cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inorganic Polyphosphate Regulates Responses of Escherichia coli to Nutritional Stringencies, Environmental Stresses and Survival in the Stationary Phase

The molecular mechanisms responsible for polyP accumulation in E. coli remain largely obscure. Based on the available data, a tentative model is proposed (Fig. 1; Ault-Riche et al. 1998). Inhibition by (p)ppGpp of PPX interrupts the dynamic balance between the synthesis of polyP by PPK and its hydrolysis by PPX, accounting for polyP accumulation. However, mutants lacking PhoB, the response regulator of the Pho regulon, fail to accumulate polyP even in the face of high levels of (p)ppGpp. Clearly, PhoB is required in some undefined manner. With regard to osmotic stress, the pathway to polyP accumulation is also distinct from the one identified with the activation of envZ and the associated changes in membrane functions. A tentative scheme attempting to describe the metabolic turnover of polyP is given in Fig. 4. [figure: see text] In adaptations to stress, cells must coordinate major changes in the rates of transcription, translation, and replication as well as make choices in the genes expressed (Kolter et al. 1993). PolyP could provide activated phosphates or coordinate an adaptive response by binding metals and/or specific proteins. Accumulation of polyP in E. coli and other organisms is commonly assumed to provide a reservoir of energy convertible to ATP. This seems implausible because of the turnover of ATP which consumes only a fraction of a second (Chapman and Atkinson 1977). Thus, other functions for polyP need to be considered, among them a regulatory role. PolyP, even at very low levels, is essential in E. coli for adaptations in stationary phase and for survival (Rao and Kornberg 1996). As a polyanionic polymer, polyP has chemical similarities to DNA and RNA in interactions with basic domains of proteins. Further investigation of the cellular location of polyP, its state of metabolic availability and identification of its binding partners are needed. In view of the ubiquity of polyP in eukaryotic cells (including dynamic turnover in the nuclei of some mammalian cells), studies similar to those undertaken in E. coli may reveal comparable functions.
The near universal presence of autism spectrum disorders in children with Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive condition caused by a defect in cholesterol synthesis. Affected children often have malformations and mental retardation. Autistic behaviors also are evident. The purpose of the present study was to determine the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in children with SLOS. Fourteen children, 3-16 years old, were evaluated using three different methods to document autistic symptoms: (a) parent interview, (b) direct observation, and (c) a behavior checklist. Blood sterols were also measured at regular intervals. Each subject was determined to have Autistic Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD NOS), or no diagnosis on the autism spectrum, based on DSM-IV criteria. Correlations among variables were calculated, and blood sterol levels were compared between diagnostic groups. Approximately three-fourths of the children with SLOS (71-86% depending on the evaluation method) had an ASD, about 50% diagnosed with Autistic Disorder and the rest with PDD NOS. The children's baseline cholesterol, 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC), and 8-dehydrocholesterol (8-DHC) levels, and cholesterol levels following supplementation did not correlate with the presence or severity of autistic symptoms. These results suggest that most children with SLOS have some variant of autism. SLOS appears to have the most consistent relationship with autism of any single gene disorder. Therefore, a link between cholesterol metabolism and autism is suggested. With further study, these findings, together with knowledge of the genetic and biochemical defects in SLOS, will likely provide valuable insights into the causes of autism in general.
Control of actin assembly and disassembly at filament ends

Abstract The most important discovery in the field is that the Arp2/3 complex nucleates assembly of actin filaments with free barbed ends. Arp2/3 also binds the sides of actin filaments to create a branched network. Arp2/3’s nucleation activity is stimulated by WASP family proteins, some of which mediate signaling from small G-proteins. Listeria movement caused by actin polymerization can be reconstituted in vitro using purified proteins: Arp2/3 complex, capping protein, actin depolymerizing factor/cofilin, and actin. actin depolymerizing factor/cofilin increases the rate at which actin subunits leave pointed ends, and capping protein caps barbed ends.
Repetitive Control for Linear Time Varying Systems

Repetitive control that asymptotically tracks or rejects periodic signals has been widely used in many applications. For linear time invariant system, this problem has been thoroughly studied and solved. This paper presents the analysis and synthesis of repetitive control algorithms to track or reject periodic signals for linear time varying systems. Both continuous and discrete time domain results will be presented. A time varying internal model is embedded in the feedback loop to ensure asymptotic performance. It is shown that asymptotic performance can’t be achieved with a finite dimensional controller in the continuous time domain, while it is possible in the discrete time domain. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Automated analysis for digital forensic science: semantic integrity checking

When computer security violations are detected, computer forensic analysts attempting to determine the relevant causes and effects are forced to perform the tedious tasks of finding and preserving useful clues in large networks of operational machines. To augment a computer crime investigator's efforts, we present an expert system with a decision tree that uses predetermined invariant relationships between redundant digital objects to detect semantic incongruities. By analyzing data from a host or network and searching for violations of known data relationships, particularly when an attacker is attempting to hide his presence, an attacker's unauthorized changes may be automatically identified. Examples of such invariant data relationships are provided, as are techniques to identify new, useful ones. By automatically identifying relevant evidence, experts can focus on the relevant files, users, times and other facts first.
Comparison of urinary-free cortisol in depressed and nondepressed patients with malignancy.

