cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RECENT ADVANCES IN PHYSIOLOGY OF CALCIFICATION.

The biochemistry and physiology of the local mechanism of calcification is one of the most important unsolved problems in orthopaedics and medicine. Current studies suggest that the calcifying substrate of matrix consists of a mixture of fibrous and globular proteins, protein-protein complexes, mucoproteins, lipoproteins, and other substances in the form of complexes with calcium. This mixture is referred to as elastoid. Beginning with this material, the chemical reactions leading to deposition of calcium phosphate salts in the living tissues occur in a definite sequence: first, between elastoid-protein and calcium; second, between protein-bound calcium and phosphate, possibly as ion pairs or as a chelate in solution in the connective-tissue gel; and third, between protein-calcium-phosphate complexes in the tissue and ACa++ and AHPOHPO4– in the extracellular fluid to produce a transitional solid phase which hydrolyzes to form hydroxyapatite. The composition of the transitional solid phase is not known, but octacalcium phosphate, calcium-deficient apatite, hydrated α-tricalcium phosphate, and other substances are under consideration. After the deposition and hydrolysis of the transitional solid phase, crystal growth proceeds by homogeneous nucleation. Further investigations are necessary to improve basic knowledge and develop practical applications for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dystrophic calcifications in tendon, heart valves, muscle, skin, eye, and other vital organs in man.
Mathematical Problems in Aviation

(1940). Mathematical Problems in Aviation. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 47, No. 10, pp. 673-686.
MITRAL VALVE INDEX: A SIMPLE AND ROBUST PARAMETER FOR DETECTING PROSTHETIC MITRAL VALVE REGURGITATION

Assessment of prosthetic mitral regurgitation (PMR) by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) poses technical challenges due to acoustic shadowing. The ratio of mitral prosthetic to LVOT TVI (mitral valve index) has previously been demonstrated, in a small patient cohort, to be useful in identifying
‘The Rock Was Christ’: The Fluidity of Christ’s Body in 1 Corinthians 10.4

Paul’s identiﬁcation of Christ with the rock that provided water to Israel in the wilderness has confounded interpreters. This article seeks to demonstrate that Paul depends upon a tradition within early Jewish thinking, as evidenced in poetic works such as Deut. 32, Ps. 78 and Ps. 95, which linked Israel’s God to this rock. Despite growing unease with using rock imagery to describe God, as seen in Jeremiah’s recasting of this tradition, as well as the consistent efforts of the LXX translators of the Hebrew Bible to render such language in less chthonic terms, Paul identiﬁed the rock with the presence of Christ in the wilderness, and therefore demonstrates his indebtedness to a conception of divine fluidity which Benjamin Sommer has explored in his recent book The Bodies of God.
Zeatin metabolism in Phaseolus: Enzymes and genes

The metabolism of cytokinins has been examined extensively in plants, resulting in the identification of a number of metabolites (Letham and Palni, 1983; McGaw, 1987). The structural modifications of zeatin include formation of the nucleoside and nucleotide, N-glucosylation, N-alanyl conjugation, Oglycosylation, 0-acetylation, side chain reduction, and side chain degradation. Although the array of zeatin metabolites may differ widely between species and tissues, the genetic mechanisms involved in the conversions and their possible significance in plant development are largely unknown. There are, however, reports of the presence of different zeatin derivatives associated with developmental events controlled by Mendelian genes. The most interesting studies concern genes determining sex and fertility in Mercurialis which also affect qualitative differences in zeatin metabolites (Dauphin et al., 1979; Dauphin-Guerin et al., 1980; Champault et al., 1981). Other cytokinin-related genes include those controlling cytokinin autonomy in Phaseolus (Mok et al, 1980) and Nicotiana (Meins et al., 1983; Hansen et al., 1987), cytokinin resistance (Ashton et al., 1979; Blonstein et al., 1991) and overproduction (Wang et al., 1984; Futers et al., 1986) in tobacco and moss. However, it may be difficult to identify the DNA sequences involved in these genotypic variations since there are no apparent gene products directly associated with particular developmental events. Nevertheless, in Mercurialis, subtractive hybridization experiments have resulted in the isolation of sex-specific cDNAs (Hamdi et al., 1989; Louis et al., 1990) which may lead to the cloning of genes regulating male and female flower differentiation.
Factors associated with lumbar fusion surgery: a case–control study

Purpose The objective of this study is to identify the demographic and payer factors that are associated with lumbar fusion surgery.
Clinical and imagic characteristics of moyamoya disease in children

