cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Follicular Maturation on Progesterone Release in Chicken Granulosa Cells in Response to Turkey and Ovine Gonadotropins

Progesterone release in response to ovine and turkey LH and FSH was studied in chicken granulosa cells isolated from ovarian follicles of different maturational stages. The turkey LH (tLH) preparation was about 10 times more potent than ovine LH (oLH) whereas 0FSH had a greater steroidogenic potency than tFSH when incubated with granulosa cells from the largest follicle (PRF-1). Turkey LH and 0LH were less effective in stimulating progesterone production in cells from less mature follicles. Conversely, the FSH preparations showed a greater effect on the less mature follicles. LH-stimulated progesterone production by cells isolated from the postovulatory follicle (POF-1) 2-4 h after follicular rupture was greatly diminished and was similar to that of PRF-3 cells (68-70 h prior to ovulation). Treatment of tFSH and tLH with anti-tLH serum completely abolished the steroidogenic effect of tLH on all of the developing granulosa cells, and the effect of tFSH in PRF-1 cells was also eliminated. On the other hand, control tFSH (treated with normal rabbit serum) optimally stimulated PRF- 1 cells, indicating that FSH-elicited progesterone secretion in granulosa cells from mature follicles was entirely due to LH-contamination. In cells from immature follicles (PRF-5), both untreated and antiserum-treated FSH promoted progesterone to a similar extent whereas tLH-induced responses were dramatically reduced. These studies demonstrate that in avian granulosa cells, as in mammalian ovarian cells, the maturational state of
The Impact of Excessive Internet Use on Communication Skills and Mental Health in Cafe Internet Users

Background: The Internet is commonly used among young adults; however, Internet use may become a problematic behaviour. Past researches have examined Internet use in young adults and its relationship to some behaviours and health issues, yet further research is needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this relationship. Objectives: This study aims at determining the impact of excessive internet use on communication skills and mental health in adolescents who use internet in the cafe. Materials and Methods: The sample group consisted of 160 customers (80 girls and 80 boys) of the internet cafes in Tehran, who aged from 13 to 23 years. These persons were randomly selected from clients of the Internet cafes. The participants completed the communication skills questionnaire (Harje and Marshal, 1986), General Health questionnaire (Goldberg, 1979) and the researcher-developed questionnaires. Results: The results showed no difference between adolescents' communication skills regarding the use of internet games. However, there was a difference between adolescents' mental health in terms of frequency of using the internet games. Those who spend fewer (less than 6) hours using the Internet games exhibited lesser physical symptoms, reduced level of anxiety and depression and were more socializing. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it can be concluded that excessive internet use impact on the physical and mental health of internet users.
Depositional remnants, part 1: Common components of the stratigraphic record with important implications for hydrocarbon exploration and production

The preservation of sedimentary strata below erosion surfaces can be highly variable laterally, and commonly only small remnants of originally more extensive deposits remain. The concept of remnants is not new, but their abundance and the fact that they commonly develop below low-relief erosion surfaces, as well as below those that incise deeply, may not be fully appreciated. Spatial variations in accommodation because of paleotopography, synsedimentary and penecontemporaneous tectonics, and differential compaction occur on a variety of scales in all depositional settings. In low-accommodation and shallow-shelf settings, spatial variations in accommodation commonly result in the formation of remnants ranging in size from small (few to tens of square kilometers) to basin scale (hundreds of square kilometers). Remnants of porous and permeable facies encased in low-permeability facies are an important and relatively common type of stratigraphic trap. Conceptual models for three scales of depositional remnants are used to illustrate their significance to petroleum exploration and production.The recognition of these deposits, herein referred to as "depositional remnants," is commonly critical to depositional systems analysis because stratigraphic terminations caused by erosional truncation must be interpreted differently from those caused by lithofacies change. In addition, the preserved geometry of remnants can be quite different from the geometry of the original deposit, and because geometry is heavily relied upon in interpretations of ancient depositional systems, interpreting a preserved geometry as a depositional geometry can result in significant misunderstandings. Depositional remnants are common in the stratigraphic record and represent an important concept to open up new hydrocarbon plays in mature basins.
Influence of water-level fluctuation duration and magnitude on sediment–water nutrient exchange in coastal wetlands