Depending upon the population studied, depression occurs as a crmorbid illness in 6%-50% of cancer patients (Massie and Holland 1984; Bukberg et al. 1984; Derogatis et al. 1983). Because of its high prevalence and the additional morbidity imposed in an already ill populat;.on, it is important for clinicians and researchers to be able to accurately identify these patients. Accurate diagnosis is necessary to allow scientific studies of the clinical course, family involvement, and treatment response. However, the diagnosis of depression is complicated in patients with cancer because many of the somatic symptoms of depression overlap with those of the underlying malignancy. Because of this difficulty, predictive factors such as biological markers or family history of depression may be usefal in identifying cancer patients with depression. It i~ ~ well established that patients with primary depression excrete significantly greater amounts of urinary-free cortisol (UFC) than controls (~:arroll et al. 1976; Milln et al. 1981;
Scattering of high-frequency waves by perfectly conducting rectangular cylinders

In a previous paper by Mei and Van Bladel, the authors calculated the surface current densities on rectangular cylindrical obstacles when they were illuminated by plane waves. Many interesting results were observed at high frequencies. The present paper is the application of the geometric theory of diffraction in the interpretation of the high-frequency phenomena. The occurrences of resonances in the obstacles are explained. The diffracted fields contributed by the corners are shown to be much weaker than was to be expected. The total scattering cross-sections of rectangular cylinders are discussed.
In vitro interactions among echinocandins against Aspergillus fumigatus: lack of concordance among methods

Drug combinations are increasingly being explored as a means of improving outcomes in cases of invasive aspergillosis. However, the optimal methods for assessing in vitro drug combinations are unclear. We investigated whether echinocandin drug combinations have potentially useful interactions against Aspergillus fumigatus. We explored the in vitro interactions of three echinocandins (caspofungin [CSP], anidulafingin [ANF], and micafungin [MCF]) by three methods, i.e., (i) checkerboard assay, (ii) disk diffusion assay, and (iii) E-test/agar dilution.The checkerboard experiments revealed different interactions between echinocandin pairs depending on the drug combination tested. Specifically, the combination of CSF and either ANF or MCF yielded a fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index range of 0.15–2.0. Whereas the combination of MCF and ANF yielded an FIC index range of 0.19–0.31, consistent with synergistic interaction. In contrast, all echinocandin pairs appeared indifferent by the disk diffusion...
Increasing Response Rates to Telephone Surveys: A Door in the Face for Foot-in-the-Door?

small task. Then, somewhat later, the same subject is asked to do a larger or more time-consuming task. Several different psychological explanations have been given for the expected result that those subjects who are asked to perform the small task first will be more likely to consent to the larger task later than will those who are asked to perform the large task without a prior request. For several years, we at the Survey Research Center have been concerned about the relatively low response rates for random-digitdialed telephone samples for national cross-sectional surveys. Despite a variety of changes in the interviewers' introductory comments on first contact with the sample household, no real changes in the re
Treatment of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcal Infections in the Immunocompromised Host: Quinupristin-Dalfopristin in Combination with Minocycline

Between February 1994 and November 1998, 56 oncology patients infected with vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) were treated with quinopristin-dalfopristin (Q-D) plus minocycline (MIN). Infections included bacteremia, urinary tract infection, pneumonia, and wound infection. The response rate was 68%, and the most frequent adverse event was arthralgia or myalgia (36%). Q-D–MIN is effective for VRE infection in cancer patients but is associated with a substantial frequency of arthralgia or myalgia.
Neutralization and anti-homophony in Korean

Neutralization in Korean involves a large number of oppositions, and affects a significant portion of the lexicon. Nonetheless, it induces remarkably little homophony. These highly divergent facts are argued herein to be related. The present findings suggest a reconsideration of the role that ‘functional load’ (Martinet 1952, Hockett 1967) plays in patterns of sound change.
Structure of the Brachydanio rerio Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) catalytic domain in complex with an extended inhibitor targeting the adaptive pocket of the enzyme.

Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a member of the Polo-like kinase family of serine/threonine kinases involved in the regulation of cell-cycle progression and cytokinesis and is an attractive target for the development of anticancer therapeutics. The catalytic domain of this enzyme shares significant primary amino-acid homology and structural similarity with another mitotic kinase, Aurora A. While screening an Aurora A library of ATP-competitive compounds, a urea-containing inhibitor with low affinity for mouse Aurora A but with submicromolar potency for human and zebrafish Plk1 (hPlk1 and zPlk1, respectively) was identified. A crystal structure of the zebrafish Plk1 kinase domain–inhibitor complex reveals that the small molecule occupies the purine pocket and extends past the catalytic lysine into the adaptive region of the active site. Analysis of the structures of this protein–inhibitor complex and of similar small molecules cocrystallized with other kinases facilitates understanding of the specificity of the inhibitor for Plk1 and documents for the first time that Plk1 can accommodate extended ATP-competitive compounds that project toward the adaptive pocket and help the enzyme order its activation segment.
Structural determinants of nuclear export signal orientation in binding to exportin CRM1

Many organisms keep their DNA within a structure inside their cells called the nucleus. Two layers of membrane surround the nucleus and keep the DNA separate from the rest of the cell's contents. Yet, proteins and other molecules can move in and out of the nucleus by passing through small pores in this nuclear membrane. To travel through these pores, larger molecules such as proteins rely on the assistance of transport receptors, including one called CRM1. This transport receptor helps to export hundreds of different proteins from the nucleus by recognizing a part of their structure called the ‘nuclear export signal’. Earlier work has shown that three different nuclear export signals interact with CRM1 in a similar ways by binding to a groove on its outer surface. But, there are several different types of nuclear export signal, and many are predicted to have three-dimensional structures that would seem to prevent them from binding to CRM1 in this way. As yet, it remains unknown how these diverse signals interact with this important transporter receptor. Protein crystallization is a technique that is used to visualize a protein's three-dimensional structure. Fung et al. have now used this approach to investigate how a particular class of nuclear export signals (called ‘class 3’) bind to CRM1. First, a modified form of CRM1 was crystallized once it had bound to a small fragment of protein that contains a class 3 nuclear export signal. The protein's molecular structure was then revealed by performing X-ray diffraction on the crystals. The results show, unexpectedly, that two different nuclear export signals in class 3 bind to the groove of CRM1 in the opposite direction to that reported previously. Additional biochemical and structural experiments then identified a particular feature or motif in the nuclear export signals that determines which way round they bind to CRM1. This discovery advances our understanding of how these signals work, which will allow us to more accurately identify new nuclear export signals from genome sequences. As more CRM1-binding nuclear export signals are discovered in the future, the experimental data sets used to train the computational programs that are currently used to locate these signals in genomic sequences will be diversified and improved.
Characterizing Body Image in Youth with HIV.

Emerging research in adults with HIV suggests negative body image may be found at a higher rate in this group. To date, few studies have examined body image in adolescents living with HIV. This exploratory study aimed to characterize body image perceptions among youth living with HIV. Adolescents (n = 143; age range 16–24 years; 69 % male) completed an Audio Computer Assisted Self-Interview Questionnaire that assessed body image, psychosocial, medical and sociodemographic information. Medical history and physical functioning information were abstracted from medical records. Results showed normative global body image on the Multidimensional Body Self-Relations Questionnaire-Appearance Scales. Some subscale elevations were observed; including decreased interest in self-care and appearance, as well as concerns with individual body areas. Overall, youth reported preference for own body shape on the Figure Rating Scale; however, 41 % of youth classified as “overweight” per CDC body mass index reported contentment with current body size. Further, 47 % of youth classified as “normal” weight desired to have larger body size. Youth identified as men who have sex with men most often reported desiring larger body size. Implications for clinical care are discussed.
Process‐Related Barriers to Optimizing Enteral Nutrition in a Tertiary Medical Intensive Care Unit

Purpose: Enteral nutrition (EN) is the preferred route of nutrient delivery in critically ill patients. Research has consistently described an incomplete delivery of EN in critically ill patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate barriers to reach and maintain >90% prescribed EN among critically ill medical intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort quality improvement study of patients ≥18 years of age admitted to a tertiary medical ICU and referred for EN from October 1–December 31, 2013. We excluded patients who received intermittent or bolus feeding. Demographic, clinical, and nutrition data were collected. Potential barriers to EN were categorized a priori. Results: Seventy-eight patients receiving 344 days of EN were included in the study. EN was initiated at a median of 32 hours (interquartile range, 18.5–75 hours) after ICU admission. Initiation and advancement of EN was identified as the most common reason for <90% prescribed intake. The top 5 int...
Problems and practicalities of technology transfer: a survey of the literature

Based upon a survey of the literature, the paper reports factors thought and shown empirically to influence the transfer of technology. Selected factors are discussed at length and placed in their historical, legal and socio–political contexts as appropriate. A summary of all the factors is presented, and these are divided into those fostering and those hindering technology transfer.
Habitat, Movements and Roost Characteristics of Montezuma Quail in Southeastern Arizona

