cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bill Shape and Sexual Shape Dimorphism between Two Species of Temperate Hummingbirds: Black-Chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) and Ruby-Throated Hummingbird (A. Colubris)

ABSTRACT. Sexual size dimorphism occurs throughout the animal kingdom, and its ecological and evolutionary causes and implications have been intensively studied. Sex-specific differences in bill curvature are known in several species of birds, including some tropical hummingbirds. Despite the importance of bill shape for foraging, comparative studies of sexual dimorphism of bill shape are few. We quantified bill shape in two temperate hummingbird species, Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilocus alexandri) and Ruby-throated Hummingbird (A. colubris) and compared patterns of sexual shape dimorphism. Several commonly used bill-curvature indices yielded contrasting results; one found differences between species and sexes, a second identified no differences in curvature, and a circle-curvature approach revealed shape differences between species and between the sexes. By contrast, landmark-based geometric morphometric methods identified significant differences in sexual shape dimorphism and also revealed that Rub...
The Confusion About Epistemology and “Epistemology”—and What to Do About It

The epistemology debates within the field of family therapy have become relatively infrequent in the last year or so, perhaps as a consequence of the confusion they have generated for many family therapists. This article maintains that the primary reason for the confusion is a failure to distinguish clearly between the conventional meaning of the term epistemology, which concerns the nature of knowledge, and the unconventional meaning given the term in family therapy, which concerns the nature of what we know. It is proposed that the confusion can be diminished by understanding the relationship between the two meanings, which are here distinguished as epistemology (meaning 1) and epistemology (meaning 2) respectively. Particular attention is given to the logical consequences of adopting a position on epistemology (meaning 1)--e.g., is the knower capable of knowing an independent reality, or does the act of knowing make its own reality?--or on epistemology (meaning 2)--e.g., is causality linear or nonlinear?. The relevance and implications of these problems for the theory and practice of family therapy are discussed.
Constraints, Compromises, and Decision Making

Noncompensatory decision making forms a core part of poliheuristic theory. At the same time, decision making under constraints is a common view among expected utility theorists. It is argued that poliheuristic theory permits one to endogenize constraints. Views about the rules ofwar are used to contrast the exogenous versus endogenous perspectives, and the noncompensatory perspective is formalized in terms of a class of utility functions. Finally, these poliheuristic, noncompensatory utility functions are contrasted with those typically used in the literature on spatial modeling.
Harvesting autologous stem cells from a patient with red blood cell abnormalities of β-thalassemia intermedia

Background Autologous stem cell transplants in patients with hemoglobinopathies are limited. Previous reports used granulocyte–colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) for mobilization of stem cells; there are no reported cases undergoing plerixafor mobilization. We report such a patient, providing guidance for peripheral blood stem cells collection when aberrant red blood cells (RBCs) disrupt normal separation. Study Design and Methods A patient with β-thalassemia intermedia and hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin presented for peripheral blood stem cell collection for autologous transplant for myeloma. He underwent splenectomy for anemia secondary to hemoglobinopathy and chemotherapy, ceasing RBC transfusions. The patient was mobilized using plerixafor after collection with G-CSF failed. Results Collections were performed using an apheresis system, processing 24 L daily. Peripheral blood and apheresis product CD34 determinations were performed daily. On Day 1, the product yield was 0.04 × 106 CD34 cells/kg, less than expected based on white blood cell count and CD34-positive cells. Peripheral blood smear showed nucleated RBCs and RBC morphologic abnormalities. Changes in instrument variables were made after consultation with Terumo BCT to adjust for variable distribution of mononuclear and stem cells during centrifugation. Collecting stem cells at a deeper location and centrifuging faster improved collection, and a cumulative total of 4.40 × 106 CD34 cells/kg was achieved after four collections. The patient underwent tandem autologous transplantation and engrafted within 12 to 13 days of each transplant. Conclusions Adjustments in apheresis variables allowed successful collection of peripheral blood stem cells from a patient with RBC anomalies of β-thalassemia that interfered with standard stem cell harvesting.
Mechanism of tRNA-Dependent Editing in Translational Quality Control

Protein synthesis requires the pairing of amino acids with tRNAs catalyzed by the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. The synthetases are highly specific, but errors in amino acid selection are occasionally made, opening the door to inaccurate translation of the genetic code. The fidelity of protein synthesis is maintained by the editing activities of synthetases, which remove noncognate amino acids from tRNAs before they are delivered to the ribosome. Although editing has been described in numerous synthetases, the reaction mechanism is unknown. To define the mechanism of editing, phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase was used to investigate different models for hydrolysis of the noncognate product Tyr-tRNAPhe. Deprotonation of a water molecule by the highly conserved residue βHis-265, as proposed for threonyl-tRNA synthetase, was excluded because replacement of this and neighboring residues had little effect on editing activity. Model building suggested that, instead of directly catalyzing hydrolysis, the role of the editing site is to discriminate and properly position noncognate substrate for nucleophilic attack by water. In agreement with this model, replacement of certain editing site residues abolished substrate specificity but only reduced the catalytic efficiency of hydrolysis 2- to 10-fold. In contrast, substitution of the 3′-OH group of tRNAPhe severely impaired editing and revealed an essential function for this group in hydrolysis. The phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase editing mechanism is also applicable to threonyl-tRNA synthetase and provides a paradigm for synthetase editing.
Phase Formation in Cr/Co/Au and Cr/Co/Au/Pb(Sn) Multilayered Structures