Objectives To summarize the clinical and imagic characteristics of moyamoya disease in children. Methods The clinical characteristics and the results of laboratory examinations were reviewed in 17 children with moya- moya disease. Results The onset age ranged from 1 year and 3 months to 12 years(of which 4 yrs ～ 10 yrs accounted for 82.4%). The clinical manifestations were different, including paresis or hemiplegia(15),sensory disturbance(6),dysphasia(6),blurred vision(3),headache(2),epileptic seizures(2),involuntary movement(2),dysphagia(1),and psychomotor going backwards(1). Cranial CT scan showed ischemia in 5 cases. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)scan showed ischemia in 11 of 12 cases,including infarction and malactic lesions. There was 1 case showed no abnormality on MRI. In 16 cases,magnetic resonance angiography(MRA)showed stenosis or occlusion at terminus of the siphon portions of internal carotid arteries or at proximal ends of anterior or middle cerebral arteries,as well as formation of abnormal vascular network at basal part. In one case,no basal vascular network showed on MRA,and it was confirmed by digital subtraction angiography(DSA). In the 8 cases who performed DSA,the characteristics of 7 cases were consistent with MRA. Conclusions The peak onset age of children with moyamoya disease ranged from 4 yrs to 10 yrs. This disease manifested differently. Most patients presented as transient ischemic attack. Paresis or hemiplegia,sensory disturbance and dysphasia were the common symptoms. Cranial MRA and DSA are the dominating methods for diagnosis of moyamoya disease. MRA can be the first choice for detecting moyamoya disease.
The stimulus responsible for the peritoneal fluid inflammation observed in infertile women with endometriosis.

Objective We tested the hypothesis that menstrual debris from ectopic endometrium is the stimulus responsible for eliciting the peritoneal fluid (PF) inflammation observed in infertile women with endometriosis. Design, Setting, Patients The extent of endometriosis was correlated with the PF volume and total PF cell count retrospectively in 135 infertile women with endometriosis. Results The volume and total cell count were positively correlated, whereas the total cell count was negatively correlated with the extent of endometriosis. Despite a similar negative trend, no statistically significant correlation was noted between the volume and the extent of endometriosis. These relationships did not change when the data were reanalyzed deleting those pathological features contributing to the endometriosis score but not capable of producing intraperitoneal menstrual debris, i.e., adhesions and encapsulated ovarian endometriomas. Conclusions These findings indicate that menstrual debris from ectopic endometrium is probably not a major factor in the elicitation of the observed PF inflammation in infertile women with endometriosis and suggest an inverse relationship may exist between PF inflammation and the extent of endometriosis.
Envisioning New Communities: Cooperatives and New Afrikan Ujamaa

Cooperatives operate as alternative economic development strategies and vehicles for economic empowerment, especially for underdeveloped and economically marginalized communities. Through cooperative and collective engagement, characterizations of community input in the participation, facilitation, planning, and governance of businesses of which are socially sound and economically viable, are specifically designed to generate community economic development strategies. Through jointly owned and democratically operated enterprises, cooperatives seek to address the economic or social needs of its participants. Through Imari Obadele’s ideological adaptation of New African Ujamaa, the cooperative structural framework became the organizing tool for economic development of the “Kush District” in Mississippi. Obadele’s New African Ujamaa served as an inspiration for the proposed blueprint for economic democracy for the Jackson-Kush plan of the New Afrikan Peoples Organization (NAPO) and Malcolm X Grassroots Movement (MXGM). This research contributes to the information about viable strategies for economic renewal of communities, from the plans of Imari Obadele’s theoretical adaptation and implementation of Ujamaa and the quest for cooperative economic renewal by NAPO/ MXGM in Jackson, Mississippi and the Kush district.
Consultation with the specialist: Disorders of the Spinal Cord

History and Physical Examination More than 10 000 individuals suffer spinal cord injury each year. This article will focus on those mass lesions of the spinal cord that should prompt neurosurgical consultation: epidural abscesses, neoplasms, and hematomas. The presence of pain and spinal cord dysfunction (paralysis, loss of sphincters) makes neurosurgical consultation mandatory. Because of the anatomy of the spinal cord, it has several classical patterns of involvement (see Table). When obtaining a history, inquire about pain over the spine or pain that radiates down the legs. The presence of paresthesiae suggests involvement of the posterior roots or posterior columns of the spinal cord. Inquire whether the patient9s sphincter function is normal. Difficulty in ambulation or refusal to walk are hallmarks of spinal cord disease. Observe the patient9s gait for limp, waddling, or circumduction. Inspect the spine carefully for scoliosis or for neural tube defects. Examine the skin for signs of neurologic disease (cafe au lait spots, axillary freckles, cutaneous hemangiomas). If cutaneous hemangiomas are present over the spine, auscultate for the presence of arteriovenous malformations. Percuss the spine to elicit pain suggestive of abscesses or radicular disease. Infections of the Spinal Cord Case Report : A 4-year-old child who had been adopted from a Korean orphanage was brought to her pediatrician for evaluation of a limp.
Wide-Field Retinal Imaging of Branch Retinal Vein Occlusions

