cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE METHODS FOR THE ANALYSIS OF CONTINUOUS VARIABLES: GEOMETRIC INTERPRETATIONS

This study is concerned with statistical methods used for the analysis of comparative data (in which observations are not expected to be independent because they are sampled across phylogenetically related species). The phylogenetically independent contrasts (PIC), phylogenetic generalized least-squares (PGLS), and phylogenetic autocorrelation (PA) methods are compared. Although the independent contrasts are not orthogonal, they are independent if the data conform to the Brownian motion model of evolution on which they are based. It is shown that uncentered correlations and regressions through the origin using the PIC method are identical to those obtained using PGLS with an intercept included in the model. The PIC method is a special case of PGLS. Corrected standard errors are given for estimates of the ancestral states based on the PGLS approach. The treatment of trees with hard polytomies is discussed and is shown to be an algorithmic rather than a statistical problem. Some of the relationships among the methods are shown graphically using the multivariate space in which variables are represented as vectors with respect to OTUs used as coordinate axes. The maximum-likelihood estimate of the autoregressive parameter, p, has not been computed correctly in previous studies (an appendix with MATLAB code provides a corrected algorithm). The importance of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the connection matrix, W, for the distribution of p is discussed. The PA method is shown to have several problems that limit its usefulness in comparative studies. Although the PA method is a generalized least-squares procedure, it cannot be made equivalent to the PGLS method using a phylogenetic model.
Yellow-Bellied Marmots (Marmota flaviventris) Hibernate Socially

Of 14 species of marmots (genus Marmota, Family Sciuridae), only 2, the woodchuck (M. monax) and yellowbellied marmot (M. flaviventris), have not been reported to be obligate social hibernators. There is one published report of yellow-bellied marmot juveniles hibernating together at a subalpine site, and social hibernation was reported at a single high-alpine site. Solitary hibernation is expected in woodchucks because they do not share burrows during summer, but is unexpected in yellow-bellied marmots, a harem-polygynous species where females may share burrows and have extensive home-range overlap with female kin during summer. We documented emergence patterns in 13 matrilines to determine whether adult marmots hibernate socially. We found that adult males hibernated with 1 or more adult females, and mothers hibernated with their offspring. Therefore, we conclude that yellow-bellied marmots hibernate socially. There is, however, no evidence that suggests that yellow-bellied marmots receive social thermoregulatory benefits from social hibernation. Documenting social hibernation required us to quantify patterns of emergence from hibernation. Throughout our subalpine site, emergence appears to be getting earlier; a result consistent with a previous report based on 1 colony site and which suggests the effects of global climate change are affecting hibernation patterns.
Pseudo panel data estimation technique and rational addiction model: an analysis of cigarette, alcohol and coffee demands

We use a pseudo-panel data approach to analyze the relationship between the consumptions of cigarettes, alcohol, and coffee in a rational addiction framework. We find that while cigarette and coffee demands fit well with the rational addiction model, alcohol demand conforms to a model with inventory effects. The results suggest that alcohol consumption increases the marginal utility derived from consumption of cigarettes. Increasing alcohol prices would decrease not only the consumption of alcohol, but also the consumption of cigarettes. On the other hand, increasing cigarette prices do not have the same effect on consumption of alcohol. The cross-price elasticity of coffee with respect to cigarette price is positive and significant which suggests that coffee substitutes for cigarettes when cigarette prices increase. The cross-price elasticity of alcohol with respect to coffee price is found to be negative and significant. On the other hand, Morishima elasticities of substitution indicate that cigarette, alcohol and coffee substitute each other along the indifference curve when relative prices change.
Manufacturing Wages and Low-Wage Country Imports: Evidence from the Nlsy

Critics of free trade argue that rising imports, particularly from low-wage countries, suppresses wages in developed countries. This paper analyzes the effect of imports on US manufacturing wages using the NLSY79 dataset, estimating differential impacts on blue and white-collar wages. I find that rising imports put downward pressure on wages between 1979 and 1988. This correlation holds for both white and blue-collar workers, with a somewhat stronger impact on the latter group. Distinguishing between low-wage and high-wage imports shows that imports from low-wage countries are responsible for the negative relationship between imports and wages. However, low-wage imports only have a negative impact on blue-collar wages. The effect is rather strong; a one percentage point increase in the low-wage import share is associated with a 2.8 percent decline in blue-collar wages. Imports do not appear to have a significant impact on wages in the early 1990s. All of these results persist when year, industry and individual fixed effects are included along with other industry level controls.
Recent advances in iron-catalysed cross coupling reactions and their mechanistic underpinning

Advances in iron-catalysed cross coupling from 2010–2015 are critically reviewed. In addition to a description of the systems that have emerged since 2010, the significant mechanistic work carried out to understand the mechanisms of these transformations will be discussed. An emphasis will be placed on mechanistic studies that utilize in situ reaction monitoring and the tools used to achieve this goal.
The Genus Cheilymenia in North America