Thin-film reaction with solder and its influence on stress have been investigated in Cr/Co/Au and Cr/Co/Au/Pb(Sn) structures. Results from X-ray analysis and RBS measurements reveal that without the Pb(Sn) layer the dominant reaction occurs by interdiffusion of Co and Cr followed by the reaction of Cr and Au. In contrast, the addition of the Pb(Sn) layer leads to a rapid dissolution of Au into Pb, which is followed by subsequent reaction of Co and Sn. In this reaction the intermetallic phases CoSn and CoSn2 are formed. These material reactions are correlated with measurements of the mechanical stresses of the multilayer structure during annealing which were carried out using a bending beam method. The overall reaction scheme of the multilayer structure and the individual reaction kinetics are discussed.
Management of the patient with asymptomatic aortic stenosis.

The etiology of acquired aortic stenosis (AS) has changed dramatically as socioeconomic and hygienic conditions have improved and as the general population lives to an older age. Rheumatic disease was responsible for most cases of AS until a few decades ago, whereas now most are due to calcific degenerative or bicuspid etiologies. There is a long latency period from the initial discovery of a murmur and first onset of symptoms. In studies representing clinical experience prior to the 1960s, the mean age at symptomatic presentation was 48 years, while in series representing experience up the 1980s, it was 61 years. The changing etiology of AS has Important implications for following patients with AS, and monitoring those who are discovered to have significant AS in the absence of symptoms. AS has become more a disease of the elderly, and it is the elderly patient with AS, especially those with calcific degenerative AS, who develop the most rapid and significant progression of their disease, present with symptoms of left ventricular (LV) failure, and are most likely to have critical outflow tract obstruction at the time of their presentation. Once symptoms develop, the outcome of patients with AS is quite poor: in early studies approximately 50% of such patients were dead at 5 years and 90% were dead at 10 years. Symptoms that represent LV failure, e.g., dyspnea, are associated with a worse survival (average survival 2 years) compared to symptoms that represent LV hypertrophy, e.g., angina or outflow obstruction, syncope (average survival 3 years). There is uniform agreement that once symptoms develop, patients with Significant AS should undergo valve replacement. Management of the asymptomatic patient with moderate-to-severe AS has been more problematic. Early studies suggested that sudden death could occur in even asymptomatic patients with severe AS, and recommended that prophylactic valve replacement be considered in this group. More recent studies, however, confirm that in the absence of symptoms, overall survival of patients with AS is similar to that predicted for age- and gender-matched control subjects. Although cardiac death occurs in approximately 2% to 4% of these patients, symptoms of AS have developed approximately 1 to 3 months before death in each documented case. The mortality associated with prophylactic aortic valve replacement is higher than the mortality associated with medical management of asymptomatic AS. In conclusion, aortic valve replacement should be deferred in patients with asymptomatic AS until the onset of symptoms. Patients with calcific degenerative AS and elderly patients with AS may have particularly rapid progression of AS and should have close follow-up. Since the interval between the onset of AS symptoms and cardiac death may be quite brief, all asymptomatic patients with significant AS should be followed closely for the onset of symptoms. (J Card Surg 1994;9[Suppl]:139–144)
Hero Worship: The Elevation of the Human Spirit

In this article, we review the psychology of hero development and hero worship. We propose that heroes and hero narratives fulfill important cognitive and emotional needs, including the need for wisdom, meaning, hope, inspiration, and growth. We propose a framework called the heroic leadership dynamic (HLD) to explain how need-based heroism shifts over time, from our initial attraction to heroes to later retention or repudiation of heroes. Central to the HLD is idea that hero narratives fulfill both epistemic and energizing functions. Hero stories provide epistemic benefits by providing scripts for prosocial action, by revealing fundamental truths about human existence, by unpacking life paradoxes, and by cultivating emotional intelligence. To energize us, heroes promote moral elevation, heal psychic wounds, inspire psychological growth, and exude charisma. We discuss the implications of our framework for theory and research on heroism, leadership processes, and positive psychology.
FIBER TECHNOLOGY AND WEAVING IN FORMATIVE-PERIOD GULF COAST CULTURES

