cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impacts of dystrophin and utrophin domains on actin structural dynamics: implications for therapeutic design.

Abstract We have used time-resolved phosphorescence anisotropy (TPA) of actin to evaluate domains of dystrophin and utrophin, with implications for gene therapy in muscular dystrophy. Dystrophin and its homolog utrophin bind to cytoskeletal actin to form mechanical linkages that prevent muscular damage. Because these proteins are too large for most gene therapy vectors, much effort is currently devoted to smaller constructs. We previously used TPA to show that both dystrophin and utrophin have a paradoxical effect on actin rotational dynamics—restricting amplitude while increasing rate, thus increasing resilience, with utrophin more effective than dystrophin. Here, we have evaluated individual domains of these proteins. We found that a “mini-dystrophin,” lacking one of the two actin-binding domains, is less effective than dystrophin in regulating actin dynamics, correlating with its moderate effectiveness in rescuing the dystrophic phenotype in mice. In contrast, we found that a “micro-utrophin,” with more extensive internal deletions, is as effective as full-length dystrophin in the regulation of actin dynamics. Each of utrophin's actin-binding domains promotes resilience in actin, while dystrophin constructs require the presence of both actin-binding domains and the C-terminal domain for full function. This work supports the use of a utrophin template for gene or protein therapy designs. Resilience of the actin–protein complex, measured by TPA, correlates remarkably well with previous reports of functional rescue by dystrophin and utrophin constructs in mdx mice. We propose the use of TPA as an in vitro method to aid in the design and testing of emerging gene therapy constructs.
Rank change in Poisson dynamical systems

It is shown in this paper how a connection may be made between the symmetry generators of the Hamiltonian (or potential) invariant under a symmetry group $G$, and the subcasimirs that come about when the rank of the Poisson structure of a dynamical system drops by an even integer. This {\em kinematics-dynamics} connection is made by using the algebraic geometry of the orbit space in the vicinity of rank change, and the extra null eigenvectors of the mass matrix (Hessian with respect to symmetry generators) of the Hamiltonian (or potential). Some physical interpretations of this point of view include a control-theoretic prescription to study stability on various symplectic leaves of the Poisson structure. Methods of Invariant Theory are utilized to provide parametrization for the leaves of a Poisson dynamical system for the case where a compact Lie group acts properly on the phase space, which is assumed to be modeled by Poisson geometry.
Utilization of Alcohol Treatment Among HIV-Positive Women with Hazardous Drinking

Abstract Hazardous alcohol consumption has been frequently reported among women with HIV infection and is associated with a variety of negative health consequences. Treatments to reduce alcohol use may bring in health benefits. However, little is known regarding the utilization of alcohol treatment services among HIV+ women with hazardous drinking. Using data from the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS), this study assessed utilization of any alcohol treatment in the past 6months and performed multivariable logistic regression to determine correlates of receipt of any alcohol treatment. Among 474 HIV+ women reporting recent hazardous drinking, less than one in five (19%) reported recent utilization of any alcohol treatment. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was the most commonly reported (12.9%), followed by inpatient detoxification (9.9%) and outpatient alcohol treatment program (7.0%). Half (51%) receiving any alcohol treatment reported utilization of multiple treatments. Multivariable analyses found alcohol treatment was more often utilized by those who had social support (odds ratio [OR]=1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.00 to 2.83), fewer economic resources (income ≤$12,000 vs. >$12,000, OR=3.10, 95% CI=1.53 to 6.27), higher levels of drinking (16–35 drinks/week vs. 12–15 drinks/week, OR=3.02, 95% CI=1.47 to 6.21; 36+ drinks/week vs. 12–15 drinks/week, OR=4.41, 95% CI=2.03 to 9.59), and those who reported any illicit drug use (OR=2.77, 95% CI=1.44 to 5.34). More efforts are needed to enhance the utilization of alcohol treatment. Our findings highlight the unique profile of those who utilized alcohol treatment. Such information is vital to improve treatment delivery to address unmet need in this particular population.
Embryonic Testicular Regression Syndrome Presenting as Primary Amenorrhea: A Case Report and Review of Disorders of Sexual Development

Abstract Background Sex development depends on the synchronous interaction of complicated genetic and hormonal events. Sex differentiation begins with sex determination, which is the assignment of the embryonic bipotential gonads as either testes or ovaries on the basis of transcriptional regulation. Hormonal regulation then directs the development of the male or female phenotype. Disruptions of this intricate cascade of events result in disorders of sexual development. Case A 16-year-old female adolescent presented with primary amenorrhea. Evaluation revealed female external genitalia, XY karyotype, absent gonadal tissue, and rudimentary Mullerian structures. On the basis of her constellation of findings, the most logical diagnosis was the rare embryonic testicular regression syndrome. Summary and Conclusion A careful understanding of embryonic sexual development is critical to the evaluation of patients with disorders of sexual development.
Special-valuedl-groups

