cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synaptosomal and vesicular accumulation of L-glutamate, L-aspartate and D-aspartate.

Abstract We examined the vesicular accumulation of the excitatory amino-acid (EAA) neurotransmitters, l -glutamate and l -aspartate, together with the non-metabolisable EAA analogue d -aspartate. Synaptosomes derived from whole brain were incubated in various concentrations of [ 3 H]-amino acids under conditions to facilitate vesicular turnover. Synaptosomes were then lysed in hypotonic medium and vesicles immunoprecipitated with monoclonal anti-synaptophysin antibodies coupled to sepharose beads. Using this method, saturable vesicular accumulation was observed for [ 3 H]- l -glutamate, [ 3 H]- l -aspartate, and [ 3 H]- d -aspartate but not for the excitatory amino acid receptor ligands [ 3 H]-AMPA or [ 3 H]-kainate. Vesicular accumulation ( t 1/2 =7.45 min) was markedly slower than synaptosomal accumulation ( t 1/2 =1.03 min) and was substantially reduced at 4°C. Maximal accumulation of [ 3 H]- l -glutamate, [ 3 H]- l -aspartate, and [ 3 H]- d -aspartate was estimated to be 98, 68, and 112 pmol/mg of synaptosomal protein, respectively, and uptake affinities 1.6, 3.4, and 2.1 mM, respectively. Maximal accumulation of [ 3 H]- l -glutamate was non-competitively inhibited by both 100 μM unlabeled l -aspartate and 100 μM d -aspartate, suggesting that all are accumulated into a common vesicular pool by different transporters.
Extracting protein alignment models from the sequence database

Biologists often gain structural and functional insights into a protein sequence by constructing a multiple alignment model of the family. Here a program called Probe fully automates this process of model construction starting from a single sequence. Central to this program is a powerful new method to locate and align only those, often subtly, conserved patterns essential to the family as a whole. When applied to randomly chosen proteins, Probe found on average about four times as many relationships as a pairwise search and yielded many new discoveries. These include: an obscure subfamily of globins in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans ; two new superfamilies of metallohydrolases; a lipoyl/biotin swinging arm domain in bacterial membrane fusion proteins; and a DH domain in the yeast Bud3 and Fus2 proteins. By identifying distant relationships and merging families into superfamilies in this way, this analysis further confirms the notion that proteins evolved from relatively few ancient sequences. Moreover, this method automatically generates models of these ancient conserved regions for rapid and sensitive screening of sequences.
Concomitant Cox-Maze IV techniques during mitral valve surgery.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is present in approximately 30% of patients presenting for mitral valve (MV) surgery (1). The addition of a concomitant surgical ablation procedure is indicated in patients that are either (I) symptomatic from their AF or (II) asymptomatic when the addition of a surgical ablation procedure can be performed with minimal risk (2). Surgical ablation of AF in patients undergoing concomitant MV procedure is not only successful at restoring sinus rhythm, but has also has been shown to decrease late stroke rates (3,4). The Cox-Maze procedure is the gold-standard procedure used in the surgical treatment of AF. The latest iteration, the Cox-Maze IV (CMIV), makes use of a combination of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation and cryoablation. The use of ablation devices to replace the surgical incisions has simplified the procedure, which is helpful in the setting of a concomitant MV procedure since it adds little to the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and cross-clamp times. Furthermore, both CMIV and MV procedures can be performed through either a sternotomy or less invasive right mini-thoracotomy (RMT) approach. In our experience, the use of the minimally invasive approach has significantly decreased morbidity and length-of-stay with similar efficacy in restoring normal sinus rhythm (Figure 1) (4,5). Figure 1 Freedom from atrial fibrillation and antiarrhythmic medications is shown at the 1-year follow-up for patients undergoing a Cox-Maze IV (CMIV, gray bars) procedure or a combined CMIV and mitral valve (MV, black bars) procedure (4). The completion of a CMIV procedure should precede the MV procedure. CPB and an arrested heart provide the ideal milieu for ablation and allows for reliable creation of transmural lesions. This article will focus on several key points which should be addressed during the CMIV procedure in order to avoid complications.
THERMOCAPILLARY MIGRATION OF LIQUIDS ON PATTERNED SURFACES: DESIGN CONCEPT FOR MICROFLUIDIC DELIVERY

We present a novel method of fluidic transport on the open surface of a chemically patterned substrate using thermocapillary actuation. Our experimental and numerical studies provide the desired correlations between the microstream flow rate and tunable parameters like the liquid sample volume, microstream width, and magnitude of the applied thermal gradient.
Unpacking the Foundations of ISLLC Standards and Addressing Concerns in the Academic Community

The purpose of this article is to explore the foundations of the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium's (ISLLC's) Standards for School Leaders. First, the eight strategies used to develop the Standards are discussed. Second, responses are provided to six broad issues raised by colleagues who have provided critical reviews of the Standards.
Near-field imaging of optical antenna modes in the mid-infrared.

