cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MITOCHONDRIAL-DNA ANALYSES AND THE ORIGIN AND RELATIVE AGE OF PARTHENOGENETIC LIZARDS (GENUS CNEMIDOPHORUS). IV. NINE SEXLINEATUS-GROUP UNISEXUALS.

Mitochondrial DNAs (mtDNAs) from nine morphologically distinct unisexual species and five bisexual species of lizards, all from the sexlineatus species-group of Cnemidophorus, were compared using restriction endonucleases. The unisexual lizards have mtDNAs that are identical at all or nearly all of the 128 sites cleaved. Although differing little in sequence, some mtDNAs differed in size due to the presence of tandem sequence duplications. Phylogenetic analysis of cleavage maps indicates that the mtDNAs of the unisexuals are most similar to that of the bisexual species C. inornatus. Considerable mtDNA diversity exists among C. inornatus populations, and one geographically restricted subspecies, C. i. arizonae, was identified as the most probable maternal ancestor of all nine unisexuals. All but one of these are triploid, and all have at least one C. inornatus gene complement. This, together with the homogeneity of their mtDNAs, suggests that all stem from one or a small number of allodiploid females (presumably parthenogenetic) that originated in a restricted geographic area in the recent past. These data, when combined with those from allozyme studies, preclude the possibility that most of the triploid unisexuals could have arisen via fertilization of an unreduced diploid ovum from one species by a haploid sperm from a different species.
Magneto-Transport Measurements on Si/Si1−xGex Resonant Tunneling Structures

We have investigated magneto-transport properties of differently strained Si/ Si 1−x Ge x resonant tunneling devices. The built-in strain was either put in the Si layers, by means of a thick., relaxed Si 1−x Ge x buffer layer, or in the Si 1−x Ge x layers, in which case all Si 1−x Ge x layers were grown below the critical thickness, and a Si 1−x Ge x spacer layer with graded Ge content was used. Magnetic fields parallel to the interface have been employed to probe the in-plane dispersion in the quantum well. This is used to study the effect of band-mixing in the two strain configurations. A field perpendicular to the interface resolves some Landau level splitting. Most strikingly, however, is the similarity in the spectra with the case when the magnetic field is applied parallel to the interfaces. This indicates broadening of the levels, possibly due to scattering, and the importance of 3-dimensional band structure effects.
ENHANCING TEAM-BASED TRANSACTIVE MEMORY SYSTEMS THROUGH MOBILE INSTANT MESSAGING: A DEVELOPING COUNTRY PERSPECTIVE

Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) allows users to exchange multimedia information, such as texts, images, and videos with family and friends. MIM applications are typically free-of-charge and intended for casual, playful communications, allowing users to engage in one-on-one or group interactions. Based on Wegner's Transactive Memory Systems (TMS), the study focuses on how MIM can be used to enhance existing team-based TMS in the workplace. Using data collected from 75 Thai employees working in teams, the results show that team-based TMS emphasizes specialized knowledge and team coordination, while MIM promotes knowledge acceptance. The findings also reveal that the functionalities of MIM and the existing organizational ICTs help build mobile TMS, which in turn enhances team-based TMS. The implication of this study supports the economical use of MIM as a communication tool that exists alongside traditional ICTs in a developing country.
Cardiac macrophages adopt profibrotic/M2 phenotype in infarcted hearts: Role of urokinase plasminogen activator.

Abstract Background Macrophages (mac) that over-express urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) adopt a profibrotic M2 phenotype in the heart in association with cardiac fibrosis. We tested the hypothesis that cardiac macs are M2 polarized in infarcted mouse and human hearts and that polarization is dependent on mac-derived uPA. Methods Studies were performed using uninjured (UI) or infarcted (MI) hearts of uPA overexpressing (SR-uPA), uPA null, or nontransgenic littermate (Ntg) mice. At 7 days post-infarction, cardiac mac were isolated, RNA extracted and M2 markers Arg1, YM1, and Fizz1 measured with qrtPCR. Histologic analysis for cardiac fibrosis, mac and myofibroblasts was performed at the same time-point. Cardiac macs were also isolated from Ntg hearts and RNA collected after primary isolation or culture with vehicle, IL-4 or plasmin and M2 marker expression measured. Cardiac tissue and blood was collected from humans with ischemic heart disease. Expression of M2 marker CD206 and M1 marker TNFalpha was measured. Results Macs from WT mice had increased expression of Arg1 and Ym1 following MI (41.3 ± 6.5 and 70.3 ± 36, fold change vs UI, n = 8, P Conclusions Cardiac macs in mouse and human hearts adopt a M2 phenotype in association with fibrosis. Plasmin can induce an M2 phenotype in cardiac macs. However, M2 activation can occur in the heart in vivo in the absence of uPA indicating that alternative pathways to activate plasmin are present in the heart. Excess uPA promotes increased fibroblast density potentially via potentiating fibroblast migration or proliferation. Altering macrophage phenotype in the heart is a potential target to modify cardiac fibrosis.
Order Set to Improve the Care of Patients Hospitalized for an Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Rationale: Physicians’ adherence to prescribing evidence-based inpatient and outpatient therapies for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is low, and there is a paucity of information about the utility of admission order sets for patients with COPD exacerbations.Objectives: To determine if implementation of a locally designed, evidence-based, multidisciplinary computer physician order entry set in the electronic health record improves the quality of physician pharmacologic prescribing for patients hospitalized for COPD exacerbations.Methods: This study was performed before and after implementation of a computerized order set for patients hospitalized for COPD exacerbations. The primary outcome was the rate of zero prescribing errors by physicians for inpatient and discharge drugs for COPD over a 1-year period before implementation and for 6 months after implementation. Errors were defined as no therapy or inappropriate therapy in the following categories: antibiotic, systemic corticosteroid, shor...
Nonthyroid Metastasis to the Thyroid Gland Case Series and Review with Observations by Primary Pathology