Special elements and special values have always been of interest in the study of lattice-ordered groups, arising naturally from totally-ordered groups and lexicographic extensions. Much work has been done recently with the class of lattice-ordered groups whose root system of regular subgroups has a plenary subset of special values. We call suchl-groupsspecial- valued.
Corrosion behavior of weld joints of substation grounding grid

To provide foundation for corrosion protection of the weld metal using in grounding grid,the corrosion difference between the weld and base metal of grounding grid was studied by electrochemical noise and field coupon method. The results showd that there were many transients in the time series of the weld of Q235 steel for grounding grid in soil of Shaanxi Xiaoyi substation,while a few transients in the time series of the Q235 base metal,which indicated that weld corrosion was more sensitive to discharge voltage of grounding grid. The noise resistance of the weld metal,Rn,was 3. 38 × 104Ω/cm2 during the corrosion process,and the Rn of the weld was 1. 44 × 104Ω/cm2. The corrosion rate of the weld metal was 0. 067 mm / a,and for the welded joint was 0. 077 mm / a. The based metal was in a uniform type of corrosion and the weld was mainly in a pitting type of corrosion.
College Student Interest in a Sales Career: The Gap Narrows, but Problems Remain

A primary investigation was undertaken to determine whether past positive trends in student perceptions toward selling careers is continuing. A convenience sample of 236 students, each enrolled in marketing classes at one of three universities, was surveyed. The results indicate that when individual attributes are investigated, this increasingly positive trend continues. Yet when asked to rate their preference for selling careers vis a vis other marketing careers, the careers involving sales are rated lowest. Possible explanations for this phenomenon are hypothesized, and suggestions for future research are given.
"One-way-street" streamlined admission of critically ill trauma patients reduces emergency department length of stay.

Emergency department (ED) overcrowding remains a significant problem in many hospitals, and results in multiple negative effects on patient care outcomes and operational metrics. We sought to test whether implementing a quality improvement project could decrease ED LOS for trauma patients requiring an ICU admission from the ED, specifically by directly admitting critically ill trauma patients from the ED CT scanner to an ICU bed. This was a retrospective study comparing patients during the intervention period (2013–2014) to historical controls (2011–2013). Critically ill trauma patients requiring a CT scan, but not the operating room (OR) or Interventional Radiology (IR), were directly admitted from the CT scanner to the ICU, termed the “One-way street (OWS)”. Controls from the 2011–2013 Trauma Registry were matched 1:1 based on the following criteria: Injury Severity Score; mechanism of injury; and age. Only patients who required emergent trauma consult were included. Our primary outcome was ED LOS, defined in minutes. Our secondary outcomes were ICU LOS, hospital LOS and mortality. Paired t test or Wilcoxon signed rank test were used for continuous univariate analysis and Chi square for categorical variables. Logistic regression and linear regressions were used for categorical and continuous multivariable analysis, respectively. 110 patients were enrolled in this study, with 55 in the OWS group and 55 matched controls. Matched controls had lower APACHE II score (12 vs. 15, p = 0.03) and a higher GCS (14 vs. 6, p = 0.04). ED LOS was 229 min shorter in the OWS group (82 vs. 311 min, p < 0.0001). The time between CT performed and ICU disposition decreased by 230 min in the OWS arm (30 vs. 300 min, p < 0.001). There was no difference in ED arrival to CT time between groups. Following multivariable analysis, mortality was primarily predicted by the APACHE II score (OR 1.29, p < 0.001), and not ISS, mechanism of injury, or age. After controlling for APACHE II score, there was no difference in mortality between the two cohorts (OR = 0.49, p = 0.28). Expedited admission of critically ill trauma patients immediately following CT imaging significantly reduced ED LOS by 3.82 h (229 min), without a change in ICU LOS, hospital LOS, or mortality. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of expedited admission on morbidity and mortality.
Implementation of interprofessional education (IPE) in 16 U.S. medical schools: Common practices, barriers and facilitators

Background Enhanced patient outcomes and accreditation criteria have led schools to integrate interprofessional education (IPE). While several studies describe IPE curricula at individual institutions, few examine practices across multiple institutions.
Structure Elucidation of Peptides with Unnatural Amino Acids Using an Automated Protein Sequencer

The use of automatic Edman microsequencing to determine the primary structure of peptides or proteins containing 20 eukaryotic natural amino acids is now routine. However, the ability to readily sequence peptides containing multiple unnatural amino acids remains elusive. We recently reported on the elution profile of 35 PTH-derivatives of unnatural α-amino acids on an ABI microsequencer [1]. A random “one-bead one-compound” tripeptide library containing 19 natural amino acids (cysteine excluded) plus 14 unnatural amino acids was synthesized and screened for streptavidin-binding ligands. The positive peptide beads were isolated and micro-sequenced using the modified elution gradient. A novel motif of Bpa-Phe(4-X)-Aib (wherein X = H, OH, or CH3) was identified. To increase the structural diversity of peptide libraries, development of a method for Edman microsequencing of peptides containing additional unnatural amino acids is necessary.
Topology, Geometry, Elementary Excitations and Physical Properties of Disordered Materials