While research has revealed the important role that textiles have played in Mesoamerica from the Classic period through contemporary cultures, few studies have explored the importance of textiles in earlier Mesoamerican cultures. Scant preservation thwarts research on Formative-period cultures such as the Gulf Coast Olmec, for which only a few fragments of cordage and woven mats have yet been recovered. However, considerable additional evidence of textiles is available through other material culture, such as the rich pictorial record of fibers and cloth shown in Olmec sculpture. Further evidence exists in textile-related ceramic artifacts recovered from Gulf Coast sites, and still more evidence can be found through the reevaluation of greenstone artifacts recovered from Gulf Coast sites and “heirloom caches” of Formative-period objects. Careful analysis of the form and iconography of certain types of provenienced greenstone artifacts reveals that these may have served as elite textile-making tools; replication studies confirms their functionality as implements for spinning, weaving, and making cordage. All together, this study suggests that the Gulf Coast Olmec already held not only textiles but textile making in high esteem during the Formative period, foreshadowing the great significance of textiles in later Mesoamerican cultures.
Relation of Cerebrospinal Fluid Circulation to the ACTH-Suppressing Effects of Corticosteroid Implants in the Rat Brain

Systemically ineffective amounts of a cortisol acetate emulsion or pellets of corticosterone or dexamethasone were placed in various regions of the ventricular system of the rat. One or 2 days later the effect on ether-induced ACTH secretion was estimated indirectly by measuring plasma corticosterone changes. Injections of cortisol acetate or implants of dexamethasone were effective in suppressing ACTH secretion when placed into the lateral ventricle but not if placed immediately adjacent to the ventricle. Injections of cortisol acetate into the temporal horn of the ventricle were effective in suppressing ACTH secretion. Implants of corticosterone acetate in the third ventricle were also effective. Implants of this steroid in the tissue immediately adjacent to the third ventricle were effective, but the effectiveness decreased with increasing distances of the implants laterally from the third ventricle. Injections of cortisol acetate into the cisterna cerebellomedullaris were ineffective. It is suggested ...
Soleus muscle nascent polypeptide chain elongation slows protein synthesis rate during non-weight-bearing activity

Protein synthesis rate of the soleus muscle decreases rapidly during non-weight-bearing activity. We isolated polysomes from 18-h non-weight-bearing soleus muscle to investigate the mechanism of th...
Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Pathophysiology of Ischemic Heart Disease

Epidemiological studies have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing ischemic heart disease (IHD). Many of these factors, including hypertension, smoking, elevated blood fats, sedentary life style, and Type A personality, are related to life-style habits and, therefore, are modifiable. Studies indicate that the major risk factors directly influence the basic mechanisms of atherogenesis. Evidence from the primary and secondary prevention trials shows that reducing the risk factors decreases the likelihood of coronary disease progression and coronary morbidity and mortality. Therapeutic exercise programs for primary or secondary prevention clients can lead to significant risk-factor reduction. For therapists to design such programs safely and effectively, they must 1) be knowledgeable in the epidemiology, risk factors, and pathophysiology of IHD and 2) be able to relate this knowledge to a given client.
Ammonia modification of oxide-free Si(111) surfaces

Abstract Amination of surfaces is useful in a variety of fields, ranging from device manufacturing to biological applications. Previous studies of ammonia reaction on silicon surfaces have concentrated on vapor phase rather than wet chemical processes, and mostly on clean Si surfaces. In this work, the interaction of liquid and vapor-phase ammonia is examined on three types of oxide-free surfaces – passivated by hydrogen, fluorine (1/3 monolayer) or chlorine – combining infrared absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and first-principles calculations. The resulting chemical composition highly depends on the starting surface; there is a stronger reaction on both F- and Cl-terminated than on the H-terminated Si surfaces, as evidenced by the formation of Si-NH2. Side reactions can also occur, such as solvent reaction with surfaces, formation of ammonium salt by-products (in the case of 0.2 M ammonia in dioxane solution), and nitridation of silicon (in the case of neat and gas-phase ammonia reactions for instance). Unexpectedly, there is formation of Si-H bonds on hydrogen-free Cl-terminated Si(111) surfaces in all cases, whether vapor phase of neat liquid ammonia is used. The first-principles modeling of this complex system suggests that step-edge surface defects may play a key role in enabling the reaction under certain circumstances, despite the endothermic nature for Si-H bond formation.
Decent Work, Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals

In September 2015, the United Nations General Assembly will adopt the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will guide international development policy and practice for a fifteen-year period from 2015 to 2030. The SDGs are critically important as most international development efforts over those fifteen years – including those of donors, major development institutions, national governments and civil society – will likely be directed toward achieving these goals. The SDGs follow on the heels of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which have guided international development from 2000 to 2015. An extensive global public consultation has been underway for three years leading up to the UN General Assembly meeting planned for September 2015 that will finalize the new SDGs and targets. Much of the SDG discussion builds upon the lessons learned from the MDG experience, addressing both the achievements and the criticisms. This article uses a human rights lens to reflect back over the successes and shortcomings of the MDG framework generally, and then examines in particular the target and indicators on full employment and decent work for all. Against this background, the article considers whether the decent work goal, targets and indicators proposed for the post-2015 framework truly integrate human rights and ILO standards into the international development agenda in a way that is consistent with the international legal obligations of the States parties.
Trends & Controversies

Market, a term frequently used in mass media and academic publications, is an elusive concept. In marketing, researchers and practitioners describe market as a place to exchange products and services (such as a retail market or real estate market). In economics and finance, financial and monetary concepts such as emerging markets, commodity markets, and the stock market are often mentioned. In all these areas, one of the most challenging research directions is modeling and predicting market movements. In recent years, the availability of diverse and voluminous market-related mass media and social media content (or Business Big Data) and the emergence of sophisticated, scalable text and social mining techniques present a unique opportunity for advancing research relating to smart market and money. This research area, at the intersec tion of computational and finance research, aims at developing intelligent (smart) mechanisms and algorithms for predicting market and stock performances.
Structure and mechanical properties of human trichocyte keratin intermediate filament protein.