ObjectiveNonthyroid metastases to the thyroid gland can cause morbidity, including dysphagia, dysphonia, and airway compromise. Because metastatic malignancies portend a poor prognosis, obtaining e...
Effects of Metabolic Acidosis on Skeletal Muscle

Metabolic acidosis is common among persons with chronic kidney disease due to an inability to excrete the daily acid load. A more subtle or low-grade acidosis also occurs in otherwise healthy individuals due to the effects of aging and the high acid-forming potential of the Western diet. This has numerous sequelae, including effects on skeletal muscle. Chronic metabolic acidosis increases skeletal muscle protein breakdown and may impair protein synthesis as well. This is partly mediated by impaired signaling via the insulin receptor substrate/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway, which triggers a cascade of proteolytic events involving activation of caspase-3 and the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Over time, this likely results in a loss of lean mass and skeletal muscle wasting, which has been associated with morbidity and mortality. Recent evidence has also associated metabolic acidosis with impaired physical function. Correction of acidosis reduces muscle protein degradation in humans, preserves muscle mass, and may improve muscle strength and functional performance.
Mansfield Park and the Education of the Virtuous

Education is a major theme in Mansfield Park. The errors and sins of Tom, Maria and Julia Bertram on one hand and Mary and Henry Crawford on the other are substantially the result of flawed upbringing and failed education. In the end, only disaster can teach these characters the lessons they should have learned as children. But these are only secondary characters. What is the nature of the education of the heroine, Fanny Price? In what sense is Mansfield Park a Bildungsroman? Mansfield Park offers us a heroine who at first glance seems neither to need nor undergo any education.1 Fanny Price is virtue embodied. Her judgment seems to be unerring, her perception unclouded, her actions pure, noble and untainted. Other characters — the grave Sir Thomas, the weak Edmund — do grow in self-knowledge by the end of the novel, but since Fanny is the novel’s undisputed centre, her apparently static character presents a problem. It is especially odd that Fanny among Austen’s heroines changes so little, because Fanny is the only heroine who we see in childhood and whose passage to adult life is recorded in any detail.2 But is Fanny truly the virtuous and unchanging prig so many find distasteful? Fanny’s judgment and moral character may need no improvement, but Austen has devised for Fanny an education of a different sort.
A W-band stacked FET power amplifier with 17 dBm P sat in 45-nm SOI MOS

A 90GHz power amplifier implemented with three series-connected (stacked) FETs in 45-nm SOI CMOS is reported. Stacking FETs allows increasing voltage handling capability of circuits with highly scaled CMOS transistors. This work shows for the first time that the stacking strategy is effective up to W band. The amplifier achieves power gain of 8 dB at 91 GHz with 3 dB bandwidth of 18 GHz using a supply voltage of 4.2 V. It delivers saturated output power of 17.3 dBm in 88-90 GHz range with peak PAE of 9 %. The PA chip occupies 0.256 mm2 including the pads. This chip demonstrates the highest output power from a CMOS PA in this frequency regime.
Multiple Intermolecular Exciplexes in Highly Polar Solvents

Exciplexes of 2,6,9,10-tetracyanoanthracene (TCA) with alkylbenzenes were investigated in solvents ranging from cyclohexane to acetonitrile. Plots of the reduced emission maxima or the average emission frequency (hνav) versus redox potential differences (Eredox) were linear with a slope of ∼1 in all solvents, which is consistent with the highly ionic character of the exciplexes. The exciplex spectra were analyzed in terms of the energy gap between the exciplex minimum and the AD pair (ΔG), the energy difference between ΔG and Eredox (δEx), and the total reorganization energy (Σλ). A plot of (Eredox – hνav), equivalent to (Σλ – δEx), versus a solvent polarity function showed a linear dependency for the low-to-moderate polarity solvents, whereas highly polar solvents deviated significantly. δEx showed a smooth linear dependency for all solvents. Thus, the deviation of the polar solvents is due to a larger-than-expected Σλ. Additionally, the full width at half-maximum (fwhm) of the emission spectra in polar ...
Husserl on Essences