Our review begins with a brief description of the elementary excitations of microscopically disordered materials. The unifying feature is the existence of linear equations of motion which, in the tight-binding representation, define continuous random networks within the space occupied by the material. We then turn to macroscopically disordered materials and, using porous rocks as an example, introduce certain relevant topological concepts. In particular, the concept of the deformation retract enables one systematically to map the continuous three-dimensional material into a network which represents it. With the aid of the deformation retract problems which relate to the physical properties of the material and are defined on a three-dimensional random continuum can be mapped into network problems essentially identically to those arising in the theory of the elementary excitations of microscopically disordered materials. Next, we return to the microscopic case and examine the simplest possible case in more detail, elucidating the principle features of the spectra of elementary excitations in topologically disordered materials. A further example, the band structure of amorphous silicon, is discussed only very briefly. Finally, the consequences of global symmetries for the long wavelength excitations are briefly reviewed.
Context, context, context: Priming theory and attitudes towards corporations in social media

Abstract Social media is one of the most contextually based media ever created. As such, the effects anticipated by priming theory would be expected to be especially strong. Using an online experiment, this study assessed the effects of linguistic tone and message relatedness present in the context of social media on publics’ attitudes towards organizations. It was expected that positive and negative tone would have positive and negative effects, respectively, and that the relatedness of the contextual prime would enhance those effects. About 100 participants in the study were randomly assigned to an experimental group to see a prime in the format of the popular social media site, Twitter. An analysis of the results showed that only negative primes had a significant effect on publics’ attitudes towards organizations, possibly reflecting an expectancy violation effect. Public relations professionals are called to engage in broader environmental monitoring to ensure their messages will be most effective.
Abstract P244: Role of the Na-H Exchanger Regulatory Factor 1 (NHERF1) in Hypertension of Aging Animals

Aging animals develop hypertension when challenged with high salt diet due, in part, to desensitization of dopamine receptors (DR) in renal proximal tubules (RPT). We have demonstrated that NHERF1 associates with DR1 and Na-K ATPase (NKA) and is important for regulation of NKA in RPT. Preliminary data showed loss of NHERF1 expression in 22m old F344 rats. We hypothesized that loss of NHERF1 results in increased blood pressure (BP) and lack of natriuretic response to dopamine (DA) in aging animals. To address this hypothesis, Fischer Brown Norway (FBN) rats (1m, 4m, 12m, and 24m old) were fed diet containing 1% or 8% NaCl for one week and, BP was measured in anesthetized animals using an indwelling left femoral artery catheter. 8% NaCl did not increase BP in 1m or 4 month old rats. By contrast, 8% NaCl diet increased BP in 12m (84.3±3.5 vs 90.8±2.36) and 24m (73.5±7.58 vs 104±1.6) old animals. To determine if lack of NHERF1 is responsible for the increase in BP, we measured BP in 12 m old WT and NHERF1 KO mice. By contrast to WT mice, 8% NaCl diet did not increase BP in NHERF1 KO mice (84±4.9 vs 96.5±3.56 (WT) and 78.2±3.89 vs 81.8±9.2 (NHERF1 KO mice)). To confirm that NHERF1 is required for DA-mediated inhibition of NKA, NKA activity in primary proximal tubule cells (PTC) from young and old mice in culture was measured in the presence or absence of DA. DA decreased NKA activity in PTC from young animals (67.2±3.8 vs 32.7±5.3) but not in PTC from old animals. Transfection of NHERF1 restored NKA regulation by DA in PTC from old rats (58.4±4.2 vs 64.4±4.3 (in untransfected cells) 54.2±3.8 vs 31.1±3.4 (in NHERF1 transfected cells)). We conclude that NHERF1 regulates DA-mediated proximal tubule sodium handling; however, other factors modulate BP response to dietary sodium intake in young and old animals. The contribution of NHERF1 and dopamine signaling to sodium homeostasis requires further study.
Vulnerability of eastern US tree species to climate change

Climate change is expected to alter the distribution of tree species because of critical environmental tolerances related to growth, mortality, reproduction, disturbances, and biotic interactions. How this is realized in 21st century remains uncertain, in large part due to limitations on plant migration and the impacts of landscape fragmentation. Understanding these changes is of particular concern for forest management, which requires information at an appropriately fine spatial resolution. Here we provide a framework and application for tree species vulnerability to climate change in the eastern United States that accounts for influential drivers of future distributions. We used species distribution models to project changes in habitat suitability at 800 m for 40 tree species that vary in physiology, range, and environmental niche. We then developed layers of adaptive capacity based on migration potential, forest fragmentation, and propagule pressure. These were combined into metrics of vulnerability, including an overall index and spatially explicit categories designed to inform management. Despite overall favorable changes in suitability, the majority of species and the landscape were considered vulnerable to climate change. Vulnerability was significantly exacerbated by projections of pests and pathogens for some species. Northern and high-elevation species tended to be the most vulnerable. There were, however, some notable areas of particular resilience, including most of West Virginia. Our approach combines some of the most important considerations for species vulnerability in a straightforward framework, and can be used as a tool for managers to prioritize species, areas, and actions.
Legal Issues in Lesbian and Gay Adoption