This study examined the influence of water-level fluctuation (WLF) on sediment–water nutrient exchange in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Water levels in the Laurentian Great Lakes have been below the long-term mean for the past 15 years, causing the exposure of sediments that previously have been either continuously inundated or periodically exposed. The magnitude, duration, and frequency of WLF, as well as land-use history, each can influence the amount and type of sediment–water nutrient exchange. We collected sediment cores from relatively pristine coastal wetlands located on Beaver and Garden Islands in northern Lake Michigan. Sediment cores were taken from different water depths to simulate WLF magnitude; desiccation time was experimentally manipulated to simulate WLF duration. At these relatively pristine wetlands, desiccation time and water depth significantly influenced flux. However, nutrient exchange did not behave in a consistent fashion; phosphorus, nitrate, ammonium, and sulfate flux varied based on sediment exposure history and desiccation time. Sediment–water nutrient exchange rates also were compared to prior measurements taken from more impacted coastal wetlands in southern Lake Michigan and Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron. This comparison revealed a stronger influence of anthropogenic stress than desiccation time, with impacted wetland sediments releasing more soluble reactive phosphorus, sulfate, and ammonium, and retaining more nitrate, than pristine wetlands. Our results indicate that WLFs have the potential to influence sediment–water nutrient exchange, which may influence system productivity, but environmental context can override this influence.
Reducing inadvertent PEEP by controlling end-tidal pressures in the trachea.

Mechanical ventilation using exhalation times too brief for completion of exhalation results in inadvertent positive end-expiratory pressure (IPEEP) and increased functional residual capacity (FRC). The endotracheal (ET) tube with side lumen allows us to monitor tracheal airway pressures and to determine the contributions of the ET tube to IPEEP. We hypothesized that, during rapid rate ventilation, controlling the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) level in the trachea rather than at the ET tube adaptor will counter effects of the ET tube on IPEEP and result in less increase of FRC. Thirteen anesthetized rabbits were ventilated at rates of 30, 60, 90, and 120 breaths per minute (BPM). Peak inspiratory pressure was held constant, and PEEP was adjusted to 2 cmH2O, measured conventionally at the proximal end of the ET tube. Pulmonary function tests were made and then repeated while PEEP was held constant in the trachea, measured at the distal end of the ET tube. Controlling PEEP conventionally resulted in mean (± SE) FRC values of 13.7 ± 3.8, 14.8 ± 3.9, 17.1 ± 4.5, and 21.1 ± 5.3 ml/kg at 30, 60, 90, and 120 BPM, respectively. Controlling PEEP at the trachea yielded FRC values of 13.7 ± 3.8, 13.6 ± 3.4, 15.3 ± 4.4, and 16.3 ± 5.4 ml/kg, respectively. Increasing the ventilator rate above 60 BPM did not affect minute ventilation or blood gases. These results suggest that controlling PEEP in the trachea reduces effects of IPEEP on FRC by countering the contribution of the ET tube to the resistance of gas flow during exhalation.
Bro1 coordinates deubiquitination in the multivesicular body pathway by recruiting Doa4 to endosomes

Ubiquitination directs the sorting of cell surface receptors and other integral membrane proteins into the multivesicular body (MVB) pathway. Cargo proteins are subsequently deubiquitinated before their enclosure within MVB vesicles. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Bro1 functions at a late step of MVB sorting and is required for cargo protein deubiquitination. We show that the loss of Bro1 function is suppressed by the overexpression of DOA4, which encodes the ubiquitin thiolesterase required for the removal of ubiquitin from MVB cargoes. Overexpression of DOA4 restores cargo protein deubiquitination and sorting via the MVB pathway and reverses the abnormal endosomal morphology typical of bro1 mutant cells, resulting in the restoration of multivesicular endosomes. We further demonstrate that Doa4 interacts with Bro1 on endosomal membranes and that the recruitment of Doa4 to endosomes requires Bro1. Thus, our results point to a key role for Bro1 in coordinating the timing and location of deubiquitination by Doa4 in the MVB pathway.
Low-Dose Systemic Alteplase (tPA) for the Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

Objective: To review and evaluate the evidence regarding the use of low-dose regimens of alteplase (tPA) for the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE). Data Sources: A PubMed search (1966-January 2015) was conducted using the search terms pulmonary embolism, drug therapy, thrombolytic therapy, fibrinolytic agents, and tissue plasminogen activator. Articles were cross-referenced for additional citations. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Clinical trials and case reports published in the English language assessing the use of low-dose systemic tPA for the treatment of PE were reviewed for inclusion. Data Synthesis: tPA is a thrombolytic agent indicated for the treatment of massive and submassive PE. Major bleeding complications of tPA are dose dependent and may occur in up to 6.4% of patients. Clinical trials have demonstrated safety and efficacy of low-dose tPA, particularly showing its benefit in patients with a low body weight (<65 kg) and right-ventricular dysfunction. Furthermore, case reports have sa...
Large-bowel disease presenting as small-bowel obstruction is associated with a poor prognosis.

