cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tracing our roots: early clinical laboratory scientists and their work--myth and reality.

Objective To describe the 'real' and 'ideal' clinical laboratory scientist according to the perceptions of pathologists, clinical laboratory scientists, and the public during the early years of the profession (1918 to 1942). Design A survey of literature on the history of clinical laboratory science was conducted. References consulted include various books and professional journals. Conclusion As early as 1920, young women learned, through career guides, that they were particularly well-suited for performing laboratory work because they possessed a unique set of attributes which were considered to be desirable qualities in a clinical laboratory scientist. In addition, magazine articles published in the popular press in the 1930s and 1940s romanticized laboratory technicians. Although later articles did present a more realistic description of the work of the laboratory technician, they continued to portray the occupation in idealistic terms. Pathologists and laboratory technicians also described the ideal laboratory technician in professional journals, citing those qualities that were essential or especially desirable in a competent laboratory technician. The relationship between the clinical pathologists and the laboratory technician was described as one of mutual interdependence and integration of responsibilities. In reality, pathologists maintained strict supervision and control over the work of laboratory technicians. The 'real' laboratory technician differed markedly from the 'ideal' prototype created by the public, pathologists, and by laboratory technicians, themselves.
K-Edge X-ray Fluorescence Analysis for Actinide and Heavy Elements Solution Concentration Measurements

There are currently no plans for the commercial reprocessing of nuclear fuel in the U.S. This is not the case in Japan, England, France, Germany, or the USSR. The U.S. does, however, include the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel as a part of its defense programs. The Office of Safeguards and Security of DOE's Defense Programs has funded the development and optimization of numerous nondestructive analysis techniques including K-edge x-ray fluorescence analysis. This paper reviews some of the implementation efforts resulting from R&D supported by that office. In 1979, the concept of using K-edge x-ray fluorescence analysis (K XRFA) for the analysis of actinide solution concentrations was first presented. K XRFA using small radioactive Co-57 sources has been shown to be a practical way to measure actinide solution concentrations in offline, at-line, or on-line configurations. The experimental methodology is elegant and the hardware is simple.
Evaluation of artificial selection in Standard Poodles using whole-genome sequencing.

Identifying regions of artificial selection within dog breeds may provide insights into genetic variation that underlies breed-specific traits or diseases—particularly if these traits or disease predispositions are fixed within a breed. In this study, we searched for runs of homozygosity (ROH) and calculated the d i statistic (which is based upon F ST) to identify regions of artificial selection in Standard Poodles using high-coverage, whole-genome sequencing data of 15 Standard Poodles and 49 dogs across seven other breeds. We identified consensus ROH regions ≥1 Mb in length and common to at least ten Standard Poodles covering 0.6 % of the genome, and d i regions that most distinguish Standard Poodles from other breeds covering 3.7 % of the genome. Within these regions, we identified enriched gene pathways related to olfaction, digestion, and taste, as well as pathways related to adrenal hormone biosynthesis, T cell function, and protein ubiquitination that could contribute to the pathogenesis of some Poodle-prevalent autoimmune diseases. We also validated variants related to hair coat and skull morphology that have previously been identified as being under selective pressure in Poodles, and flagged additional polymorphisms in genes such as ITGA2B, CBX4, and TNXB that may represent strong candidates for other common Poodle disorders.
Generation of Cytomegalovirus pp65-Specific T Cells from Seronegative Donors.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) can cause significant disease in allogeneic stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients. Adoptive transfer of donor derived CMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) is currently used for prophylaxis and treatment of CMV infections in allogeneic transplant recipients, but this is only available for patients whose donors are CMV seropositive. We developed a method to prime and expand CMVpp65-specific T cells from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of CMV seronegative donors. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells isolated from four CMV seronegative donors were pulsed with CMVpp65 peptides for two hours prior to T cell stimulation. CMVpp65 peptides consisted of 15 mers with an 11 amino acid overlap. T cells obtained from CMV seronegative donors were primed every seven days for three weeks using CMVpp65 peptide pulsed dendritic cells. Interleukin-7 and interleukin-12 were initially added to the T cell cultures to promote CTL differentiation. After ten days, interleukin-2 together with interleukin-7 and interleukin-12 were added at three day intervals. Intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) and 51Cr-release assays were used to measure the activity and specificity of CMVpp65 primed CMV seronegative donor T cells seven to ten days after the last stimulation. A four color ICS analysis revealed that CMVpp65-specific IFN-γ-producing CD4+ (Th1) T cells were expanded from two of the four seronegative donors; one of these two donors had CMVpp65-specific killing as measured by 51Cr-release assay, the other displayed non-specific killing. One of the other two donors exhibited CMVpp65 killing but lacked IFN-γ production. PBMC isolated from a CMV seronegative donor three weeks post CMV vaccination also exhibited CMV-specific killing after only one week in vitro stimulation, with no CMV specificity pre-vaccination. In conclusion CMV-specific effector cells can be expanded from some CMV seronegative donors using CMVpp65 peptide pulsed dendritic cells, interleukin-2, interleukin-7, and interlukin-12. These cells may have the potential to be used in adoptive cell therapy to prevent or treat CMV infections in SCT recipients from CMV seronegative donors. An alternative strategy for patients with persistent CMV infection may be to use CTL derived from a vaccinated donor. Analysis of CMVpp65-specific T cells from additional seronegative donors is in progress to further optimize ex vivo expansion.
Influence of sedentary behavior, physical activity, and cardiorespiratory fitness on the atherogenic index of plasma.