In the U.S., adoption provides an important vehicle for lesbians and gays to create and formalize parent-child relationships. Courts and even legislatures have been knowingly extending to lesbian and gay individuals and couples the right to adopt since at least the early 1990s, well before the push for legal protection of adult same-sex relationships - rights which have developed more slowly and with greater controversy. This book chapter provides an overview of adoption law and principles in the U.S., situates lesbian and gay adoption within those norms, and illustrates how the courts and legislatures have responded to the increasing numbers of openly-identified lesbians and gays who are seeking to adopt children as individuals and couples. The chapter also addresses issues surrounding enforcement of adoption decrees and concludes with a consideration of practical implications of the variety and indeterminacy of legal rules regarding lesbian and gay adoption.
A block-diagonal preconditioner for a four-field mixed finite element method for Biot's equations

Abstract In this paper, we explore an efficient preconditioning method for the saddle point system resulting from a four-field mixed finite element method applied to Biot's consolidation model. The proposed preconditioner is a block diagonal preconditioner based on the Schur complement. We obtain bounds on the eigenvalues of the preconditioned matrix that are clustered away from 0. To reduce the computational expense, this preconditioner is inverted approximately. Some numerical results are provided to show the efficiency of our preconditioning strategy when applied to a poroelasticity problem in a layered medium.
The Economics of Poverty: History, Measurement, and Policy

From all of his experience working with poverty programs and policies, Martin Ravallion successfully synthesizes the history of poverty, elaborates the poverty measurement, and discusses poverty po...
Regression method-derived energy value of dried egg albumen for broiler chickens

The energy value of dried egg albumen (DEA) for broiler chickens was determined with male Ross 708 broilers. Birds were fed a common broiler starter diet from day 0 to 17 and experimental diets from day 17 to 22 post hatching. A total of 192 birds was allotted to 3 diets in a randomized complete block design with 8 replicate cages per diet and 8 birds per cage. The experiment used a corn-soybean meal reference diet and 2 test diets which the DEA was added at 50 or 100 g/kg to partially replace the energy source in the reference diet. The analyzed DM of DEA was 934 g/kg, and the respective analyzed gross energy and CP were 5,310 kcal and 894 g/kg DM. Addition of DEA to the reference diet linearly increased (P < 0.01) ileal DM digestibility, ileal energy digestibility, and ileal digestible energy (IDE), metabolizable energy (ME), and nitrogen-corrected metabolizable energy (MEn), whereas the effect on N retention was quadratic (P < 0.05). The IDE, ME, MEn of DEA values determined by the regression method were 4,777, 4,966, and 4,750 kcal/kg DM, respectively. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that between 89 and 94% of the gross energy in dried egg albumen is utilized by broiler chickens.
Abstract 284: Elevation of Cardiac NAD+ Levels Improves Mitochondrial Function in Mice Lacking Sirtuin 3

The mitochondria rely heavily on the ratio between NAD+ and its reduced form NADH to maintain proper function and generate 95% of cardiac cellular energy. Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is the major mitochondrial deacetylase and its activity level has been linked to the NAD+/NADH ratio. Numerous studies have shown that deletion of SIRT3 results in hyperacetylation and impairment of mitochondrial enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism and in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Because impairments in these processes have shown to be associated with decreases in the NAD+/NADH ratio and contribute to deficits in energy production, we hypothesized that the SIRT3 knockout mice (SIRT3 -/- ) would have a decreased NAD+/NADH ratio and that normalizing the ratio would improve mitochondrial respiratory function and inner membrane potential. In the present study, we observed increases in both NAD+ (1.1-fold, n=3, p -/- mice compared to wild-type (WT) controls, resulting in a 26±2.2% reduction in the NAD+/NADH ratio. These changes correlated with decreased Complex I ADP stimulated respiration (173±16 vs 118±14 nmolO 2 /min/mg for WT and SIRT3 -/- , respectively, n=3, p -/- 1.4-fold, n=5, p -/- 1.7-fold) from the mice with no significant changes in NADH levels. Therefore, the NR I.P. injections normalized the NAD+/NADH ratio, partially restored the Complex I supported mitochondrial respiration (123±11 vs 157±8 nmolO 2 /min/mg for vehicle and NR treated SIRT3 -/- mice, respectively, n=3, p -/- mice. These results suggest that increasing cardiac NAD+ levels can rescue mitochondrial dysfunction independent of SIRT3 protein deacetylation and warrants further investigation. The next step will be to test whether increasing cardiac NAD+ levels can improve mitochondrial function and reduce injury in SIRT3 -/- mice subjected to chronic heart stress induced by transverse aortic constriction surgery.
The Association Between Happiness and Self-Rated Physical Health of African American Men: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study:

Happiness and self-rated physical health are included in national surveys to assess health perceptions and subjective well-being among individuals. Studies have reported that happiness impacts physical health; however, little is known about the association between happiness and self-rated physical health among African American men (AAM). The objective of this study is to examine this relationship. Participants were 1,263 AAM aged 18+ years from the National Survey of American Life who rated their happiness and physical health. Interviews were conducted between 2001 and 2003. Self-rated physical health was defined as how individuals rated their own physical health and happiness as how individuals perceived their subjective well-being. Three multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships between happiness and self-rated physical health. It was observed that AAM who were happy were more likely to be married, to be employed, and earn more than $30,000 annually compared to AAM who were not happy. AAM who were happy were less likely to rate their physical health as fair/poor relative to AAM who were not happy. When controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors, AAM who reported being happy had lower odds of rating their physical health as fair/poor compared to AAM who reported not being happy. Findings suggest that AAM who are happy report better physical health than those who report not being happy. Public health promotion strategies focusing on AAM should consider happiness as a promising influence that may positively impact physical health.
The lurker in the object

A peculiar note from a neighbor of a consumer culture theorist stationed at Miskatonic University who has gone missing arrives for you. The Arkham police have tasked the neighbor with sorting out s...
Effect of structure and composition on the electronic excitation induced amorphization of La 2 Ti 2−x Zr x O 7 ceramics

Understanding the response of ceramics operating in extreme environments is of interest for a variety of applications. Ab initio molecular dynamic simulations have been used to investigate the effect of structure and B-site (=Ti, Zr) cation composition of lanthanum-based oxides (La2B2O7) on electronic-excitation-induced amorphization. We find that the amorphous transition in monoclinic layered perovskite La2Ti2O7 occurs for a lower degree of electronic excitation than for cubic pyrochlore La2Zr2O7. While in each case the formation of O2-like molecules drives the structure to an amorphous state, an analysis of the polyhedral connection network reveals that the rotation of TiO6 octahedra in the monoclinic phase can promote such molecule formation, while such octahedral rotation is not possible in the cubic phase. However, once the symmetry of the cubic structure is broken by substituting Ti for Zr, it becomes less resistant to amorphization. A compound made of 50% Ti and 50% Zr (La2TiZrO7) is found to be more resistant in the monoclinic than in the cubic phase, which may be related to the lower bandgap of the cubic phase. These results illustrate the complex interplay of structure and composition that give rise to the radiation resistance of these important functional materials.
The structure of an iron-containing alcohol dehydrogenase from a hyperthermophilic archaeon in two chemical states

An iron-containing alcohol dehydrogenase (FeADH) from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus thioreducens was crystallized in unit cells belonging to space groups P21, P212121 and P43212, and the crystal structures were solved at 2.4, 2.1 and 1.9 A resolution, respectively, by molecular replacement using the FeADH from Thermotoga maritima (Schwarzenbacher et al., 2004) as a model. In the monoclinic and orthorhombic crystals the dehydrogenase (molecular mass 41.5 kDa) existed as a dimer containing a twofold noncrystallographic symmetry axis, which was crystallographic in the tetragonal crystals. In the monoclinic and orthorhombic asymmetric units one molecule contained iron and an NADP molecule, while the other did not. The tetragonal crystals lacked both iron and NADP. The structure is very similar to that of the FeADH from T. maritima (average r.m.s. difference for Cα atoms of 1.8 A for 341 aligned atoms). The iron, which is internally sequestered, is bound entirely by amino acids from one domain: three histidines and one aspartic acid. The coenzyme is in an extended conformation, a feature that is common to the large superfamily of NADH-dependent dehydrogenases that share a classical nucleotide-binding domain. A long broad tunnel passes entirely through the enzyme between the two domains, completely encapsulating the coenzyme.
Syntheses of oxygen analogues of sulfhemes-A and -C

Syntheses of-metal-free oxygen analogues of the sulfhemes-A and -C from protoporphyrin-IX dimethyl ester 1 are presented. Oxasulfporphyrin-C dimethyl ester 5 is obtained by intramolecular displacement of a primary rosylate by a tertiary hydroxyl in an appropriately constructed precursor 18, or by surface-catalyzed rearrangement of the epoxide-bearing oxasulfporphyrin-A dimethyl ester 23. Compound 23 is in turn prepared by Mitsunobu type internal dehydration of the precursor 12. The methodology is then successfully extended to more symmetric porphyrin systems. Compounds 23, 25, 46, and 61/62 are the first porphyrin epoxides to be synthesized.
A Brief Review of Cosmological Models

The ancients had no telescopes and so could only use their own eyes to observe the heavens. They saw the Sun, the Moon, the stars and the planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.
The Dynamic Block Universe and the Illusion of Passage