Abstract Introduction Small-bowel obstruction (SBO) is a common cause of admission to the surgical service. On rare occasions, a diagnosed SBO is actually due to large-bowel pathology combined with an incompetent ileocecal valve. The purpose of this study was to investigate this phenomenon. Methods We performed a retrospective medical record review of patients that were admitted with a diagnosis of SBO at University of Louisville hospital and the Veterans Affairs hospitals in Louisville, KY, from 2006 until 2014. Results A total of 498 patients were admitted with SBO during this time period. Forty-one patients were found to have an underlying large-bowel disease. The most common large-bowel pathologies included malignancy (51%), inflammation (15%), and infection (15%). Fifteen (43%) of these patients died during admission; 93% of these were due to either their bowel obstruction or the underlying disease state. This was significantly higher than the general population (9.4% mortality, 6% due to underlying disease). Conclusions Patients that present with SBO due to a large-bowel source have a much higher mortality rate than those that present with other causes. Rapid identification of these patients will allow for more timely and appropriate treatment.
A Common Polymorphism in a Williams Syndrome Gene Predicts Amygdala Reactivity and Extraversion in Healthy Adults

Abstract Background Williams syndrome (WS), a genetic disorder resulting from hemizygous microdeletion of chromosome 7q11.23, has emerged as a model for identifying the genetic architecture of socioemotional behavior. Common polymorphisms in GTF2I , which is found within the WS microdeletion, have been associated with reduced social anxiety in the general population. Identifying neural phenotypes affected by these polymorphisms would help advance our understanding not only of this specific genetic association but also of the broader neurogenetic mechanisms of variability in socioemotional behavior. Methods Through an ongoing parent protocol, the Duke Neurogenetics Study, we measured threat-related amygdala reactivity to fearful and angry facial expressions using functional magnetic resonance imaging, assessed trait personality using the Revised NEO Personality Inventory, and imputed GTF2I rs13227433 from saliva-derived DNA using custom Illumina arrays. Participants included 808 non-Hispanic Caucasian, African American, and Asian university students. Results The GTF2I rs13227433 AA genotype, previously associated with lower social anxiety, predicted decreased threat-related amygdala reactivity. An indirect effect of GTF2I genotype on the warmth facet of extraversion was mediated by decreased threat-related amygdala reactivity in women but not men. Conclusions A common polymorphism in the WS gene GTF2I associated with reduced social anxiety predicts decreased threat-related amygdala reactivity, which mediates an association between genotype and increased warmth in women. These results are consistent with reduced threat-related amygdala reactivity in WS and suggest that common variation in GTF2I contributes to broader variability in socioemotional brain function and behavior, with implications for understanding the neurogenetic bases of WS as well as social anxiety.
Probing Calcium Channels with Venom Toxins

The crucial roles played by ion channels in cellular function make them obvious targets for pesticides and drugs. Ion channel-directed insecticides such as the synthetic pyrethroids are a good example. Antagonism of ion channels in therapeutic applications is exemplified by dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers used for cardiac treatment. Given these precedents, it seems reasonable that basic research devoted to ion channel mechanisms and associated pharmacology would promote discovery of new drug or pesticide chemicals. Nevertheless, it has been argued, particularly at this conference, that high through-put, random screening programs, rather than basic research, have historically contributed to new insecticide discovery. What then, can basic research offer in future searches for newer, more selective chemical agents for drug and pesticide development?
Molecular Biology of Human Cytomegalovirus

This article presents a brief review of the molecular biology of human cytomegalovirus, with emphasis on the structure of the virion and events associated with its assembly.
Recovery from fatal doses of strychnin by the aid of curarin and artificial respiration (insufflation method)

In a series of twenty-seven experiments upon dogs and cats we tried to develop a method by means of which life can be saved after fatal doses of strychnin. In all cases the strychnin was administered intravenously. In control experiments 0.4 mg. per kilo was invariably fatal, killing within an hour. By the aid of the method which will be described presently fourteen of the twenty-seven dogs used in developing the method survived the administration of fatal doses of strychnin. Of these fourteen five received 0.5 mg., three received 0.75 mg., and six received 0.8 mg. per kilo, that is, all animals received doses of strychnin which were in excess of a fatal dose and which undoubtedly would have killed every one of these animals in less than an hour.The method which we have employed consists (1) in instituting and keeping up artificial respiration by the continuous insufflation method; (2) in the intravenous administration of curarin from time to time in doses sufficient to control the convulsions; (3) in the...
Introduction: Public policy series--data in nephrology.