The common thought that Husserl was committed to a Platonist ontology of essences, and to a mysterious epistemology that holds that we can ‘intuit’ these essences, has contributed substantially to his work being dismissed and marginalized in analytic philosophy. This paper aims to show that it is misguided to dismiss Husserl on these grounds. First, the author aims to explicate Husserl’s views about essences and how we can know them, in ways that make clear that he is not committed to a traditional Platonism, or a mystical epistemology. Second, the author argues that Husserl’s approach was an important source for Carnap in “Empiricism, Semantics, and Ontology”, where Carnap tried to overcome the empiricists’ qualms about referring to abstracta. Finally, the author will argue that Husserl’s approach can be reconstructed in contemporary analytic terms by appeal to the idea of pleonastic transformations. By seeing both Husserl’s views and their influences on later analytic work more clearly, the hope is to build bridges and make clear that the approach is of lasting value and interest.
Symptoms during Adolescents’ First Use of Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes: A Pilot Study

Symptoms adolescents experience during their first time using a cigarette predict their current use, but little is known regarding the symptoms experienced during first e-cigarette use. We conducted a pilot study to understand the symptoms adolescents experience when they first tried cigarettes and e-cigarettes and the associations between these symptoms and current use. Participants were 41 adolescents in two U.S. cities who had tried cigarettes or e-cigarettes. We asked adolescents to recall the symptoms they experienced during their first cigarette or e-cigarette and categorized symptoms as negative (felt bad, coughing/chest pain, bad taste, upset stomach, dizzy/lightheaded) or positive (felt relaxed, rush/buzz). Adolescents reported fewer negative symptoms for first e-cigarette than first cigarette use (all p < 0.05). Current cigarette smoking was associated with endorsing fewer negative symptoms (OR = 0.49, 95% CI = [0.25, 0.95]) and more positive symptoms (OR = 7.11, 95% CI = [1.47, 34.33]) at first cigarette use. First e-cigarette use symptoms were not associated with current e-cigarette use. Adolescents reported fewer negative symptoms from first e-cigarette than from first cigarette, and e-cigarette symptoms did not influence use as they do for cigarettes. Additional research is needed to confirm these findings in longitudinal studies.
Monometallic and Bimetallic Platinum Complexes with Fluorinated β-Diketiminate Ligands.

Presented here are complexes of two different fluorinated β-diketiminate (NacNac) ligands with cyclometalated platinum. Reaction of the cyclometalated platinum dimers [Pt(C^N)(μ-X)]2 [C^N = 2-phenylpyridine (ppy), 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)pyridine (F2ppy); X = Cl, Br] with lithium salts of backbone-fluorinated β-diketiminate ligands produces two structure types, depending on the temperature of the reaction. At milder temperatures ( 100 °C), the major species is a monoplatinum complex of the type Pt(C^N)(NacNac). The complexes display reduction waves in their cyclic voltammograms at mild potentials, as well as intense visible absorption bands (λ > 500 nm), that depend minimally on the identity of the C^N ligand or, in the case of the bimetallic complexes, the identity of the bridging halide. In addition, the monoplatinum complexes exhibit structured luminescence in the red and near-infrared regions deriving a NacNac-centered triplet state. All of these observations suggest that the NacNac π system contributes substantially to the frontier orbitals and motivates continued exploration of fluorinated β-diketiminate ligands in the design of complexes with desirable ligand-based redox and optical properties.
General Facet-Controlled Synthesis of Single-Crystalline {010}-Oriented LiMPO4 (M = Mn, Fe, Co) Nanosheets

Facet-controlled synthesis of phospho-olivine (LiMPO4, M = Mn, Fe, Co) cathode materials is of particular interest to manipulate their electrochemical properties because of their anisotropic ionic transport behavior. This study provides a general facet-controlled synthesis of single-crystalline LiMPO4 (M = Mn, Fe, Co) nanosheets with significantly large exposure of (010)-facets, which has not been readily achieved by conventional solution-based coprecipitation or solid-reaction methods. The as-obtained nanosheets show controllable thickness with the thinnest thickness down to 15–20 nm and lateral dimension up to ∼5 μm. Due to the shortened lithium ion diffusion pathway and high ratio of active surface enabled by the thin thickness, the as-prepared LiFePO4 nanosheets, as a model material, demonstrate greatly improved rate capability and cycling stability, with a reversible capacity of ∼80 mA h g–1 at a current rate of 30 C and a stable capacity retention of ∼93% after 500 cycles at a current rate of 5 C. F...
A large drawing of a nephron for teaching medical students renal physiology, histology, and pharmacology

The purpose of this study is to see whether a large drawing of a nephron helped medical students in self-directed learning groups learn renal physiology, histology, and pharmacology before discussing clinical cases. The end points were the grades on the renal examination and a student survey. The classes in the fall of 2014 and 2015 used the drawing, but not those of 2012 and 2013. The Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University is a newly formed Florida medical school, which enrolled its first class in the fall of 2011. The school relies on self-directed problem-based learning in year 1 and changes over to a case inquiry method in the latter part of year 1 and throughout year 2. At the start of the renal course, each student group received a poster of a nephron with the objective of learning the cell functions of the different nephron parts. During the first year of using the drawing, there was no improvement in grades. After a student suggested adjustment to the drawing, there was a statistically significant difference in the total test score in the second year ( P < 0.001). An unexpected finding was lower grades in all 4 yr in the area of acid-base balance and electrolytes compared with the other four areas tested. In the survey, the students found the drawing useful.
The closed loop: ninety years of health care architecture