Optical antennas can enhance the coupling between free-space propagating light and the localized excitation of nanoscopic light emitters or receivers, thus forming the basis of many nanophotonic applications. Their functionality relies on an understanding of the relationship between the geometric parameters and the resulting near-field antenna modes. Using scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) with interferometric homodyne detection, we investigate the resonances of linear Au wire antennas designed for the mid-IR by probing specific vector near-field components. A simple effective wavelength scaling is observed for single wires with λeff=λ/(2.0± 0.2), specific to the geometric and material parameters used. The disruption of the coherent current oscillation by introducing a gap gives rise to an effective multipolar mode for the two near-field coupled segments. Using antenna theory and numerical electrodynamics simulations two distinct coupling regimes are considered that scale with gap width or reactive near-field decay length, respectively. The results emphasize the distinct antenna behavior at optical frequencies compared to impedance matched radio frequency (RF) antennas and provide experimental confirmation of theoretically predicted scaling laws at optical frequencies.
Prosecutorial justifications for sexual assault case rejection: Guarding the "gateway to justice"

The decision to charge is a critical stage in the processing of sexual assault cases, as many cases do not proceed beyond this stage. Frohmann (1991) examined prosecutorial justifications for case rejection and concluded that prosecutors construct typifications of credible victims and rape relevant behavior in deciding whether to file charges in sexual assault cases. We use data on 1997 sexual battery cases cleared by arrest in Miami, Florida, as well as information gleaned from interviews with a sample of the attorneys who handled these cases, to replicate and extend Frohmann's work. Although our findings are consistent with Frohmann's assertion that charging decisions primarily reflect the prosecutor's assessment of the likelihood of conviction, they also suggest that this assessment is based on factors other than typifications of rape and rape victims. In a substantial number of the cases examined for this study, the decision to reject charges could be traced to the victim's failure to appear for a prefile interview, refusal to cooperate in the prosecution of the case, or admission that the charges were fabricated. We also found that the decision to file charges was based on a combination of case and victim characteristics, but that cases involving a victim and suspect who were acquainted, related, or intimate partners were more likely than those involving a victim and suspect who were strangers to be prosecuted. We conclude that prosecutors' charging decisions are guided by a set of “focal concerns” (Steffensmeier, et al. 1998) that revolve around reducing uncertainty and securing convictions and that incorporate beliefs about real rapes and legitimate victims.
Implementing the Intensive Language Model: An Experiment in German at the University of Florida

Dartmouth Professor John Rassias has received substantial publicity from the national wire services for his classroom presentations in advanced level seminars in French literature. However, considerably less attention has focused on the lower level courses which Rassias has restructured according to an innovative blueprint: the intensive language model. From June to August 1978, the Department of Germanic and Slavic Languages at the University of Florida sought to implement this model in Beginning German. Student enthusiasm, good press, and a public relations campaign encouraged university administrators to fund the experiment beyond the initial stage. By adding scenarios tailored to student interests and needs, the Department hopes to maximize flexibility in the language learning process.
Development and validation of a multi-block flow solver for large eddy simulation of turbulent flows in complex geometries

A density-based, multi-block, flow solver has been developed for performing large eddy simulations (LES) of reacting and nonreacting, single- and multi-phase turbulent flows in complex geometries and generalized coordinate systems. The spatially filtered form of the compressible continuity, momentum, total energy, and scalar equations are solved together with various subgrid turbulence closures. All spatial derivatives are approximated by high-order compact differencing and time derivatives are modeled via a low-storage, three- stage, third-order Runge-Kutta scheme. The developed flow solver is validated by performing direct and large- eddy simulations of isotropic turbulence and round/planar jet flows. The results obtained from these simulations were found to be in a good agreement with the numerical data obtained via validated high-order spectral schemes and with the available experimental data. For further validation and application of the computational model and algorithms, large-eddy simulation of turbulent flow in an axisymmetric, sudden-expansion dump-combustor configuration is also considered.
Weaving the Western Web: explaining differences in Internet connectivity among OECD countries

Abstract Despite the Internet's increasing importance, there is little social scientific work that addresses its diffusion. Our knowledge is especially limited with respect to the conditions that encourage its spread across nations. This paper takes a first step in explaining the differences in Internet connectivity among OECD countries. After examining the impact of economic indicators, human capital, institutional legal environment, and existing technological infrastructure, the empirical analyses show that economic wealth and telecommunications policy are the most salient predictors of a nation's Internet connectivity.
Effects of marine-derived nutrients on population dynamics of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka)

The effects of marine-derived nutrients (MDN) on the productivity of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) stocks in Alaska, USA, were examined through nitrogen stable isotope analysis of smolts and mathematical models of the sockeye stock–recruit relationship. Smolt δ15N was used to infer the degree to which smolts depend on MDN for their growth. We found that characteristics of sockeye nursery lakes and watersheds significantly affected the availability of MDN to juvenile sockeye. The magnitude of escapement and water residence time were the most important factors affecting the MDN availability to juvenile salmon. Analysis of stock–recruit models indicated that regional environmental fluctuations had a large effect on stock productivities. However, stock–recruitment data showed little evidence that increasing MDN input to nursery lakes increased stock productivities. Stock–recruitment data may be poorly suited to detection of the influence of MDN because of the multitude of factors that influence juvenile...
Effect of Cholera Toxin on Water and Ion Fluxes in the Canine Bowel