Movements, survivorship, covey size, roosting behavior, and habitat use of Montezuma Quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae) marked with radio transmitters were studied in the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains of southeastern Arizona from October 1986 through November 1987. Coveys used small areas (0.09-6 ha) and during midwinter, the same small area would be used for long periods. In late winter and early spring, coveys occupied much larger areas by sequentially spending 3-10 days on adjacent, nonoverlapping areas as large as 50 ha. Daily movements were small (15-60 m) for most of the year, and movements between days were often 5 100 m. Birds with radios persisted on the study site as long as 133 days, but most were followed for <30 days. Covey size varied seasonally, with pairs observed from April-May through September. Individually followed coveys of up to six to eight birds declined in numbers from September through April. Slope, aspect, basal vegetation cover, dominant plant species, and distance to the nearest oak tree was measured at each location or flush site. When compared to randomly selected points in the oak savanna habitat, quail preferred southeast-facing hillsides in tall grasses for night roosts. Day-use areas were selectively on north-facing hillsides. Areas used by quail during the day were generally on hillsides, about 16 m from the nearest oak tree and had grass cover intermediate between barren areas under oak trees and more dense grass cover farther away from the oaks.
The Spectacle of Past Violence: Travel Journalism and Dark Tourism

Traveling to sites that relate to disaster, tragedy and death has become an established form of tourism. The aim of this chapter is to explain the conflicted role travel journalism can play in promoting this so-called dark tourism. The question is how travel journalists — who tend to focus on more positive, light-hearted stories — produce and negotiate the boundaries, motivations and ethics of this type of macabre tourism. As a case study, this chapter investigates the ways in which US-based travel journalists have participated in the public discourses that surround Tuol Sleng, a former Cambodian primary school that became a secret prison during the Khmer Rouge era and now exists as museum. Cambodia sits on the cusp of modernity, as tourists are lured to the country by the promises of exotic beauty but also by the darkness of a violent recent history, fueling a booming tourism industry that has led to real economic gains for the country (Chheang, 2009). By examining travel journalism articles +that document visits to and histories of the site, this chapter posits that travel journalism can operate as a realm of discursive practice that helps make sense of complex realities by offering, beyond tourism’s broader commercial concerns, a mode for engaging with dark sites that preserves empathy.
Ego depletion increases regulatory success in educational digital media environments

This research examines the effect of ego depletion on intellectual performance in an entertainment-education context. The dominant theoretical perspective, rooted in the resource model of self-regulation, suggests that depletion should impair intellectual performance. However, an alternative account, the process model of self-regulation, predicts an improvement. These two theories are tested by manipulating depletion and then exposing participants (Nź=ź326) to an educational digital media application. The findings show support for both models, and propose a new model of ego depletion effects in digital media environments. Depleted participants reported higher levels of media enjoyment, which in turn predicted higher scores on a test of intellectual performance. This indirect effect was strongest among participants low in need for cognition. The findings make important theoretical and practical contributions that may be used as a springboard for future investigations, which are discussed. Self-regulation theories assess ego depletion's effect on intellectual performance.A new model is proposed of ego depletion effects in digital media environments.Intellectual performance tested after exposure to digital media application.Depletion led to higher levels of task enjoyment and intellectual performance.This indirect effect was strongest among individuals low in Need for Cognition.
Study and Application of Simulation of Virtual Battlefield in Marine Environment

This article systematically introduces the Display System for Submarine Landscape in simulation system of virtual marine environment of Taiwan navy. It shows the main constitution and function, and analyses the development trends of research on simulation in marine environment at home and abroad. Finally it puts forward some thoughts and suggestions linking information teaching construction of academies.
The incidence of guiac positive stools in newborns and infants.

PURPOSE To describe the frequency of occult blood in the stool of newborns and infants who were hospitalized for a medical problem other than a gastrointestinal disorder. METHOD One hundred and eighty patients, ages 2 days to 1 year of age, participated in the study. Stool was collected and assayed for fecal occult blood using the Propper Seracult test for invitro diagnostic evaluation. FINDINGS The majority of infants, 77.2%, had guiac negative stools for the entire hospitalization, while 22.8% had guiac positive stools during part or all of the hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS Since most of the infants who tested guiac positive were not receiving a milk-based formula or breastmilk, it would suggest a cause other than allergic sensitivity or milk-induced enterocolitis.
Wheatley’s Fanciful Sublime: “What Songs Should Rise!”

Chapter 3 focuses on Wheatley’s second metapoetic group of verses, in which she uses various of Milton’s works to mount a major defense of poetry. These verses, especially “Thoughts on the WORKS of PROVIDENCE” and “On IMAGINATION”, constitute a manifesto for a poetics of the imaginative and fanciful sublime in which the several virtues and mental powers of indwelling divinity inspire free, various, and powerful song, not only in tribute to God but for the poet’s expanding community of evangelical, transatlantic, and Anglo-American readers. The chapter shows how Wheatley uses Milton to argue for the freedom and power of inspired song against the coercions of worldly power, responding to issues of spiritual and national liberty and enslavement through aesthetic argument and demonstration.
Promise of Combining Antifungal Agents in Denture Adhesives to Fight Candida Species Infections.