Taxonomic and anatomical study of the genus Cheilymenia has confirmed the validity of the genus and indicated criteria for the separation of species. A key to the recognized species is presented. F...
Synthesis oftrans-3-hexadecenoic acid and oftrans-3-hexadecenoic-1-C14 acid

Thetrans-3-hexadecenoic acid has been synthesized. Physical properties and chemical degradation prove its identity with the acid earlier isolated from several plant lipids. In the sequence of the synthesis, the introduction of a terminal triple bond into commercially available 1-tetradecene was performed by bromination and debromination with KOH and NaNH2. Chain elongation by a Grignard reaction with CO2 gave a carboxylic acid with a triple bond in the 2-position. Reduction with LiAlH4 yielded the corresponding alcohol, and reduction of the triple to thetrans double bond was accomplished with Na in ethanol. Bromination of the alcohol with PBr3 and conversion of the bromide to the nitrile with KCN or KC14N elongated the carbon chain to the desired length. Methanolysis with HCl in methanol and saponification with KOH formed the acid with acceptable yields, and in the case of the C14-labeled carboxyl, group, with high specific activity.
Ergonomic and Existing Seat Designs Compared on Underground Mine Haulage Vehicles

NIOSH researchers conducted a study to compare seat designs on underground coal mine haulage vehicles. The objective of the study was to support prior findings that NIOSH-designed seats, which incorporated ergonomic design features (e.g., viscoelastic foam padding and low-back support), are improved designs. Based on measured levels of vehicle jarring/jolting and perceived discomfort, researchers evaluated four different designs — two in-use and two NIOSH-developed, ergonomic designs. Researchers collected data using a short questionnaire, a linear, visual analog scale, and accelerometers with a data recorder. Results showed that vehicle operators favored the NIOSH seats with added adjustability, low-back support, and improved seat padding over the existing seats. In addition, the measurements indicated all NIOSH seats performed better than the existing seat, under the no-load (worse of two) conditions, in reducing peak acceleration, crest factor, and RMS acceleration. The authors summarize the data colle...
Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene Polymorphisms-Toward Precision Medicine for AKI.

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a 32-kD microsomal enzyme that serves as the rate-limiting step in the breakdown of heme, releasing iron, carbon monoxide, and biliverdin. Using pharmacologic and genetic approaches, the induction of HO-1 is a protective response in renal and nonrenal settings of tissue
Finding Optimal Apertures in Kepler Data

With the loss of two spacecraft reaction wheels precluding further data collection for the Kepler primary mission, even greater pressure is placed on the processing pipeline to eke out every last transit signal in the data. To that end, we have developed a new method to optimize the Kepler Simple Aperture Photometry (SAP) photometric apertures for both planet detection and minimization of systematic effects. The approach uses a per cadence modeling of the raw pixel data and then performs an aperture optimization based on signal-to-noise ratio and the Kepler Combined Differential Photometric Precision (CDPP), which is a measure of the noise over the duration of a reference transit signal. We have found the new apertures to be superior to the previous Kepler apertures. We can now also find a per cadence flux fraction in aperture and crowding metric. The new approach has also been proven to be robust at finding apertures in K2 data that help mitigate the larger motion-induced systematics in the photometry. The method further allows us to identify errors in the Kepler and K2 input catalogs.
Three-Month Outcomes Are Poor in Stroke Patients with Cancer Despite Acute Stroke Treatment.

Introduction Stroke risk is increased in cancer patients. Prognosis in these patients is poor, with higher in-hospital mortality and increased subsequent mortality. However, data on stroke in cancer patients are limited, specifically regarding acute stroke treatment and functional outcomes. We aim to determine the functional outcomes of cancer patients admitted with acute stroke. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients carrying a diagnosis of cancer who were admitted with acute ischemic stroke between March 2013 and February 2016. Demographics, cerebrovascular risk factors, stroke characteristics including acute treatment, and characteristics of their cancer history and treatment were abstracted. The primary outcome measures included in-hospital mortality and 3-month functional outcome (as assessed by the modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score, with mRS scores of 3-6 considered poor functional outcome). Further outcome measures included length of stay and discharge destination. Findings Forty-nine patients met the inclusion criteria, with a median admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 8. Twelve patients (24.4%) underwent acute stroke treatment. The most common stroke etiology was hypercoagulability of malignancy (21, 42.9%). The three-month mortality was 46.9%; half of survivors had poor functional outcome. Functional outcomes did not differ by cancer type, stage, or year since diagnosis; on multivariate analysis only high admission NIHSS score was associated with poor functional outcome ( P = .002). Conclusion Nearly half of patients with cancer and stroke die within 3 months, and functional outcome is poor for 50% of 3-month survivors despite consideration of acute stroke treatment. Future research should address the role of hypercoagulability in the outcome prediction of stroke patients with cancer.
A lower bound on the blow up time for solutions of a chemotaxis system with nonlinear chemotactic sensitivity