Nephrology, at least the portion that deals with ESRD, is perhaps the best documented of the medical specialties. The composite rate developed in the early 1980s has been called the “first diagnosis-related group.” Bundled payment for dialysis is widely viewed as a precursor for the way Medicare
Evaluation of malaria control effect in 4 counties of Baise City,Guangxi from 1995 to 2009

Aim To understand the results of malaria control in 4 counties of Baise City in a period of 15 years.Methods The data concerning malaria control and fsurveillance in local residents,floating population and clinically diagnosed cases in the recent 15 years were collected and statistically analyzedr.Results The blood examination rate of febrile residents was 5.86% and malaria incidence rate dropped from 2.12/10 000 in 1995 to 0.04/10 000 in 2009.Indigenous Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases were not detected from local residents.Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases and dead cases were all infected in Southeast Asian countries.Conclusion Malaria has been effectively gotten under control in these counties and malaria incidence has been reducing year by year.There no indigenous malaria cases were detected from mobile populkation.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a mock oral educational program

Abstract Background To obtain board certification, the American Board of Surgery requires graduates of general surgery training programs to pass both the written qualifying examination (QE) and the oral certifying examination (CE). In 2015, the pass rates for the QE and CE were 80% and 77%, respectively. In the 2011-2012 academic year, the University of Wisconsin instituted a mandatory, faculty-led, monthly CE preparation educational program (CE prep) as a supplement to their existing annual mock oral examination. We hypothesized that the implementation of these sessions would improve the first-time pass rate for residents taking the ABS CE at our institution. Secondary outcomes studied were QE pass rate, correlation with American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) and mock oral examination scores, cost, and type of study materials used, perception of examination difficulty, and applicant preparedness. Methods A sixteen question survey was sent to 57 of 59 residents who attended the University of Wisconsin between the years of 2007 and 2015. Email addresses for two former residents could not be located. De-identified data for the ABSITE and first-time pass rates for the QE and CE examination were retrospectively collected and analyzed along with survey results. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). P values Results Survey response rate was 77.2%. Of the residents who have attempted the CE, first-time pass rate was 76.0% (19 of 25) before the implementation of the formal CE Prep and 100% (22 of 22) after (P = 0.025). Absolute ABSITE score, and mock oral annual examination grades were significantly improved after the CE Prep was initiated (P values Conclusions Formal educational programs instituted during residency can improve resident performance on the ABS certifying examination. The institution of a formal, faculty-led monthly CE preparation educational program at the University of Wisconsin has significantly improved the first-time pass rate for the ABS CE. Mock oral annual examination scores were also significantly improved. Furthermore, ABSITE scores correlate with QE pass rates, and mock oral annual examination scores correlate with pass rates for both QE and CE.
Signaling of Predictive and Feedback Information in Purkinje Cell Simple Spike Activity

Computational theories require that controlling movements involves both predicting the consequences of a motor command and continuously monitoring for errors. In this view, sensory prediction errors, defined as the discrepancy between the predicted consequences of motor commands and the sensory feedback, are crucial for online movement control and motor learning. The cerebellum has been implicated in these computations. New results demonstrate that the simple spike discharge of Purkinje cells signals effector kinematics and performance errors. Each motor parameter is encoded by a pair of signals, one leading and one lagging the actual movement. These dual-firing representations are consistent with the predictive and feedback signals needed to generate sensory prediction errors. Furthermore, the encoding of kinematics and performance errors in the simple spike discharge suggests the cerebellum acquires forward internal models of both effectors and task-specific parameters.
“Memorial and Remonstrance against Religious Assessments” by James Madison, 1785

