cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructural alterations of alveolar tissue of mice. II. Synthetic photochemical smog.

Young mice (4 days and 1 and 2 months old) were exposed to 0.6 to 1.3 ppm (1.4 to 2.8 mg per cu m) ozone for six to seven hours per day for one or two days. The morphological changes seen in the alveolar cells were both age- and dose-dependent; most sensitive were the youngest mice (4 days old) exposed for two days. The endothelial cells lining the small capillaries appeared to be the main target of the ozone. In many sections the lining membranes were broken and fragmenting. The basement membrane was usually intact. Some erythrocytes were disrupted. Infrequently the blood-air barrier was completely broken. Cell debris was often present in the alveoli as well as the capillaries. Some disorganization of the cytoplasm of the large alveolar corner or wall cells was evident. Less extensive morphological change was seen in the older animals exposed for one day.
Triptolide Inhibits IL-12/IL-23 Expression in APCs via CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein α

Triptolide is a biologically active component purified from Chinese herbal plant Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. It is widely used in East Asia for treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, nephritis, Bechect's disease, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and asthma. However, its immunological mechanisms are poorly understood. IL-12 and IL-23 are closely related heterodimeric cytokines that share the common subunit p40. They are produced by APCs and are key factors in the generation and effector functions of Th1 and Th17 cells, respectively. They have been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune disorders. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism whereby triptolide inhibits the expression of the p40 gene in APCs. We demonstrate that triptolide does so at the transcriptional level in part through targeting CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-alpha (C/EBPalpha), which directly interacts with the p40 promoter and inhibits its transcription in inflammatory macrophages. Triptolide can activate the transcription of C/EBPalpha, and phosphorylation of Ser21 and Thr222/226 critical for C/EBPalpha inhibition of p40. Further, activation of C/EBPalpha by triptolide is dependent on upstream kinases ERK1/2 and Akt-GSK3beta. This study provides mechanistic insights into the immunomodulatory capacity of triptolide and has strong implications for its therapeutic applications in autoimmune diseases.
Adaptive environmental control for optimal energy consumption in hospitals

A second order dynamical model of the heating/cooling process in a hospital building is simulated. A fuzzy logic controller (FLC) based on if-then control rules is designed and the performance of the FLC is compared with that of commonly used on/off and PI/PID controllers. Both the FLC and the PI/PID controllers outperform the on/off controller in terms of accuracy, as well as energy consumption. However, the FLC is more robust than the PI/PID controllers in that the FLC is much less sensitive to changes in system parameters and consumes less energy. >
Retinal Nerve Fiber Thickness Measurements in Choroideremia Patients with Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography

Purpose: To evaluate the presence of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defects in patients with choroideremia by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).Methods: Twenty-nine eyes of 16 patients with choroideremia underwent peripapillary RNFL thickness measurements by using SD-OCT.Results: The mean (±SD) age of the study population was 44.0 ± 16.0 years (range, 13–63 years). Thirteen eyes (45%) showed a thinning of the peripapillary RNFL in at least 1 quadrant in either 1 or both eyes. Thinning was most commonly found in the superior (13 eyes) and inferior (10 eyes) quadrants. Twenty-one eyes (72%) showed a thickening of the peripapillary RNFL in at least 1 quadrant in either 1 or both eyes. Of these 21 eyes, all had thickening in the temporal quadrant. Additionally, 2 eyes in each of the other 3 quadrants were found to be abnormally thick.Conclusion: Our study demonstrated the presence of defects in the peripapillary RNFL thickness in patients with choroideremia by using S...
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance with an MR compatible pacemaker

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) within FDA guidelines for the MRI-conditional pacemaker precludes placing the heart at the center of the magnet’s bore. This in effect appears to preclude cardiovascular MR. In this manuscript, we describe a protocol for cardiovascular MR of patients with a Revo pacemaker system while operating within FDA guidelines, and the first US case of cardiovascular MR in a patient with a Revo MRI-conditional pacing system despite position constraints.
Development of a Molten Salt Reactor for Solar Gasification of Biomass

Abstract Solar gasification has the benefits of maximizing the yield of synthesis gas from gasification of biomass and other carbonaceous feed stock and storing solar energy in chemical form. The University of Minnesota has developed a 3kWth prototype solar gasification reactor in which biomass is converted to synthesis gas within a molten carbonate salt. The salt serves as a catalyst for gasification, ensures effective transfer of heat to the reactants, and provides thermal storage to ensure steady operation. This paper describes the reactor concept and provides an overview of the design process.
Enzymes from fungal and plant origin required for chemical diversification of insecticidal loline alkaloids in grass-Epichloë symbiota.