Summary Cholera toxin reduced absorption and produced enterosorption of water, sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate and increased enterosorption of potassium when placed in Thiry-Vella fistulas of the jejunum of unanesthetized, trained dogs. The change in the net fluxes of water and sodium was the result of an alteration in the balance between their insorption and exsorption rather than any consistent effect on their unidirectional fluxes. The toxin increased the exsorption of CO 2 . Unless massive doses were used, the distal ileum and the colon were unaffected by the toxin. When antitoxin was added to the toxin its effects were neutralized.
Assessment of Human Vulnerability in a Touch-Screen Game; Metrics and Analysis

Assistive machine design based on human physiological measurements offers variety of opportunities in both civilian and military applications. In such settings the machine would need to compute certain metrics associated with these measurements to decide how to assist the humans. In this paper, we study a set of metrics pertaining to human behavioral patterns in easy and difficult tasks taken on a touch screen computer game. Analysis of these metrics reveal that some of them can be utilized as indicators of task difficulty showing promise for their use by machines. The metric results are also compared with task performance metrics, as well as a reliable and established metric called pNN50 calculated from subjects’ heart rate measurements and serving as the baseline.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
The potential of electrical impedance on the performance of galloping systems for energy harvesting and control applications

Abstract Performances of galloping-based piezoelectric systems for energy harvesting and control applications when considering complex electrical impedance are investigated. The aeroelastic system is composed of a unimorph piezoelectric cantilever beam with a square cylinder attached at its tip and subjected to a uniform flow speed. A quasi-steady representation is used to model the aerodynamic force. A nonlinear distributed-parameter model is developed when considering various scenarios of connections between electrical resistance, capacitance, and inductance. Theoretical strategies are developed in order to determine the relation between the onset speed of galloping and the components of the electrical impedance. The results show that the presence of the electrical capacitance and inductance is not beneficial in terms of improving the levels of the harvested power crossing the load resistance. On the other hand, it is shown that the inclusion of these electrical components may be useful for energy harvesting purposes when charging/discharging batteries. One of the important findings of this research study is that including an electrical inductance in connection to a load resistance is very beneficial for control purposes because a significant increase in the onset speed of instability can be obtained for well-defined values of the electrical components. Analytical predictions of these optimum values of the electrical inductance and resistance are determined and compared with numerical simulations. It is also demonstrated that supercritical Hopf bifurcations take place at this controlled optimal configuration without having any hysteresis and jumps when increasing and decreasing the wind speeds.
A faster-paced world?: contrasts in biovolume and life-process rates in cyclostome (Class Stenolaemata) and cheilostome (Class Gymnolaemata) bryozoans

Zooids of cheilostome bryozoans are on average substantially more robust than are zooids of cyclostome bryozoans. The differences include greater number, length, and cross-sectional area of tentacles, plus a more extensively developed funiculus. Median values for mouth size and cilia- generated feeding current velocity are greater for cheilostomes than for cyclostomes so that cheilo- stomes have the potential for greater intake of nutrient energy per unit time, which may explain their apparently higher growth rates. For unit area of substrate occupied, the Cheilostomata (Class Gymnolaemata; members of the post-Paleozoic fauna) contain greater biomass and apparently gen- erate greater energy flow than do the Cyclostomata, which are the only extant order of the Class Stenolaemata (characteristic of the Paleozoic fauna).
Ion chromatographic separation of some aminopolycarboxylic acids and inorganic anions

An ion Chromatographie method of separating polyaminocarboxylic acids is described. A mixture of EDTA, NTA, HEIDA, and IDA is separated. A small amount of phosphate can be separated from EDTA. The sodium salts of Group VIB anions are separated. A linear relationship between the retention time and their atomic number is obtained due to the difference in their ionic electron density. Tellurite and tellurate are also separated.
Oxidative pathways in pancreatic B cells.

Summary1) A histochemical study has been conducted of the distribution of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD), triphosphopyridine nucleotide diaphorase (TPND), lactic dehydrogenase (LD), diphosphopyridine nucleotide diaphorase (DPND) and succinic dehydrogenase (SD) in the pancreas of the rabbit. G-6-PD was found principally in B cells and duct epithelium; LD in duct epithelium, acinar tissue and A cells. TPND was present throughout, with greatest activity in B cells and in duct epithelium and good activity in other areas. SD activity was present throughout the pancreas with greatest staining in B cells and duct epithelium. The reactive structures for SD seemed to be mitochondrial while the other enzymes apparently are mostly extramitochondrial. 2) These findings demonstrate that glucose metabolism in B cells is predominantly via the hexose monophosphate shunt, and indicates a role for it in insulin synthesis. A relationship between TPNH generation by this pathway and availability of reduced glutath...
Disarmament agency at 25