Purpose Several complications may arise in patients wearing complete prosthetic appliances, including denture-associated infections and mucosal stomatitis due to Candida species. This study evaluated the activity of anti-Candida agents in denture adhesive and the cytotoxicities of these preparations for primary human gingival epithelial (GE) keratinocytes. Materials and Methods The anti-Candida activities of antimicrobial peptides, antimicrobial lipids, and antifungal agents against C. albicans ATCC 64124 or HMV4C were assessed in microdilution assays containing water or 1% denture adhesive. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and the minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were determined. The cytotoxicities of denture adhesive compounded with these agents were assessed in 1.0 × 105 primary GE keratinocytes in LGM-3 media with resazurin. Results Lactoferricin B, SMAP28, sphingosine, dihydrosphingosine, and phytosphingosine in 1% denture adhesive lost antimicrobial activity for C. albicans (p 100.0 μg/ml) against primary human GE keratinocytes. Conclusions Antimicrobial peptides and antimicrobial lipids had diminished activities in 1% adhesive, suggesting that components in adhesives may inactivate local innate immune factors in the oral cavity, possibly predisposing denture wearers to Candida species infections. More importantly, antifungal agents retained their anti-C. albicans activities in denture adhesive, strongly suggesting that antifungal agents could be candidates for inclusion in adhesive formulations and used as prescribed topical treatments for individuals with denture stomatitis.
Releasing Your Inner Howler Monkey: Making the Transition into College.

The first year of college can be a confusing time. After years of technical training at your home studio, the professor of your first college contemporary course now wants you to turn in your feet ...
A Hidden Markov Model approach for automatic closed protocol hop synchronization

The recent increase in commercial availability of Remote Control Aircraft (RCA) has created numerous security and privacy concerns for the general public. In particular, RCAs jeopardize public safety in the already crowded airspace surrounding many large airports. An approach for protection from illegally operated RCAs is to utilize smart jamming methodologies against the frequency hopping radios commonly used in these applications. However, the abundance of radio manufacturers, along with their often closed or proprietary physical layer protocols, challenges existing smart jamming schemes. In this paper we propose a method to automatically synchronize in time and frequency with a frequency hopping radio at the physical layer by modelling the radio as a Hidden Markov Model (HMM). Our approach automates the determination of hop rates, hop frequencies, and timing of the target radio. We present multiple algorithms for identifying key HMM parameters and compare these algorithms using simulated data. We present the results of our HMM approach as we vary simulated noisy channel characteristics.
FUN BILINGUAL-BIMODAL EBOOKS FOR DEAF CHILDREN: DEVELOPING LANGUAGE AND PRELITERACY SKILLS

Ebooks provide new ways to advance developing literacy among deaf children. While some aim to promote literacy through explicit pedagogical techniques, the new ebooks described here aim only to offer stories that are fun to share, encouraging learning through interaction that naturally fosters language and preliteracy skills. Reading for pleasure is recognized as valuable for hearing children; it needs to be recognized as such for deaf children. We present the rationale for these ebooks and give examples of how they advance preliteracy skills, in the hopes that those raising and educating deaf children will use them, offered gratis on the Internet.
Abstract 38: Simultaneous Optical Pacing and Optical Voltage Mapping in Optogenetic Neonatal Rat Ventricular Myocyte Cultures