The lolines are a class of bioprotective alkaloids that are produced by Epichloe species, fungal endophytes of grasses. These alkaloids are saturated 1-aminopyrrolizidines with a C2 to C7 ether bridge, and are structurally differentiated by the various modifications of the 1-amino group: -NH2 (norloline), -NHCH3 (loline), -N(CH3)2 (N-methylloline), -N(CH3)Ac (N-acetylloline), -NHAc (N-acetylnorloline), and -N(CH3)CHO (N-formylloline). Other than the LolP cytochrome P450, which is required for conversion of N-methylloline to N-formylloline, the enzymatic steps for loline diversification have not yet been established. Through isotopic labeling, we determined that N-acetylnorloline is the first fully cyclized loline alkaloid, implying that deacetylation, methylation, and acetylation steps are all involved in loline alkaloid diversification. Two genes of the loline alkaloid biosynthesis (LOL) gene cluster, lolN and lolM, were predicted to encode an N-acetamidase (deacetylase) and a methyltransferase, respectively. A knockout strain lacking both lolN and lolM stopped the biosynthesis at N-acetylnorloline, and complementation with the two wild-type genes restored production of N-formylloline and N-acetylloline. These results indicated that lolN and lolM are required in the steps from N-acetylnorloline to other lolines. The function of LolM as an N-methyltransferase was confirmed by its heterologous expression in yeast resulting in conversion of norloline to loline, and of loline to N-methylloline. One of the more abundant lolines, N-acetylloline, was observed in some but not all plants with symbiotic Epichloe siegelii, and when provided with exogenous loline, asymbiotic meadow fescue (Lolium pratense) plants produced N-acetylloline, suggesting that a plant acetyltransferase catalyzes N-acetylloline formation. We conclude that although most loline alkaloid biosynthesis reactions are catalyzed by fungal enzymes, both fungal and plant enzymes are responsible for the chemical diversification steps in symbio.
A TIME-BASED APPROACH TO METERING ARRIVAL TRAFFIC TO PHILADELPHIA

Time-based metering via the Traffic Management Advisor (TMA) has significantly improved arrival operations at capacity-constrained airports in the western U.S. such as Dallas -Ft. Worth International Airport. Arrival flow management in the northeast corridor is in critical need of improvement to reduce the routine occurrence of airborne holding and in-trail spacing restrictions. However, the implementation and acceptance of time -based metering for a major airport in the tightly-constrained northeast corridor presents challenges beyond those encountered in other regions of the country. Research is underway at NASA Ames Research Center to identify these challenges, comprehend the underlying system dynamics, and develop requirements for a second -generation TMA system —the Multi-Center Traffic Management Advisor —intended to im prove arrival operations at major airports in the northeast corridor. Philadelphia International Airport has been selected as the initial development and test site. Several research activities, including site visits and simulations, have identified four primary technical challenges of metering in this airspace: (1) an infrastructur e that is inadequate for multi-facility coordination, (2) limited ability to absorb delay, (3) uncertain departure times of short-haul PHL arrivals, and (4) workload implications of converting from a miles-in-trail operation to a time-based metering operation. System requirements addressing these technical challenges are discussed.
Parents as Participants Policy Design to Inform and Empower

I present the results of an original survey experiment designed to understand the complex relationship between policy information, attitudes, and evaluation. Parents of children attending schools identified for improvement under the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) are exposed to basic, context-specific, policy information on a randomized basis and then asked to complete an attitudinal survey. Treatment parents are significantly more likely than control group peers to report familiarity with NCLB and correctly identify the policy status of their child’s school. An increased depth of policy understanding enables these parents to bring evaluations of their child’s educational experience, policy, and government into alignment. Findings demonstrate the potential for careful policy framing and delivery to encourage enlightened opinion formation and political participation.
Home healthcare practice environment: Predictors of RN satisfaction

Since 2000, Medicare-certified home healthcare agencies have undergone significant regulatory changes that directly affect registered nurses. The satisfaction of 201 nurses from 19 home healthcare agencies was examined. Home healthcare nurses reported slightly lower satisfaction than hospital nurses and were approximately 50% less satisfied than they were in 2000. Satisfaction had a negative relationship with years worked as a home healthcare nurse (r = −.25, p < .01). Controlling for years of home healthcare experience, control over practice decisions and practice setting decisions were significant predictors of satisfaction. With the demand for home healthcare nurses expected to increase 109% by 2020, development of a National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators for home healthcare that includes satisfaction as a nurse-sensitive outcome might be helpful. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 31:252–260, 2008
Red blood cell indices: Implications for practice

The first few weeks to months of life are characterized by dramatic physiologic and anatomic changes. As hematologic parameters are evolving during this time period, laboratory data must be assessed in light of the ongoing developmental adjustments that are taking place. Fetal and neonatal erythrocytes differ significantly from those produced by older infants, children, and adults. They are larger in size, have a shorter life span, altered shape and deformability, and high fetal hemoglobin concentrations. While these differences do not impact their ability to deliver oxygen to the tissues to meet their metabolic needs, these characteristics may confound the interpretation of hematologic data and complicate the diagnosis of neonates with certain disorders such as anemia. RBC indices such as mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and red cell distribution width are laboratory parameters that are frequently overlooked in clinical practice but they can provide assistance in establishing a diagnosis in anemic patients.
The Mitochondrial Proteome and Human Disease