Background Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), calculated as LOG 10 (triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol), may have greater utility over other metrics in predicting risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Previous work demonstrates the associations of physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) with triglycerides high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and CVD. Objective Limited research has examined these parameters and their potential additive associations with AIP, which was the purpose of this study. Methods Data from the 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used (N = 307 adults 20–49 years). Sedentary behavior and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were assessed via accelerometry. CRF was assessed via submaximal treadmill testing. Using median values, a PACS (Physical Activity Cardiorespiratory Sedentary) score (ranging from 0–3) was created, indicating the number of these positive characteristics (eg, above median CRF) each participant possessed. Results Above median MVPA was associated with significantly lower AIP values (β = −0.09; 95% CI, −0.17 to −0.01; P = .03), whereas above-median CRF (β = −0.0009; 95% CI, −0.09 to 0.08; P = .98) and below-median sedentary behavior (β = −0.02; 95% CI, −0.13 to 0.08; P = .60) were not. Compared to those with a PACS score of 0, those with a score of 1 or 2 did not have significantly reduced AIP values (β = 0.02; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.10; P = .59, and β = 0.007; 95% CI, −0.12 to 0.13; P = .90, respectively); however, those with a score of 3 did (β = −0.14; 95% CI, −0.28 to −0.001; P = .04). Conclusion Interventions targeting improvements in lipid profile (AIP) may wish to promote adequate MVPA over CRF or decreased sedentary behavior.
CONTROL MECHANISMS FOR CHROMOSOME REPRODUCTION IN THE CELL CYCLE

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the control mechanisms for chromosome reproduction in the cell cycle. One of the most striking features of DNA replication is the periodicity of the process in relation to the cell division cycle. Studies of chromosome reproduction with tritiated thymidine show that there are two subunits of DNA in each chromosome. Subsequent studies of the semiconservative replication of DNA indicate that these subunits correspond to the two polynucleotide chains in DNA double helices. It is suggested that a chromosome is composed of tandemly linked molecules of DNA, units of replication. Special structural features or linkers corresponding to operator sites for DNA replication appear necessary to understand the mechanical problems of sorting and the control mechanisms for replication.
Differential evolution algorithms under multi-population strategy

A differential evolution (DE) algorithm is an evolutionary algorithm for optimization problems over a continuous domain. To solve high dimensional global optimization problems, this work investigates the performance of differential evolution algorithms under a multi-population strategy. The original DE algorithm generates an initial set of suitable solutions. The multi population strategy divides the set into several subsets. These subsets evolve independently and connect with each other according to the DE algorithm. This helps in preserving the diversity of the initial set. Furthermore, a comparison of combination of different mutation techniques on several optimization algorithms is studied to verify their performance. Finally the computational results on eleven well-know benchmark optimization functions, reveal some interesting relationship between the number of subpopulations and performance of the DE.
Mansfield Park: An Annotated Edition

The final edition of Harvard University Press’s annotated Jane Austen novels, Mansfield Park, is a gorgeous object—an oversized volume fit to grace the best coffee tables. It is fitting that this i...
Outcomes of ICU Patients With a Discharge Diagnosis of Critical Illness Polyneuromyopathy: A Propensity-Matched Analysis

Objectives:To assess the impact of a discharge diagnosis of critical illness polyneuromyopathy on health-related outcomes in a large cohort of patients requiring ICU admission.Design:Retrospective cohort with propensity score–matched analysis.Setting:Analysis of a large multihospital database.Patien
Maximal Hypersurfaces in Spacetimes with a Nonvanishing Spacelike Killing Field