ABSTRACTThis article considers how the perceptions of health care architecture and the health care Architect have changed over the past 90 years. Four case studies (Alvar Aalto's Paimio Sanatorium,...
Concepts of bioisolation for life sciences research on Space Station Freedom

The risk concepts related to biological research in space are defined with attention given to the design and operation of experimental hardware for NASA's Biological Flight Research Laboratory (BFRL). The definitions are set forth to describe safety measures for the use of nonhuman specimens in microgravity environments and the direct application of the risk-control concepts. Bioisolation is the process by which biological systems can coexist productively by means of physical, chemical, or biological methods; bioisolation requirements are given for mammals, plants, and microspecimens. The BRFL provides two levels of containment based on the complete sealing of all joints and interfaces in the Modular Habitat and an airflow system designed to provide net negative pressure of at least 0.13 kPa. The requirements are designed to assure a safe working environment for conducting nonhuman life-sciences research in the Space Station Freedom.
A TEST OF HANSEN'S METHOD WITH IRREGULAR BOUNDARIES

Free, long seiches in a rectangular basin were simulated with Hansen's method applied in two ways: (1) with the basin boundaries coinciding with the grid coordinate axes, and (2) with the basin boundaries inclined 45 degrees to the grid axes. There was good agreement between the two cases, and with the theoretical solutions.
Real-time predictive capabilities of analytical and machine learning rate of penetration (ROP) models

Abstract Real-time drilling optimization consists of selecting operational parameters that maximize a desirable measure of drilling performance. Drilling optimization efforts often aspire to improve drilling speed, commonly referred to as rate of penetration (ROP). Three operational drilling parameters may be constantly adjusted at surface to influence ROP: weight on bit (WOB), drillstring rotational speed (RPM), and drilling fluid (mud) flow rate. In the traditional, analytical approach to ROP modeling, inflexible equations relate WOB, RPM, flow rate and/or other measurable drilling parameters to ROP and empirical model coefficients are computed for each rock formation to best fit field data. Over the last decade, enhanced data acquisition technology and widespread cheap computational power have driven a surge in applications of machine learning (ML) techniques to ROP prediction. Machine learning algorithms leverage statistics to uncover relations between any prescribed inputs (features/predictors) and the quantity of interest (response). The biggest advantage of ML algorithms over analytical models is their flexibility in model form. With no set equation, ML models permit segmentation of the drilling operational parameter space. However, the increased model complexity diminishes interpretability of how an adjustment to the inputs will affect the output. There is no single ROP model applicable in every situation. This study investigates real-time predictive capabilities of analytical and ML ROP models in a continuous learning setting. Data are constantly recorded as a well is drilled, and it is postulated that ROP models can learn and adapt in real-time to become more accurate. Novel learning metrics demonstrate that machine learning models reduce test error much more effectively than analytical models with incremental training data availability. Both analytical and ML model performance improves with shortened retraining intervals, defined either by length or number of data points. Cross-validation is investigated as a methodology to select the best performing ROP model in real-time.
Effects of high-dosage focused electron-beam irradiation at energies ≤ 30 keV on graphene on SiO2

Abstract We investigate the effects of focused electron-beam irradiation on exfoliated graphene on SiO2 substrates at energies of 1.5, 10 and 30 keV and dosage of 28.8 C/cm2. Our objective is to understand the mechanism by which wide-area low-energy electron irradiation thins such samples. We test a previously reported mechanism in which the incident electrons produce defects in the graphene, pass through the graphene, and dissociate oxygen from the SiO2 underneath. The dissociated oxygen then reacts with graphene, etching it from below. We conclude that although oxygen may play a role in the etching, incident electrons at 1.5, 10 and 30 keV that pass through the graphene do not etch it. We propose wide-area irradiation may dissociate oxygen from the uncovered SiO2 substrate surrounding the graphene and produce etching from above.
Outcomes of decompressive surgery for cavernous sinus meningiomas: long-term follow-up in 50 patients.