The passage of time seems to be a fundamental aspect of experience. However, most descriptions of the passage of time itself are incompatible with the four-dimensional block universe model of space and time, in which time is extended like space, and all states of affairs exist equally and eternally in this varied tapestry of space and time. The tension between temporal passage and the block universe seems to leave one with the option of either abandoning the block universe in favor of a metaphysics that can accommodate our experience, or holding that this experience of passage is illusory. I argue for a third option: (a) that we have certain dynamic experiences, which lend themselves to the view that time passes, (b) those dynamic experiences can be accounted for within the block universe model without any additional mechanism, and (c) those dynamic experiences are not illusory, but veridical.
Drugs: Getting a Fix on the Problem and the Solution

Everyone agrees that the nation confronts an urgent drug problem. But the problem wears various faces. Most threatening is drug related violence. Daily, vicious murders are attributed to drug feuds.1 More rarely, but more frighteningly, innocent citizens are caught in the cross fire between warring gangs, or murdered for their opposition to drug dealing.2 Statistics show dramatic increases in drug related homicides in New York, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Washington.3 Closely related is a second face of the problem: the fear and demoralization spread by flagrant drug dealing. In open drug markets where drug dealers congregate and attract unsavory users, ordinary pedestrian traffic dries up.4 Shopowners, who anchor these streets, relocate or retire. City sanitation workers hurry through their work. Teachers seek new assignments. As neighborhoods yield to the drug culture, a third concern arises. Local children become exposed to and then involved in drug use, drug sales, or both.5 While children from both middle class and poor families are affected, the stakes for society as a whole are particularly great when the youth who are most threatened are among those already most disadvantaged.0
Big Old Theory

The article retraces the author’s experience, beginning in the early 1970s, of French Theory. It was the experience of a fulgurance, which continues to draw its force of renewal from a future it ca...
Neuroinflammation, Depressive Affect, and Amyloid Burden in Alzheimer's Disease: Insights from the Kynurenine Pathway

Background: Depressive symptoms in Alzheimer9s disease (AD) predict worse cognitive and functional outcomes. Both AD and major depression are characterized by shunted tryptophan metabolism away from serotonin (5-HT) and toward the neuroinflammatory kynurenine (Kyn) pathway. The present study assessed the role of Kyn across the AD continuum in behavioral, neuroanatomical, neuropathological, and physiological outcomes. Methods: In 746 participants from the Alzheimer9s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative-1 (ADNI1) cohort, serum markers of 5-HT, tryptophan, and Kyn were measured and their relationships investigated with immunologic markers, affect and functional outcomes, CSF markers of beta-amyloid (Aβ) and tau, and regional gray matter. Results: A higher Kyn/Tryptophan ratio was linked to many inflammatory markers, as well as lower functional independence and memory scores. A higher Kyn/5-HT ratio showed similar associations, but also strong relationships with depressive affect and neuropsychiatric disturbance, executive dysfunction, and global cognitive decline. Further, gray matter atrophy was seen in hippocampus, anterior cingulate, and prefrontal cortices, as well as greater amyloid and total tau deposition. Finally, using moderated-mediation, several pro-inflammatory factors partially mediated Kyn/5-HT and depressive affect scores in participants with subclinical Aβ (i.e., Aβ-), whereas such associations were fully mediated by Complement 3 in Aβ+ participants. Conclusions: These findings suggest that neuroinflammatory signaling cascades may occur during AD, resulting in increased Kyn metabolism that influences the pathogenesis of depressive symptoms. Aβ and the complement system may be critical contributing factors in this process.
All systems are equal: In defense of undervalued ecosystems

On The Ground • We introduce the concept of biodiversity potential to assign equal biodiversity value among socially valued and undervalued ecosystems. • Widespread greasewood (Sarcobatus vermiculatus) ecosystems were examined as a case study of biodiversity potential of an undervalued ecosystem at the sodic end of soil salinity. • Groundwater pumping could drop the water table below greasewood taproots, which could degrade wildlife habitat through decreased canopy cover, increased mineral soil, invasive flammable non-native annual species, and exotic forbs. • State-and-transition simulation models and field studies can be used to assess degraded greasewood ecosystems.
An Infelicitous Feast: Ritualized Consumption and Divine Rejection in Amos 6.1–7:

Previous studies of the marzeaḥ in Amos 6.1-7 have tended to put forth one of two opposing views. Scholars who focus on the religious or ritual aspects of the banquet have claimed that the marzeaḥ ...
The Death of Strict Liability