We consider four-dimensional vacuum spacetimes which admit a nonvanishing spacelike Killing field. The quotient with respect to the Killing action is a three-dimensional quotient spacetime (M, g). We establish several results regarding maximal hypersurfaces (spacelike hypersurfaces of zero mean curvature) in such quotient spacetimes. First, we show that a complete noncompact maximal hypersurface must either be a cylinder $$S^1 \times {\mathbb {R}}$$ with flat metric or else conformal to the Euclidean plane $${\mathbb {R}}^2$$ . Second, we establish positivity of mass for certain maximal hypersurfaces, referring to a analogue of ADM mass adapted for the quotient setting. Finally, while lapse functions corresponding to the maximal hypersurface gauge are necessarily bounded in the four-dimensional asymptotically Euclidean setting, we show that nontrivial quotient spacetimes admit the maximal hypersurface gauge only with unbounded lapse.
Deep reinforcement learning: Framework, applications, and embedded implementations: Invited paper

The recent breakthroughs of deep reinforcement learning (DRL) technique in Alpha Go and playing Atari have set a good example in handling large state and actions spaces of complicated control problems. The DRL technique is comprised of (i) an offline deep neural network (DNN) construction phase, which derives the correlation between each state-action pair of the system and its value function, and (ii) an online deep Q-learning phase, which adaptively derives the optimal action and updates value estimates. In this paper, we first present the general DRL framework, which can be widely utilized in many applications with different optimization objectives. This is followed by the introduction of three specific applications: the cloud computing resource allocation problem, the residential smart grid task scheduling problem, and building HVAC system optimal control problem. The effectiveness of the DRL technique in these three cyber-physical applications have been validated. Finally, this paper investigates the stochastic computing-based hardware implementations of the DRL framework, which consumes a significant improvement in area efficiency and power consumption compared with binary-based implementation counterparts.
Supporting the Development of Collaboration and Feedback Skills in Instructional Designers.

Instructional designers (IDs) frequently collaborate with subject matter experts, peer IDs, and other professionals (Intentional Futures 2016). Such collaboration often requires an exchange of feedback on design plans and work completed with and for others, as well as self-assessment of one’s own skills and work during the design process (Falchikov 1996; Topping 1998). While there is significant research on peer feedback and its benefits, few research studies focus on scaffolds to help IDs develop these professional competencies. Novice IDs may not have innate collaboration and feedback skills. Therefore instructors may need to scaffold student ID’s collaboration and feedback skill development through the purposeful integration of scaffolds into a course curriculum. Integrating peer feedback skill development opportunities can be particularly challenging in online courses as students may need various types of scaffolding. This mixed methods study focuses on considerations and supports implemented to assist with the development of ID collaboration and peer feedback skills. In this paper, we examine the role of feedback and feedback activities on their professional growth through three areas: (1) student perceptions of peer feedback prior to peer feedback activities for course assignments and after completing the peer feedback activities for course assignments; (2) the relationship between student use of peer feedback scaffolds and student’s perceptions of giving and receiving feedback; and (3) the relationship between student perceptions of feedback received and perception of benefit of feedback received. Study results indicate that while initially students found it difficult to provide and accept in-depth peer feedback, they appreciated its value for improving their designs, learning, and overall professional growth. Many students responded to course activities by putting more effort into providing quality feedback and they explored feedback provided to their peers to continue learning and improve their own work. Students shared that the regular opportunities for feedback from the onset of the course and the feedback resources provided were conducive to improvement of their peer feedback skills. Recommendations for faculty and instructors on structuring peer feedback opportunities in an online environment are provided.
Countercurrent Chromatography with Flow-Through Coil Planet Centrifuge

We have developed a new method of countercurrent chromatography which employs a vertical helical tube in the centrifugal field. The helical tube is arranged so that it does not rotate as it revolves, thus eliminating the need for rotating seals. When the gyrating tube is filled with either phase and the other phase is introduced into the tube in the proper direction, an equilibrium state results in which the two phases are split into multiple alternating segments within the coil. Each phase oscillates to and fro with the rotation as the moving phase is steadily eluted out through the other end of the tube. Consequently, solutes introduced into the tube are subjected to a rapid partition process, resulting in an efficient chromatographic separation without the complications arising from solid supports. The method is illustrated by the microanalytical separation of dinitrophenyl amino acids and can be used on a preparative scale.
Safeguarding the transmission of biometric measurements used for authenticating individuals

Various biometric measurements can be used to establish the identity of individuals. Common to many of them is the fact that a significant amount of information is collected and transmitted; this information is then used to compare the captured biometric data with the previously recorded information identifying a particular individual. If the two pieces of information are similar, it is assumed that the identification is carried out correctly.
NMR in the Study of Membranes