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is a significant cause of vision loss and, after diabetic retinopathy, is the second most common type of retinal vascular disease. Risk factors for BRVO include advancing age as well as cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Systemic conditions including hypercoagulability syndromes and behavioral factors such as cigarette smoking can also increase the risk of BRVO. BRVO can be categorized as major (affecting a major venous arcade) or minor (affecting a smaller venous tributary). Additionally, BRVO can be categorized as ischemic or nonischemic. Visually significant sequelae typically occur in association with major and ischemic BRVO. These sequelae include macular edema, macular ischemia, neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, neovascular glaucoma, and tractional retinal detachment. Treatment options include intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) and corticosteroid medications, laser photocoagulation, and vitreoretinal surgery.
Plateau's rotating drops and rotational figures of equilibrium

Abstract We give a detailed classification of all rotationally symmetric figures of equilibrium corresponding to rotating liquid masses subject to surface tension. When the rotation rate is zero, these shapes were studied by Delaunay who found six different qualitative types of complete connected interfaces (spheres, cylinders, unduloids, nodoids, catenoids, and planes). We find twenty-six qualitatively different interfaces providing a complete picture of symmetric equilibrium shapes, some of which have been studied by other authors. In particular, combining our work with that of Beer, Chandrasekhar, Gulliver, Smith, and Ross, we conclude that every compact equilibrium is in either a smooth connected one parameter family of spheroids or a smooth connected one parameter family of tori (possibly immersed in either case).
Smart cities and technical literacy for an enlightened citizenry and the future

This paper discusses our experiences teaching energy and smart cities concepts as multidisciplinary College of Engineering alternatives to more traditional science courses taught within the framework of a College of Arts and Sciences. This model scales without the limitations associated with most university level courses. The first of these courses has proven to be very popular with our nontechnical students, experiencing tremendous growth over three years. Additionally, the practice that our teaching assistants gain from interacting with their less technical peers has significantly enhanced their communications skillset.
Synthesis and crystal structure of La21Cr8−2aAlbGe7−bC12 [a = 0.22 (2) and b = 0.758 (19)]

Single crystals of a new multinary chromium carbide, La21Cr8−2aAlbGe7−bC12 (henicosa­lanthanum octa­chromium aluminium hexa­germanium dodeca­carbide), were grown from an La-rich self flux and were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The face-centered cubic crystal structure is composed of isolated and geometrically frustrated regular Cr tetra­hedra that are co-centered within regular C octa­hedra. These mutually separated Cr4−aC6 clusters are distributed throughout a three-dimensional framework of Al, Ge, and La. The title compound is isotypic with La21−δMn8X7C12 and R21Fe8X7C12 (R = La, Ce, Pr; X = Al, Bi, Ge, Sn, Sb, Te) and represents the first example of a Cr-based compound with this structure-type.
Total variation based denoising methods for speckle noise images

In this paper, we introduce a new algorithm based on total variation for denoising speckle noise images. Total variation was introduced by Rudin, Osher, and Fatemi in 1992 for regularizing images. Chambolle proposed a faster algorithm based on the duality of convex functions for minimizing the total variation, but his algorithm was built for Gaussian noise removal. Unlike Gaussian noise, which is additive, speckle noise is multiplicative. We modify the original Chambolle algorithm for speckle noise images using the first noise equation for speckle denoising, proposed by Krissian, Kikinis, Westin and Vosburgh in 2005. We apply the Chambolle algorithm to the Krissian et al. speckle denoising model to develop a faster algorithm for speckle noise images.
Large scale extraction of perfect and imperfect DNA palindromes using in-memory computing

DNA palindromes are known to have many beneficial and detrimental functions in cell biology. Most of these functions are shared between perfect and imperfect palindromic sequences, but imperfect palindromes can be of particular interest due to their additional ability to dramatically increase the local mutation rate. Almost all available tools capable of extracting genetic palindromes were designed to accommodate inverted repeats, which are palindromic sequences with centralized non-matching nucleotides. We developed computational methods that focus specifically on perfect and imperfect palindromes, allowing us to take advantage of palindrome-specific properties which led to an 8× to 40× increase in speed and an approximately 10× decrease in memory requirements compared to the leading inverted repeats detection method.
Homogeneous Electron Gas

The use of diagram techniques in many-particle physics began in the early 1950s, soon after their introduction into field theory. Although these methods were applied to a variety of problems, some areas of work were more successful than others. The two areas which enjoyed early success were the homogeneous electron gas and the polaron problem. Later there were other successes such as the theories of superconductivity and superfluidity. However, the theory of the homogeneous electron gas, as it was initially understood, was worked out by many contributors during the period 1957–1958. They brought a variety of theoretical approaches to this problem, but all used diagrammatic techniques in some form. On the other hand, during the past twenty years, there has been achieved an understanding of electronelectron interactions in strongly correlated metals. This latter topic is covered in the next chapter.
The Multiple Roles of Pitx2 in Heart Development

PITX2 is a paired-related homeobox gene that has been shown to be the mutated gene in Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS). The focus of this chapter will be to review recent studies that address the role of pitx2 in cardiac morphogenesis. Since ARS patients usually manifest ocular, dental and abdominal wall phenotypes, this review will deal primarily with experiments performed in model systems used to study gene function, such as the mouse.
FRF WAVE TEST BED AND BATHYMETRY INVERSION