Although the founding of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency 25 years ago was contentious, the organization has assisted a series of administrations in negotiating 18 arms control agreements.
Determine of the Solidifi cation Phase Transition Curve of DP590 Steel with New Device

A self-designed experimental apparatus was employed to study the high temperature solidifi cation phase change process of DP590 steel at the different cooling rate and get the phase-transition temperature from liquid phase(L) to high temperature ferrite phase(δ) then to austenite phase(γ). In addition, the solidifi cation phase transition(SPT) curves of DP590 steel were plotted. Results show that when cooling rate was 0.006 ℃ ·s-1, the beginning temperature of δ phase transition was between 1 520 ℃ and 1 535 ℃, the fi nishing temperature of δ phase transition was about 1 490 ℃. As the cooling rate reached to 0.33 ℃ ·s-1, the beginning temperature of δ phase transition was between 1 510 ℃ and 1 520 ℃, the fi nishing temperature of δ phase transition was between 1 480 ℃and 1 490 ℃. The beginning temperature of γ phase transition was above 1 460 ℃, the fi nishing temperature of γphase transition was below 1 435 ℃. The phase transition mode changed, the phase diagram moved down, and the temperature interval of phase reaction decreased, with increasing the cooling rate.
Application of Heartbeat and Drbd in large-capacity OLT

Taking the combination of Heartbeat with Drbd as a research object,the basic principles and feasibility of joint application of Heartbeat and Drbd are discussed to meet the high-availability requirement of large-capacity OLT system,and make the system to have hot standby high-availability and the function of the synchronization file.The joint application of Heartbeat and Drbd large-capacity was realized in thermal system with large-capacity OLT.The application of the technology improved switching speed and system stability.Actual tests show Heartbeat and Drbd can be well applied to the large-capacity OLT,the system is rapid and stable,and can meet the high availability of application system.The free software based on the open source Linux-HA project made the system cost reduced,and made the system to have a higher market competitiveness.
Mutations of K76T positions of Pfcrt Gene in the Imported Plasmodium falciparum cases in Hefei

Objective To investigate the mutations of the K76T position of Pfcrt gene of Plasmodium falciparum in the imported cases reported in Hefei.Methods Blood samples were collected from 11 patients infected with Plasmodium falciparum.A nested PCR(polymerase chain reaction) method was applied to amplify the Pfcrt gene and template DNA from Plasmodium falciparum in blood spot specimens.The amplified PCR products were evaluated after digestion by restriction enzyme.Results Six blood samples had been amplified successfully in the pool.Four of the six blood samples carrying the mutant allele at codon K76T were not digested,while the remaining 2 blood samples with wild allele K76T were digested.Conclusion The imported Plasmodium falciparum cases in Hefei have a high mutation rate of K76T position.Therefore,drug resistance in the imported Plasmodium falciparum treatment should deserve more attention in the future.
In vitro study of the effect of hyperthermia on normal bladder cell line and on five different transitional cell carcinoma cell lines.

AbstractIntraluminal hyperthermia is potentially useful in the management of superficial bladder cancer. The potential inhibitory effect of hyperthermia on various human bladder cancer cell lines, normal human bladder cells and the murine MBT-2 bladder cancer cell line has been studied in vitro. These cell lines were exposed for one hour to 43 ± 0.5C and compared to controls. Cell survival was assessed comparing the cell growth curve and colony formation. The human transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) cell lines vary in their sensitivity to heat. MGH-U1 was the most heat sensitive cell line. The human A-1698, CUB-2, UM-UC-3 and the murine MBT-2 lines were heat insensitive. We conclude that the cytocidal effect of hyperthermia in bladder transitional cell carcinoma is variable. Further experiments using the combination of hyperthermia and intravesical anticancer agents are in progress.
Frontal lobe regulation of blood glucose levels: support for the limited capacity model in hostile violence-prone men

Hostile men have reliably displayed an exaggerated sympathetic stress response across multiple experimental settings, with cardiovascular reactivity for blood pressure and heart rate concurrent with lateralized right frontal lobe stress (Trajanoski et al., in Diabetes Care 19(12):1412–1415, 1996; see Heilman et al., in J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 38(1):69–72, 1975). The current experiment examined frontal lobe regulatory control of glucose in high and low hostile men with concurrent left frontal lobe (Control Oral Word Association Test [verbal]) or right frontal lobe (Ruff Figural Fluency Test [nonverbal]) stress. A significant interaction was found for Group × Condition, F (1,22) = 4.16, p ≤ .05 with glucose levels (mg/dl) of high hostile men significantly elevated as a function of the right frontal stressor (M = 101.37, SD = 13.75) when compared to the verbal stressor (M = 95.79, SD = 11.20). Glucose levels in the low hostile group remained stable for both types of stress. High hostile men made significantly more errors on the right frontal but not the left frontal stressor (M = 17.18, SD = 19.88) when compared to the low hostile men (M = 5.81, SD = 4.33). These findings support our existing frontal capacity model of hostility (Iribarren et al., in J Am Med Assoc 17(19):2546–2551, 2000; McCrimmon et al., in Physiol Behav 67(1):35–39, 1999; Brunner et al., in Diabetes Care 21(4):585–590, 1998), extending the role of the right frontal lobe to regulatory control over glucose mobilization.
Object Representations of Common Reliability Models: New Solution Techniques and Extensions

