritis who was being treated with etanercept and methotrexate presented to the emergency department with fevers, night sweats, yellowing of his eyes, and dark urine.
The Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Metadiaphyseal Jones Fracture: Intramedullary Screw vs Plantar Plate

Proximal metaphyseal-diaphyseal (zones 2 or 3) fifth metatarsal fractures, or Jones fractures as they are commonly called, occur frequently in the athletic population. These fractures are challenging both biologically and biomechanically. Although operative treatment of these fractures in high-performance athletes is recommended, there is still a significant reported incidence of delayed healing or refracture after fixation. Intramedullary screw fixation has traditionally been the gold standard of surgical treatment. A solid, partially threaded, and intramedullary screw is the implant of choice, placed “high and inside” to achieve optimal fracture fixation. However, the intramedullary screw may not be the ideal construct owing to its inability to resist rotational stress as well as other constructs, potentially leading to poor healing or refracture. Plantar plating is an alternative treatment that may provide superior biological and biomechanical advantages. This article describes clinical outcomes and surgical techniques for both intramedullary screw fixation and plantar plate open reduction and internal fixation of fifth metatarsal metaphyseal-diaphyseal fractures.
Interpreting Reading Comprehension Test Results: Quantile Regression Shows that Explanatory Factors Can Vary with Performance Level

ABSTRACTOne of the most important findings to emerge from recent reading comprehension research is that there are large differences between tests in what they assess—specifically, the extent to which performance depends on word recognition versus listening comprehension skills. Because this research used ordinary least squares regression, it is not clear that the findings apply similarly to poor and good readers. The current study uses quantile regression to assess whether there might be differences within tests in the relative contributions of component skills as a function of performance level. There were 834 individuals (ages 8–18) who took 5 reading comprehension tests. Quantile regression showed that, for 3 of 5 tests, the contributions of word recognition and listening comprehension vary as a function of reading comprehension skill. These quantile differences hold across both younger and older readers. Our findings show that what skills a test assesses vary not only with the specific test used but a...
Molecular Investigations of Sudden Unexplained Deaths

Sudden unexplained deaths in apparently healthy individuals (newborn through adult) pose a vexing challenge to medical examiners, law enforcement and society as a whole. Recent advances in “molecul...
Isolation of human anti-MICA antibody from cancer patients responding to immunotherapies.

2502 Background: Immunotherapy is a promising modality for the treatment of cancer, and elucidating the mechanism of action is crucial to guiding patient selection and developing future immunothera...