An automated Coastal Model Test Bed has been built for the US Army Corps of Engineers Field Research Facility to evaluate coastal numerical models. In October of 2015, the test bed was expanded during a multi-investigator experiment, called BathyDuck, to evaluate two bathymetry sources: traditional survey data and bathymetry generated through the cBathy inversion algorithm using Argus video measurements. Comparisons were made between simulations using the spectral wave model STWAVE with half-hourly cBathy bathymetry and the more temporally sparse surveyed bathymetry. The simulation results using cBathy bathymetry were relatively close to those using the surveyed bathymetry. The largest differences were at the shallowest gauges within 250 m of the coast, where wave model normalized root-mean-square was approximately twice are large using the cBathy bathymetry. The nearshore errors using the cBathy input were greatest during events with wave height greater than 2 m. For this limited application, the Argus cBathy algorithm proved to be a suitable bathymetry input for nearshore wave modeling. cBathy bathymetry was easily incorporated into the modeling test bed and had the advantage of being updated on approximately the same temporal scale as the other model input conditions. cBathy has great potential for modeling applications where traditional surveys are sparse (seasonal or yearly).
Approaches to Implement Statistical Process Control for Manufacturing in Big Data Era

It has been long overdue to revamp existing statistical process control (SPC) approaches in manufacturing since Water Shewhart first proposed the use of control charts in 1924. The combination development of big data, cloud computing, and manufacturing reshoring back to Untied States has opened up the opportunities to rethink implementation strategies of SPC for manufacturing. This paper first reviews the history of SPC development in traditional manufacturing environments and then contrasts it with the opportunities presented in big data era. Five SPC implementation approaches are proposed based on the opportunities identified.Copyright © 2017 by ASME
A novel technique for determining luminosity in electron-scattering/positron-scattering experiments from multi-interaction events

Abstract The OLYMPUS experiment measured the cross-section ratio of positron–proton elastic scattering relative to electron–proton elastic scattering to look for evidence of hard two-photon exchange. To make this measurement, the experiment alternated between electron beam and positron beam running modes, with the relative integrated luminosities of the two running modes providing the crucial normalization. For this reason, OLYMPUS had several redundant luminosity monitoring systems, including a pair of electromagnetic calorimeters positioned downstream from the target to detect symmetric Moller and Bhabha scattering from atomic electrons in the hydrogen gas target. Though this system was designed to monitor the rate of events with single Moller/Bhabha interactions, we found that a more accurate determination of relative luminosity could be made by additionally considering the rate of events with both a Moller/Bhabha interaction and a concurrent elastic e p interaction. This method was improved by small corrections for the variance of the current within bunches in the storage ring and for the probability of three interactions occurring within a bunch. After accounting for systematic effects, we estimate that the method is accurate in determining the relative luminosity to within 0.36%. This precise technique can be employed in future electron–proton and positron–proton scattering experiments to monitor relative luminosity between different running modes.
Auditory P300 in Noise in Younger and Older Adults.

Background Older adults often report difficulty hearing in background noise which is not completely attributable to peripheral hearing loss. Although age-related declines in cognition and hearing in background noise occur, the underlying age-related changes in processing of auditory stimuli in background noise has yet to be fully understood. The auditory P300 has the potential to elucidate the effects of age on auditory and cognitive processing of stimuli in background noise, but additional research is warranted. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate age-related differences in cognitive processing of auditory stimuli by evoking the auditory P300 at multiple signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). Research design A two-group, repeated measures study design was used. Study sample A convenience sample of 35 participants, 15 older adults (mean age of 66.4 yr) and 20 younger adults (mean age of 21.1 yr), participated in the study. All participants had negative otologic and neurological histories. Data collection and analysis The auditory P300 was evoked using an oddball paradigm with 500 (frequent) and 1000 Hz (target) tonal stimuli in quiet and in the presence of background noise at +20, +10, and 0 SNRs. P300 amplitudes and latencies were measured in each condition for every participant. Repeated measures analyses of variance were conducted for the amplitude and latency measures of the P300 for each group. Results Results from this study demonstrated P300 latencies were significantly longer in older adults in noise at the most challenging condition (0 SNR) compared with the quiet condition and between the +10 SNR and 0 SNR conditions. Although older adults had significantly longer P300 latencies compared with younger adults, no significant group by listening condition interaction existed. No significant P300 amplitude differences were found for group, noise, or group × listening condition interactions. Conclusions Results provide evidence that auditory cortical processing, regardless of age, is poorer at more difficult SNRs. However, results also demonstrate that older adults perform significantly poorer than younger adults. This supports the notion that some degree of age-related decline in synchronous firing and rate of transmission of the auditory cortical neurons contributing to the auditory P300 exists. Studies are needed to further understand the impact of noise on auditory cortical processing across populations.
Efficacy of an EGFR-Specific Peptide against EGFR-Dependent Cancer Cell Lines and Tumor Xenografts