The use of NMR for the study of membranes was introduced by Chapman and Salsbury (1966). Over the past decade several hundred reports of observations of 1H, 2H, 13C, 19F, and 31P spectra on phospholipid vesicles and several natural membranes have appeared. The majority of these have addressed various aspects of the problems of order, orientation, mobility, and lateral diffusion in phospholipid bilayers and multilayers. Others have dealt with the conformations of the polar head groups of phospholipids, transmembrane exchange (flip-flop) between the two layers, interactions of small molecules—notably cholesterol—and local anesthetics with both model and natural membranes, and function of ion channels in reconstituted membranes, the fusion of phospholipid bilayers catalyzed by peptides and proteins, and the nature of protein-lipid interactions.
JET AND OTHER CARVING-COALS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses jet and other carving coals. Jet is a natural hydrocarbon that has been used for many centuries as a gemstone. Jet, a bituminous coal, is tough, lustrous, and polishes well. It has a glassy fracture but is free of cracks. It is low in mineral content and is stable in air. Long attractive for decorative purposes, jet artifacts from Germany and France date back to 10,000 BC. Most gem books list the density of jet to three significant figures, but values range from 1.20 to 1.40 g/cc. Except for the distinctive yellowish-brown streak of Yorkshire jet, the brown-to-grayish-brown streak of many of the remaining materials makes positive differentiation of the jets and coals difficult.
CGRP, Amylin, Immunology, and Headache Medicine

Background Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) therapeutics introduce new excitement and possibly yet to be determined distressing discords in the field of Headache Medicine. Growth in knowledge of CGRP in the pathophysiology of migraine introduced CGRP antagonism to headache treatment. Potential adverse effects on the other circulatory and neurovascular diseases have been foremost concerns. Failures in development of gepants and growth in knowledge of monoclonal antibody therapeutics combined to deliver the anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). CURRENT SITUATION AS OF JULY 2018: Erenumab, eptinezumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab are approved, submitted to, or preparing for submission at both the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methods This Headache Currents update emanates from a symposium on CGRP and immunology in Headache Medicine, and reviews both. Results and conclusion Understanding CGRP in Headache Medicine requires information on aspects of the CGRP ligand, cell surface G protein receptor, CGRP receptor specifics, and antagonism by CGRP small and large molecules. Recent reports of CGRP's high affinity for amylin receptors dictate some attention to this family-related peptide. To better understand potential immunogenic risks and off-target toxicities of the anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies, this review discusses immunology and CGRP and reviews IgG structure and function, monoclonal antibody production, ligand-antigen-antibody relationships, and clinical CGRP mAb specifics. Upon completion, the reader should better summarize CGRP antagonist fundamentals, recall antibody structure and function, restate therapeutic mAbs attributes, and appraise immunogenic risks.
Motivation in transition: Development and roles of expectancy, task values, and costs in early college engineering.

This longitudinal study investigated development in expectancy for success (perceived competence), 3 types of task value (utility, interest, attainment), and 3 types of perceived cost (opportunity, effort, psychological) for engineering students during their first 2 years of college. Latent growth curve models indicated declines in expectancy and values, with attainment value declining more slowly than expectancy, interest value, and utility value. Costs increased over time, with effort cost increasing more rapidly than psychological cost. Demographic differences were observed in initial levels of motivation, but not in rates of change over time. Students with slower declines in expectancy and value and slower increases in effort cost achieved higher grades and were more likely to remain in an engineering major. The attainment value model explained the largest amount of variance in engineering major retention, while the expectancy model explained the largest amount of variance in GPA. Taking a supportive gateway course in the first semester rather than later was associated with slower declines in utility value and attainment value, and slower increases in effort cost. Results suggest expectancy, values, and costs display unique patterns of development and uniquely relate to predictors and outcomes, extending our theoretical understanding of motivation in early college. Implications for practice include the promise of programmatic efforts to support students’ motivation in engineering through supportive gateway courses early in college. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Randomized Control Trial of Culturally Adapted Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD Substance Misuse and HIV Sexual Risk Behavior for Native American Women

An overlooked sequela of HIV risk is trauma exposure, yet few HIV interventions address trauma exposure, mental health, and substance misuse. In a two-arm randomized controlled trial 73 Native American women were randomized to a culturally-adapted Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or 6-weeks waitlist. Outcomes assessed: PTSD symptom severity, alcohol use frequency, substance abuse or dependence diagnosis, and high-risk sexual behavior defined as vaginal/anal intercourse (a) under the influence of alcohol and/or illicit substances, (b) with a partner who was concurrently sexually active with someone else, and/or (c) with more than one partner in the past 6 weeks. Among immediate intervention participants, compared to waitlist participants, there were large reductions in PTSD symptom severity, high-risk sexual behavior, and a medium-to-large reduction in the frequency of alcohol use. CPT appears to improve mental health and risk behaviors, suggesting that addressing PTSD may be one way of improving HIV-risk related outcomes.
Now I See: Photovisualization to Support Agricultural Climate Adaptation