For nearly three decades, the sequence of the human mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) has provided a molecular framework for understanding maternally inherited diseases. However, the vast majority of human mitochondrial disorders are caused by nuclear genome defects, which is not surprising since the mtDNA encodes only 13 proteins. Advances in genomics, mass spectrometry, and computation have only recently made it possible to systematically identify the complement of over 1,000 proteins that comprise the mammalian mitochondrial proteome. Here, we review recent progress in characterizing the mitochondrial proteome and highlight insights into its complexity, tissue heterogeneity, evolutionary origins, and biochemical versatility. We then discuss how this proteome is being used to discover the genetic basis of respiratory chain disorders as well as to expand our definition of mitochondrial disease. Finally, we explore future prospects and challenges for using the mitochondrial proteome as a foundation for systems...
Role of capsaicin-sensitive afferent nerves in mucosal injury and injury-induced hyperemia in rat colon

Exposure of the colonic mucosa to 10% acetic acid results in ischemia and damage of the exposed mucosa and hyperemia in the adjacent unexposed and undamaged mucosa. We hypothesize that this hyperemia is mediated in part by capsaicin-sensitive afferent nerves, and absence of the hyperemia is associated with aggravation of damage in the exposed mucosa. In urethan-anesthetized rats, with the reflectance spectrophotometry probe in contact with the colonic mucosa, index of mucosal oxygen saturation (ISO2) was monitored before and for 5 min after 10% acetic acid was applied to the mucosa surrounding the measuring probe. Histological examination confirmed that the mucosa in contact with the measuring probe was undamaged, but the mucosa exposed to the 10% acetic acid was damaged. In the mucosa in contact with the reflectance spectrophotometry probe, a significant increase in ISO2 was observed in vehicle-pretreated rats, whereas a partial but significant reduction of such hyperemia was observed in capsaicin-pretreated rats. In the mucosa exposed to the 10% acetic acid, the depth of the mucosal lesion, but not the drop in ISO2, was significantly greater in the capsaicin-pretreated rats. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the colonic mucosal hyperemia in the undamaged mucosa adjacent to the mucosa damaged by the 10% acetic acid is mediated partially by capsaicin-sensitive afferent nerves. Attenuation of such hyperemia by capsaicin-pretreatment is associated with deeper mucosal damage, suggesting that the capsaicin-sensitive afferent nerves also contribute toward colonic mucosal protection against 10% acetic acid-induced injury in the exposed mucosa.
Effects of intracolonic opioid receptor agonists on polymodal pelvic nerve afferent fibers in the rat.

We studied the effects of intracolonic administration of opioid receptor agonists (ORAs) on responses of pelvic nerve afferent fibers to colorectal distension (CRD) and heat. Single-fiber recording...
Nocturnal Behavior of Adult Cotton Leafperforators in Cotton

Nocturnal behavior of adult cotton leafperforators, Bucculatrix thurberiella Busck (Lep.: Lyonetiidae), was studied in a cotton field near Phoenix, AZ, from late Sept. to mid-Oct. 1976. Adult moths moved from resting sites to the upper ⅓ of the plants in early or late evening, depending on temperature, then they began a sequence of activity including feeding, ovipositing, and mating. Adults were active earlier in the evening when temperatures were lower. Moths fed extensively on both square and leaf nectaries and oviposited on the upper ⅓ of the plants, primarily along main veins on upper and lower surfaces of true leaves. However, a few moths oviposited adjacent to secondary veins. Mating followed feeding and ovipositing by the population. Precopulatory behavior was studied and described. The leafperforators remained in copula for as long as 5 h.
Reform and Development Tactics of Adult Education Under Lifetime Education System

In the 21st century, lifetime education draws the attention of society and governments worldwide. Adult education, as a new educational system, is developed from traditional school education to lifetime education. Under the notion of lifetime education, adult education should establish new developing goals and tactics.
Dynamic Handle of Page about CAI Courseware by ActionScript Programming Method

Develops multimedia courseware by using ActionScript language embeded in Flash MX, and introduces several methods that are characteristic of ActionScript programming. The designing and disposing methods are used to realize page's dynamic effect of CAI multimedia courseware.
Essential activation of Na(+)-H+ exchange by [H+]i in HL-60 cells.