Keratin is a protein in the intermediate filament family and the key component of hair, nail, and skin. Here we report a bottom-up atomistic model of the keratin dimer, using the complete human ker...
Primary Versus Revision Surgery in the Setting of Adult Spinal Deformity: A Nationwide Study on 10,912 Patients.

Study Design.Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database.Objective.This study compares patient demographics, incidence of comorbidities, procedure-related complications, and mortality following primary versus revision adult spinal deformity surgerySummary of Background Data.Although a
An Updating of Data Regarding the Forces Pilots can Apply in the Cockpit, Part II: Yoke, Rudder, Stick, and Seatbelt-Release Forces

Tabled force values in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) have been used to specify the maximum control forces that an aircraft can exhibit during certification testing, and consequently what fo...
Managed dental care. Harbinger of the future

In recent years, managed care organizations have permeated the medical marketplace in many large cities. Although the number of managed dental care programs has grown, it has been extremely difficult for experts to chart a course for managed dental care. At present, there are massive conflicts arising out of diverse philosophical, political and economic issues, which serve as barriers to the establishment of efficient and effectual dental delivery systems.
PI3K/AKT Signaling Regulates H3K4 Methylation in Breast Cancer

Post-translational histone H3 modifications regulate transcriptional competence. The mechanisms by which the epigenome is regulated in response to oncogenic signaling remain unclear. Here we show that H3K4me3 is increased in breast tumors driven by an activated PIK3CA allele and that inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling reduces promoter-associated H3K4me3 in human breast cancer cells. We show that the H3K4 demethylase KDM5A is an AKT target and that phosphorylation of KDM5A regulates its nuclear localization and promoter occupancy. Supporting a role for KDM5A in mediating PI3K/AKT transcriptional effects, the decreased expression in response to AKT inhibition of a subset of cell-cycle genes associated with poor clinical outcome is blunted by KDM5A silencing. Our data identify a mechanism by which PI3K/AKT signaling modulates the cancer epigenome through controlling H3K4 methylation and suggest that KDM5A subcellular localization and genome occupancy may be pharmacodynamic markers of the activity of PI3K/AKT inhibitors currently in clinical development.
Infusion pharmacocavernosometry and nocturnal penile tumescence findings in men with erectile dysfunction.

AbstractInfusion pharmacocavernosometry and nocturnal penile tumescence findings were compared in 50 men with erectile dysfunction of either organic or psychogenic etiology. Of the men 29 had abnormal and 21 had normal nocturnal penile tumescence. Infusion pharmacocavernosometry parameters (equilibrium pressure, maintenance flow rate and 30-second pressure fall) were compared to nocturnal penile tumescence status (normal versus abnormal). When traditional normal values were used for infusion pharmacocavernosometry parameters poor correlation with nocturnal penile tumescence status was found. When new cutpoints for infusion pharmacocavernosometry parameters were chosen a stronger correlation was noted. This study suggests that when vasoactive drugs are injected intracavernously for diagnostic purposes, anxiety and/or the absence of sexual stimulation following the injection may prevent complete cavernous smooth muscle relaxation resulting in falsely abnormal values. Therefore, over reliance on infusion pha...
Vascular lesions of the cranial base

Vascular lesions can be classified broadly into two groups on the basis of cellular proliferation characteristics: hemangiomas and vascular malformations. Additional lesions include a heterogeneous group of vascular tumors such as those represented by hemangiopericytoma and those with a frankly malignant course. Those lesions located around the cranial base remain challenging and difficult clinical problems. The care of patients with these problems is complex; it frequently will need a full spectrum of individuals from many disciplines involved in many diverse aspects of management: medical, radiologic, anesthetic, and surgical. Fortunately, advances in science and technology have markedly expanded our capability in treating these patients and have allowed us increasing safety and ease in dealing with previously untreatable and unresectable lesions.
The Gut Microbiome and Obesity

The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria which play an important role in human metabolism. Animal and human studies have implicated distortion of the normal microbial balance in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Bacteria causing weight gain are thought to induce the expression of genes related to lipid and carbohydrate metabolism thereby leading to greater energy harvest from the diet. There is a large body of evidence demonstrating that alteration in the proportion of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes leads to the development of obesity, but this has been recently challenged. It is likely that the influence of gut microbiome on obesity is much more complex than simply an imbalance in the proportion of these phyla of bacteria. Modulation of the gut microbiome through diet, pre- and probiotics, antibiotics, surgery, and fecal transplantation has the potential to majorly impact the obesity epidemic.
Care of the nerve-injured extremity.