We have recently synthesized a peptide called Disruptin, which comprised the SVDNPHVC segment of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) that inhibits binding of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) to the EGFR and EGF-dependent EGFR dimerization to cause EGFR degradation. The effect is specific for EGFR versus other Hsp90 client proteins [Ahsan et al.: (2013). Destabilization of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by a peptide that inhibits EGFR binding to heat shock protein 90 and receptor dimerization. J Biol Chem288, 26879-26886]. Here, we show that Disruptin decreases the clonogenicity of a variety of EGFR-dependent cancer cells in culture but not of EGFR-independent cancer or noncancerous cells. The selectivity of Disruptin toward EGFR-driven cancer cells is due to the high level of EGF stimulation of EGFR in EGFR-dependent tumor cells relative to normal cells. When administered by intraperitoneal injection into nude mice bearing EGFR-driven human tumor xenografts, Disruptin causes extensive degradation of EGFR in the tumor but not in adjacent host tissue. Disruptin markedly inhibits the growth of EGFR-driven tumors without producing the major toxicities caused by the Hsp90 inhibitor geldanamycin or by cisplatin. These findings provide proof of concept for development of a new Disruptin-like class of antitumor drugs that are directed specifically against EGFR-driven tumors.
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Men

A urinary tract infection (UTI) refers to an infection of the bladder (cystitis), the upper urinary tract (pyelonephritis), and may also refer to asymptomatic bacteriuria. These types of infections are much less common in men than in women due to anatomical differences in urethral length, lower incidence of periurethral colonization, and antibacterial substances found in prostatic fluid. Thus, men who acquire these types of infections require special consideration and workup. Risk factors for UTIs include urinary stasis secondary to urinary tract obstruction or dysfunction, instrumentation of the urinary tract including catheterizations, procedure related to manipulation such as cystoscopy, prostate biopsy, ascending infections, foreign bodies inside the urinary tract such as catheters or urolithiasis, bacterial prostatitis, and urethritis. Prostatitis may be due to seeding from ascending bacteria from the urethra or reflux of infected urine into the prostatic ducts. Urethritis is generally thought to be caused by bacteria acquired through sexual relations, such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhea. Men with recurrent UTIs may require investigation to identify the etiology. In this chapter, we will focus on the evaluation and management of recurrent infections of the urinary tract in men, specifically lower and upper urinary tract causes, foreign bodies, bacterial prostatitis, and urethritis.
Renewable Hydrogen from Biomass

Both dark and photofermentation processes can produce H 2 from biomass. Issues associated with enzymes, substrates, organisms and metabolic pathways, and processes are examined, but the technology has not yet developed to the level of commercialization. Productivity and cost are issues. However, H 2 production can be combined with waste treatment, and integrated systems incorporating microbial electrolysis cells are possible. The major scientific challenges have been identified and research and development efforts are active around the world.
The Future of Brain Stimulation Treatments.

Trends in brain stimulation include becoming less invasive, more focal, and more durable with less toxicity. Several of the more interesting new potentially disruptive technologies that are just making their way through basic and sometimes clinical research studies include low-intensity focused ultrasound and temporally interfering electric fields. It is possible, and even likely, that noninvasive brain stimulation may become the dominant form of brain treatments over the next 20 years. The future of brain stimulation therapeutics is bright.
EFFECTS OF VINBLASTINE ON PERIPHERAL AUTONOMIC NERVES: DEGENERATION AND FORMATION OF NEW NERVE FIBERS

The present investigation attempts to correlate histochemical changes observed in autonomic nerves of the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) with biochemical parameters which reflect the survival and function of the sympathetic neurons within the ganglion after vinblastine application. In addition, the question of the influence of vinblastine on peripheral nerves is explored after vinblastine application to the SCG. The present results reveal that interpretation of biochemical data obtained from the effect of neurotoxic drugs on sympathetic ganglia must consider the changes observed, not only in the cell body but also in the postganglionic axonal processes, the intraganglionic system of adrenergic varicosities, and the preganglionic cholinergic terminals.
Connexin43 regulates osteoprotegerin expression via ERK1/2 -dependent recruitment of Sp1.