Optogenetics is an emerging technology allowing remote and precise control of cell activity in living tissues. Despite its rapid advancements, application of this innovative technology to cardiovascular research is still limited, in part due to shortage of optogenetic cardiac tissue models and compatible imaging methods. The present study aimed to develop an optogenetic culture model using neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM) expressing light-gated Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) and characterize activation spread during optical stimulation using optical mapping of membrane potential (Vm). Primary NVRM cultures were infected with lentivirus containing ChR2 gene. Cultures were paced electrically or optically with pulses of blue (470 nm) LED light. Activation spread was simultaneously mapped using Vm-sensitive dye (RH-237) and a photodiode mapping system. Results showed that ChR2 could be readily transduced to NRVMs by the lentiviral method; however, high-level ChR2 expression was associated with substantial cell toxicity. Lower ChR2 expression, achieved by administration of bromodeoxyuridine, had minor effects on cell morphology and function while allowing optical pacing at frequencies of 0.5-3 Hz. Simultaneous Vm mapping showed that conduction velocity, APD80, and dV/dtmax were similar in optogenetic and control cultures. Finally, the optogenetic cultures could be optically paced at multiple sites, leading to significantly reduced overall activation time. In summary, we demonstrated that ChR2 expression can cause cell toxicity in NRVM cultures but the toxicity can be mitigated allowing optical pacing and simultaneous optical activation mapping without significant impairment of electrophysiological function. This optogenetic cardiac culture model expands the availability of optogenetic tools for cardiac research.
Improved Outcomes of Kidney Transplantation in Infants (Age < 2 years): A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND Infants (age, < 2 years) with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have increased morbidity and mortality. We evaluated our long-term outcomes of kidney transplants (KTx) in infants. METHODS Between 1984 and 2014, 136 infants underwent KTx. We examined trends in survival rates and complications by era (1984-1993 [era 1], 1994-2003 [era 2], 2004-2014 [era 3]). RESULTS Patients were 92.6% white and 70.6% males. Posttransplant (Tx) initial length of hospital stay declined 37% over the 30-year period (P <0.01). Ten-year death-censored graft survival improved from 60% (era 1) to 80% (era 2) (P = 0.04). The incidence of acute rejection, graft thrombosis, cytomegalovirus, and urine leaks did not significantly change across eras. Frequency of Epstein-Barr virus diagnosis (era 2 vs era 3, P < 0.01) increased. Post-Tx lymphoproliferative disorder incidence was increased in era 2 compared with eras 1 and 3 (P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Infants deserve earlier consideration for KTx. Length of initial hospital stay and patient and graft survival rates after KTx have improved in infants since 1984.
Average glucose from hemoglobin A1c for altered red blood cell lifetimes: Predictions based on a model for hemoglobin A1c formation

Abstract Background A model for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) formation was used to predict the relationship between average glucose (AG) and %HbA1c under conditions of altered red blood cell lifetime (RCL). Methods Using a kinetic mass balance model for formation of HbA1c in red blood cells as a function of age (time in circulation), whole blood %HbA1c vs. glucose was calculated based on the nonlinear distribution of red blood cells as a function of age across RCL. Results Model calculations provided a close fit to the standard relationship of estimated average glucose to %HbA1c for normal RCL (r > 0.999). Results for altered RCL were calculated assuming simple time-scale compression or expansion of the distribution of red blood cells as a function of RCL. For a given %HbA1c, the operative average glucose needed to have achieved a given %HbA1c was predicted to be altered by RCL according to average glucose × RCL = constant. Conclusions Model calculations estimate the extent to which standard reporting of AG vs. HbA1c underestimates or overestimates AG under conditions of altered RCL. Conditions of altered RCL may often be operative in patients with certain hemoglobin variants.
CHAPTER 61 – Inorganic and Organometal Pesticides

This chapter provides an overview of inorganic and organometal pesticides. There are at least eighteen elements that characterize one or more inorganic pesticides. Of these elements, ten elements, namely, chromium, copper, zinc, phosphorus, sulfur, tin, arsenic, selenium, fluorine, and chlorine have been shown to be essential for normal growth. Their toxic effects do not depend on the element, but on the specific properties of one form of the element or one of its compounds, or merely on an inordinately high dosage. The other eight elements, namely, barium, cadmium, mercury, thallium, lead, bismuth, antimony, and boron have not been shown to be essential to growth of animals, although there is evidence that some may be helpful. It is suggested that toxicity is not an argument against essentiality. Some highly toxic elements such as iron, selenium, arsenic, and fluorine are essential to normal development. Characteristic features of several compounds of the eighteen elements are discussed along with their chemical name, chemical structure, synonyms, physical properties, chemical properties, formulations, and their uses. The mode of action, toxicity to humans and laboratory animals, and therapeutic uses of these compounds are described. The chapter also provides several treatment measures that could be utilized in case of poisoning caused by these compounds.
An MDL-based approach to extracting subword units for grapheme-to-phoneme conversion

We address a key problem in grapheme-to-phoneme conversion: the ambiguity in mapping grapheme units to phonemes. Rather than using single letters and phonemes as units, we propose learning chunks, or subwords, to reduce ambiguity. This can be interpreted as learning a lexicon of subwords that has minimum description length. We implement an algorithm to build such a lexicon, as well as a simple decoder that uses these subwords.
Abstract 3050: Studies of Strain Mechanics for Detecting Right Ventricular Scarring