General considerations in diagnosis and treatment. Muscular, vascular, and bone changes may all be associated with nerve injury and underscore the importance of physical therapy and re-education of paralyzed muscles in the rehabilitation process.
Pubic Hair Grooming Prevalence and Motivation Among Women in the United States

Importance Pubic hair grooming is an increasingly prevalent trend. Several studies have sought to characterize its prevalence, associated demographics, and motivations. Objective To characterize current pubic hair grooming practices in the United States. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cross-sectional study, a nationally representative survey was conducted in January 2013 of noninstitutionalized adults aged 18 to 65 years residing in the United States via the GfK Group (formerly Knowledge Networks) panel members. Data analysis was performed from November to December 2015. Interventions A questionnaire examining pubic hair grooming habits. Main Outcomes and Measures Demographic characteristics and motivations associated with pubic hair grooming. Results A total of 3372 women were surveyed. Fifty-six women did not answer the grooming question; consequently, 3316 women were included in the analysis. Of these women, 2778 (83.8%) reported pubic hair grooming and 538 (16.2%) reported never grooming. On multivariate regression, several factors associated with grooming were found. When compared with younger women (aged 18-24 years), women aged 45 through 55 years (odds ratio [OR], 0.05; 95% CI, 0.01-0.49; P = .01) and those older than 55 years (OR, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.00-0.34; P = .003) were significantly less likely to groom. Women with some college (OR, 3.36; 95% CI, 1.65-6.84; P = .001) or a bachelor’s degree (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.17-4.88; P = .02) were more likely to have groomed. Race was also significantly associated with grooming, with all groups reporting less grooming when compared with white women. No association was found between grooming and income, relationship status, or geographic location. Conclusions and Relevance This study provides a nationally representative assessment of contemporary female pubic hair grooming habits. Demographic differences in grooming were found, which may reflect cultural variations in preference related to pubic hair. Health care professionals and those who provide grooming services can use this information to better counsel patients and understand grooming practices.
Dissolved low-molecular weight thiol concentrations from the U.S. GEOTRACES North Atlantic Ocean zonal transect

Abstract Low-molecular weight thiols, including cysteine and glutathione, are biomolecules involved in a variety of metabolic pathways and act as important antioxidant and metal buffering agents. In this last capacity, they represent a potential mechanism for modulating the bioavailability and biogeochemistry of many trace elements in the ocean, particularly for chalcophilic elements (e.g., Cu, Zn, Cd, Ag and Hg). For this reason, and in the context of the international GEOTRACES program that seeks to understand the biogeochemistry of trace elements in the ocean, we measured the concentration of individual dissolved low-molecular weight thiols during the U.S. GEOTRACES North Atlantic Zonal Transect (USGNAZT). Only two thiols were identified, cysteine and glutathione, in contrast to results from the northeast subarctic Pacific Ocean, where the dipeptides glycine-cysteine and arginine-cysteine were also present and γ-glutamylcysteine was dominant. Concentrations of cysteine and glutathione in the North Atlantic Ocean were lower than in the Pacific and ranged from below detection (~0.01 nM) to 0.61 nM of cysteine and up to 1.0 nM of glutathione, with cysteine generally more abundant than glutathione. Vertical profiles of cysteine and glutathione were broadly consistent with their biological production, being more abundant in surface water and usually below detection at depths greater than about 200 m. Subsurface concentration maxima, often co-incident with the deep chlorophyll maximum, were frequently observed but not universal. We conclude that cysteine and glutathione do not make up significant portions of complexation capacity for Cu and Zn in the upper open ocean but could be important for Cd, Hg, and potentially other chalcophiles. Extremely low concentrations of cysteine and glutathione in deep water suggest that higher molecular-weight thiols are a more important ligand class for chalcophiles in that portion of the ocean.
FinalReport-DOE BES DMSE-UNR-QLi