Fault tree and digraph models are two common combinatorial models used in dependability analysis of complex systems. An object-oriented representation of the logic structure enables solution algorithms to be developed that take advantage of graph characteristics that are not utilized in previous implementations, enabling more efficient analysis. Algorithms for fault tree quantification, digraph and fault tree cut set enumeration, and dynamic fault tree solution are described. Extensions to standard analysis techniques are enabled with the modular storage of system information associated with the object-oriented approach. These extensions are especially useful for the analysis of large graph structures.
Sandwich technique, peripheral nerve stimulation, peripheral field stimulation and hybrid stimulation for inguinal region and genital pain.

AbstractObjective: Ilioinguinal neuralgia (IG) and genitofemoral (GF) neuralgia following inguinal hernia repair is a chronic and debilitating neuropathic condition. Recently, peripheral nerve stimulation has become an effective and minimally invasive option for the treatment of refractory pain. Here we present a retrospective case series of six patients who underwent placement of peripheral nerve stimulation electrodes using various techniques for treatment of refractory post-intervention inguinal region pain.Methods: Six patients with post-intervention inguinal, femoral or GF neuropathic pain were evaluated for surgery. Either octopolar percutaneous electrodes or combination of paddle and percutaneous electrodes were implanted in the area of their pain. Pain visual analog scores (VAS), surgical complication rate, preoperative symptom duration, degree of pain relief, preoperative and postoperative work status, postoperative changes in medication usage, and overall degree of satisfaction with this therapy...
Fundamentals, Properties, and Applications of Polymer Nanocomposites

This book is focused primarily on polymer nanocomposites, based on the author's research experience as well as open literature. The environmental health and safety aspects of nanomaterials and polymer nanocomposites, risk assessment and safety standards, and fire toxicity of polymer nanocomposites, are studied. In the final chapter, a brief overview of opportunities, trends, and challenges of polymer nanocomposites are included. Throughout the book, the theme is developed that polymer nanocomposites are a whole family of polymeric materials whose properties are capable of being tailored to meet specific applications. This volume serves as a general introduction to students and researchers just entering the field and to scholars from other subfields seeking information.
Novel dual templating approach for preparation of highly active Fe-N-C electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction

Abstract A highly active, stable Fe-N-C electrocatalyst with unique 3D porous graphene “nano-stack” morphology is synthesized using a novel, facile and a direct process that involves a sodium salt templating of a small organic molecule benzimidazole carboxylic acid. We synthesize different combinations of the precursor with sodium salt templates and silica sacrificial support method, followed by their pyrolysis to generate Fe-N-C catalysts. The oxygen reduction reaction catalytic performance of such benzimidazole derived catalysts is studied in the alkaline media using rotating ring disk electrode and in alkaline exchange membrane fuel cell. The electrocatalytic performance of the best catalyst shows an improvement over the commercial Pt/C catalyst in the Rotating Ring-Disk Electrode tests along with excellent stability (as performed under the Department of Energy- Durability Working Group protocols). This work offers intriguing future avenues to the direct synthesis of Fe-N-C catalysts from tuning small molecule organic precursors for high temperature pyrolysis.
Proper motions of collimated jets from intermediate-mass protostars in the Carina Nebula

NASA from Space Telescope Science Institute [AR-12155, GO-13390, GO-13391]; NASA [NAS 5-26555]
Does the type of higher education affect labor market outcomes? Evidence from Egypt and Jordan

In Egypt and Jordan, there is a substantial mismatch between the output of the higher education system and the needs of the labor market. Both demand and supply-side factors could be driving this mismatch. This paper tests a key supply-side issue, whether differences in the institutional structures and incentives in higher education affect the labor market outcomes of graduates. Specifically, we ask if the stronger alignment of incentives in private relative to public higher education institutions produces more employable human capital and better labor market outcomes. We examine the impact of the type of higher education institution a person attends on several labor market outcomes while controlling for his or her pre-enrollment characteristics. The results demonstrate that supply-side issues and institutional incentives have little impact on labor market outcomes while family background plays by far the largest role. Proposed reforms for higher education often suggest increasing the role of the private sector in provision of higher education. Our findings indicate that this approach is unlikely to improve labor market outcomes.
Why do people like bicycling? Modeling affect toward bicycling