Objective Cavernous sinus meningiomas are complex tumors that offer a perpetual challenge to skull base surgeons. The senior author has employed a management strategy for these lesions aimed at maximizing tumor control while minimizing neurological morbidity. This approach emphasizes combining "safe" tumor resection and direct decompression of the roof and lateral wall of the cavernous sinus as well as the optic nerve. Here, the authors review their experience with the application of this technique for the management of cavernous sinus meningiomas over the past 15 years. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed for patients with cavernous sinus meningiomas treated over a 15-year period (2002-2017) with this approach. Patient outcomes, including cranial nerve function, tumor control, and surgical complications were recorded. Results The authors identified 50 patients who underwent subtotal resection via frontotemporal craniotomy concurrently with decompression of the cavernous sinus and ipsilateral optic nerve. Of these, 25 (50%) underwent adjuvant radiation to the remaining tumor within the cavernous sinus. Patients most commonly presented with a cranial nerve (CN) palsy involving CN III-VI (70%), a visual deficit (62%), headaches (52%), or proptosis (44%). Thirty-five patients had cranial nerve deficits preoperatively. In 52% of these cases, the neuropathy improved postoperatively; it remained stable in 46%; and it worsened in only 2%. Similarly, 97% of preoperative visual deficits either improved or were stable postoperatively. Notably, 12 new cranial nerve deficits occurred postoperatively in 10 patients. Of these, half were transient and ultimately resolved. Finally, radiographic recurrence was noted in 5 patients (10%), with a median time to recurrence of 4.6 years. Conclusions The treatment of cavernous sinus meningiomas using surgical decompression with or without adjuvant radiation is an effective oncological strategy, achieving excellent tumor control rates with low risk of neurological morbidity.
A Wigner Function Based Ensemble Monte Carlo Approach for Accurate Incorporation of Quantum Effects in Device Simulation

We present results of both Gaussian wave-packet tunneling though a single barrier structure and RTD operation achieved from a particle-based Ensemble Monte Carlo (EMC) simulation that is based on the Wigner distribution function (WDF). Methods of including the Wigner potential into the EMC, to incorporate naturally quantum phenomena, via a particle property we call the affinity are discussed. Results showing tunneling and correlation build-up in both cases are presented.
Self-Insured Health Plans: Recent Trends by Firm Size, 1996‒2016

This Issue Brief examines 1996‒2016 trends in the availability of and enrollment in self-insured health plans among private-sector establishments offering health plans and their covered workers, with a particular focus on 2013 to 2016, so as to assess whether the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA) might have affected these trends. The data come from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Insurance Component (MEPS-IC). Here are the key findings: • The percentage of all private-sector establishments offering health plans at least one of which is self-insured has continued an increase that started in 2000. o In 2016, 40.7 percent of private-sector establishments reported that they self-insured at least one of their health plans, up from 39 percent in 2015. • Between 2013 and 2016, the percentages of small and midsized establishments offering at least one self-insured plan both increased. o For small establishments, the percentage increased from 13.3 percent to 17.4 percent (a 31 percent increase), with most of the increase occurring in 2016. o For midsized establishments, the percentage increased from 25.3 percent to 29.2 percent (a 15.4 percent increase). (In 2016, the percentage of midsized establishments offering a self-insured plan fell from 30.1 percent to 29.2 percent.) • Between 2013 and 2016, the self-insurance trend for large establishments continued to decline, falling from 83.9 percent to 78.5 percent. • Because many more employees work for large establishments, the increase in self-insurance among small establishments (and their workers) was not large enough to offset the decline among large establishments (and their workers), resulting in a decrease in the percentage of covered workers enrolled in self-insured plans. o Between 2015 and 2016, the percentage of enrollees in self-insured plans fell from 60 percent to 57.8 percent.
Identification of Reactive Intermediates Relevantto Dimethylgermylene Group Transfer Reactions of an Anthracene-BasedPrecursor

Dimethylgermylene ([Me2Ge]) group transfer from the anthracene-based precursor dibenzo-7-dimethylgermanorbornadiene (Me2GeA; A = C14H10, anthracene) was investigated. Transfer of [Me2Ge] from Me2GeA to 2,3-dimethylbutadiene to give a dihydrogermole (2) was mediated by a platinum metallagermacycle (1), formed by oxidative addition of the platinum(0) species (Ph3P)2Pt(C2H4) into the strained Ge–C bond of Me2GeA with concomitant loss of ethylene. Metallagermacycle 1 was characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and elemental analysis. The strained Ge–C bond of Me2GeA was also found to undergo an addition reaction with pyridine, resulting in the [2.2.3]-bicyclic compound 3. Kinetics experiments on both the platinum- and pyridine-promoted systems implicate low-valent dimethylgermylene-containing species as reaction intermediates.
Strategies for Connecting Activities in Physical Education and the Classroom.

Research has discovered a link between physical activity and learning, where students who are more physically active and fit perform better in the classroom. Since most classroom settings are seden...
Judicial Independence: Often Cited, Rarely Understood

In this article, a new definition of judicial independence is proposed such that 'judicial independence' can and should be defined as the judiciary’s independence from the executive, as measured by the amount of discretion that individual judges exercise in particular policy areas. This discretion varies depending on the political interaction between the legislature and the other branches of government. This definition, compared to the others reviewed, will provide political scientists and legal scholars with a better analytical tool for measuring and modeling judicial independence in both the United States and abroad.
The activation loop and substrate-binding cleft of glutaminase C are allosterically coupled