Abstract In a recent study, a lower bound is established on the blow up time for solutions of a chemotaxis system, with nonlinear chemotactic sensitivity u ( u + 1 ) m − 1 , set in the three-dimensional unit ball. Here, u is the density of a cell or organism that produces a chemical, with density v , and moves preferentially toward regions of higher concentration of v according to the flux − ∇ u + χ u ( u + 1 ) m − 1 ∇ v . With χ > 0 , v is referred to as a “chemoattractant” and, in the case m = 1 , the system reduces to a version of the Keller–Segel model. Solutions that blow up in finite time have been previously established for the system on a ball in R n provided n ≥ 2 , m > 2 / n . For technical reasons, the lower bound proven for the blow up time applies in such cases when n = 3 and m ≤ 2 . We extend the analysis and resulting lower bound to such a model in general convex domains, with n ≥ 2 and any m .
Surface chemistry and corrosion behavior of Inconel 625 and 718 in subcritical, supercritical, and ultrasupercritical water

Abstract Corrosion behavior of Inconel 625 and 718 in subcritical, supercritical and ultrasupercritical water was studied as a function of temperature and time. The change in the chemistry of the as-received surface film on Inconel 625 and 718 after exposure to subcritical water at 325 °C and supercritical water at 425 °C and 527.5 °C for 2 h was studied. After exposure to 325 °C subcritical water, the CrO42− based film formed; however minor quantities of NiFexCr2-xO4 spinel compounds were observed. The oxide film formed on both alloys when exposed to supercritical water at 425 °C consisted of NiFexCr2-xO4 spinel. The surface films on both alloys were identified as NiFe2O4 when exposed to supercritical water at 527.5 °C. To characterize the fully developed oxide layer, studies were conducted at test solution temperatures of 527.5 and 600 °C. Samples were exposed to these temperatures for 24, 96, and 200 h. Surface chemistry was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, as well as Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. Inconel 718 exhibited greater mass gain than Inconel 625 for all temperatures and exposure times. The differences in corrosion behavior of the two alloys are attributed to the lower content of chromium and increased iron content of Inconel 718 as compared to Inconel 625.
Brain-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Amino-Terminal Pro-Brain-Type Natriuretic Peptide Discharge Thresholds for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure.

This meta-analysis of trials and observational studies addresses the clinical implications of achieving predischarge natriuretic peptide thresholds in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated ...
Exploring an Alternative Scoring Method for the SVO Slider Measure

The SVO Slider Measure is a recently developed measurement technique used for the measurement of Social Value Orientations (SVO). The Slider Measure is based off of many past measures while improving upon their shortcomings. The scoring method and formula for the SVO Slider Measure were specifically inherited from the SVO Ring Measure. While the current scoring method is devoid of any apparent issues, it is possible to score the SVO Slider task using an alternative method which is derived from simply reordering certain steps in the original methods calculation. This alternative method is presented and the minor advantages and disadvantages are explored. Additionally the correlation between these two methods was calculated for all possible choice combinations on the SVO slider task in order to examine whether it would be necessary to determine which scoring method might be superior. This correlation was very high, suggesting that either of these scoring methods should produce an accurate depiction of an individual’s SVO.
Circus: opportunistic block reordering for scalable content servers

Whole-file transfer is a basic primitive for Internet content dissemination. Content servers are increasingly limited by disk arm movement given the rapid growth in disk density, disk transfer rates, server network bandwidth, and content size. Individual file transfers are sequential, but the block access sequence on a content server is effectively random when many slow clients access large files concurrently. Although larger blocks can help improve disk throughput, buffering requirements increase linearly with block size.This paper explores a novel block reordering technique that can reduce server disk traffic significantly when large content files are shared. The idea is to transfer blocks to each client in any order that is convenient for the server. The server sends blocks to each client opportunistically in order to maximize the advantage from the disk reads it issues to serve other clients accessing the same file. We first illustrate the motivation and potential impact of opportunistic block reordering using a simple analytical model. Then we describe a file transfer system using a simple block reordering algorithm, called Circus. Experimental results with the Circus prototype show that it can improve server throughput by a factor of two or more in workloads with strong file access locality.
Structural Studies of Eukaryotic Transcription Initiation

Eukaryotes have three distinct RNA polymerases (forms I, II, and III) that catalyze transcription of nuclear genes (Sentenac 1985). Despite their structural complexity, these multisubunit enzymes require sets of auxiliary proteins known as general transcription initiation factors to initiate transcription from corresponding class I, II, and III nuclear gene promoters (Gabrielson and Sentenac 1991; Roeder 1991; Reeder 1992; Moldonado and Reinberg 1995). TATA box-binding protein (TBP), first identified as a component of the class II initiation factor TFIID, participates in transcription by all three nuclear RNA polymerases (reviewed in Nikolov and Burley 1994). Thus, TBP is the first universal transcription initiation factor component (a situation formally analogous to that of essential subunits common to the three RNA polymerases).
Differentiating Cystic Liver Lesions: A Review of Imaging Modalities, Diagnosis and Management