The primary goal of this project is to explore the fundamental deformation and failure mechanisms for magnesium with a hexagonal close packed (HCP) crystal structure. It is critical to perform this project for a number of reasons. First, magnesium is the lightest structural metal and its application in various structural components can save the final component weight. Second, the weight reduction from the usage of magnesium-based structural components in transportation vehicles such as automobiles and aircrafts can improve fuel efficiency and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions. Third, structural components often experience dynamic loading such as cyclic loading conditions. Fourth, magnesium with a HCP crystal structure generally has its special deformation responses under loading conditions. This project investigated magnesium based materials (magnesium single crystal, pure polycrystalline magnesium, and some magnesium alloys) under various loading conditions, and also explored some processing routes to manipulate the microstructure and mechanical properties of magnesium. The research results were published in a number of articles and also disseminated through presentations in various conferences such as TMS annual meetings, MRS meetings, the international Plasticity conferences, the Pacific Rim International Congress on Advanced Materials and Processing, and AeroMat. In addition to the contribution to the research/academic community, thismore » project is also beneficial to the general public. With the actual usage of magnesium in the passenger cars, the weight reduction and fuel consumption reduction will save the fuel bill of individual owners.« less
Organization of RNA splicing in the cell nucleus.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the organization of RNA splicing in the cell nucleus. Messenger RNA (mRNA) is transcribed from nuclear chromosomal DNA as large precursor transcripts known as pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA). The vast majority of pre-mRNAs contain stretches of intervening sequences (introns) dispersed throughout the translation reading frame that will not be used to code for protein. Introns are excised within the nucleus as a part of the maturation process, whereby pre-mRNA is converted to mRNA. The excision of introns and ligation of protein-coding sequences (exons) is referred to as RNA splicing. The order of intron removal in poly intronic pre-mRNAs appears to be fixed but generally proceeds in a 5'→3' direction. The spliceosome may have an important regulatory role in the selection of splice sites and exon combinatorial patterns by maintaining the spatial relationships that enable the complex RNA chemistry of RNA splicing. The fundamental principle governing this selection process is that structural assembly precedes catalytic activity.
Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample

Objective STIs are the most common infections among adults. Concurrently, pubic hair grooming is prevalent. Small-scale studies have demonstrated a relationship between pubic hair grooming and STIs. We aim to examine this relationship in a large sample of men and women. Design We conducted a probability survey of US residents aged 18–65 years. The survey ascertained self-reported pubic hair grooming practices, sexual behaviours and STI history. We defined extreme grooming as removal of all pubic hair more than 11 times per year and high-frequency grooming as daily/weekly trimming. Cutaneous STIs included herpes, human papillomavirus, syphilis and molluscum. Secretory STIs included gonorrhoea, chlamydia and HIV. We analysed lice separately. Results Of 7580 respondents who completed the survey, 74% reported grooming their pubic hair, 66% of men and 84% of women. After adjusting for age and lifetime sexual partners, ever having groomed was positively associated with a history of self-reported STIs (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.4 to 2.2), including cutaneous STIs (OR 2.6; CI 1.8 to 3.7), secretory STIs (OR 1.7; CI 1.3 to 2.2) and lice (OR 1.9; CI 1.3 to 2.9). These positive associations were stronger for extreme groomers (OR 4.4; CI 2.9 to 6.8) and high-frequency groomers (OR 3.5; CI 2.3 to 5.4) with cutaneous STIs, and for non-extreme groomers (OR 2.0; CI 1.3 to 3.0) and low-frequency groomers (OR 2.0; CI 1.3 to 3.1) with lice. Conclusions Among a representative sample of US residents, pubic hair grooming was positively related to self-reported STI history. Further research is warranted to gain insight into STI risk-reduction strategies.
Mesothelin expression and survival outcomes in triple-receptor negative breast cancer.

e12002 Background: Mesothelin is an ideal tumor-associated marker for the development of targeted therapy due to its limited expression in normal tissues. Identify the frequency of mesothelin expre...
The Waste Pile: Street Sweeping and Waste Management

The preceding chapters suggest that the removal of street sediments has many advantages ranging from the reduction of pollution and chemical contamination of waterways to aesthetic improvements in the quality of life. But, this in itself presents yet another problem; what can be done with the waste material that is collected? For example, imagine this scenario: 25 dump trucks of street sweeping sediments are removed every day from a particular city. Each dump truck hopper contains 2,000 kg of material, which means that 250,000 kg of sediment are removed each week, assuming a five day work week, from the streets of this city. Over a year, this material will exceed 13,000,000 kg; a prodigious amount of waste.
Transthoracic Echocardiography for Lacunar Strokes: Do We Need It in All Patients? (P01.234)

OBJECTIVE: To determine the usefulness of TTE in acute lacunar strokes. BACKGROUND: TTE is extensively used for evaluation of causes for an acute lacunar stroke as part of the workup. The underlying pathology of Lacunar Strokes is microatheroma and Lipohyalinosis. Though, the efficacy of ECHO in cardio-embolic strokes is well proven, its usefulness in Lacunar Strokes is still debated. DESIGN/METHODS: A retrospective chart review at 3 academic institutions in a single metropolitan area between May 2011 and December 2011 was performed. A total of 270 consecutive patients with clinical diagnosis of stroke were screened of which 56 patients met criteria for acute lacunar infarct (size RESULTS: Out of 270 patients, 56 (21%) met criteria for acute lacunar stroke. Average age was 56 years (±8.5), 50% were male, 77% were African-American. In looking at risk factors for lacunar stroke, 79 % had hypertension, 34% had diabetes mellitus type 2 , 55% had hyperlipidemia, 61 % were smokers while 36% had a prior TIA or stroke. The mean NIHSS at admission was 3.5 (±2.8), mean length of stay was 2.6 days (±3.7) and approximately 2/3rds of the patients were discharged home. The incidence of LVH was 37.5%, while there was CHF in 1.8%. Of the patients with LVH, 91% were hypertensive and 33% were diabetic. CONCLUSIONS: Left ventricular hypertrophy is considered sine qua non of hypertensive control, which is one of the major risk factors for lacunar stroke. In our series we did not find any intracardiac abnormality except for LVH which was almost exclusively in patients with hypertension. TTE adds to the stroke workup cost and should be used only in selected cases. Disclosure: Dr. Suchdev has nothing to disclose. Dr. Damani has nothing to disclose. Dr. Varade has nothing to disclose. Dr. Abhishek has nothing to disclose. Dr. Norris has nothing to disclose.
Implantation of 30 keV Helium into Graphene-Coated Tungsten