Abstract In bone, connexin43 expression in cells of the osteoblast lineage plays an important role in restraining osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. While there is a consensus around the notion that the anti-osteoclastogenic factor, osteoprotegerin, is a driver of this effect, how connexin43 regulates osteoprotegerin gene expression is unclear. Here, we show that loss of connexin43 decreased osteoprotegerin gene expression and reduced ERK1/2 activation. Conversely, overexpression of connexin43 increased osteoprotegerin expression and enhanced ERK1/2 activation. This increase in phospho-ERK1/2 is required for connexin43 to induce transcription from the osteoprotegerin proximal promoter. Connexin43 increased promoter activity via a specific 200 base pair region of the osteoprotegerin promoter located at −1486 to −1286 with respect to the transcriptional start site, a region which includes four Sp1 binding elements. Further, activation of this promoter region required an intact functional connexin43, as hypomorphic or dominant negative connexin43 mutant constructs, including one with increased hemichannel activity, were unable to stimulate osteoprotegerin expression as strongly as wild type connexin43. Using chromatin immunoprecipitations, we show that connexin43 expression enhanced the recruitment of Sp1, but not Runx2, to the osteoprotegerin proximal promoter. In total, these data show that connexin43-dependent gap junctional communication among osteoblast cells permits efficient ERK1/2 activation. ERK1/2 signaling promotes the recruitment of the potent transcriptional activator, Sp1, to the osteoprotegerin proximal promoter, resulting in robust transcription of anti-osteoclastogenic factor, osteoprotegerin.
Grassroots Maternal Child Health Leadership Curriculum

In the United States, Indiana ranks 43rdfor its infant mortality rate. Twenty-nine (of the 988) Indiana zip codes account for 27% of infant deaths. There is a need to train and mentor community members to lead local maternal and child health (MCH) efforts that address the priorities of community members as related to poor birth outcomes and facilitate the community’s solution strategies to this important public health problem. This community-centered approach coupled with local healthcare delivery helps thoroughly address local adverse birth outcomes. A comprehensive grassroots MCH leadership curriculum is needed for this training process. To meet this need we developed and solicited feedback on a curriculum designed to train community members situated in Indiana’s high-risk zip codes to be grassroots maternal child health leader (GMCHLs). The curriculum teaches GMCHLs the knowledge and skills to become self-reflective leaders who understand the causes and effects of adverse and inequitable birth outcomes, the negative health effects of chronic stress, and the protective power of the community. These GMCHLs will become skilled in the use of storytelling, Photovoice, policy development/advocacy and EvaluLead to build the capacity of their local community to support positive maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes.
“Multipulse” Electrochemical/Chemical Synthesis of CdS/S Core/Shell Nanocrystals Exhibiting Ultranarrow Photoluminescence Emission Lines

Ensembles of sulfur capped, cadmium sulfide nanocrystals (CdS/S NCs) which exhibit photoluminescence (PL) emission line widths of 15−35 meV at 20 K have been obtained. These CdS/S NCs were synthesized using a new variant of the electrochemical/chemical (E/C) method: Cadmium (Cdo) NCs were first electrodeposited from an aqueous Cd2+ plating solution using a train of 8−10 ms plating pulses separated by ≈1.0 s “mixing” segments at the open circuit potential. These Cdo nanoparticles were then oxidized to Cd(OH)2, and CdS/S NCs were obtained by exposure of Cd(OH)2 nanoparticles to H2S at 300 °C. Ensembles of 200 000−400 000 CdS/S NCs prepared using this “multipulse” technique exhibited PL emission lines narrower than 35 meV. CdS/S NCs were also synthesized using the same E/C method except that a single Cdo plating pulse was employed, and these CdS/S NCs exhibited PL emission line widths of 125−180 meV. TEM analysis of Cd(OH)2 precursor particles confirms that the narrower lines obtained using multipulse Cdo e...
Cosmetic-Related Injuries Treated in US Emergency Departments: 2002 to 2016:

A retrospective analysis was conducted by using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System for children <5 years who were treated in US emergency departments (EDs) from 2002-2016) for a cosmetic-related injury. An estimated 64 686 (95% confidence interval = 53 037-76 335) children were treated in EDs for cosmetic-related injuries during the 15-year study period. There was no significant change in the rate (slope = 1.1 per 10 000 children per year, P = .95) of injuries over the study period. Injuries were most commonly associated with nail care (28.3%), hair care (27.0%), skin care (25.0%), and fragrance (12.7%) products. Children aged <2 years were most frequently injured (59.3%), and poisoning was the most common diagnosis (86.2%). To our knowledge, this is the first study to use a nationally representative sample to describe the epidemiology of cosmetic-related injuries among children aged <5 years. Unintentional exposure to cosmetics is an important source of injury for young children.
Probabilistic Planning of Minigrid with Renewables and Storage in Western Australia

This paper demonstrates analytical method for resource mix optimization. The case study is for an isolated large minigrid of Esperance in Western Australia. The method is based on discrete convolution of conditional probability distributions learned from data. It accounts for demand interdependence with wind and solar generation and for grid storage. The capacity value of these resources is established by computing Loss of Load Probabilities (LOLP) for combined probability distributions.
Acquisition and interpretation of respiratory pathogens in children

Respiratory tract infection is a common disease in children.The pathogens of respiratory trract infection are very complex, including viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma pneumoniae, and fungal, etc.The research of respiratory pathogens is important for clinical diagnosis and treatment of respiratory tract infections in children.In this article, we make a brief introduction to the acquisition and interpretation of respiratory pathogens in children. Key words: Child; Respiratory pathogens; Virus; Bacteria; Mycoplasma pneumoniae; Fungal
Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome Associated with Maternal SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

Amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, uncertainty exists about the potential for vertical transmission from mothers infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to the fetus in utero. In this case report, we aim to demonstrate the occurrence of a fetal inflammatory response syndrome associated with maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection resulting in neonatal morbidity. In this report we describe an infant of a SARS-CoV-2-positive mother born prematurely with late-onset fever, thrombocytopenia, and elevated levels of inflammatory markers, all of which are consistent with a systemic inflammatory response. The neonate was tested for SARS-CoV-2 by using 2 nasopharyngeal swabs 24 hours apart, and results of both were negative. The result of a full workup for additional infectious pathogens was also negative. Although initially in critical condition in the perinatal period, the infant recovered completely before discharge. We hypothesize that this systemic inflammation occurred in response to maternal viral infection in the absence of vertical transmission of the virus. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, it will be important to consider the virus as a nidus for a fetal inflammatory response syndrome and resulting morbidity, even in the setting of a negative SARS-CoV-2 testing result in the infant.
A Comparison of Colectomy Outcomes Utilizing Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Techniques:

IntroductionRobotic colectomy could reduce morbidity and postoperative recovery over laparoscopic and open procedures. This comparative review evaluates colectomy outcomes based on surgical approac...
High-Resolution Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation Induces Limb-Specific Motor Responses in Mice in Vivo.

Abstract Ultrasound can modulate activity in the central nervous system, including the induction of motor responses in rodents. Recent studies investigating ultrasound-induced motor movements have described mostly bilateral limb responses, but quantitative evaluations have failed to reveal lateralization or differences in response characteristics between separate limbs or how specific brain targets dictate distinct limb responses. This study uses high-resolution focused ultrasound (FUS) to elicit motor responses in anesthetized mice in vivo and four-limb electromyography (EMG) to evaluate the latency, duration and power of paired motor responses (n = 1768). The results indicate that FUS generates target-specific differences in electromyographic characteristics and that brain targets separated by as little as 1 mm can modulate the responses in individual limbs differentially. Exploiting these differences may provide a tool for quantifying the susceptibility of underlying neural volumes to FUS, understanding the functioning of the targeted neuroanatomy and aiding in mechanistic studies of this non-invasive neuromodulation technique.
Bank Debt versus Bond Debt: Evidence from Secondary Market Prices

This paper uses a new data set of daily secondary market prices of loans to analyze the specialness of banks as monitors. Consistent with a monitoring advantage of loans over bonds, we find the secondary loan market to be informationally more efficient than the secondary bond market prior to a loan default. Specifically, we find that secondary market loan returns Granger cause secondary market bond returns prior to a loan default. In contrast, secondary market bond returns do not Granger cause secondary market loan returns prior to a loan default.
GATA2 in Bone Marrow Failure

Abstract The syndrome now known as GATA2 haploinsufficiency had been published at least since the 1970s under different clinical guises. With the identification of the gene in 2011, GATA2 deficiency became the overarching diagnosis for a complex syndrome with acoustic, cutaneous, lymphatic, pulmonary, leukemic, hematologic and infectious manifestations. Arising in both spontaneous and autosomal dominant patterns, the genetics made it recognizable and diagnosable even before symptoms arose. Over the last several years it has become clear that GATA2 is a major contributor to: pediatric and adolescent MDS, AML in younger adults, some cases of ALL, severe genital HPV infection, disseminated mycobacterial infections, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, pulmonary hypertension and is associated with a variety of solid tumors. Mutations with more profound effects on GATA2 expression (nonsense and deletions) appear to have a more severe phenotype than do intronic mutations that alter transcript level but not transcript integrity. These latter intronic mutations may be associated with later onset of disease and more variable penetrance. Elucidating the gene targets on which GATA2 works and which partners it engages will lead to important observations in the molecular genetics of hematopoietic control. This variability of penetrance and expression is most apparent with the intronic mutations, in which whole generations may be relatively protected, presumably from genes in trans to GATA2 . An active search is on for these genes that appear to regulate GATA2 . One of the consequences of the variable penetrance of GATA2 deficiency is that it may be discordant within a family, allowing a false sense of security about use of a clinically well relative for bone marrow transplant donation. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is highly effective for cure of GATA2 deficiency. We have now done almost 40 transplants in GATA2 deficiency with high survival rates using related haploidentical donors, as well as with fully matched donors. The effects of transplantation are profound both in terms of hematopoietic and somatic results, including resolution of most HPV lesions, resolution of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis and resolution of pulmonary hypertension, when present. We have now encountered several cases of transplant from unexpectedly affected donors into a known GATA2, all of which have had poor outcomes. These cases reinforce the critical need for molecular confirmation of the GATA2 status of any related donor, regardless of lack of symptoms. GATA2 deficiency is recently recognized but successful treatments have emerged alongside the science. Efforts to understand and allow for manipulation of GATA2 expression are underway. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A longitudinal investigation of trauma-specific rumination and PTSD symptoms: The moderating role of interpersonal trauma experience