Hepatic cysts (HCs) are frequently discovered incidentally on abdominal imaging. The prevalence of HCs has been reported as high as 15–18% in the United States. Although most cysts are benign, some are malignant or premalignant. It is important to diagnose cystic lesions in order to properly manage them. Imaging with conventional ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or contrast-enhanced ultrasound can be used to further characterize and diagnose HCs. Ultrasound is typically the first-line imaging modality, whereas more advanced imaging can help narrow down the specific lesion. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is a newer modality, recently approved in the United States, which offers non-invasive evaluation in real-time. The first step in diagnosis is stratifying risk by differentiating simple and complex cysts. There are several features that can help identify HCs, including septae, mural consistency, calcifications, and quality of cystic fluid. Simple cysts are mainly congenital cysts, but also occur in polycystic liver disease. Complex cysts include mucinous neoplasms, echinococcal cysts, hemorrhagic cysts, cystic hepatocellular carcinoma and other rare lesions. Treatment is indicated in symptomatic cysts or those suspicious for malignant or premalignant features. Treatment modalities include fenestration, aspiration sclerotherapy, or surgical resection.
Bifurcation & chaos in nonlinear structural dynamics: Novel & highly efficient optimal-feedback accelerated Picard iteration algorithms

Abstract A new class of algorithms for solving nonlinear structural dynamical problems are derived in the present paper, as being based on optimal-feedback-accelerated Picard iteration, wherein the solution vectors for the displacements and velocities at any time t in a finitely large time interval t i ≤ t ≤ t i + 1 are corrected by a weighted (with a matrix λ) integral of the error from ti to t. We present 3 approximations to solve the Euler-Lagrange equations for the optimal weighting functions λ; thus we present 3 algorithms denoted as Optimal-Feedback-Accelerated Picard Iteration (OFAPI) algorithms-1, 2, 3. The interval ( t i + 1 − t i ) in the 3 OFAPI algorithms can be several hundred times larger than the increment (Δt) required in the finite difference based implicit or explicit methods, for the same stability and accuracy. Moreover, the OFAPI algorithms-2, 3 do not require the inversion of the tangent stiffness matrix, as is required in finite difference based implicit methods. It is found that OFAPI algorithms-1, 2, 3 (especially OFAPI algorithm-2) require several orders of magnitude of less computational time than the currently popular implicit and explicit finite difference methods, and provide better accuracy and convergence.
Core-level and valence-band study using angle-integrated photoemission on LaFeAsO 0.9 F 0.1

Using angle-integrated photoemission spectroscopy we have probed the novel ${\text{LaFeAsO}}_{0.9}{\text{F}}_{0.1}$ superconductor over a wide range of photon energies and temperatures. We have provided a full characterization of the orbital character of the valence-band (VB) density of states (DOS) and of the magnitude of the $d\text{\ensuremath{-}}p$ hybridization energy. Finally, we have identified two characteristic temperatures: 90 K where a pseudogap-like feature appears to close and 120 K where a sudden change in the DOS near ${E}_{F}$ occurs. We associate these phenomena with the spin density wave magnetic ordering and the structural transition seen in the parent compound, respectively. These results suggest the important role of electron correlation, spin physics, and structural distortion in the physics of Fe-based superconductors.
Contrast sensitivity of amblyopic eyes in children with myopic anisometropia

Contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in amblyopes has been studied extensively, with few studies on amblyopia associated with myopic anisometropia. The purpose of this study was to investigate CSF o...
The effects of time frames on self-report.

Background The degree to which episodic and semantic memory processes contribute to retrospective self-reports have been shown to depend on the length of reporting period. Robinson and Clore (2002) argued that when the amount of accessible detail decreases due to longer reporting periods, an episodic retrieval strategy is abandoned in favor of a semantic retrieval strategy. The current study further examines this shift between retrieval strategies by conceptually replicating the model of Robinson and Clore (2002) for both emotions and symptoms and by attempting to estimate the exact moment of the theorized shift. Method A sample of 469 adults reported the extent to which they experienced 8 states (excited, happy, calm, sad, anxious, angry, pain, stress) over 12 time frames (right now to in general). A series of curvilinear and piecewise linear multilevel growth models were used to examine the pattern of response times and response levels (i.e., rated intensity on a 1–5 scale) across the different time frames. Results Replicating previous results, both response times and response levels increased with longer time frames. In contrast to prior work, no consistent evidence was found for a change in response patterns that would suggest a shift in retrieval strategies (i.e., a flattening or decrease of the slope for longer time frames). The relationship between the time frames and response times/levels was similar for emotions and symptoms. Conclusions Although the current study showed a pronounced effect of time frame on response times and response levels, it did not replicate prior work that suggested a shift from episodic to semantic memory as time frame duration increased. This indicates that even for longer time frames individuals might attempt to retrieve episodic information to provide a response. We suggest that studies relying on self-report should use the same well-defined time frames across all self-reported measures.
Blockchain and Buchanan: Code as Constitution

This chapter conceptualizes computer code as constitutional rules and constraints governing blockchain technology. The Bitcoin protocol is essentially a set of rules written in computer code, governing what is, and what is not, allowed by the participants in the Bitcoin network. In this sense, it is like a constitution. No single participant can change the rules, but new rules (in the form of upgrades to the open-source software) can be advanced by different participants. The key to understanding Bitcoin’s rules is to understand consensus at all levels. In this context, Buchanan’s scholarship analyzing constitutional choice is extremely relevant to blockchain technology in general, and Bitcoin in particular.
Simulating Ultrasound Tissue Deformation Using Inverse Mapping.