Abstract Studies show that the way an individual feels about bicycling – the degree to which they like bicycling – is an important predictor of whether or not they bicycle. But why do some people like bicycling and others don’t? This study explores factors that may influence an individual’s liking of bicycling, or more formally, their bicycling affect. We analyze a rich dataset from a cross-sectional survey of residents of six small U.S. cities using an ordered logit model. Results show that bicycling behavior has the strongest association with liking bicycling, with bicycling constraints following as the second most important factor. Individual cognitions, including perceptions and normative beliefs, also play important roles in predicting bicycling affect. Individual measures of the physical environment do not correlate with liking of bicycling, but the perception that biking to various destinations is safe does. Social environment factors influence liking of bicycling as well. Longitudinal research is needed to better understand the reciprocal relationship between bicycling affect and bicycling behavior as well as the effect over time of factors such as the physical environment. Nevertheless, this study offers an initial understanding of the potential determinants of bicycling affect that provides a starting point for further research as well as direction for the development of policies for getting more people on bicycles.
Reflux and Aspiration: Their Presumed Role in Chronic Cough and the Development of End-Stage Lung Disease

Amongst patients with end-stage lung disease (ESLD), symptoms and diagnostic evidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are extremely common. In fact, roughly two-thirds of all patients with ESLD have documentable gastroesophageal reflux [1]. The presence of significant reflux is not limited to one pulmonary disease, but is seen in patients with ESLD secondary to COPD, cystic fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) [2] (Gasper et al. 2007). While the pathophysiology of COPD and cystic fibrosis are well understood, it remains unknown what leads to the eventual development of IPF. Interestingly, evidence has continued to mount over the last 20 years that reflux is not just prevalent in patients with IPF, but may in fact be contributing to its development.
Optional exercises: Newtonian analogues

Throughout this chapter the notation in Sections 0.1.4 to 0.1.10 will be used. Thus T = ℝ is the Newtonian time axis, and Newtonian space is ℝ3, supplied with all its structures. In our (oversimplified) version of Newtonian physics it becomes consistent to regard 19th century electromagnetic theory as part of Newtonian physics; for brevity we shall do so. The reader interested in Newtonian physics per se or in its history should consult the references given in Section 0.1.5; the emphasis here will be on the intuition it supplies.
Psychostimulants in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The clinical use of stimulants for behavioral disturbances in children and adolescents first began in 1937 at the Emma Pendleton Bradley Home for Children in Rhode Island. Charles Bradley, a psychiatrist, was working with brain-injured children who had received a pneumoencephalogram as part of a standard clinical diagnostic workup. This procedure commonly resulted in severe headache for the children. Bradley decided to use an amphetamine, Benzedrine, in an attempt to ameliorate the headache pain. When given amphetamine, the children demonstrated immediate improvements in their disruptive behaviors. Bradley also noted improved academic performance, better self-control, and improved attention to task. Bradley published his findings in 1950 after using amphetamines for two decades to treat hyperactivity, impulsivity, and moodiness in clinically referred children (1).
Os princípios de Tyler

Kliebard analyses Tyler‘s principles to construct curricula, considering that students and contemporary society characteristics are sources strongly dependent of the types of curriculum or curriculum philosophy, issue not conveniently developed by Tyler. The third source Tyler considers toward a definition of curriculum objectives are the disciplines, which, in fact, are instruments to reach objectives derived, according to Tyler, from the two previous sources: students needs and society characteristics. Kliebard applies Dewey‘s comprehension that means and ends are both worthy to questioning a model of curriculum evaluation adopted by Tyler, based on product. The author offers an excellent criticism to Tyler‘s simplistic eclecticism
Pregnancy and Pulmonary Embolism.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), referring to both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a leading cause of death in the developed world during pregnancy. This increased risk is attributed to the Virchow triad, inherited thrombophilias, along with other standard risk factors, and continues for up to 6 to 12 weeks postpartum. During the peripartum period, women should be risk stratified and preventive measures should be initiated based on their risk. Diagnostic tests and treatment strategies commonly used in VTE differ in pregnancy. An understanding of these differences is imperative to diagnose with confidence and to treat appropriately.
Real-world implications of QT prolongation in patients receiving voriconazole and amiodarone.

Objectives Voriconazole, a triazole antifungal, is frequently prescribed in a complex patient population with comorbidities that require concomitant administration of QT interval-prolonging medications. We sought to evaluate QT interval prolongation in patients receiving concomitant therapy with voriconazole and amiodarone and to assess the development of any potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias as a result. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients who had received amiodarone and voriconazole concomitantly between 2005 and 2015, with a prior period of monotherapy, who had ECG data during monotherapy (baseline) and concomitant therapy (follow-up). Results We included 46 patients in our final analysis. Overall, the mean change in QT corrected (QTc) from baseline to follow-up was 49.0 ms (P < 0.001). Eighteen (39.1%) patients had a follow-up QTc interval ≥500 ms, with 17 (37.0%) having a change in QTc interval ≥60 ms from baseline to follow-up. Men were more likely to have a follow-up QTc interval of ≥500 ms. In multivariate analysis, only low serum potassium concentration and concomitant 'possible' QT-prolonging drugs were associated with a follow-up QTc interval ≥500 ms and a lower baseline QTc interval was associated with a change in QTc interval of ≥60 ms. Discharge diagnoses of cardiac arrhythmias and events were assessed and none was found to be related to concomitant therapy. Conclusions Concomitant therapy with amiodarone and voriconazole significantly prolonged the QTc interval to a degree greater than that on monotherapy. However, no clinically significant cardiac events were observed.
The diagnostic utility of nerve conduction studies and skin biopsy for diabetic neuropathy (DPN): a Bayesian analysis (S17.008)