To the Honorable the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia A Memorial and Remonstrance We the subscribers, citizens of the said Commonwealth, having taken into serious consideration, a Bill printed by order of the last Session of General Assembly, entitled “A Bill establishing a provision for Teachers of the Christian Religion,” and conceiving that the same if finally armed with the sanctions of a law, will be a dangerous abuse of power, are bound as faithful members of a free State to remonstrate against it, and to declare the reasons by which we are determined. We remonstrate against the said Bill, 1. Because we hold it for a fundamental and undeniable truth, “that Religion or the duty which we owe to our Creator and the manner of discharging it, can be directed only by reason and conviction, not by force or violence” [Virginia Declaration of Rights, art. 16]. The Religion then of every man must be left to the conviction and conscience of every man; and it is the right of every man to exercise it as these may dictate. This right is in its nature an unalienable right. It is unalienable, because the opinions of men, depending only on the evidence contemplated by their own minds cannot follow the dictates of other men: It is unalienable also, because what is here a right towards men, is a duty towards the Creator.
Empirical Observations on the Tracking Errors and the Risk-Adjusted Returns of REIT-Based Exchange Traded Funds

In the last few years, investments in exchange traded funds (ETFs) have gained significant popularity among the financial investors. Financial investors have also shown enormous interests in investments in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts). The researcher has determined the tracking errors of REIT based ETFs from the corresponding REIT indexes. The null hypotheses that there are no correlations between the risk adjusted returns of REIT based ETFs and the risk-adjusted returns of the corresponding index have been tested at 0.05 levels of significances. The period used in this study is from April 2010 to March 2016. The results indicate that the mean tracking errors of REIT based ETFs are very small. The findings also indicate that the null hypotheses that there are no correlations between the risk-adjusted returns of REIT based ETFs and the risk adjusted returns of the corresponding index can be rejected at 0.05 levels of significance.
Cellular Neurophysiology of Enteric Neurons

Neurons of the enteric division of the autonomic nervous system function like an independent integrative nervous system intrinsic to the gastrointestinal tract. Cell bodies of neurons of the enteric nervous system are in ganglia, positioned inside the walls of the specialized organs that make up the gastrointestinal tract. The structure, function, and neurochemistry of enteric ganglia differ significantly from that of other autonomic ganglia (e.g., ganglia of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system). Whereas sympathetic ganglia function mainly as relay distribution centers for signals transmitted from the central nervous system, the ganglia of the enteric nervous system form a system that integrates and processes information like the brain and spinal cord. The enteric nervous system is sometimes called the "little brain in the gut" on this basis. Like the brain and spinal cord, the enteric nervous system has three functional categories of neurons: sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons. The enteric nervous system is found in the walls of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, and gallbladder. It consists of ganglia, primary interganglionic fiber tracts, and secondary and tertiary fiber projections to the effector systems it controls. Enteric neurons are organized into two major plexuses. Cell bodies of the neurons are clustered in ganglia. Unmyelinated C fibers projecting from the cell bodies to other ganglia make up the interganglionic fiber tracts. The enteric ganglia together with the interganglionic connectives form two ganglionated plexuses. One of these is the myenteric plexus, also called Auerbach’s plexus, and the other is the submucosal plexus, also called Meissner’s plexus. The ganglionated plexuses are continuous around the circumference of the gastrointestinal tract and along its length. Enteric ganglia have Dogiel Types I, II, and III neurons that can be defined based on morphology and electrophysiological and synaptic behavior. Different types of enteric neurons have specific neurotransmitters and synaptic connections, which use 20 or more different neurotransmitters for chemical signaling and transfer of information as the enteric nervous system carries on its normal activities. Enteric neurons, like neurons elsewhere, use propagated action potentials as a mechanism for transmitting coded signals from one part of the neuron to the other. Transmission of signals from neuron to neuron in the neural circuits is achieved by mechanisms of synaptic transmission similar to those in circuits of the brain and spinal cord. Enteric neurons are classified as S-type or AH-type 2 based on their electrophysiological and synaptic behavior. Chemically mediated neurotransmission consists of excitatory postsynaptic potentials, inhibitory postsynaptic potentials, presynaptic inhibition, and presynaptic facilitation. Paracrine signaling from non-neuronal cells (e.g., enteric mast cells) is an important aspect of homeostatic function of the enteric nervous system.
Controlling imported malaria cases in the United States of America.