Ultrasound guidance is used for a variety of surgical needle insertion procedures, but there is currently no standard for the teaching of ultrasound skills. Recently, computer ultrasound simulation has been introduced as an alternative teaching method to traditional manikin and cadaver training because of its ability to provide diverse scenario training, quantitative feedback, and objective assessment. Current computer ultrasound training simulation is limited in its ability to image tissue deformation caused by needle insertions, even though tissue deformation identification is a critical skill in performing an ultrasound-guided needle insertion. To fill this need for improved simulation, a novel method of simulating ultrasound tissue-needle deformation is proposed and evaluated. First, a cadaver study is conducted to obtain ultrasound video of a peripheral nerve block. Then, optical flow analysis is conducted on this video to characterize the tissue movement due to the needle insertion. Tissue movement is characterized into three zones of motion: tissue near the needle being pulled, and zones above and below the needle where the tissue rolls. The rolling zones were centered 1.34 mm above and below the needle and 4.53 mm behind the needle. Using this characterization, a vector field is generated mimicking these zones. This vector field is then applied to an ultrasound image using inverse mapping to simulate tissue movement. The resulting simulation can be processed at 3.1 frames per second. This methodology can be applied through future optimized graphical processing to allow for accurate real time needle tissue simulation.
Fevers post infusion of T-cell replete hla mismatched haploidentical hematopoietic stem cells with post-transplant cyclophosphamide: risk factors and impact on transplant outcomes.

Fever is a common early complication after infusion of stem cells in patients undergoing T-replete HLA haploidentical transplantation using post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCY). We analyzed the records of 172 haploidentical transplant patients to identify risk factors and to assess the impact of such fevers on transplant morbidity and mortality. One hundred and seventy-two patients received haploidential hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) using PBSC (n = 103) or marrow (n = 69) grafts. One hundred and forty patients (81%) experienced fever (T ≥ 100.5 °F or >38 °C) with median onset on d + 2. Compared to patients who did not develop fevers, patients with fevers received higher median CD34+ cell dose (5.00 vs. 3.08 × 106/kg, p < 0.001), CD3+ cell dose (12.8 vs. 4.5 × 107/kg), were more likely to have received a myeloablative regimen (50% vs. 9%, p < 0.001), and PBSC source (71% vs. 9%, p < 0.001). Cox model showed that fever had no impact on TRM, GVHD, OS, and DFS. In the logistic regression to identify correlation with fevers, higher degree of HLA mismatches and use of PBSC were all predictors of developing fever. Fevers between infusion of the T-Cell replete graft and administration of PTCY are very common in Haplo-HSCT. This complication is transient and had no impact on post-transplant morbidity and mortality.
Molecular Therapy for Oligodendrogliomas

Abstract Oligodendroglial tumors, defined by the loss of chromosome arms 1p and 19q, are generally slow-growing tumors with an overall good prognosis. Despite this, these tumors typically exhibit inevitable growth and require treatment, which is currently accomplished with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. While still under investigation, a number of novel and exciting molecular therapies are being tested in clinical trials. These agents have been designed to target specific pathways known to be dysregulated in oligodendroglial tumors and hold promise for a new area of antitumor therapeutics.
Electrophysiological Recordings of Single-cell Ion Currents Under Well-defined Shear Stress

Fluid shear stress is well known to play a major role in endothelial function. In most vascular beds, elevated shear stress from acute increases in blood flow triggers a signaling cascade resulting in vasodilation thereby alleviating mechanical stress on the vascular wall. The pattern of shear stress is also well known to be a critical factor in the development of atherosclerosis with laminar shear stress being atheroprotective and disturbed shear stress being pro-atherogenic. While we have a detailed understanding of the various intermediate cell signaling pathways, the receptors that first translate the mechanical stimulus into chemical mediators are not completely understood. Mechanosensitive ion channels are critical to the response to shear and regulate shear-induced cell signaling thereby controlling the production of vasoactive mediators. These channels are among the earliest activated signaling components to shear and have been linked to shear-induced vasodilation through promoting nitric oxide production (e.g., inwardly rectifying K+ [Kir] and transient receptor potential [TRP] channels) and endothelium hyperpolarizing factor (e.g., Kir and calcium-activated K+ [KCa] channels) and shear-induced vasoconstriction through an undetermined mechanism that involves piezo channels. Understanding the biophysical mechanism by which these channels are activated by shear forces (i.e., directly or through a primary mechano-receptor) could provide potential new targets to resolve the pathophysiology associated with endothelial dysfunction and atherogenesis. It is still a major challenge to record flow-induced activation of ion channels in real time using electrophysiology. The standard methods to expose cells to well-defined shear stress, such as the cone and plate rheometer and closed parallel plate flow chamber do not allow real time study of ion channel activation. The goal of this protocol is to describe a modified parallel plate flow chamber that allows real time electrophysiological recording of mechanosensitive ion channels under well-defined shear stress.
Alterations in cytometric characteristics of hemocytes from the American oyster Crassostrea virginica exposed to a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminated environment