Objective: Evaluate diagnostic utility of nerve conduction studies (NCS) and intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) for DPN using a Bayesian approach. Background: Consensus criteria require confirmatory testing for definite DPN. Bayes theorem dictates positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) vary based on pretest probability (prevalence). Design/Methods: 366 diabetic patients underwent validated symptom (Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument) and exam (Utah Early Neuropathy Score) scales, NCS and IENFD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed using several gold standard definitions and sensitivity and specificity determined. PPV and NPV were modeled based on varying pretest DPN probabilities. The impact of varying cutoffs for specific NCS measures was determined. Results: Mean age was 55 years. 50[percnt] had symptoms, 21[percnt] signs, and 17[percnt] both. ROC analysis revealed similar AUC for sural sensory amplitude, peroneal motor conduction velocity and IENFD (0.769, 0.816, 0.740). NCS had low sensitivity (40[percnt]) but high specificity (95[percnt]). IENFD had high sensitivity (81[percnt]) but low specificity (41[percnt]). NCS had good NPV (90[percnt]) in low prevalence models. PPV was good (70-90[percnt]) in high prevalence models (50[percnt]) in which more stringent cutoff values further improved PPV. IENFD had a similarly high NPV in low prevalence models. The PPV of IENFD was poor (68[percnt]), even with a high prevalence. Conclusions: NCS have low sensitivity and high specificity whereas IENFD has the opposite. Both tests have good NPV (90[percnt]), particularly if the pretest probability of DPN is low (<15[percnt]) and are useful in excluding DPN. Given poor PPV, neither can reliably confirm DPN, particularly if the pretest probability is <50[percnt]. DPN diagnosis must be made using clinical judgment and confirmatory tests interpreted carefully in light of the prior probability of DPN in the population being studied. Utilization of varying cutoff values may improve diagnostic performance of specific measures. Study supported by: R01DK064814, 1ULTR001067 Disclosure: Dr. Smith has received personal compensation for activities with Pfizer and Allergan as a consultant. Dr. Smith has received research support from the NIH, the ADA, Viromed, and Impeto. Dr. Lessard has nothing to disclose. Dr. Singleton has received personal compensation for activities with Medical Review Institute.
Neuroscience: Tantalized Flies Are Primed for Satiety.

Summary How animals maintain and switch between distinct motivational states is an important question in neuroscience. New work in Drosophila identifies an excitatory neuronal circuit that builds up mating drive while priming itself for satiety.
Free Surface Flow in Porous Media

A nonlinear theory is given for steady, two-dimensional seepage from a series of triangular channels and from a single triangular channel into permeable soil underlain at a finite depth by a drain. The theory, based on conformal mapping techniques, predicts the discharge per channel, the free surface shape, and the drain pressure as functions of the physical dimensions of the channel-drain system and the maximum depth to the free surface between channels. Two series of experiments were run to confirm the theory. They indicated: (1) That the theory gives an accurate description of the free surface shape, (2) that the measured drain pressures were in close agreement with the theoretical predictions, and (3) that the permeability of the porous medium was sensitive to the degree of saturation of the flow.
Groups as institutions: The use of constitutive rules to attribute group membership

Abstract Across four experiments we tested children's (N = 229, aged 4–9) beliefs about what makes an individual a member of a group. One model (groups as institutions) predicts children believe groups are based on constitutive rules, i.e. collectively agreed-upon rules that ground membership. Another model (groups as social network) predicts children believe groups are based on patterns of social relationships. We tested whether and to what extent children rely on constitutive rules to attribute group membership. We found that young children can reason about constitutive rules as a means of becoming a group member, and their reasoning about constitutive rules is relatively sophisticated (Studies 1–3). But, when constitutive rules are pitted against friendship, young children (4–5) prioritize friendship and older children (6–9) prioritize constitutive rules. Therefore, both models contribute to the understanding of children's concepts of social groups across development.
A multimodality triage algorithm to improve cytoreductive outcomes in patients undergoing primary debulking surgery for advanced ovarian cancer: A Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center team ovary initiative