We extend the mathematical malaria epidemic model framework of Dembele et al. and use it to “capture” the 2013 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported data on the 2011 number of imported malaria cases in the USA. Furthermore, we use our “fitted” malaria models for the top 20 countries of malaria acquisition by USA residents to study the impact of protecting USA residents from malaria infection when they travel to malaria endemic areas, the impact of protecting residents of malaria endemic regions from mosquito bites and the impact of killing mosquitoes in those endemic areas on the CDC number of imported malaria cases in USA. To significantly reduce the number of imported malaria cases in USA, for each top 20 country of malaria acquisition by USA travelers, we compute the optimal proportion of USA international travelers that must be protected against malaria infection and the optimal proportion of mosquitoes that must be killed.
High speed AlGaAs/GaAs complementary HBT technology realized by multiple MBE growth and merged processing

A high-performance monolithic Npn/Pnp complementary HBT (heterojunction bipolar transistor) technology involving multiple MBE (molecular beam epitaxy) growths has been developed. Many of the process steps have been merged to simplify concurrent fabrication of Npn and Pnp devices. Pnp devices exhibit f/sub T/=20 GHz and f/sub max/=19 GHz. Npn devices show f/sub T/=51 GHz and f/sub max/=60 GHz. These cutoff frequencies are 2 to 3 times values previously reported for monolithically integrated Npn and Pnp devices. For the first time, integrated circuits operating at microwave frequencies have been fabricated from both types of devices on the same wafer. Npn-based direct coupled feedback amplifiers (gain blocks) show a gain of 11 dB and a 3-dB bandwidth of 12 GHz. Pnp-based gain blocks show a gain of 8 dB and a 3-dB bandwidth of 6 GHz. >
Single-Cell Genomics: Approaches and Utility in Immunology

Single-cell genomics offers powerful tools for studying immune cells, which make it possible to observe rare and intermediate cell states that cannot be resolved at the population level. Advances in computer science and single-cell sequencing technology have created a data-driven revolution in immunology. The challenge for immunologists is to harness computing and turn an avalanche of quantitative data into meaningful discovery of immunological principles, predictive models, and strategies for therapeutics. Here, we review the current literature on computational analysis of single-cell RNA-sequencing data and discuss underlying assumptions, methods, and applications in immunology, and highlight important directions for future research.
A Security Perspective on Battery Systems of the Internet of Things

Battery (sub)systems are used in many systems (systems-of-systems) in the Internet of Things (IoT) ranging from everyday ones (e.g., mobile systems, home appliances, etc.) to safety-critical and/or mission-critical ones (e.g., electrical vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, etc.). As these systems become more interconnected with each other and their environments and batteries become more energy dense, the safety risks of using batteries increase. To guarantee effectiveness and prevent potential safety threats (i.e., failure, overheating, explosion), it is not only crucial to ensure that batteries are functioning correctly (via safety circuits and battery management system), but to also prevent security threats that specifically target the battery system from different parts of these systems. A security analysis is necessary for system manufacturers and users to understand what threats and solutions exist for battery system security. In this paper, we present a security perspective on battery systems, where we use a layered approach to analyze vulnerabilities, threats, and potential effects. We divide the battery system into the Physical, Battery Management System, and Application layers and use mobile systems and cyber-physical systems as case studies for IoT applications. We then highlight and discuss some existing solutions and mention the potential research directions on battery system security.
Decisions to Attend and Drink at Party Events: The Effects of Incentives and Disincentives and Lifetime Alcohol and Antisocial Problems

Background Alcohol use disorders are associated with patterns of impulsive/risky decision making on behavioral economic decision tasks, but little is known about the factors affecting drinking-related decisions. Methods The effects of incentives and disincentives to attend and drink at hypothetical alcohol-related party events as a function of lifetime (LT) alcohol and antisocial problems were examined in a sample of 434 young adults who varied widely in LT alcohol and antisocial problems. Results Moderate and high disincentives substantially discouraged decisions to attend the party events and were associated with decisions to drink less at the party events. High versus low party incentives were associated with more attendance decisions. LT antisocial problems were associated with being less deterred from attending by moderate and high disincentives. LT alcohol problems were associated with greater attendance at high party incentive contexts. LT alcohol problems were associated with drinking more at the majority of events; however, the results indicate that young adults with high levels of alcohol problems moderate their drinking in response to moderate and high disincentives. Finally, attendance and drinking decisions on this hypothetical task were significantly related to actual drinking practices. Conclusions The results suggest that antisocial symptoms are associated with a reduced sensitivity to the potential negative consequences of drinking, while alcohol problems are associated with a greater sensitivity to the rewarding aspects of partying. The results also underline the value of directly assessing drinking-related decisions in different hypothetical contexts as well as assessing decisions about attendance at risky drinking events in addition to drinking amount decisions.
Chapter 3 - Turbulence

This chapter addresses the small-scale, random motions (i.e., turbulence) in clouds. Because the smallest scales of motion in clouds are many orders of magnitude smaller than the characteristic length scale of clouds, then the governing equations must be filtered (i.e., averaged) to make simulation possible. The Reynolds averaging approach is examined first, and several closure models for this system are described. Then the fundamental concepts of large eddy simulation are reviewed. Subgrid condensation is also discussed, including an evaluation of some simple models using observational data.
Organizational guidelines for dual disorders programs.