Background: The unique shape of the right ventricle (RV) offers a particular challenge for strain imaging. Speckle tracking is a newer method of computing strain without the angle dependency of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). We sought to test and compare both methods in a modeled RV infarct. Methods: We studied 5 freshly harvested pig hearts in a water bath for ultrasound imaging. A pulsatile pump was attached to a latex balloon inserted into the RV cavity, delivering 6 different calibrated stroke volumes (SV) (15 to 40 ml) at 60 beats/min. Hearts were scanned in short axis views with a 10S probe on a GE Vivid 7 Dimensions system at 2D frame rates of 80 –100fps for grey scale and TDI. After baseline imaging, we injected 1–2ml of gluteraldehyde into the RV free wall to produce myocardial stiffening. The study was then repeated at the same SVs. Images were exported to EchoPac PC for analysis of circumferential strain (CS) in the RV free wall by speckle tracking and Doppler based methods. Results: At each SV, Doppler derived strain showed higher (8 –14.5%) strain values as compared to speckle tracking based strain. With increased SV, a corresponding increase in CS was detected by both methods but speckle tracking derived strain showed better correlation with SV (r=0.85) than Doppler derived strain (r=0.71). Both methods delineated myocardial damage but speckle tracking showed higher reproducibility (r=0.78) than the Doppler based method (r=0.61). Conclusions: In our study, speckle tracking was a superior method to delineate altered RV wall mechanics.
Small-scale structure and motions in the interstellar gas

The interstellar medium shows turbulence whose velocity and density spectra are surprisingly like a Kolmogoroff law, in spite of the fact that the turbulence is generated mainly by microscopic explosions, rather than a cascade of energy from larger to smaller scales.
Electrophysiological interrogation of asymmetric droplet interface bilayers reveals surface-bound alamethicin induces lipid flip-flop.

Abstract The droplet interface bilayer (DIB) method offers simple control over initial leaflet compositions in model membranes, enabling an experimental path to filling gaps in our knowledge about the interplay between compositional lipid asymmetry, membrane properties, and the behaviors of membrane-active species. Yet, the stability of lipid leaflet asymmetry in DIBs has received very little attention, particularly in the presence of peptides and ion channels that are often studied in DIBs. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time parallel, capacitance-based measurements of intramembrane potential with arrays of asymmetric DIBs assembled in a microfluidic device to characterize the stability of leaflet asymmetry over many hours in the presence and absence of membrane-active peptides. DIBs assembled from opposing monolayers of the ester (DPhPC) and ether (DOPhPC) forms of diphytanoyl-phosphatidylcholine yielded asymmetric bilayers with leaflet compositions that were stable for at least 18 h as indicated by a stable |137 mV| intramembrane potential. In contrast, the addition of surface-bound alamethicin peptides caused a gradual, concentration-dependent decrease in the magnitude of the dipole potential difference. Intermittent current-voltage measurements revealed that alamethicin in asymmetric DIBs also shifts the threshold voltage required to drive peptide insertion and ion channel formation. These outcomes take place over the course of 1 to 5 h after membrane formation, and suggest that alamethicin peptides promote lipid flip-flop, even in the un-inserted, surface-bound state, by disordering lipids in the monolayer to which they bind. Moreover, this methodology establishes the use of parallel electrophysiology for efficiently studying membrane asymmetry in arrays of DIBs.
Shape and Stability of a Pendant Nanodrop.

The shape and stability of a pendant nanodrop attached to a smooth or rough solid surface are considered on the basis of the microscopic density functional theory in the presence of a strong extern...
Identification of Baseline Characteristics Associated With Development of Depression Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience increased risk of depression and compromised quality of life. Identifying patients with HNC at risk of depression can help establish targeted interventions. Objective To identify factors that may be associated with the development of moderate or severe depression during treatment of HNC. Design, Setting, and Participants This is a retrospective, ad hoc, secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Patients were screened at academic- and community-based tertiary care HNC centers from January 2008 to December 2011. Of the 125 evaluable patients with stages II through IV HNC but without baseline depression, 60 were randomized to prophylactic antidepressant escitalopram oxalate and 65 to placebo at the time of the initial diagnosis. Data analyses were conducted from May 2016 to April 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures Depression outcomes were measured using Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology–Self Report (QIDS-SR) scores (range, 0-27 with a score of 11 or higher indicative of moderate or greater depression). Factors that may be associated with development of moderate or severe depression were assessed, including patient demographics; cancer site and stage; primary treatment modality (surgery or radiotherapy); history of depression or other psychiatric diagnosis; previous treatment of depression or suicide attempt, family history of depression, suicide, or suicide attempt; and baseline score on the QIDS-SR and clinician-rated QIDS instruments. Participants were stratified by study site, sex, cancer stage (early [stage II] vs advanced [stage III or IV]), primary modality of treatment (radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy vs surgery with or without radiotherapy), and randomization to placebo or escitalopram and balanced within these strata. Results The mean (SD) age of the 148 patients in the study population was 63.0 (11.9) years; 118 (79.7%) were men, and 143 (96.6%) were white. In the evaluable population of 125 patients, receiver operating characteristic analyses assessing the area under the curve for baseline QIDS-SR score (0.816; 95% CI, 0.696-0.935) and for initial radiotherapy-based treatment (0.681, 95% CI, 0.552-0.811) suggested that these 2 variables were associated with the likelihood of developing moderate or greater depression during the study period among patients who did not receive prophylactic antidepressants. The diagnostic sensitivity for identifying patients at risk of depression using the baseline QIDS-SR score improved to 100% at a threshold of 2 from 94% at a threshold of 4. Conclusions and Relevance Baseline symptoms and initial radiotherapy-based treatment may be associated with development of moderate or greater depression in patients with HNC. Patients with QIDS-SR baseline scores of 2 or higher may benefit the most from pharmacologic prophylaxis of depression.
Organic geochemical approaches to understanding early life