The intracellular pH (pHi) dependence of the rate of Na(+)-H+ exchange was determined in undifferentiated promyelocytic HL-60 cells by measuring alkalinization rates using the fluorescent pHi indicator 2',7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5,6-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). BCECF was calibrated in the pH range from 5 to 7 using the nigericin technique of Thomas and co-workers (J. A. Thomas, R. N. Buchsbaum, A. Zimniak, and E. Racker. Biochemistry 18: 2210-2218, 1979). Exchange rate increases as pHi is lowered below pH 7.00. At low pH (pH below 6.3), the dependence of Na(+)-H+ exchange rate on intracellular proton activity is well fitted by the Michaelis-Menten equation with a maximum exchange velocity of 33.7 +/- 2.4 mmol H(+).1 cell water-1.min-1 and a half-saturation constant of 1.35 +/- 0.28 microM (corresponding to a minus log of the Michaelis constant of 5.89). However, a Hill plot reveals that the Hill coefficient changes gradually from one to two when pH is changed from 5 to 7, ruling out Michaelian kinetics. The dependence of exchange flux on internal protons is well fit in the full pH range from 5 to 7 by a simple kinetic model (essential activation) with modifier and transport sites for internal proton binding. At low pH, failure to correct BCECF measurement of pHi for contribution to fluorescence signal from extracellular dye and for quenching of intracellular BCECF leads to an artifactual increase in the measured Hill coefficient. These two findings (increase in Hill coefficient as pHi is increased and artifactual increase in Hill coefficient because of methodological reasons) provide a good explanation for the wide range of Hill coefficients reported in the literature.
Saint and Countersaint: Catholic Triumphalism and Jewish Resistance in Baroque Prague’s Abeles Affair

In late seventeenth-century Prague, Simon Abeles, a Jewish boy of about eleven or twelve, left the Jewish quarter, studied for conversion to Christianity, returned home without converting, and then died. The boy’s father, Lazar Abeles, was charged with his murder and hanged himself in jail. Lobl Kurtzhandl, a young man who had lived with the family, was accused of being an accomplice and sentenced to death. The case became a cause celebre as the boy came to be regarded as an unofficial local saint acclaimed in broadsides, pamphlets, and even music. A single Yiddish source, a historical song, tells the story from a Jewish point of view but, surprisingly, does not take up the question of the guilt or innocence of either Kurtzhandl or the elder Abeles, focusing instead on Kurtzhandl’s actions in his final days, hours, and moments. Burning polemics between local Christians and Jews centered on this very question, each population seeking saint-like heroes for its young members to emulate. On the Catholic side, such activity fit within a much broader context of Catholic renewal and triumphalism that capped a decades-long process of ridding Bohemia of Protestant influence. On the Jewish side, it represented active resistance against such trends.
Abstract 2757: Mcl-1 dictates DNA double-strand break repair pathway choice

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are mainly repaired by homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathways. The choice of pathway is a critical aspect of DSB repair that is poorly understood. We show that Mcl-1 acts as a functional switch in pathway choice between HR and NHEJ. Mcl-1 is cell cycle-regulated, with expression peaking in S/G2 phase via reduction of its ubiquitination when HR occurs. Mcl-1 depletion reduces HR and enhances NHEJ. Mcl-1 overexpression results in a net increase in HR over NHEJ. Mcl-1 promotes HR-dependent DSB repair following DNA replication stress, which contributes to maintenance of genomic integrity. Mcl-1 directly interacts with Ku via its BH1 and BH3 domains. This interaction is required for Mcl-1 to inhibit Ku-mediated NHEJ, and promote Mre11 complex-mediated DNA resection and HR-dependent DSB repair. Thus, Mcl-1, in addition to its antiapoptotic function, plays an unexpected role in directing DSB repair pathway choice by skewing the balance toward HR during cell cycle progression. Citation Format: Guo Chen, Ke Xu, Maohua Xie, Taofeek K. Owonikoko, Suresh S. Ramalingam, Paul W. Doetsch, Xingming Deng. Mcl-1 dictates DNA double-strand break repair pathway choice. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2757.
At the Roots of The World Health Organization’s Challenges: Politics and Regionalization

The World Health Organization's (WHO's) leadership challenges can be traced to its first decades of existence. Central to its governance and practice is regionalization: the division of its member countries into regions, each representing 1 geographical or cultural area. The particular composition of each region has varied over time-reflecting political divisions and especially decolonization. Currently, the 194 member countries belong to 6 regions: the Americas (35 countries), Europe (53 countries), the Eastern Mediterranean (21 countries), South-East Asia (11 countries), the Western Pacific (27 countries), and Africa (47 countries). The regions have considerable autonomy with their own leadership, budget, and priorities. This regional organization has been controversial since its beginnings in the first days of WHO, when representatives of the European countries believed that each country should have a direct relationship with the headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, whereas others (especially the United States) argued in favor of the regionalization plan. Over time, regional directors have inevitably challenged the WHO directors-general over their degree of autonomy, responsibilities and duties, budgets, and national composition; similar tensions have occurred within regions. This article traces the historical roots of these challenges.
Type Ib Supernovae