Dual disorders—combined severe mental disorders and substance use disorders—were barely recognized two decades ago. As a result of the high prevalence and serious consequences of these disorders, they have received considerable attention over the last two decades. Knowledge has accumulated about dual disorders and their treatment, and treatment providers may now consider numerous options for clinical interventions and program designs. In this article, we offer guidelines concerning these options. We review the current knowledge about dual disorders and the results of recent research on the assessment and treatment of these disorders. We present treatment principles, recommendations on the components and organization of dual disorders programs, and suggestions for dealing with clinical issues that remain controversial. We conclude with comments on the demands of the managed care environment and the heightened importance of continued research in this area.
Many-Core architecture oriented parallel algorithm design for computer animation

Many-core architecture has become an emerging and widely adopted platform for parallel computing. Computer animation researches can harness this advance in high performance computing with better understanding of the architecture and careful consideration of several important parallel algorithm design issues, such as computation-to-core mapping, load balancing and algorithm design paradigms. In this paper, we use a set of algorithms in computer animation as the examples to illustrate these issues, and provide possible solutions for handling them. We have shown in our previous research projects that the proposed solutions can greatly enhance the performance of the parallel algorithms.
Acquired Tracheal Stenosis

Disorders involving the airway are relatively uncommon. Most thoracic surgeons will see only the occasional patient with tracheal pathology. However, both benign and malignant obstructions of the central airway cause significant morbidity and mortality. Successful management may correct or palliate impending suffocation, dyspnea, and obstructive pneumonia. Tracheal resection and reconstruction may preclude the need for a life-long tracheostomy and allow preservation of laryngeal function in patients with benign strictures and provide treatment with curative intent for airway tumors.
A Review of the Behavioral Effects of AF64A, A Cholinergic Neurotoxin

Acetylcholine (ACh) was the first substance shown to mediate synaptic transmission in the nervous system. Since those early studies the biochemical events involved in the metabolism of ACh and its1 interaction with muscarinic and nicotinic receptors have been studied in great detail. Despite these efforts to unravel the molecular biology of ACh the functional properties of cholinergic systems and their involvement in neurological and psychiatric disorders remain undetermined. During the past five years however, there have been several important advances in our understanding of cholinergic biology. A general principle that has emerged from these efforts is the interdependent nature of discoveries in clinical and basic neuroscience. For example, delineating the structural, neurochemical and behavioral pathology of senile dementia of the Alzheimer’s type (SDAT) contributed to a better understanding of cholinergic involvement in disease states and also provided fundamental information about the anatomical and functional organization of cholinergic neurons.
P156 Optimization of a rapid plate flow cytometry crossmatch assay on the cytoflex platform: The baylor protocol

Aim The Flow Cytometric Crossmatch (FCXM) assay has become the standard method for immunologic risk assesment of donor/recipient pairs. There is growing interest in streamlining the assay to expedite results and reduce performance costs without compromising assay accuracy or sensitivity. The introduction of powerful benchtop instruments, such as the Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX system, combined with the previously published Halifaster FCXM by Liwski et al., allowed our group to optimize and simplify the crossmatch procedure. Methods Instrument analytical performance was defined to validate use of the CytoFLEX, a research use only platform, for high complexity clinical testing. The instrument was evaluated for precision, stability, sensitivity, carryover, and accuracy. Performance characteristics were defined by Median Fluorescence Intensity (MFI), counts, and percentages, and compared to the current cytometer platform. The FCXM assay was optimized for time reduction (centrifugation cycles, incubation times, plating and washing), reduction of sample and reagent volumes, and minimization of cell loss during processing (plate type, pronase treatment). Results Instrument Performance: The instrument analytical performance is summarized in the following table. The CytoFLEX showed increased MFI precision and sensitivity when compared with current instrumentation. Assay Optimization: Each optimized component of the Baylor Protocol FCXM is summarized in the following table. The resulting process reduces assay completion time by 2 1/2 h with optimal cell recovery. Conclusions In this report we describe a model for step-by-step performance characterization of a RUO insturment and optimization of every component of a clinical test. We provide a method for CytoFLEX standardization, which may be reproducible with minimal variation across labs. We also demonstrate that the Baylor Protocol FCXM is a sensitive, fast, and cost effective method for use in clinical transplant labs. Download : Download high-res image (892KB) Download : Download full-size image
Study of In-Plane Wave Propagation in 2-Dimensional Anisotropic Elastic Metamaterials