The glutaminase C (GAC) isoform of mitochondrial glutaminase is overexpressed in many cancer cells and therefore represents a potential therapeutic target. Understanding the regulation of GAC activity has been guided by the development of spectroscopic approaches that measure glutaminase activity in real time. Previously, we engineered a GAC protein (GAC(F327W)) in which a tryptophan residue is substituted for phenylalanine in an activation loop to explore the role of this loop in enzyme activity. We showed that the fluorescence emission of Trp-327 is enhanced in response to activator binding, but quenched by inhibitors of the BPTES class that bind to the GAC tetramer and contact the activation loop, thereby constraining it in an inactive conformation. In the present work, we took advantage of a tryptophan substitution at position 471, proximal to the GAC catalytic site, to examine the conformational coupling between the activation loop and the substrate-binding cleft, separated by ∼16 A. Comparison of glutamine binding in the presence or absence of the BPTES analog CB-839 revealed a reciprocal relationship between the constraints imposed on the activation loop position and the affinity of GAC for substrate. Binding of the inhibitor weakened the affinity of GAC for glutamine, whereas activating anions such as Pi increased this affinity. These results indicate that the conformations of the activation loop and the substrate-binding cleft in GAC are allosterically coupled and that this coupling determines substrate affinity and enzymatic activity and explains the activities of CB-839, which is currently in clinical trials.
PET/CT Imaging as a Diagnostic Tool in Distinguishing Well-Differentiated versus Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma.

Distinguishing well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS) from dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is essential given distinct treatment paradigms and chemosensitivity. Percutaneous biopsy has a low sensitivity for detecting DDLPS. We sought to identify the diagnostic utility of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in identifying WDLPS versus DDLPS. An independent radiologist reviewed PET/CT images to identify target lesions and determine the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax). An independent pathologist review confirmed WDLPS or DDLPS histology. A binary cutoff point of SUVmax was identified using a classification and regression trees (CART) algorithm. We identified 20 patients with WDLPS or DDLPS with 26 PET/CTs performed for separate recurrences that were followed by surgical sampling. Of the 26 records, 12 were DDLPS (46%) and 14 were WDLPS (54%). Patients with DDLPS had significantly higher SUVmax than those with WDLPS ( value = 0.0035). A SUVmax of 4 was identified as the cutoff point. Using this cutoff, the sensitivity of SUVmax identifying a case as DDLPS was 83.3% (95% CI: 51.6%, 97.9%) and the specificity was 85.7% (95% CI: 57.2%, 98.2%). PET/CT is a sensitive and specific diagnostic tool to identify the presence of dedifferentiation within the tumor.
Acute partial sleep deprivation and high-intensity interval exercise effects on postprandial endothelial function

Acute-total and chronic-partial sleep deprivation increase the risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular function assessed by flow mediated dilation (FMD) is reduced after sleep deprivation. High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) improves postprandial FMD. Sleep-deprived individuals may practice HIIE followed by a high-fat breakfast. This study investigated the acute-partial sleep deprivation (APSD) and HIIE interaction on postprandial FMD. Fifteen healthy males (age 31 ± 5 years) participated in: (a) reference sleep (~ 9.5 h) with no HIIE (RS), (b) RS and HIIE (RSX), and (c) APSD and HIIE (SSX). HIIE was performed in 3:2 min intervals at 90% and 40% of VO2 reserve. FMD was assessed the night before (D1), the morning of the next day (D2), 1 h (1hrPE) and 4 h post HIIE (4hrPE). FMD% change was lower at RS compared to both RSX (F1,14 = 23.96, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.631) and SSX (F1,14 = 4.8, p = 0.47, η2 = 0.253) at 1hrPE. RSX and SSX did not differ at 1hrPE (F1,14 = 0.2, p = 0.889, η2 = 0.001), but SSX elicited greater FDM responses. Absolute FMD change was lower at RS compared to both RSX (F1,14 = 21.5, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.606) and SSX (F1,14 = 7.01, p = 0.019, η2 = 0.336) at 1hrPE. RSX and SSX did not differ at 1hrPE (F1,14 = .03, p = 0.858, η2 = 0.002), but SSX elicited greater FDM responses. HIIE short-term effects on cardiovascular function remain cardioprotective even after an acute-partial sleep deprivation.
Identifying Phenogroups in patients with subclinical diastolic dysfunction using unsupervised statistical learning

Subclinical diastolic dysfunction is a precursor for developing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF); yet not all patients progress to HFpEF. Our objective was to evaluate clinical and echocardiographic variables to identify patients who develop HFpEF. Clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic data were retrospectively collected for 81 patients without HF and 81 matched patients with HFpEF at the time of first documentation of subclinical diastolic dysfunction. Density-based clustering or hierarchical clustering to group patients was based on 65 total variables including 19 categorical and 46 numerical variables. Logistic regression analysis was conducted on the entire study population as well as each individual cluster to identify independent predictors of HFpEF. Unsupervised clustering identified 3 subgroups which differed in gender composition, severity of cardiac hypertrophy and aortic stenosis, NT-proBNP, percentage of patients who progressed to HFpEF, and timing of disease progression from diastolic dysfunction to HFpEF to death. Clusters that had higher percentages of women had progressively milder cardiac hypertrophy, less severe aortic stenosis, lower NT-proBNP, were diagnosed at an older age with HFpEF, and survived to an older age. Independent predictors of HFpEF for the entire cohort included diabetes, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, and diuretic use, with additional predictive variables found for each cluster. Cluster analysis can identify phenotypically distinct subgroups of patients with diastolic dysfunction. Clusters differ in HFpEF and mortality outcome. In addition, the variables that correlate with and predict HFpEF outcome differ among clusters.
Balance impairment in survivors of pediatric brain cancers: risk factors and associated physical limitations