In this chapter presents supernovae of Type Ib (SN Ib), the distinguishing characteristic of which is presence of helium spectral lines in optical spectra. Hydrogen lines are absent or inconspicuous, indicating that most or all of the hydrogen envelope was lost prior to explosion. The light curves of typical SN Ib generally resemble those of other stripped-envelope supernovae (SN IIb; Chapter “Type IIb Supernovae”, and SN Ic; Chapter “Type Ic Supernovae”) except that the early peak observed in a few SN IIb has not been detected in SN Ib (or SN Ic). The spectra of SN Ib resemble those of SN IIb apart from the lack of conspicuous hydrogen lines even at early times. Spectropolarization reveals that SN Ib tend to be substantially asymmetric. Like those of SN IIb, most progenitors of SN Ib probably are stars of initial main-sequence mass in the range of 10–18 solar masses, the hydrogen envelopes of which were stripped owing to binary interactions. The archival detection of one progenitor star supports this picture. A minority of progenitors may, however, be massive Wolf-Rayet stars that lose their envelopes by means of winds. The chapter also discusses Type Ibn supernovae (SN Ibn); the distinguishing characteristic is the presence in early spectra of narrow emission lines of helium, indicative of helium-rich circumstellar matter.
Human Trafficking: A Research Synthesis on Human-Trafficking Literature in Academic Journals from 2000–2014

The current study is a research synthesis on human-trafficking literature. The purpose of this study is to examine trends over time, areas of research that have been covered by the literature, and ...
Costs Associated With Single-Use and Conventional Sets for Distal Radius Plating.

Purpose Volar plating of distal radius fractures is an increasingly common procedure. Presterilized, single-use volar plate fixation sets have been purported to increase operating room efficiency and decrease cost. The purpose of this study was to compare the actual cost of using a conventional set compared with the projected cost of using its single-use counterpart. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 30 consecutive cases of volar plate fixation in which conventional instrument sets were used. Hardware and processing costs were calculated for the conventional sets and compared with the projected cost of using single-use sets. Results The mean total cost of hardware and processing for the conventional sets was $2,728, whereas the projected cost for the single-use sets was slightly higher at $2,868. Twenty-three of the 30 cases would have required additional screws not available in the single-use set. The cost of the additional screws needed to supplement the single-use set would have added an average of $282/case. Overall, the combined hardware and processing cost was lower for conventional sets in 25 of the 30 cases. Conclusions Although the price of the single-use set is less than the mean charge for use of a conventional set, additional screws not available in the single-use set were required in 77% of cases and consequently rendered the conventional set cheaper in 83% of cases. Stocking the single-use sets with additional screws to reflect the most commonly used screw lengths could make these sets more cost effective in the future. Type of study/level of evidence Economic and decision analysis IV.
EFFECTS OF TOXICANTS ON CERTAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE LYMPHORETICULAR SYSTEM OF FISH

ABSTRACT: Spot ( Leiostomus xanthurus ) and hogchoker ( Trinectes maculatus ) from the Elizabeth River, Virginia, which is heavily contaminated with polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), exhibit greatly reduced phagocytic and chemotactic activity of kidney macrophages. In addition, kidney macrophages from Elizabeth River spot were markedly deficient in generating a zymosan-induced chemiluminescent (CL) response, as were macrophages from York River spot exposed in the laboratory to Elizabeth River sediments. The CL response of hogchoker and oyster toadfish ( Opsanus tau ) macrophages was significantly depressed by exposure to 400 μg/liter tributyltin (TBT), while croaker ( Micropogonias undulatus ) CL activity was depressed at 40 μg/liter TBT. These assay techniques are proposed as potential bioindicators of environmental pollution.
Evaluating the Survival of Translocated Adult and Captive-reared, Juvenile Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis)

Abstract Recent amphibian declines have been addressed with a variety of conservation tools, including translocations. It is important to evaluate the success of ongoing amphibian conservation programs. In Indiana, USA, because of the documented decline of the Eastern Hellbender (Cryptobranchus a. alleganiensis) population, translocations of wild-captured and captive-reared individuals have been implemented as a management strategy. Our study was developed to estimate the annual survivorship of translocated versus resident Eastern Hellbenders and to compare the efficacy of translocating wild adults and captive-reared juveniles. Adult residents, and translocated adult and juvenile subjects, were implanted with radio transmitters in a staggered entry design and tracked for up to 2 yr. A Cox proportional hazards model indicated that captive-reared, juvenile hellbenders had lower annual survival rates than did either resident or translocated adults. The relatively high survival rates of all groups indicated t...
Voluntary Programs To Encourage Refuges for Pesticide Resistance Management: Lessons from a Quasi-Experiment

Economists often treat pesticide resistance as a common‐pool resource problem. While pecuniary economic incentives are the standard prescription for open‐access market failures arising from such resources, non‐pecuniary behavioral approaches (e.g., “nudges”) are also effective in some cases. Yet non‐pecuniary instruments have not previously been evaluated for managing pesticide resistance. I empirically evaluate the performance of such an intervention to manage pest resistance to genetically engineered Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency permits sale of Bt seed conditional on seed producers compelling customers to plant mandated levels of non‐Bt refuge to delay the evolution of Bt resistance. Because of compliance challenges, the Bt seed producer Monsanto piloted a social marketing program to promote refuge in 17 North Carolina counties in 2013–2014. Using 2013–2016 sales data, I use difference‐in‐differences, fractional regression, discrete changes‐in‐changes, and matched differences econometric models to identify the average treatment effect of the program on refuge planting. Results suggest that if it had covered all corn growers in North Carolina, the intervention would have led the average grower to plant between 2.6% (preferred estimate) and 5.8% more refuge in 2014 compared to the counterfactual. The program increased by at least 12% the average probability of planting any refuge in 2014. I find little evidence that effects of the program persisted in subsequent years after cessation, nor that the program increased compliance with mandated refuge thresholds. Informed by behavioral economics research on other environmental and resource policies, I discuss the implications of these findings for pesticide resistance management.
A Background Spread-Spectrum Radio Frequency Nonlinear Parameter Measurement Technique