The effects of residing in a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminated environment on the cytometric characteristics of hemocytes from the American oyster Crassostrea virginica (collected from the Rappahannock River, Virginia, USA in Spring 1991) were analyzed using a multichannel Coulter counter (10000 hemocytes oyster-1). The percentage and relative volume of small-sized hemocytes (>2.5 to 5.1 μm) was higher (P 6.2 to 10 μm) was observed in the HP-oysters. Maintaining the RR-oysters at the HP site for 8 wk induced statistically significant increases in the number and relative volume contribution of the >2.5 to 5.1 μm hemocytes and sharp decreases in the occurrence and relative volume of >6.2 to 13 μm cells (P 2.5 to 5.1 μm) showed a significant decrease over time as compared to the baseline values. On the other hand, the relative number of >6.2 to 13 μm hemocytes increased sharply within 8 wk (P<0.001). This indicates that these changes are both inducible and reversible and, at least in part, due to exposure to the ER-sediment. Based on these studies, oyster hemocyte cytometric characteristics could be developed as a sensitive biomarker of exposure to PAH.
Hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope composition of water in metaschoepite mineralization on U3O8

Abstract When exposed to humidity in an oxidizing atmosphere hydrated uranium oxide grows as a secondary mineral on aged U3O8 and may incorporate the oxygen stable isotope signature of the water vapor into the secondary uranium oxide, as well as hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopes into any mineral hydration water. Because geospatial variation in δ2H and δ18O values of atmospheric humidity and precipitation is well understood, the H and O stable isotope composition of mineral hydration waters can give information on the environment of mineral formation. We exposed powdered U3O8 to humidity with known H and O stable isotope composition at constant 30%, 61% and 91% relative humidity. We sampled and analyzed the U3O8 powders along with any secondary hydrated minerals that had formed on the particle surfaces at various intervals from 1 to 10 days throughout the 180-day humidity exposures. We present stable H and O isotope results of mineral hydration waters in uranium oxide materials analyzed by thermogravimetry-enabled isotope ratio infrared spectroscopy (TGA-IRIS), which uses precise heating by thermogravimetric analyzer to liberate water vapor for subsequent online isotope analysis via a laser-based isotope ratio infrared spectroscopy instrument (Picarro L-2130i). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of humidity-exposed U3O8 heated to 350 °C indicates that the U3O8 had a measurable metaschoepite ((UO3)•2H2O) phase along with α-U3O8. After heating to 350 °C, the metaschoepite is eliminated but the α-U3O8 is retained, meaning that the heating successfully extracted the water in the metaschoepite but did not disturb the crystalline structure of the U3O8. Analysis of the bulk oxygen isotope composition by fluorination of these samples before and after heating, indicates that the oxygen isotope value of the U3O8 is also not affected by heating to 350 °C. Precision for δ2H and δ18O values of metaschoepite mineral hydration water stable isotope values yielded by the TGA-IRIS method on metaschoepite are 5.86‰ for δ2H, and 0.34‰ for δ18O. Hydrogen in the various water reservoirs is highly exchangeable and thus the δ2H values of these waters is not easily interpreted. However, oxygen in the separate water reservoirs is much less exchangeable, and thus δ18O values of the metaschoepite mineral hydration water is likely to reflect that of the water vapor the sample was exposed to. Once metaschoepite is formed on the surface of U3O8 particles, the oxygen isotope signature of the mineral hydration water in metaschoepite does not respond to changes in exposure vapor isotopic composition, and thus appears to be fairly durable in this regard. These results suggest that it may be possible to discern information about the provenance and history of an oxidized U3O8 sample from oxygen stable isotope measurements of metaschoepite mineral hydration water.
Optimizing Analgesic Use During Infant Lumbar Puncture in the Emergency Department.