The concept of strict liability has important theoretical significance but almost no analytical or doctrinal traction. In fact, at least in the realm of abnormally dangerous activities, the function of "strict liability" should be, and is being, replaced by an analysis that examines the reasonableness of the an actor's choice of where, when, how and how often to do an activity - that is, an activity level reasonableness analysis. The cases that have been thought to be "strict liability" cases in fact can be understood as activity level reasonableness cases and courts are increasingly using reasonableness analysis to determine whether an activity is abnormally dangerous. This movement away from a doctrinally empty concept of strict liability is an important movement toward a more unified, coherent, and analytically sound concept of the reasonable person.
A Case Report of Calcium-Sensing Receptor Gene Variant and Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Introduction: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is an endocrinopathy that results from excessive production of parathyroid hormone from one or more overactive parathyroid gland(s). An estimated 90% of PHPT cases are sporadic, and 10% are inherited, comprising familial hyperparathyroidism (FHP). In FHP syndromes, variable clinical features are partly attributed to genetic heterogeneity. While there is not a consensus whether Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) is a distinct entity or a form of FHP, accurate diagnosis is critical in guiding proper decision-making. The utility of genetic testing is multi-fold: help inform most likely diagnosis, guide prognosis and management, and inform familial recurrence risk. We report a patient with early-onset hypercalcemia, post subtotal parathyroidectomy, notable family history, with a likely pathogenic variant in the calcium-sensing receptor gene, CASR. Case Presentation: A 42 yo, female with history of nephrolithiasis and hypercalcemia diagnosed in her 20’s with PHPT was referred to our endocrinology clinic. Preoperative work up showed calcium of 11.1mg/dL, albumin 4.2g/dL, PTH of 177pg/mL, creatinine 0.92mg/dL. Sestamibi showed persistent activity in the mid to inferior aspect of right thyroid lobe suspicious for parathyroid adenoma. She underwent 3 gland parathyroidectomy and pathology showed mildly hypercellular parathyroid in left superior & right superior gland, normocellular left inferior gland. PTH levels normalized post-surgery. PTH levels normalized post surgery. Genetic evaluation was done, given her early-onset hypercalcemia, multi-gland involvement, and notable family history (maternal grandfather with parathyroidectomy for hypercalcemia and mother reportedly undergoing a hyperparathyroidism workup). Invitae hyperparathyroidism genetic panel revealed a likely pathogenic variant in CASR (c.659G>A; p.R220Q). Discussion: To date, our case with PHPT is the second report of the likely pathogenic variant CASR (c.659G>A; p.R220Q), which affects a conserved extracellular domain residue, thought to be important in sensing extracellular calcium. This variant has been previously reported in another family with FHH with 5 affected relatives. The reported 29-year old proband also had recurrent pancreatitis, which resolved with subtotal parathyroidectomy, but remained hypercalcemic. Despite the marked phenotypic heterogeneity in our patient and the case with FHH in terms of clinical presentation and response to treatment with surgery; both shared a history of hyperparathyroidism and a family history of hypercalcemia, suggesting contributions from the same CASR gene variant. With limited existing data about the variable expressivity of variants in genes implicated in the pathogenesis of both FHH and FHP; our case adds value to the existing evidence that supports its possible genetic contribution to PHPT
Achieving situational awareness of drug cartels with geolocated social media

Using geolocated tweets to achieve situational awareness is an often researched topic in disaster and emergency management. However, little has been done in the area of drug cartels, which, as transnational crime organizations, continue to pose great risk to the stability and safety of our communities. This paper made an initial effort in using geolocated social media (specifically Twitter) to achieve situational awareness of drug cartels through temporal and spatial analysis of derived named entity clusters. The results show that detecting peaks in the time series of frequently occurring entity clusters enabled the tracking of important events in public discourse surrounding drug cartels. Correlations between time series also provided valuable insights into the synchronicity between different events. Further examining the spatial distribution of key events for different countries, we identify thematic hotpots of public discourse on cartel activity. Our methodology also addresses issues of language ambiguity when working with noisy social media data in order to achieve situational awareness on drug cartels.
Heart disease in patients with stroke. Part II: Impact and implications for rehabilitation

Cardiac disease reduces the long-term survival of stroke patients and increases the likelihood of intercurrent medical illness during the rehabilitation phase. It remains controversial whether heart disease negatively affects functional capabilities after stroke, but most studies agree that associated cardiac disease, especially congestive heart failure, adversely affects functional outcomes after stroke rehabilitation. Reliable clinical assessment of the presence and severity of heart disease in stroke patients may be hampered by mobility limitations, communication deficits, and other problems. Therefore, specialized diagnostic methods may be needed. The development and application of effective and consistent medical and rehabilitation guidelines for proper comprehensive care may enhance the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes and of avoiding complications in patients with stroke.
Impurity transport in a simulated gas target divertor

Future generation fusion reactors and tokamaks will require dissipative divertors to handle the high particle and heat loads leaving the core plasma (100–400 MW/m2 in ITER). A radiative divertor is proposed as a possible scenario, utilizing a hydrogen target gas to disperse the plasma momentum and trace impurity radiation to dissipate the plasma heat flux. Introducing an impurity into the target hydrogen gas enhances the radiative power loss but may lead to a significant impurity backflow to the main plasma. Thus, impurity flow control represents a crucial design concern. Such impurity flows are studied experimentally in this thesis. The PISCES-A linear plasma device (n ≤ 3 × 1019 m−3, kTe ≤ 20 eV) has been used to simulate a gas target divertor. To study the transport of impurities, a trace amount of impurity gas (i.e., neon and argon) is puffed near the target plate along with the hydrogen gas. Varying the hydrogen gas puffing rate permits us to study the effects of various background plasma conditions on the transport of impurities. A 1-1/2-D fluid code has been developed to solve the continuity and momentum equations for a neutral and singly ionized impurity in a hydrogen background plasma. The results indicate an axial reduction in the impurity concentration upstream from the impurity puffing source. Impurity entrainment is more effective for higher hydrogen target pressures (and for higher hydrogen plasma densities). However, if there is a reversal of the background plasma flow, impurity particles can propagate past the plasma flow reversal point and are then no longer entrained.
BODY WATER COMPARTMENTS IN THE PREMATURE INFANT, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE EFFECTS OF THE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME AND OF MATERNAL DIABETES AND TOXEMIA