Abstract Objective To describe outcomes using a multimodal algorithm to triage patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) to primary debulking surgery (PDS) versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Methods All patients with EOC treated at our institution from 04/2015–08/2018 were identified. We included patients without contraindication to PDS who underwent prospective calculation of a Resectability (R)-score. A low risk score for suboptimal cytoreduction was defined as ≤6, and a high risk score ≥7. Patients were triaged to laparotomy/PDS, laparoscopic evaluation of resectability (LSC), or NACT depending on R-score. Results Among 299 participants, 226 (76%) had a low risk score and 73 (24%) a high risk score. For patients with a low risk score, management included laparotomy/PDS, 181 (80%); LSC, 43 (19%) (with subsequent triage: PDS, 31; NACT, 12); and NACT, 2 (1%). For patients with a high risk score, management included laparotomy/PDS, 9 (12%); LSC, 51 (70%) (with subsequent triage: PDS, 28; NACT, 23); and NACT, 13 (18%). Overall, 83% underwent PDS, with a 75% CGR rate and 94% optimal cytoreduction rate. Use of the algorithm resulted in a 31% LSC rate and a 6% rate of suboptimal PDS. Conclusions The multimodal algorithm led to excellent surgical results; 94% of patients achieved an optimal resection, with a very low rate of suboptimal cytoreduction.
Abstract 1423: A lncRNA MEG9 protects vasculature from DNA damage

DNA damaging agents including ionizing radiation (IR) therapy are widely used in cancer patients. Previous studies have suggested that the tumor vasculature, specifically endothelial cell (ECs) dictate responses to IR. We recently showed how IR, among other DNA damaging agents, induced changes in microRNA programs and impacted tumor angiogenesis. Here, we describe how different DNA damaging agents affect long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) programs in vascular cells. Specifically, we identify lncRNA MEG9 (Maternally Expressed Gene 9 in humans, Mirg in mouse) as one of the most differentially expressed lncRNAs in angiogenic stimuli and stress responses. MEG9 is robustly induced by DNA damaging agents and suppressed by vascular growth factors. MEG9 is located in the DLK1-DIO3 imprinted cluster. Previous studies have shown how DLK1-DIO3 genes are associated with stem cell biology and with the pathogenesis of several diseases, such as cancer. Other studies have shown that microRNAs in this cluster are regulated by methylation. Consistent with this observation, we found that inhibition of DNA methylation either via 5-azacytidine or silencing of DNMT3b significantly upregulated de novo expression of MEG9. Gain and loss of function assays indicated an anti-apoptotic role of MEG9 via caspase 3/7 pathways in cultured ECs. Similarly, MEG9 inhibition decreased angiogenesis in a 3D sprouting angiogenesis assay. Interestingly, MEG9 inhibition in ECs accelerated fibrin formation suggesting a regulatory role for this lncRNA in thrombosis. Moreover, we observed that MEG9 inhibition affects vascular permeability in vitro and in vivo in bFGF-Matrigel plugs. Finally, systemic delivery of RNAi targeting Mirg (mouse MEG9) decreased tumor burden in a mouse model of triple negative mammary carcinoma. Our mechanistic studies indicated that MEG9 in ECs impacts pathways related to inflammation and thrombosis, both critical mediators of tumor responses to radiation. Taken together, our results show MEG9 as a novel DNA damage induced lncRNA with a protective role in the tumor vasculature functioning via multiple distinct mechanisms. Therefore, we propose that disruption of lncRNA MEG9 is a potent anti-angiogenic strategy that can synergize with DNA damaging agents. Citation Format: Cristina Espinosa-Diez, Eugenia Fraile-Bethencourt, Clayton Hudson, Rebecca Ruhl, Sudarshan Anand. A lncRNA MEG9 protects vasculature from DNA damage [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 1423.
Don’t Hesitate – Vaccinate!

Although the rates of childhood vaccination are still high in the United States, there has been an increase in vocal vaccine deniers. Regardless that the safety and efficacy of vaccines has been well established through evidence-based medicine, these individuals are relentless in their beliefs and are dismissive of scientific research. Subsequently, there have been several outbreaks of measles, a serious vaccine preventable disease. How should we as medical providers address this trend? This article provides an expert opinion by Dr. Paul A. Offit a renowned and highly respected pediatric infectious disease physician, to consider non-vaccination of healthy children as a form of neglect.
Association between psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and gastrointestinal disease : An exploratory nationwide inpatient sample analysis.

Psoriasis is associated with cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), metabolic syndrome, and psychiatric disease. Furthermore, psoriasis is associated with immune dysregulation and systemic inflammation. To determine the association of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis with IBD and the association of the combination of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis with IBD and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Discharge data from the 2000–2014 Nationwide Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP), which approximates a 20% stratified sample of all US hospitalizations, were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis with IBD and 23 gastrointestinal illnesses adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. Psoriasis was associated with IBD (Crohn’s disease adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.0–2.3], p < 0.001). When adjusting for sociodemographics and IBD, psoriasis was associated with 21 of 23 gastrointestinal diseases examined, most notably celiac disease, autoimmune hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Psoriatic arthritis was also associated with IBD (Crohn’s disease, aOR = 1.95, 95% CI [1.7–2.2], and ulcerative colitis, aOR = 2.66, 95% CI [2.4–2.9]). Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis inpatients have an associated increase in IBD and numerous other gastrointestinal illnesses.
Things are Getting Worse on Our Way to Catastrophe: Neoliberal Environmentalism, Repressive Desublimation, and the Autonomous Ecoconsumer:

The aim of neoliberal environmentalism was to unleash the market to protect the environment; but as it turns out, things are getting worse on our way to catastrophe. Despite persistent failures, ne...