Here we discuss the early geological record of preserved organic carbon and the criteria that must be applied to distinguish biological from non-biological origins. Sedimentary graphite, irrespective of its isotopic composition, does not constitute a reliable biosignature because the rocks in which it is found are generally metamorphosed to the point where convincing signs of life have been erased. Rather, multiple lines of evidence, including sedimentary textures, microfossils, large accumulations of organic matter and isotopic data for co-existing carbon, nitrogen and sulfur are required before biological origin can be convincingly demonstrated.
The use of metformin to enhance radiation effects on M1 macrophage subtype polarization in bone marrow-derived macrophage in glioblastoma tumor environment.

e13513Background: Given the clinical relevance of tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) with its pro-tumor role and as a cell type compromising a large portion in glioblastoma (GBM), reversing the imba...
A Survey of Embedding Theorems for Semigroups of Continuous Functions: Dedicated to Kazimierz Kuratowski

For any topological space X , the symbol S(X) denotes the semigroup, under composition, of all continuous functions mapping X into X . This chapter presents various results that have a bearing on the problem of embedding the semigroup S(X) algebraically into the semigroup S(Y) . The chapter discusses two cases, the first case is where Y is discrete and hence S(Y) consists of all functions mapping Y into Y and the second case is where Y is not discrete. S(R) has lots of automorphisms (all inner), no epimorphisms which are not automorphisms, and no monomorphisms which are not automorphisms. It does have the endomorphisms onto one, two, and three element subsemigroups.
Systematic Review of Community Transition Programs After Acute Rehabilitation for Adults With Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

Date Presented 04/04/19 This systematic review investigates whether community transition programs reduce hospital readmissions and improve quality of life for adults ages 18 to 65 who experienced traumatic spinal cord injury and are making the initial transition from subacute rehabilitation back to the community. This review will enhance OTs’ familiarity with the evidence base for transition programs to inform practice and future program development. Primary Author and Speaker: Raheleh Tschoepe Additional Authors and Speakers: Anna Benfield Contributing Authors: Vicki Mercer, Rachael Posey
Clinical validation of the Neonatal Infant Stressor Scale with preterm infant salivary cortisol

Background Preterm infants face unique stress states in early life. Early-life stress has been associated with changes in cortisol reactivity and behavioral abnormalities later in childhood in non-preterm populations. The Neonatal Infant Stressor Scale (NISS) has been used to estimate infant stress in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) but has not been biomarker validated. The relationship between NISS scores and salivary cortisol is unknown. The aim of this study is to test the association between NISS scores and salivary cortisol in the NICU Hospital Exposures and Long-Term Health (NICU-HEALTH) preterm birth cohort. Methods Three hundred and eighty-six salivary cortisol specimens were collected from 125 NICU-HEALTH participants during the NICU hospitalization. NISS scores were calculated to represent the infant's experience in the 6 hours prior to specimen collection. Adjusted mixed-effect regression models were used to assess the association between each NISS score and salivary cortisol. Results Acute and total NISS scores were significantly associated with salivary cortisol level (P = 0.002 and 0.05, respectively). The chronic NISS score was not associated with salivary cortisol levels. Caffeine treatment and postmenstrual age of the infant were important covariates in all models. Conclusion Acute and total NISS score are associated with salivary cortisol level in hospitalized moderately preterm infants.
An Integral Pedagogical Strategy for Teaching and Learning IoT Cybersecurity

Internet of Things (IoT) has become a fundamental content of any engineering program due to the emerging need of experts in this field. However, the complexity of technologies that interact in IoT environments and the amount of different professional profiles required to design, implement and manage IoT environments, considering cybersecurity as a must, has led to a huge challenge in the educational world. This paper proposes an integral pedagogical strategy for learning IoT cybersecurity structured in three different stages, in a higher education institution. These stages focus not only on the content about IoT and cybersecurity but also on the competencies to acquire, the most suitable learning methodologies and the expected learning outcomes. The association of these concepts in each stage is detailed. Examples of courses are explained, the related competencies and learning outcomes are specified, and the contents and methodologies to achieve the expected results are described. An analysis of student results and stakeholder evaluations is provided to verify if the pedagogical strategy proposed is suitable. Furthermore, students’ feedback is included to corroborate the innovation, the suitability of the acquired skills, and the overall student satisfaction with the related courses and consequently with the proposed IoT cybersecurity pedagogical strategy.