This technical note describes the use of graphene as a way to protect plasma facing components from erosion, sputtering and diminished plasma performance and to extend component lifetimes in experi...
A uniform‐shear rate microfluidic bioreactor for real‐time study of proplatelet formation and rapidly‐released platelets

Platelet transfusions, with profound clinical importance in blood clotting and wound healing, are entirely derived from human volunteer donors. Hospitals rely on a steady supply of donations, but these methods are limited by a 5-day shelf life, the potential risk of contamination, and differences in donor/recipient histocompatibility. These challenges invite the opportunity to generate platelets ex vivo. Although much progress has been made in generating large numbers of culture-derived megakaryocytes (Mks, the precursor cells to platelets), stimulating a high percentage of Mks to undergo platelet release remains a major challenge. Recent studies have demonstrated the utility of shear forces to enhance platelet release from cultured Mks. In this study, we performed a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of several published platelet microbioreactor systems, and used the results to develop a new 7-µm slit bioreactor-with well-defined flow patterns and uniform shear profiles. This uniform-shear-rate bioreactor (USRB-7µm) permits real-time visualization of the proplatelet (proPLT) formation process and the rapid-release of individual platelet-like-particles (PLPs), which has been observed in vivo, but not previously reported for platelet bioreactors. We showed that modulating shear forces and flow patterns had an immediate and significant impact on PLP generation. Surprisingly, using a single flow instead of dual flows led to an unexpected six-fold increase in PLP production. By identifying particularly effective operating conditions within a physiologically relevant environment, this USRB-7µm will be a useful tool for the study and analysis of proPLT/PLP formation that will further understanding of how to increase ex vivo platelet release. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:1614-1629, 2017.
Dynamic Course of Serratia marcescens Pulmonic Valve Endocarditis Resulting in Submassive PE and Valve Replacement.

This report illustrates a case of a 42-year-old male with a history of intravenous drug abuse who presented with septic shock. Diagnostic studies, including a transthoracic echocardiogram, chest co...
Interventions to Increase Children's Booster Seat Use. A Review

Background In children aged 4 to 8 years, booster seats are estimated to reduce by 59% the odds of sustaining clinically significant injuries during a motor vehicle crash, compared to using ordinary vehicle seat belts. Given the safety benefits of booster seats, public health and traffic safety agencies recommend their use for children aged 4 to 8 years traveling in motor vehicles, until the vehicle seat belt can fit them properly. Despite these benefits, booster seat use remains low. Interventions aimed at promoting the use of booster seats for children aged 4 to 8 years have been implemented, but there is little evidence regarding their effects. Methods The Cochrane methodology was used to assess the effects of interventions to increase booster seat use for children aged 4 to 8 years. The reviewers searched online databases, scanned reference lists, hand-searched journals, and contacted relevant agencies and researchers for both randomized controlled trials and controlled before-and-after evaluation studies. The search concluded in 2005 and was not restricted by publication status or language. Results The search yielded 1350 potential studies. Of these, five studies involving 3070 individuals met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were generally effective in increasing booster seat use among children aged 4 to 8 years. Education paired with incentive or distribution programs produced more consistent results than education-only interventions that targeted parents, children, or both. Conclusions Incentives or the distribution of free booster seats combined with education increase the use of booster seats.
Pilot study of local autologous tumor infiltrating lymphocytes for the treatment of recurrent malignant gliomas.

A prospective pilot study was performed in order to assess the safety of treating recurrent malignant gliomas (MGs) with locally infused autologous tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2). Six patients were entered between June 27, 1994 and June 2, 1995 and followed until July 1, 1998. At surgery an Ommaya reservoir was placed for later infusion of TILs and rIL-2. Following surgery, autologous TILs were expanded in vitro in the presence of rIL-2 and infused on treatment days 1 and 14, with concurrent rIL-2 infusions performed three times each week for one month. Following completion of immunotherapy all patients were offered chemotherapy. Phenotypic analysis demonstrated TILs to be T-lymphocytes (87–99% CD3+). Of these, 4 of 6 cases (67%) phenotyped as cytotoxic/suppressor T-lymphocytes (CD8+) and 2 of 6 cases (33%) phenotyped as helper/inducer T-lymphocytes (CD4+). TILs demonstrated limited selective cytotoxicity, with dose dependent cytotoxicity against autologous tumor, allogenic tumor and long term MG cell lines. There were no significant (Grade 3 or 4) complications. One patient developed transient low grade fevers, and 2 developed asymptomatic hydrocephalus. All patients developed transient and asymptomatic cerebral swelling, noted on the immediate post-treatment imaging studies. At three and six month follow-up, 3 patients responded with partial response, 2 demonstrated stable disease and 1 patient progressed. At long term follow-up, 1 patient had a complete response (45 month follow-up), 2 had a partial response (48 and 47 month follow-up) and 3 patients expired as a result of progressive disease (at 12, 12 and 18 months following immunotherapy). A relationship between subsequent chemotherapy or extent of resection to outcome was not appparent but could not be excluded. This pilot study demonstrated that locally infused autologous TILs and rIL-2 could be delivered without serious toxicity. Further studies are indicated to determine the safety and long term efficacy of TIL immunotherapy.
Latino and African American Parents of Preschool Children Differ in Their Feeding Practices