We report a new correlation-based direct sequence spread-spectrum technique that estimates low-pass-equivalent Volterra coefficients for weakly nonlinear RF systems. The methodology provides robust coefficient estimates at test signal amplitudes well below the operating signal level during normal system operation, demonstrating that the technique can be used for “background” nonlinearity measurement. We demonstrate the methodology by measuring third-order Volterra kernels for a power amplifier chain operated in compression with a 10 MHz bandwidth signal at 1960 MHz.
Labrador Current Predictive Model

Predictive numerical models of ocean current systems form an important facet to the study of the oceans. These models not only allow experimentation with oceanic physics by changing input parameters and observing the resultant effects on current patterns, but also provide a pathway towards the goal of long range oceanic predictions. Predictive meteorological models have attained a degree of success not yet realized by oceanic models. One reason for this is that input data, frequently updated, are available to the meteorologist. These real environmental input data make the difference between models formulated for parametric analysis and analytical solutions and those truly predictive models that can provide information on future changes in property distributions and current patterns. Prediction of the changes that occur in the property distributions and current patterns, generally referred to as circulation, have been long sought by oceanographers faced with interpretation of field data.
A Binding Site Hotspot Map of the FKBP12-Rapamycin-FRB Ternary Complex by Photoaffinity Labeling and Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics

Structural characterization of small molecule binding site hotspots within the global proteome is uniquely enabled by photoaffinity labeling (PAL) coupled with chemical enrichment and unbiased analysis by mass spectrometry (MS). MS-based binding site maps provide structural resolution of interaction sites in conjunction with identification of target proteins. However, binding site hotspot mapping has been confined to relatively simple small molecules to date; extension to more complex compounds would enable the structural definition of new binding modes in the proteome. Here, we extend PAL and MS methods to derive a binding site hotspot map for the immunosuppressant rapamycin, a complex macrocyclic natural product that forms a ternary complex with the proteins FKBP12 and FRB. Photo-rapamycin was developed as a diazirine-based PAL probe for rapamycin, and the FKBP12-photo-rapamycin-FRB ternary complex formed readily in vitro. Photoirradiation, digestion, and MS analysis of the ternary complex revealed a McLafferty rearrangement product of photo-rapamycin conjugated to specific surfaces on FKBP12 and FRB. Molecular modeling based on the binding site map revealed two distinct conformations of complex-bound photo-rapamycin, providing a 5.0 A distance constraint between the conjugated residues and the diazirine carbon and a 9.0 A labeling radius for the diazirine upon photoactivation. These measurements may be broadly useful in the interpretation of binding site measurements from PAL. Thus, in characterizing the ternary complex of photo-rapamycin by MS, we applied binding site hotspot mapping to a macrocyclic natural product and extracted precise structural measurements for interpretation of PAL products that may enable the discovery of new binding sites in the "undruggable" proteome.
Driver brake response to sudden unintended acceleration while parking

Abstract In the past decade, there has been a rapid increase in reports of sudden unintended acceleration (SUA). While the precipitating conditions for SUA are well known, we know little about how drivers respond in such emergencies and how particular responses might lead to crashes. The goal of this study was to examine how drivers respond to a SUA in a controlled high-fidelity driving simulator experiment that closely replicated the motion cues of real driving. Younger and older drivers encountered a SUA event that mimicked a vehicle malfunction at the end of a simulated drive while executing a parking maneuver. A hierarchical cluster analysis revealed three distinct brake response patterns: hard braking, gradual braking combined with brake pumping, and light or no braking. The critical point in these brake responses, that is, the point at which response types diverged, was about 1 s after the onset of the SUA. Furthermore, older female drivers responded with less brake force than did younger or male drivers. These results indicate that over half of drivers react to SUA with indecisive responses that could lead to crashes. These results have important implications understanding how SUA may lead to crashes. The results also highlight the potential need for advanced driver assistance systems to aid drivers in hazard situations.
A phase 1 trial of everolimus and bevacizumab in children with recurrent solid tumors