Introduction Lumbar puncture (LP) for the collection of cerebrospinal fluid is an important diagnostic tool for the evaluation of febrile or ill-appearing infants. This invasive procedure is painful for patients; inadequate analgesia may have lasting effects. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends analgesia during all LP procedures, and oral sucrose alone does not offer sufficient analgesia. Our objective was to identify analgesic use trends during infant LP in our emergency department and create a system of analgesic administration. We aimed for complete compliance with one method of analgesia and an increase in our use of 2 or more methods to 85% over 12 months. Methods We utilized Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle methodology and retrospective chart review. Five interventions focused on staff communication, collaboration, and education. Inclusion criteria: infants 38°C, hypothermia <36.5°C of unknown origin, or ill-appearance. Results One hundred infant LPs analyzed: 52 preintervention and 48 intervention. The use of one analgesic increased from 98% preintervention to 100%. The use of 2 or more analgesics increased from 58% preintervention to 87%. Topical lidocaine use increased from 56% preintervention to 73%. LP success rates were high in both groups, with no statistically significant change in the success rate. Conclusion We created a streamlined process to ensure all infants undergoing lumbar puncture received at least 1 analgesic and increased the proportion of infants treated with 2 or more analgesics. This work could be expanded to improve analgesia during other invasive procedures in the emergency department.
Emerging drugs for the treatment of ovarian cancer: a focused review of PARP inhibitors

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have demonstrated significant anticancer activity in cancers harboring homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), exemplified by high grade serous ova...
Ideal Schools for the 21st Century: A Comparative Analysis of American and Chinese Principals’ Views and Visions:

The importance of principals to school improvement has been widely recognized, but few studies have focused on principals’ own perceptions of school change and their special roles in reform. This a...
Mesh: Scaffolding Comparison Tables for Online Decision Making

While there is an enormous amount of information online for making decisions such as choosing a product, restaurant, or school, it can be costly for users to synthesize that information into confident decisions. Information for users' many different criteria needs to be gathered from many different sources into a structure where they can be compared and contrasted. The usefulness of each criterion for differentiating potential options can be opaque to users, and evidence such as reviews may be subjective and conflicting, requiring users to interpret each under their personal context. We introduce Mesh, which scaffolds users to iteratively build up a better understanding of both their criteria and options by evaluating evidence gathered across sources in the context of consumer decision-making. Mesh bridges the gap between decision support systems that typically have rigid structures and the fluid and dynamic process of exploratory search, changing the cost structure to provide increasing payoffs with greater user investment. Our lab and field deployment studies found evidence that Mesh significantly reduces the costs of gathering and evaluating evidence and scaffolds decision-making through personalized criteria enabling users to gain deeper insights from data.
Iron(II) Complexes of an Anionic Bis(ylide)diphenylborate Ligand.

Double deprotonation of the salt [Ph2B(PMe3)2][OTf] (1) provides access to a bis(ylide)diphenylborate ligand that is readily transferred in situ to iron(II). Depending on the reaction stoichiometry, both the "ate" complex [Ph2B(Me2PCH2)2Fe(μ-Cl)2Li(THF)2] (2) and the homoleptic complex [Ph2B(Me2PCH2)2]2Fe(3) can be prepared from FeCl2(THF)1.5. Further reaction of 3 with FeCl2(THF)1.5 produces the chloride-bridged dimer [Ph2B(Me2PCH2)2Fe(μ-Cl)2Fe(CH2PMe2)2BPh2](4). Attempts to reduce or alkylate 4 provide 3 as the only isolable product, likely a consequence of the low steric hindrance of the bis(ylide)diphenylborate ligand. On the other hand, reaction of 4 with the strong field ligand CNtBu provides the six-coordinate, diamagnetic complex [Ph2B(Me2PCH2)2Fe(CNtBu)4][Cl](5). Electronic structure calculations for the bis(ylide)diphenylborate ligand and homoleptic complex 3 suggest that the C(ylide) atoms are strong σ-donors with little π-bonding character. These initial results suggest the potential for this bis(ylide)diphenylborate ligand in coordination chemistry.
Target, distance, and valence: Unpacking the effects of normative feedback

Abstract People constantly receive information about their performance relative to others. Estimating these effects is complicated because, as we show, normative feedback includes several dimensions: Target (e.g., a reference group of average versus exemplary performers), Distance (e.g., being near versus far from a benchmark), and Valence (e.g., being better or worse than the benchmark). In Study 1, we randomly assign households to receive no feedback or feedback comparing their energy consumption to either their average or most efficient neighbors. Households compared to average neighbors decreased electricity usage by 6%, but those compared to efficient neighbors increased consumption by 4%. We decompose these effects into the separate influences of Target, Distance, and Valence. In Studies 2 and 3a-c, we randomly assign normative feedback to isolate the independent effects of Distance and Valence. Additionally, we find evidence for the mediating effect of motivation: The more dispiriting the feedback, the worse the subsequent performance.
Aligning Patient Safety and Stewardship: A Harm Reduction Strategy for Children

Review important patient safety and stewardship concepts and use clinical examples to describe how they align to improve patient outcomes and reduce harm for children. Current evidence indicates that healthcare overuse is substantial. Unnecessary care leads to avoidable adverse events, anxiety and distress, and financial toxicity. Increases in antimicrobial resistance, venous thromboembolism, radiation exposure, and healthcare costs are examples of patient harm associated with a lack of stewardship. Studies indicate that many tools can increase standardization of care, improve resource utilization, and enhance safety culture to better align safety and stewardship. The principles of stewardship and parsimonious care can improve patient safety for children.
Affect labelling increases the intensity of positive emotions.