To remain viable, agricultural producers will need to adapt to changing climatic conditions in coming decades. Agricultural advisers play an important role in helping producers decide to adopt appropriate adaptation practices. Photovisualizations have the potential to complement currently utilized outreach and education strategies. This research uses a focus group approach to explore (1) whether photovisualizations can aid in decision-making about climate change adaptation, and (2) what characteristics of photovisualizations are most effective at conveying spatial aspects of adaptation practices. We found that photovisualizations generate rich discussions about ecological and economic effects as well as tradeoffs associated with climate adaptation practices. To have the greatest impact, photovisualizations should be used when producers are considering implementing high-cost or high-risk projects, when practices are likely to dramatically change the visual landscape, or when a practice is unfamiliar to a producer.
A Representation of the Solution of the Stokes Equations in the Half Space $$\mathbb {R}^{3}_{+}$$ R + 3 : Application to Spatial and Temporal Estimates of the Pressure

A solution formula of the Stokes problem in the half space $$\mathbb {R}^{3}_{+}$$ is obtained by focusing on the normal derivative of the pressure at the boundary. This explicit formula can be used to estimate the $$L^\infty $$ norm of the pressure and its normal derivative at the boundary that quantifies the initial layer depending on regularity and compatibility conditions of the initial data.
Geophysical mapping of plume discharge to surface water at a crude oil spill site: Inversion versus machine learning

ABSTRACT The interpretation of geophysical survey results to answer hydrologic, engineering, and geologic questions is critical to diverse problems for management of water, energy, and mineral reso...
Working with Parents and Children Separated at the Border: Examining the Impact of the Zero Tolerance Policy and beyond.

The crisis of family separation caused by Trump Administration’s zero tolerance policy (ZTP) on the southern border has focused the nation’s attention and provoked public uproar due to the violation of basic rights and the expected negative impact on children and parents. There is decades’ worth of research documenting the damage of separating children from their parents in a wide diversity of circumstances and for a wide variety of reasons. There is also ample research evidence of the impact of any form of childhood trauma and consequent disruptions in development, cognitive impairments, and health problems through adulthood. However, there is no first-hand documentation published of how these children and families specifically experienced separation at the border and the effects it is having on them to date. The present article first provides an overview of the historical and socio-political context of family separation policies in the US, and a thorough description of how ZTP was implemented in actuality. Second, this article offers a review of the literature on the impact of family separation on children and parents in diverse contexts. Third, we describe direct clinical experiences with these children and parents receiving services at the Terra Firma program in the Bronx community in New York. Finally, this article delineates important recommendations for policy makers, service providers, and the community as a whole.
The effect of training and rater differences on oral proficiency assessment

As a result of the fact that judgments of non-native speech are closely tied to social biases, oral proficiency ratings are susceptible to error because of rater background and social attitudes. In...
Daily Snacking Occasions, Snack Size, and Snack Energy Density as Predictors of Diet Quality among US Children Aged 2 to 5 Years.

Whether snacks help young children meet nutritional needs or merely contribute to excessive intakes is debated. This research evaluated associations of snacking with dietary quality among US preschoolers (two to five years, n = 4217) in the 2005–2016 National Health Examination Survey (NHANES). Snacking occasions, size, and energy density (ED) were estimated from two 24-hr dietary recalls. Diet quality indices included the 2015 Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2015, 0–100), the mean adequacy ratio (MAR, 0–100) for five shortfall nutrients (vitamin D, calcium, fiber, potassium, and iron), and the mean % of recommended limits for added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Linear regressions included snacking parameters, demographics, and dietary reporting accuracy. Children had a mean HEI-2015 of 53.0, a MAR of 67.7, and intake of 121.4% of nutrients to limit. Daily snacking occasions were positively associated with HEI-2015 scores, whereas mean snack size and ED were negatively associated with HEI-2015 and MAR scores (all p < 0.05). Snack ED was positively associated with daily intakes of added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium (p < 0.001). These nationally representative findings reveal that more frequent, smaller, and less energy-dense snacks are associated with higher diet quality among US preschoolers.
Opposite Roles of BAP1 in Overall Survival of Uveal Melanoma and Cutaneous Melanoma.

Background: BRCA1-Associated Protein 1 (BAP1) germline mutations predispose individuals to cancers, including uveal melanoma (UM) and cutaneous melanoma (CM). BAP1 loss is common in UM and is associated with a worse prognosis. BAP1 loss is rare in CM and the outcome is unclear. Methods: UM and CM data was retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Cox regression model was performed to examine whether BAP1 mRNA levels or copy number variations were associated with overall survival (OS). Results: BAP1-low mRNA predicted a poor OS in UM (HR = 9.57, 95% CI: 2.82, 32.5) but a contrasting better OS in CM (HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.95). These results remained unchanged after adjusting for sex, age, and stage in UM and CM, or after adjusting for ulceration or Breslow depth in CM. Additionally, low BAP1 mRNA predicted a better OS in CM patients older than 50 years but not in younger patients. Co-expression and enrichment analysis revealed differential genes and mutations that were correlated with BAP1 expression levels in UM and CM tumors. Conclusions: Low BAP1 mRNA was significantly associated with a better OS in CM patients, in sharp contrast to UM. High BAP1 expression in CM was significantly associated with over-expressed CDK1, BCL2, and KIT at the protein level which may explain the poor OS in this sub-group of patients. Function of BAP1 was largely different in CM and UM despite of a small subset of shared co-expressed genes.
LptB‐LptF coupling mediates the closure of the substrate‐binding cavity in the LptB2FGC transporter through a rigid‐body mechanism to extract LPS