Background The prognosis for children with recurrent solid tumors generally is poor. Targeting mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and vascular endothelial growth factor A with everolimus and bevacizumab, respectively, synergistically improves progression-free survival and is well tolerated in adults with solid tumors. Methods In the current phase 1 study, a total of 15 children with recurrent or refractory solid tumors were treated with bevacizumab and everolimus to establish the maximum tolerated dose, toxicity, and preliminary antitumor response (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00756340). The authors also evaluated everolimus-mediated inhibition of the mTOR pathway in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of treated patients. Results Tumors predominantly were soft tissue and/or bone sarcomas (8 cases) and brain tumors (5 cases). The first 2 patients enrolled at dose level 1 (10 mg/kg of bevacizumab and 4 mg/m2 of everolimus) experienced dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). The next 5 patients were enrolled at dose level 0 (8 mg/kg of bevacizumab and 4 mg/m2 of everolimus), and DLTs occurred in 2 patients. The authors then modified the protocol to permit expansion of dose 0, and 8 additional patients were added, with no DLTs reported. Of all the patients, stable disease occurred in 4 patients (30.8%; median, 2 courses), and progressive disease occurred in 9 patients (69.2%). Overall survival was 0.59 years (95% CI, 0.24-1.05 years). The mTOR biomarker phospho-4EBP1 Thr/37/46 significantly decreased from baseline to day 27 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (P = .045). Phospho-AKT levels also decreased from those at baseline. Conclusions The maximum tolerated dose of cotreatment with bevacizumab and everolimus was 8 mg/kg of bevacizumab and 4 mg/m2 of everolimus in a 4-week cycle for children with recurrent solid tumors.
Two Blood Cultures With Age-Appropriate Volume Enhance Suspected Sepsis Decision-Making.

Background Multiple blood cultures have been shown to improve pathogen yield and antimicrobial stewardship for adult patients with suspected serious bacterial infection (SBI). For children, the use of multiple blood cultures is less common and volume recommendations are more complicated, often resulting in single cultures with low volume. Methods In 2010, Children's Hospital Colorado instituted electronic medical record (EMR) decision support to recommend collection of 2 blood cultures before administration of antibiotics for suspected SBI. Recommended blood culture volumes were calculated by age rather than weight. We evaluated all children admitted to inpatient units between 2008 and 2009 (pre-intervention) and 2011 and 2013 (postintervention) who received antibiotics in the hospital after having blood cultures drawn in the emergency department, excluding those with a length of stay >8 days. We compared blood culture yield, isolate classification (pathogen vs contaminant), and antimicrobial modifications before and after the interventions. Results A total of 3948 children were included in the study. EMR guidelines were associated with a significantly higher number of children with multiple blood cultures drawn before antibiotic administration (88.0% vs 12.3%; P < .001) and an increased percentage of blood cultures with the recommended volume (74.3% vs 15.2%; P < .001), resulting in a significantly higher pathogen isolation rate and improved antimicrobial decisions. Multiple cultures helped define the role of common contaminants in the clinical decision process. Conclusions Multiple blood cultures with age-based volumes taken before starting antibiotics increase pathogen isolation rates and appropriate modification of antimicrobial treatment in children.
Experimental saccular aneurysms. I. Review of surgically-constructed models and their laboratory applications.

A new technique for surgical construction of experimental lateral saccular aneurysms on the common carotid artery of swine is described. It involves end-to-side suturing of an isolated segment of vein to an artery. During a short period of parent artery clamping, an elliptical arteriotomy is fashioned through the open-ended vein graft, the open end of which is subsequently tied and clamps are removed to form an aneurysmal vein pouch. The principal advantage of this technique is the short period of vascular clamping necessary to isolate a segment of the parent artery. This prevents severe endothelial injury and prolonged postoperative vasospasm, both of which may promote intra-aneurysmal thrombosis. Narrow- or wide-necked aneurysms can be created. Steps in the surgical construction of this model are detailed, and specific advantages of using swine are highlighted.
School and Community Involvement of Adolescents With Chronic Health Conditions

Abstract Purpose To investigate associations between chronic health conditions and participation in school and community activities at age 15 years. Methods Secondary analysis of data from an urban U.S. birth cohort study was conducted to investigate associations between chronic health conditions and participation in specific types of school and community activities. Logistic regression was used to adjust for potentially confounding factors. Results Over one third of the teens had a chronic health condition. Having a chronic developmental or behavioral health condition (vs. no chronic developmental or behavioral health condition) was associated with lower odds of participation in sports (odds ratio [OR], .714; 95% confidence interval [CI], .577–.883), volunteer activities (OR, .751; 95% CI, 0.611–.924), and any activities (OR, .690; 95% CI, .516–.921), after adjusting for potential confounders. The associations for having a chronic physical health condition were less consistent. Conclusions Chronic developmental or behavioral conditions of teens are negatively associated with school and community participation, particularly sports and volunteering, both of which can substantially enhance their development. Schools can play a role in promoting participation by offering activities designed for students with disabilities that may also include typical students or by referring families to such activities in the community. Clinicians can play a role by educating families about the benefits of extracurricular activities, providing information about laws and regulations requiring schools and other organizations to provide accommodations, and linking families to activities and programs in their community.
Inline Balloon Occlusion-Assisted Delivery of Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer for Peripheral Arterial Applications: A Multicenter Case Series.