This study explored differences in parental feeding practices between Latino and African American (AA) parents of 3–5 y old children. A cross-sectional study conducted at schools in Hartford, CT, i...
Clinical and Microbiologic Variables Predictive of Orthopedic Complications Following Staphylococcus aureus Acute Hematogenous Osteoarticular Infections in Children.

Background Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of acute hematogenous osteoarticular infections (AHOAIs) in children. The risk factors for the development of orthopedic complications (OC) after AHOAI are poorly understood. We sought to describe clinical and microbiologic variables present on the index admission that may predict OC in S. aureus AHOAI. Methods Staphylococcus aureus AHOAI cases were identified from 2011-2017 at Texas Children's Hospital and reviewed for the development of OC. OC included chronic osteomyelitis, growth arrest, avascular necrosis, chronic dislocation, and pathologic fracture. All S. aureus isolates were characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and agr group. Results A total of 286 cases were examined of which 27 patients (9.4%) developed OC. Patients who developed OC more often had infection with an agr group III organism (P = .04), bacteremia (P = .04), delayed source control (P 4 days after admission (P = .008). There was no association with OC and patient age, methicillin resistance, or choice/route of antibiotics. In multivariable analyses of OC, infection with agr group III S. aureus, prolonged fever, and delayed source control remained statistically significant. Conclusions OC develop following S. aureus AHOAI in 9.4% of cases. Although the development of OC is likely multifactorial, agr group III organisms, prolonged fever, and delayed source control are independently associated with OC. Moreover, early aggressive surgical source control may be beneficial in children with S. aureus AHOAI.
Diagnosis and Management of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Use.

CONTEXT The lifetime prevalence of anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use is estimated at 1% to 5% worldwide. AAS use occurs primarily male elite athletes and men who want a muscular appearance. The evidence for effective, safe management of AAS cessation and withdrawal is weak. DESIGN Key studies were extracted from PubMed (1990-2018) and Google Scholar with reference searches from relevant retrieved articles. RESULTS The proven adverse effects of AASs include suppression of the gonadal axis and infertility, hirsutism and defeminization in women, and erythrocytosis. Alkylated AASs that are taken orally may cause hepatopathy. There is an association between high-dosage AAS use and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Clues for AAS use include very low serum high-density cholesterol and sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations and unexplained erythrocytosis. For elite athletes, the biological passport (monitoring of blood or urinary androgen and androgen precursor concentrations after determining the athlete's baseline) is useful for detecting AAS use. For nonelite athletes, the best method to confirm AAS use is to inquire in a nonjudgmental manner. Cessation of chronic AAS use is associated with a withdrawal syndrome of anxiety and depression. CONCLUSIONS Men who use AASs <1 year typically recover normal hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis function within 1 year after cessation. Men who have infertility due to high-dosage AAS use ≥1 year might benefit from short-term treatment with clomiphene or human chorionic gonadotropin.
Pleomorphic Mantle Cell Lymphoma of the Tongue Base Presenting With Dysphagia.

Objectives:We aim to increase awareness of pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma as a rare, but aggressive form of lymphoma with propensity for recurrence in secondary locations.Methods:We report the ca...
New application of cellulose and chitosan for biodegradable polymer material

We found that a combination of fine cellulose and chitosan was suitable for forming biodegradable films and moldings. The composite film demonstrated high strength and had a maximum wet strength at 10-20% chitosan content. Besides the major hydrogen bonding between chitosan and cellulose, the amino groups in chitosan and the trace amounts of carbonyl groups in cellulose played an important role in the formation of the composite. This film was completely decomposed by microorganisms in soil or sea water. The biodegradability was controlled by adjusting the temperature in heat treatment, the quantity of carbonyl group in the cellulose, etc. We have also been working on joint research with companies to produce films, nonwoven fabrics and foams. Foams and nonwoven fabrics of the composite were found to be effective in healing of skin defects of rats. We are also trying to produce fine cellulose material for the biodegradable plastic by simple and convenient method grinding together with an organic solvent. The production of chitosan by cultivation of a fungus such as Rhizopus acetoinus is also discussed.