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are essential envelope components in many Gram-negative bacteria and provide intrinsic resistance to antibiotics. LPS molecules are synthesized in the inner membrane and then transported to the cell surface by the LPS transport (Lpt) machinery. In this system, the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter LptB2 FGC extracts LPS from the inner membrane and places it onto a periplasmic protein bridge through a poorly understood mechanism. Here, we show that residue E86 of LptB is essential for coupling the function of this ATPase to that of its partners LptFG, specifically at the step where ATP binding drives the closure of the LptB dimer and the collapse of the LPS-binding cavity in LptFG that moves LPS to the Lpt periplasmic bridge. We also show that defects caused by changing residue E86 are suppressed by mutations altering either LPS structure or transmembrane helices in LptG. Furthermore, these suppressors also fix defects in the coupling helix of LptF, but not of LptG. Together, these results support a transport mechanism in which the ATP-driven movements of LptB and those of the substrate-binding cavity in LptFG are bi-directionally coordinated through the rigid-body coupling, with LptF's coupling helix being important in coordinating cavity collapse with LptB dimerization.
Treatment of Headache in the Emergency Department: Haloperidol in the Acute Setting (THE-HA Study): A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract Background Headache is a common complaint of emergency department (ED) patients and current treatment varies with significant limitations. Objective Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2.5 mg i.v. haloperidol in the treatment of severe benign headache in the ED. Methods A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed in the ED of a single high-volume teaching hospital. Convenience sampling identified 287 eligible patients 13 to 55 years old with benign headache. One hundred and eighteen patients were enrolled to receive either 2.5 mg of haloperidol i.v. or placebo. The primary outcome measure was pain reduction at 60 min. Patients were evaluated for adverse events and follow-up was conducted after discharge. QT measurement was performed at baseline and discharge. Results Fifty-eight patients received haloperidol and 60 patients received placebo. Patients in the haloperidol group reported an average 4.77-unit reduction in visual analogue scale score at 60 min compared to a 1.87-unit reduction in the control group. Thirty-four patients (58.6%) in the haloperidol group had complete resolution of their headache. Treatment with rescue ketorolac was required in 78.3% of the control group and 31% of the haloperidol group. Adverse events were uncommon, benign, and easily treated. No patients in the haloperidol group were found to have QT lengthening. Conclusions This study suggests that 2.5 mg i.v. haloperidol is a rapid and effective treatment for acute, severe, benign headache in ED patients aged 18 to 55 years. Further study is warranted to confirm these results in adolescents. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02747511.
Two propylhexedrine-associated fatalities: Benzedrine revisited.

The Benzedrine® inhaler, long used as a local vasoconstrictor for nasal congestion, and at one time a readily available source of amphetamine, was replaced some years ago with the Benzedrex® inhaler, containing propylhexedrine. It was known that abuse had occurred with the prior constituent, but few toxic episodes and no fatalities have been documented with the latter agent. We have recently observed two deaths involving propylhexedrine which are the subject of this report.
Natural Law and Human Action

Why would Pierre Manent, long a defender of the modern nation state, launch a sustained critique of the modern doctrines of rights upon which those states have built their constitutional architectu...
Harnessing Multiple, Nonproteogenic Substitutions to Optimize CSP:ComD Hydrophobic Interactions in Group 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a human pathobiont that causes drastic antibiotic-resistant infections and is responsible for millions of deaths universally. Pneumococcus pathogenicity relies on the competence-stimulating peptide (CSP)-mediated quorum-sensing (QS) pathway that controls competence development for genetic transformation and, consequently, the spread of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes. Modulation of QS in S. pneumoniae can therefore be used to enervate pneumococcal infectivity as well as minimize the susceptibility to resistance development. In this work, we sought to optimize the interaction of CSP1 with its cognate transmembrane histidine kinase receptor (ComD1) through substitution of proteogenic and nonproteogenic amino acids on the hydrophobic binding face of CSP1. The findings from this study not only provided additional structure-activity data that are significant in optimizing CSP1 potency, but also led to the development of potent QS modulators. These CSP-based QS modulators could be used as privileged scaffolds for the development of antimicrobial agents against pneumococcal infections.
Frequency regime dependent figures of merit and optimization guidelines for maximizing pyroelectric power output