Abstract Purpose To assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of balloon-assisted delivery of ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) for a range of peripheral arterial applications. Materials and Methods Six academic medical centers entered retrospective data on 46 consecutive patients (27 men, 19 women; ages, 11–94 y; mean age, 50.3 y) who underwent 60 balloon-assisted EVOH procedures. The cohort was restricted to procedures involving peripheral, nonneural arteries 1–5.5 mm in diameter. Clinical indications included a wide range of vascular pathologic conditions (most commonly arteriovenous malformations [n = 20], renal angiomyolipomas [n = 8], and acute hemorrhage [n = 9]) and targeted visceral and musculoskeletal peripheral arteries. Data collected included sex, age, clinical indication, arterial pathology, arteries embolized, type of occlusion balloon microcatheter, type and concentration of EVOH agent, effectiveness as an embolic backstop, vessels protected, adequacy of EVOH cast penetration, catheter extraction, nontarget embolization, and complications. Results Balloon occlusion prevented EVOH reflux in 59 of 60 procedures (98.3%). Nontarget EVOH embolization occurred in 2 procedures (3.3%). Adequate EVOH cast penetration and complete filling of the target pathologic structure were seen in 57 of 60 procedures (95%). Balloon deflation and uneventful extraction occurred in all procedures; small EVOH fragments detached into target arteries in 2 cases. One major (1.7%) and 2 minor (3.3%) complications occurred. Conclusions Balloon-assisted EVOH embolization of peripheral arteries is feasible, safe, effective, and versatile. The primary advantage of balloon-assisted EVOH embolization is the ability to apply more injection pressure to advance the EVOH cast assertively into the pathologic structure(s).
Persistence of Malnutrition During Mechanical Circulatory Support Remains Associated with Mortality

Background Malnutrition often coexists with advanced heart failure (HF) and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. As an objective measure of malnutrition, prognostic nutritional index (PNI) has been studied in HF patients requiring left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. More recently, preoperative PNI has been shown to correlate with postoperative 1-year survival during LVAD support. We sought to determine if PNI normalizes post-LVAD implantation and its impact on survival. Methods and Results A retrospective cohort of 128 consecutive LVAD recipients at an academic medical center was created. The cohort comprised of 51% bridge-to-transplantation, with median age of 57 years, 66% male, and 37% ischemic HF etiology. A total of 30 (23%) deaths occurred during median 370 days of LVAD support. PNI was calculated using the formula: 10 × serum albumin (g/dL) + 0.005 × total lymphocyte count (mm3). The preoperative median PNI (37.0) significantly increased during LVAD support, reaching a higher median plateau by 3-month post-LVAD (47.1), as shown in Figure 1. Using previously validated cut-off point ( Conclusions Significant improvement of nutritional status was observed during LVAD support, but a lower PNI at 3 months remains an independent predictor of mortality. PNI may be used as a potential target for future novel interventions.
Social Media Communication and Loneliness Among Older Adults: The Mediating Roles of Social Support and Social Contact.

Background and objectives Social media communication offers a medium for helping older people stay socially and emotionally connected with others. This study investigated the association between social media communication with close social ties and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults. The study also examined the mediating roles of social support and social contact. Research design and methods Four waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study (2010/2012 and 2014/2016) were used to address the research questions (N = 7,524). A path model was estimated to examine the association between social media communication and older adults' loneliness. We also examined whether the association between social media communication and loneliness was mediated by perceived social support from close social ties (children, other family members, and friends) and frequency of contact with social network members (phone, in-person contact, and writing letters/email). Results The results showed that frequent social media communication was associated with lower levels of loneliness, adjusting for previous levels of loneliness. The relationship between social media communication and loneliness was mediated by perceived social support and social contact. Thus, social media communication was associated with higher levels of perceived social support and social contact, which were related to lower levels of loneliness among older adults. Discussion and implications These findings suggested that social media communication may be considered an intervention to reduce loneliness among older people by increasing levels of social support and social contact.
Smart Vulnerability Assessment for Scientific Cyberinfrastructure: An Unsupervised Graph Embedding Approach

The accelerated growth of computing technologies has provided interdisciplinary teams a platform for producing innovative research at an unprecedented speed. Advanced scientific cyberinfrastructures, in particular, provide data storage, applications, software, and other resources to facilitate the development of critical scientific discoveries. Users of these environments often rely on custom developed virtual machine (VM) images that are comprised of a diverse array of open source applications. These can include vulnerabilities undetectable by conventional vulnerability scanners. This research aims to identify the installed applications, their vulnerabilities, and how they vary across images in scientific cyberinfrastructure. We propose a novel unsupervised graph embedding framework that captures relationships between applications, as well as vulnerabilities identified on corresponding GitHub repositories. This embedding is used to cluster images with similar applications and vulnerabilities. We evaluate cluster quality using Silhouette, Calinski-Harabasz, and Davies-Bouldin indices, and application vulnerabilities through inspection of selected clusters. Results reveal that images pertaining to genomics research in our research testbed are at greater risk of high-severity shell spawning and data validation vulnerabilities.