Although affect labelling has been widely reported to decrease negative emotions, it is less clear whether affect labelling also decreases positive emotions. In four studies, we explored how affect...
Thin-film microfabrication and intraoperative testing of µECoG and iEEG depth arrays for sense and stimulation

Objective.Intracranial neural recordings and electrical stimulation are tools used in an increasing range of applications, including intraoperative clinical mapping and monitoring, therapeutic neuromodulation, and brain computer interface control and feedback. However, many of these applications suffer from a lack of spatial specificity and localization, both in terms of sensed neural signal and applied stimulation. This stems from limited manufacturing processes of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) arrays unable to accommodate increased channel density, higher channel count, and smaller contact size.Approach.Here, we describe a manufacturing and assembly approach using thin-film microfabrication for 32-channel high density subdural micro-electrocorticography (µECoG) surface arrays (contacts 1.2 mm diameter, 2 mm pitch) and intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) depth arrays (contacts 0.5 mm × 1.5 mm, pitch 0.8 mm × 2.5 mm). Crucially, we tackle the translational hurdle and test these arrays during intraoperative studies conducted in four humans under regulatory approval.Main results.We demonstrate that the higher-density contacts provide additional unique information across the recording span compared to the density of COTS arrays which typically have electrode pitch of 8 mm or greater; 4 mm in case of specially ordered arrays. Our intracranial stimulation study results reveal that refined spatial targeting of stimulation elicits evoked potentials with differing spatial spread.Significance.Thin-film,μECoG and iEEG depth arrays offer a promising substrate for advancing a number of clinical and research applications reliant on high-resolution neural sensing and intracranial stimulation.
Designing Drugs for Optimal Nervous System Activity

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) continues to intrigue and frustrate neuroscientists. Perhaps like no other organ, the brain, together with its BBB challenges, the investigator at a number of levels. This is certainly true at the basic science level in elucidating the mechanisms by which it regulates the microenvironment of the central nervous system, allowing the control and transport of D-glucose, certain amino acids, ions and peptides by selective, saturable and often stereo-specific carrier systems. These systems support cerebral metabolism, neurotransmitter and protein synthesis, and maintain the extracellular environment of the brain to allow it to function under optimal conditions despite wide fluctuations in the environment of the rest of the body. The high metabolic component of the cerebral capillary endothelium, constituting the enzymatic element of the BBB, likewise interests the basic scientist in elucidating the mechanisms by which it separates and protects the brain from a variety of neurotransmitters, hormones and endogenous messengers that possess one role in the periphery and another in brain. Additionally, the manner in which the structural and enzymatic components of the BBB interact to so ably protect the brain from exogenous toxins continues to capture our attention. In as much as the BBB protects and regulates the microenvironment of the brain to allow it to function optimally under diverse conditions during health, it is frustrating from a clinical viewpoint that these same mechanisms thwart our ability to intervene during disease, impeding us in our corrective measures. Specifically, it limits our ability (i) to deliver chemotherapeutic agents, such as during the treatment of infections and cancer, and (ii) to selectively manipulate levels of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides and enzymes, such as in the treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Neuropsychology of Art: Neurological, Cognitive, and Evolutionary Perspectives

Fully updated, the second edition of Neuropsychology of Art offers a fascinating exploration of the brain regions and neuronal systems which support artistic creativity, talent and appreciation. This landmark book is the first to draw upon neurological, evolutionary, and cognitive perspectives, and to provide an extensive compilation of neurological case studies of professional painters, composers and musicians. The book presents evidence from the latest brain research, and develops a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon theories of brain evolution, biology of art, art trends, archaeology, and anthropology. It considers the consequences of brain damage to the creation of art and the brain’s control of art. The author delves into a variety of neurological conditions in established artists, including unilateral stroke, dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and also evidence from savants with autism. Written by a leading neuropsychologist, Neuropsychology of Art will be of great interest to students and researchers in neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and neurology, and also to clinicians in art therapy.
Repair of topoisomerase I-mediated DNA damage.

Topoisomerase I (Top1) is an abundant and essential enzyme. Top1 is the selective target of camptothecins, which are effective anticancer agents. Top1-DNA cleavage complexes can also be trapped by various endogenous and exogenous DNA lesions including mismatches, abasic sites and carcinogenic adducts. Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase (Tdp1) is one of the repair enzymes for Top1-DNA covalent complexes. Tdp1 forms a multiprotein complex that includes poly(ADP) ribose polymerase (PARP). PARP-deficient cells are hypersensitive to camptothecins and functionally deficient for Tdp1. We will review recent developments in several pathways involved in the repair of Top1 cleavage complexes and the role of Chk1 and Chk2 checkpoint kinases in the cellular responses to Top1 inhibitors. The genes conferring camptothecin hypersensitivity are compiled for humans, budding yeast and fission yeast.