Abstract Traditionally, pyroelectric energy conversion research has focused on improving energy output per cycle between fixed temperature bounds; however, most end-uses have fixed power, not energy, demands. Here, we analyze pyroelectric energy harvesting systems through the lens of maximizing power output, focusing specifically on the oft-overlooked details of the average temperature amplitude of the pyroelectric material which can be far smaller than the temperature amplitude of the available thermal resource. We describe this average temperature amplitude as a function of thermophysical properties, geometry, and other system variables for two different types of thermal energy sources. Ultimately, we identify figures of merit (FOMs) for locally improving the power harvesting performance within each of three distinct frequency regimes, as well as provide guidance for maximizing the power harvesting performance under certain constraints. This combination of FOMs and maximization guidance will aid in the future design and optimization of pyroelectric energy harvesting systems.
Effects of corn grain endosperm type and conservation method on feed intake, feeding behavior, and productive performance of lactating dairy cows.

Our objective was to evaluate effects of corn grain endosperm type and fineness of grind on feed intake, feeding behavior, ruminal fermentation, and productive performance of lactating cows. Eight ruminally and duodenally cannulated Holstein cows in mid lactation (130 ± 42 d in milk; mean ± standard deviation) were used in a duplicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 21-d periods. A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used with main effects of corn grain endosperm type (floury or vitreous) and fineness of grind of corn grain (fine or medium). Rations were formulated to contain 29% starch, 27% neutral detergent fiber, 18.2% forage neutral detergent fiber, and 18% crude protein. Corn grain treatments supplied 86.2% of dietary starch. Endosperm was 25% vitreous for floury corn and 66% vitreous for vitreous corn. Fineness of grind did not affect dry matter intake (DMI), but floury corn tended to reduce DMI (23.8 vs. 25.1 kg/d) compared with vitreous corn. Floury corn increased meal frequency more for fine grind size (9.57 vs. 9.41 meals/d) than medium grind size (9.78 vs. 9.75 meals/d). However, there were no effects of treatment on any other measure of feeding behavior. Endosperm type did not affect yields of milk or milk components or milk composition except that vitreous corn tended to decrease milk lactose concentration compared with floury corn. Finely ground corn decreased yields of milk (31.1 vs. 33.1 kg/d), 3.5% fat-corrected milk (33.1 vs. 35.1 kg/d), milk fat (1.22 vs. 1.32 kg/d), milk lactose (1.48 vs. 1.59 kg/d), and solids not fat (2.46 vs. 2.63 kg/d) compared with medium grind size. However, fineness of grind did not affect milk composition. Treatments had no effect on change in body weight or body condition score or efficiency of milk production (kg of 3.5% fat-corrected milk/kg of DMI). Mean ruminal pH was not affected by treatment, but pH variance was decreased by vitreous compared with floury corn. Total volatile fatty acids and propionate concentrations in the rumen were increased by floury compared with vitreous corn but were not affected by fineness of grind. Effects of fineness of grind on yield of milk and milk components were greater than the effects of corn grain vitreousness.
Development and First Tests of a Lab-Scale Electric Field for Investigating Potential Effects of Electric Barriers on Aquatic Invasive Invertebrates

Canals and other connected waterway systems, including the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS), have often facilitated the spread of non-native species. Electric barriers have recently emerged as a method for preventing this spread and protecting uninvaded ecosystems from new invaders. The largest system of electric barriers in the world is in the CAWS and is operated primarily to prevent the spread of invasive Asian carp. It is not known whether these barriers are effective for other species, particularly invasive invertebrates. Here, we provide data regarding the efficacy of an electric field which operates at the same parameters as the electric barrier in the CAWS in affecting behaviors of two invertebrate species, the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii and the amphipod Hyalella azteca. We constructed an electric field within a tank which operates at the same parameters as the existing CAWS barriers and determined the effects of the electric field on our test species. At the electric field parameters of the CAWS barriers the vast majority of P. clarkii individuals showed altered movement with maintained equilibrium. For H. azteca, behavioral responses were less extreme than for P. clarkii, with a majority of individuals experiencing altered movement. By measuring the orientation of organisms to the electric field we determined that the test organisms are affected by the electric field, especially at lower field strengths where they exhibited no or little other behavioral response. At lower field strengths, P. clarkii exhibited changes in orientation, but at higher field strengths, individuals were less able to orient themselves. Hyalella azteca exhibited changes in orientation to the electric field at all field strengths. The results of this study suggest that the existing electric barriers may not slow or prevent spread of invasive invertebrates – including amphipods and crayfish – through passive movement attached boats/barges or through downstream drift, but that the barriers may prevent spread by active upstream movement. Overall our work gives new data regarding the efficacy of electric fields in preventing the spread of invasive invertebrates and can inform management decisions regarding current and future electric barriers in the CAWS.
"N.A.M.E." FUN! Emojis may illustrate structure-function relationships of neurotransmitters to health professions students.