Normal values for both total body water and extracellular water have been determined in 86 premature infants aged 1 to 90 days and weighing 940 to 2,435 gm, with use of the techniques of deuterium oxide and bromide dilution. Nine full-term infants aged 1 to 6 days and weighing 2,590 to 4,985 gm were similarly studied. Nine infants with the respiratory distress syndrome and eight infants of toxemic mothers studied in the first 24 hours of life showed no significant difference in their body water compartments in comparison to a control group of normal infants matched for age and weight. Seven infants of diabetic mothers studied in the first 24 hours of life showed a significant decrease in total body water, expressed as percentage of body weight, with a normal intracellular to extracellular water ratio. These data indirectly support other evidence that there is an increase in body fat in these infants at birth. See Table in the PDF file
Nonlinear hybrid simulation of the toroidicity-induced Alfvén eigenmode.

Gyrokinetic-magnetohydrodynamic hybrid simulations have been carried out to study the nonlinear saturation of the torodicity-induced Alfv\'en eigenmode driven by energetic particles in a tokamak plasma. It is shown that wave-particle trapping is the nonlinear saturation mechanism for the parameters considered. The corresponding density profile flattening of the hot particles is observed. The saturation amplitude is proportional to the square of the linear growth rate. In addition, a new $n\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}1,m\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}0$ global Alfv\'en eigenmode is shown to be excited by the energetic particles.
Cultural diversity and the case against ethical relativism.

The movement to respect culturaldiversity, known as multiculturalism, poses a dauntingchallenge to healthcare ethics. Can we construct adefensible passage from the fact of culturaldifferences to any claims regarding morality? Or doesmulticulturalism lead to ethical relativism? Macklinargues that, in view of a leading distinction betweenuniversalism in ethics and moral absolutism, the onlyreasonable passage avoids both absolutism andrelativism. She presents a strong case againstethical relativism and its pernicious consequences forcross-cultural issues in healthcare. She alsoprovides sound criteria for the assessment of aculture's moral progress.
Reaction of hydroquinone with hematite; I. Study of adsorption by electrochemical-scanning tunneling microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Abstract The reaction of hematite with quinones and the quinone moieties of larger molecules may be an important factor in limiting the rate of reductive dissolution, especially by iron-reducing bacteria. Here, the electrochemical and physical properties of hydroquinone adsorbed on hematite surfaces at pH 2.5–3 were investigated with cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical-scanning tunneling microscopy (EC-STM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). An oxidation peak for hydroquinone was observed in the CV experiments, as well as (photo)reduction of iron and decomposition of the solvent. The EC-STM results indicate that hydroquinone sometimes forms an ordered monolayer with ∼1.1 QH 2 /nm 2 , but can be fairly disordered (especially when viewed at larger scales). XPS results indicate that hydroquinone and benzoquinone are retained at the interface in increasing amounts as the reaction proceeds, but reduced iron is not observed. These results suggest that quinones do not adsorb by an inner-sphere complex where adsorbate–surface interactions determine the adsorbate surface structure, but rather in an outer-sphere complex where interactions among the adsorbate molecules dominate.
Residential radon and birth defects: A population-based assessment.

Background Associations have been reported between maternal radiation exposure and birth defects. No such studies were found on radon. Our objective was to determine if there is an association between living in areas with higher radon levels and birth defects. Methods The Texas Birth Defects Registry provided data on all birth defects from 1999 to 2009 from the entire state. Mean radon levels by geologic region came from the Texas Indoor Radon Survey. The association between radon and birth defects was estimated using multilevel mixed effect Poisson regression. Results Birth defects overall were not associated with residential radon levels. Of the 100 other birth defect groups with at least 500 cases, 14 were significantly elevated in areas with high mean radon level in crude analyses, and 9 after adjustment for confounders. Cleft lip with/without cleft palate had an adjusted prevalence ratio of 1.16 per 1 picoCurie/liter (pCi/L) increase in exposure to region mean radon, 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.26. Cystic hygroma / lymphangioma had an adjusted prevalence ratio of 1.22 per 1 pCi/L increase, 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.46. Other associations were suggested but not as consistent: three skeletal defects, Down syndrome, other specified anomalies of the brain, and other specified anomalies of the bladder and urethra. Conclusion In the first study of residential radon and birth defects, we found associations with cleft lip w/wo cleft palate and cystic hygroma / lymphangioma. Other associations were suggested. The ecological nature of this study and multiple comparisons suggest that our results be interpreted with caution. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.