Abstract Background Interpersonal trauma (IPT) is one of the most commonly reported types of traumatic experiences and has the greatest likelihood of resulting in a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Relative to other types of trauma, victims of IPT report greater trauma-specific rumination, whereby they focus on negative consequences of the trauma on their life. Theoretical and empirical work suggest trauma-specific rumination leads to elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS); however, there has been a dearth of research examining how trauma type may impact this association. Therefore, the current longitudinal study examined how the experience of IPT moderates the relationship between trauma-specific rumination and later PTSS. Method Participants (N = 204) enrolled in a clinical trial completed self-report measures of trauma experience, trauma-specific rumination, and PTSS at baseline and 1-month follow-up appointments. Results Results revealed that IPT moderated the relationship between baseline rumination and 1-month trauma symptoms, even after covarying for participant age and sex, treatment condition, negative affect, and number of previously experienced traumas. Further, this moderation effect was specific to the PTSD numbing cluster. Limitations Major limitations include measurement of PTSS via PCL-C rather than the PCL-5, as well as a limited sample size, precluding moderation analyses of other trauma types. Conclusions The current study provides novel findings demonstrating specificity of index trauma type in the longitudinal relationship between rumination and PTSS. Future work is needed to examine how IPT impacts the development of pathways between rumination and PTSS.
Developing teamwork skills in baccalaureate nursing students: impact of TeamSTEPPS® training and simulation.

Objectives Examine the impact of TeamSTEPPS® training and simulation experiences on student knowledge and teamwork attitudes in a baccalaureate-nursing program. Methods This study used a quasi-experimental, pre-test, post-test design. The intervention included a workshop followed by 2 days of simulation experiences. Participants included a total of 46 nursing students. Instruments included the TeamSTEPPS learning benchmark and the Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ). Results Scores on the learning benchmark increased following the intervention. In addition, changes in subscores of teamwork strategies, leadership, situation monitoring, and mutual support on the T-TAQ indicate an improvement in student attitudes toward teamwork. Conclusions Incorporating TeamSTEPPS® strategies into undergraduate education can be effective in increasing student knowledge and improving attitudes toward interdisciplinary teamwork.
10-Year Outcomes Following Proton Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) To report 10-year outcomes for patients treated with proton therapy for localized prostate cancer. MATERIALS/METHODS The 10-year outcomes from a prospective outcome tracking protocol were assessed and reported for 1272 men with localized prostate cancer. Risk groups were classified per NCCN guidelines. Median proton therapy dose was 78 GyRBE (72 to 82 GyRBE) delivered at 1.8 to 2 GyRBE per fraction. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) was received by 193 men for a median 6 months (range 1 to 36 months). Biochemical control was defined using the Phoenix definition. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 5.0, was used for toxicity scoring. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Expanded Prostate Index Composite (EPIC) was used for patient-reported outcomes. Freedom from biochemical failure (FFBF) and toxicity rates were calculated using the Kaplan Meier method. EPIC domain score changes considered clinically significant were 5 (bowel), 6 (urinary irritative /obstructive), 7 (urinary incontinence), and 11 (sexual). RESULTS The median follow-up time was 10.2 years. The 10-year FFBF rates for patients with very low-risk, low-risk, favorable intermediate-risk, unfavorable intermediate-risk, high-risk, and very high-risk prostate cancer were 97%, 96%, 88%, 82%, 68%, 49%, respectively. Median PSA nadir was 0.2 ng/mL. On multivariate analysis, risk category, PSA, and the presence of perineural invasion predicted 10-year biochemical control. The 7- and 10-year grade 3+ gastrointestinal and urologic toxicity rates were 1.0% and 1.3% and 4.1% and 6.2%, respectively. On multivariate analysis (MVA), the use of prescription blood thinners significantly increased the 10-year risk for grade 3+ gastrointestinal toxicity. The use of prescription blood thinners, the presence of diabetes mellitus, a prostate volume 40+ grams, the use of pretreatment alpha blockers, an IPSS score of 15+, and the use of ADT were associated with late grade 3+ genitourinary (GU) toxicity on MVA. The dose-volume histogram parameter V70 (GyRBE) of bladder volume (< 33 cc vs. 33+ cc) also predicted for late grade 3+ GU toxicity on MVA. A clinically significant decline in EPIC sexual summary scores occurred at 10 years (67 to 41). No other clinically significant change was seen in EPIC summary scores. CONCLUSION These long-term results show that proton therapy can provide favorable biochemical control outcomes for patients with localized prostate cancer. Additional strategies are needed to improve disease control for patients with very high-risk disease. Late grade 3+ GI toxicity rates are low and, as noted with other radiation modalities, the rate of late grade 3+ GU toxicity increases with time even after 5 years. There was an expected decline in overall sexual function as the patient cohort aged following proton therapy. These long-term results establish benchmarks for future comparative trials.