The study aims were to determine the prevalence of balance impairments in adult survivors of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors, and to identify predictors of and limitations associated with balance impairments. Participants were adult survivors (N = 329) of pediatric CNS tumors. Balance was considered impaired among those with composite scores < 70 on the sensory organization test. Potential predictors of impaired balance were evaluated with generalized linear regression. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between balance impairment and function. Balance impairment was observed in 48% of survivors, and associated with infratentorial tumor location (OR = 4.0, 95% CI, 2.0–7.6), shunt placement (OR = 3.5, 95% CI, 1.8–6.7), increased body fat percentage (OR = 1.1, 95% CI, 1.0–1.1), hearing loss (OR = 11.1, 95% CI, 5.6–22.2), flexibility limitations (OR = 2.0, 95% CI, 1.0–3.9), peripheral neuropathy (OR = 2.4, 95% CI, 1.2–4.5), and cognitive deficits (OR = 2.2, 95% CI, 1.1–4.7). In adjusted models, impaired balance was associated with limitations in overall physical performance (OR = 3.6, 95% CI, 2.0–6.3), mobility (OR = 2.6, 95% CI, 1.5–4.4), diminished walking endurance (OR = 2.9, 95% CI, 1.7–5.0), and non-independent living (OR = 2.0, 95% CI, 1.0–4.3). Nearly half of adult survivors of pediatric CNS tumors have impaired balance, which is associated with mobility and physical performance limitations. Interventions to address the complex needs of this population should be prioritized. Survivors with identified risk factors should be closely evaluated for presence of balance impairment. Interventions tailored to improve balance also can positively affect function and mobility in survivors.
Experimental Studies of Strength Inclined Sections Bent Elements from Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

The tasks of the experimental study included determining the design characteristics of autoclave aerated concrete (AAC) beams with a density of 600 kg / cm3, strength 4 MPa. namely, the width of the crack opening of the bending elements, checking the updated methodology for the effect of shear span to depth ratio [a/h], obtaining new data on the work of bending elements when the load approaches maximum, as well as in the stage of the beyond state, the distribution of deflections along the length of the elements, the distribution relative to the strain of the compression zone, tension zone and deformation of the joint zone of the transverse force and the bending moment and obtained experimental data on the bearing capacity and deformability of the beams for various values of span shear. The measured test data provide a basis for evaluating the accuracy of existing strength-design equations to predict the capacity of such specimens. The study in this paper can provide a reliable experimental basis for further analysis and engineering application of AAC beams in the future.
RF Performance of GaN-Based Graded-Channel HEMTs

GaN-based HEMTs are attractive devices for RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave applications, with excellent power and noise figure performance having been demonstrated. Recently, graded-channel structures have been explored for their potential to improve linearity through channel engineering. However, due to the longitudinal optical (LO) phonon coupling in III-N structures, graded channel devices are also seen to exhibit improved carrier saturation velocity over a wider range of device bias conditions. In turn, this may enable RF performance improvements. We report the first study of bias dependence of millimeter-wave RF performance for graded-channel GaN-based HEMTs. In contrast to conventional abrupt AlGaN/GaN heterostructure HEMTs, the higher carrier velocity leads to high f t and f max over a wide range of bias conditions. This has implications for the design of high-linearity and power-efficient amplifiers.
Sleep among Obstetrics and Gynecology Trainees: Results from a Yoga-Based Wellness Initiative.

Objective This study aimed to determine the feasibility of using a wrist-based fitness tracking device to assess sleep among Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) trainees who engaged in a yoga-based wellness program. We also sought to evaluate the effects of yoga on sleep. Study design A quality improvement initiative consisting of an 8-week wellness program of weekly yoga classes, nutrition, and physical challenges was implemented for OBGYN residents and Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellows. The Polar A370 fitness tracker device was provided and synced to the Polar Flow for Coach program for inclusion. Data obtained included total and restful sleep from each night the device were worn. Pre- and post-assessment of the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were compared. Linear mixed models were used to estimate and test the effect of yoga on sleep while controlling for on-call shifts. Results Of the 15 participants who synced their device, 13 (87%) were included for analysis. Sleep data from 572 nights were analyzed. The mean (SD) total sleep was 434.28 (110.03) minutes over the 8 weeks. A minimum of 7 hours (420 minutes) of total sleep occurred 59.3% of the time. After controlling for Friday or Saturday night on-call, those who attended yoga class had a significantly greater total sleep (yoga: 425.14 minutes [41.89], no yoga: 357.33 [43.04] minutes; p = 0.04). There was no significant change in the mean global PSQI score after the program (pre: 5.0 [1.6], post: 5.1 [2.5], p = 0.35). Conclusion Wearable fitness monitors provide insight into sleep patterns displayed during training and can serve as a tool to identify those who are sleep deprived and assist in the evaluation of trainee wellness. Training programs are encouraged to provide access to yoga and mindfulness interventions to improve sleep and possibly clinical performance. Key points · Yoga improves trainee sleep by approximately 60 minutes.. · Total and restful sleep are reduced during night float rotation.. · Trainees obtained 7 hours of sleep approximately 60% of the time..
How does consumer engagement evolve when brands post across multiple social media