This article provides a qualitative examination of student responses to an enjoyable online experience illustrating structure-function relationships of chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in th...
Efficient inhibition of cell proliferation and promotion of apoptosis requires continuous treatment with abemaciclib.

Abemaciclib is an oral, selective cyclin-dependent kinase 4 & 6 inhibitor (CDK4 & 6i), approved for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC) as monotherapy for endocrine refractory disease, and with endocrine therapy (ET) for initial treatment and after progression on ET. Abemaciclib has also shown clinical activity in combination with ET in patients with high risk early BC (EBC). Here, we examined the preclinical attributes of abemaciclib and other CDK4 & 6i using biochemical and cell-based assays. In vitro, abemaciclib preferentially inhibited CDK4 kinase activity versus CDK6, resulting in inhibition of cell proliferation in a panel of BC cell lines with higher average potency than palbociclib or ribociclib. Abemaciclib showed activity regardless of HER2 amplification and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3KCA) gene mutation status. In human bone marrow progenitor cells, abemaciclib showed lower impact on myeloid maturation than other CDK4 & 6i when tested at unbound concentrations similar to those observed in clinical trials. Continuous abemaciclib treatment provided profound inhibition of cell proliferation, and triggered senescence and apoptosis. These preclinical results support the unique efficacy and safety profile of abemaciclib observed in clinical trials.
Progressive histobiologic alterations in the development of vulvar cancer.

Abstract Identification of the patient at risk for the development of cancer and the precursory histopathologic changes has led to improvement in 5-year survivals among patients with cancer of the cervix and endometrium. In contrast, there has been controversy as to these factors in discussions of vulvar neoplasia. This report of five cases of patients who developed invasive cancer after treatment for in situ disease attempts to define some of the at-risk factors, including the specific area at which three of the five malignancies subsequently developed.
Amphetamines and Sports Performance

(1980). Amphetamines and Sports Performance. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 51, Including Leisure Today, pp. 63-64.
Einstein’s connections

In a recent paper (3), I gave the solution of Einstein’s first set of equations of unified field theory, by the method of repeated substitution, and obtained the conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the solution for the first two classes ofk λμ and for all indices of inertia ofh λμ (*). The object of this paper is to study the solutions in the singular cases of the second class when these conditions are not satisfied. It may, however, be noted thatHlavatý (1) studied the singular solutions both in non-holonomic form and holonomic form. In this paper, the singular solutions will be obtained in other holonomic forms using the solution obtained by me (3) for non-degenerate case.
Eliminating division operation in NLMS algorithm

The effect of eliminating division operation in normalized least mean square (NLMS) adaptation algorithm was analyzed. The proposed approach was found to possess a longer ramp-up time when the input signal level drops. It was shown that, on minimizing the number of division operations improved the efficiency of an algorithm.
Miranda's Final Frontier - the International Arena: A Critical Analysis of U.S. v. Bin Laden, and a Proposal for a New Miranda Exception Abroad

In recent years, the FBI and other federal law agencies have greatly expanded their presence abroad, investigating everything from narcotics trade and internet fraud schemes to terrorism. This trend will undoubtedly continue in the aftermath of September 11th. A constitutional question that will be of increasing importance in this context is whether, or to what extent, U.S. law enforcement officials (hereinafter "FBI") must provide Miranda warnings to non-U.S. citizens interrogated abroad who will later be tried in the United States. The article first addresses whether future modifications to the Miranda doctrine are permissible after Dickerson. The article concludes that despite the warnings of some scholars that Dickerson has caused Miranda to become "frozen in time," Dickerson should be read as creating a prophylactic Miranda rule that is both constitutionally-based and flexible at the same time. Thus, exceptions to the Miranda doctrine can be made, as in Quarles, in new contexts where its application is illogical or where the state's interests outweigh the civil liberties interests involved. The article then argues that the policies behind Miranda do not always support its application abroad in the same way that it is systematically applied in the domestic setting. Indeed, as demonstrated through a series of hypothetical scenarios, a strict application of Miranda abroad would not always further the civil liberties that the doctrine was designed to protect, and would simultaneously undermine U.S. law enforcement interests by "freezing out" the United States from participating in interrogations in many foreign countries. The article proffers that an FBI agent abroad should be required to advise a non-U.S. citizen suspect only of the rights that he enjoys in the country where the interrogation takes place, to the extent such rights can be reasonably determined by the FBI agent under the circumstances of the interrogation. In addition, if the FBI agent makes a mistake in interpreting the rights available to a given suspect under foreign law, and does not advise the suspect of a right which he in fact had, the exclusionary rule should not be employed as long as the agent misinterpreted the foreign law in good faith.