Brands allocate their social media advertising across multiple platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Because consumers use multiple social media, brand communications on one platform could generate engagement within the same platform (direct effects) and potentially impact engagement with the brand on the other platforms (spillover effects). Additionally, past engagement with a post on a platform could sustain into the future, thereby improving the longevity of posts (carryover effects). These effects could also vary across platforms. Drawing on recent advertising literature, the authors propose and test differential carryover, spillover, and direct effects within and across social media. The empirical analysis indicates that these effects exist and are significant, supporting the propositions presented. The analysis provides generalizable guidelines to social media marketers on the effectiveness of the various platforms at sustaining a post and at creating direct and spillover effects across other platforms. Finally, the study also exemplifies a resource allocation model for brands to use when allocating their efforts across the various social media platforms to maximize both consumer engagement and the firm’s return on social media investment.
Pancreatic differentiation

Over the last decade, with the advent of new techniques and technologies in modern molecular biology, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for organ differentiation has developed rapidly. Despite this, our knowledge of these signaling pathways is still far from complete. Some of these advances, such as the creation of transgenic mouse models, have given us new tools to help us understand the interactions of the various transcription factors that are responsible for the creation of various cell types from a single cell type during embryogenesis. This knowledge then gives rise to the concept of creating new ways to manipulate stem cells in order to correct the deficiencies present in various disease processes. Here, we present work that focuses specifically on pancreatic development. The ultimate goal of our research in studying the mechanisms of the basic differentiation of pancreatic precursor cells is to gain the knowledge necessary to be able to engineer stem cells specifically into β-cells in the treatment of diabetes.
The Honey Bee Gene Bee Antiviral Protein-1 Is a Taxonomically Restricted Antiviral Immune Gene

Insects have evolved a wide range of strategies to combat invading pathogens, including viruses. Genes that encode proteins involved in immune responses often evolve under positive selection due to their co-evolution with pathogens. Insect antiviral defense includes the RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism, which is triggered by recognition of non-self, virally produced, double-stranded RNAs. Indeed, insect RNAi genes (e.g., dicer and argonaute-2) are under high selective pressure. Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are eusocial insects that respond to viral infections via both sequence specific RNAi and a non-sequence specific dsRNA triggered pathway, which is less well characterized. A transcriptome-level study of virus-infected and/or dsRNA-treated honey bees revealed increased expression of a novel antiviral gene, GenBank: MF116383, and in vivo experiments confirmed its antiviral function. Due to in silico annotation and sequence similarity, MF116383 was originally annotated as a probable cyclin-dependent serine/threonine-protein kinase. In this study, we confirmed that MF116383 limits virus infection, and carried out further bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses to better characterize this important gene – which we renamed bee antiviral protein-1 (bap1). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that bap1 is taxonomically restricted to Hymenoptera and Blatella germanica (the German cockroach) and that the majority of bap1 amino acids are evolving under neutral selection. This is in-line with the results from structural prediction tools that indicate Bap1 is a highly disordered protein, which likely has relaxed structural constraints. Assessment of honey bee gene expression using a weighted gene correlation network analysis revealed that bap1 expression was highly correlated with several immune genes – most notably argonaute-2. The coexpression of bap1 and argonaute-2 was confirmed in an independent dataset that accounted for the effect of virus abundance. Together, these data demonstrate that bap1 is a taxonomically restricted, rapidly evolving antiviral immune gene. Future work will examine the signal cascade responsible for regulating the expression of bap1 and other honey bee antiviral defense genes, including coexpressed ago-2, and determine whether the virus limiting function of bap1 acts in parallel or in tandem with RNAi.
The Natural Sampling of Airborne Trace Signals from Explosives Concealed upon the Human Body

An experimental study of the natural sampling of trace signals from explosives concealed upon the human body was performed by taking proper account of the thermal behavior of the air surrounding the human body and the particles therein. Experiments were conducted in a dispersal chamber to identify variables affecting the detectibility of concealed RDX and TNT patches. Movement by human volunteers was found to enhance the available explosive trace signal above a baseline level. Clothing blocked some of this movement-generated trace signal. The detected signal levels were also found to vary significantly from volunteer to volunteer, indicating that human variability is an issue in explosive trace detection. Further, under the conditions studied here, the detectibility of RDX and TNT was dependent upon the efficient sampling of contaminated particulate matter, not the vapor phase. The present results are now being applied to the design of a practical, nonintrusive trace detection portal for aviation security screening and related applications.