Due to its multiple applications, elastic metamaterial is of great interest for researchers today. In this article, in-plane wave propagation in 2-D anisotropic metamateials with anisotropic density and anisotropic Young’s modulus is comprehensively studied. Characteristics of wave propagation in 2-D metamaterial with different combinations of negative properties are provided, and the unnatural phenomenon is also explained. Based on Snell’s law and weld boundary condition, analysis of wave propagation from conventional isotropic material into anisotropic metamaterial is performed. This paper can serve as a foundation for future study of massive modeling and simulation of both isotropic and anisotropic metamaterials.
Stationary edge flames in a wedge with hydrodynamic variable-density interaction

Abstract The behavior of nonpremixed edge flames to low and high strains in a wedge-shaped region are simulated and studied in detail. The chemistry is modeled by a one-step mechanism and transport by constant coefficient Fickian diffusion, as a qualitative model describing the physical mechanisms in the thermochemistry of combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. The reactive zero-Mach-number Navier-Stokes equations are used to describe the flow, both in a thermodiffusive regime (constant density) and a hydrodynamically-coupled regime (variable density). This configuration is an adaptation of the experimental opposed inclined jet geometry long used at the University of Southern California, but made stationary by the addition of a sink at the apex of the wedge. This crucial modification enables the stable presence of stationary edge flames, and it allows the study of advancing and retreating edge flames in the low and high strain regimes. The dependence of the edge flames speed on strain rate, stoichiometry, and Lewis numbers is discussed and compared to previous studies.
The Language Orientations of Future Mathematics Teachers in the United States.

Thirty-one preservice teachers at a university in the Southeast of the United States were interviewed regarding their beliefs about the teaching mathematics to English Learners. Ruiz’s (1984) framework of language orientations was used to understand their responses related to the use of the native language in the mathematics class. Four typologies that ranged from language-as-problem to language-as-resource were inferred. Implications for teacher preparation are discussed.
Rapid Modification of Workflows and Fellow Staffing at a Single Transplant Center to Address the COVID-19 Crisis.

Abstract Background Although hospital systems have largely halted elective surgical practices in preparing their response to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, transplantation remains an essential and lifesaving surgical practice. To continue transplantation while protecting immunocompromised patients and health care workers, significant restructuring of normal patient care practice habits is required. Methods This is a nonrandomized, descriptive study of the abdominal transplant program at 1 academic center (University of California, San Francisco) and the programmatic changes undertaken to safely continue transplantations. Patient transfers, fellow use, and patient discharge education were identified as key areas requiring significant reorganization. Results The University of California, San Francisco abdominal transplant program took an early and aggressive approach to restructuring inpatient workflows and health care worker staffing. The authors formalized a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transfer system to address patients in need of services at their institution while minimizing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 in their transplant ward and used technological approaches to provide virtual telehealth where possible. They also modified their transplant fellow staffing and responsibilities to develop an adequate backup system in case of potential exposures. Conclusion Every transplant program is unique, and an individualized plan to adapt and modify standard clinical practices will be required to continue providing essential transplantation services. The authors’ experience highlights areas of attention specific to transplant programs and may provide generalizable solutions to support continued transplantation in the COVID-19 era.
Detection of alternative splicing in Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, in association with Bt resistance using RNA-seq and PacBio Iso-Seq

Abstract Background Alternative splicing is one of the major mechanisms that increases transcriptome diversity in eukaryotes, including insect species that have gained resistance to pesticides and Bt toxins. In western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte), neither alternative splicing nor its role in resistance to Bt toxins has been studied. Results To investigate the mechanisms of Bt resistance we carried out single-molecule real-time (SMRT) transcript sequencing and Iso-seq analysis on resistant, eCry3.1Ab-selected and susceptible, unselected, western corn rootworm neonate midguts which fed on seedling maize with and without eCry3.1Ab for 12 and 24 hours. We present transcriptome-wide alternative splicing patterns of western corn rootworm midgut in response to feeding on eCry3.1Ab-expressing corn using a comprehensive approach that combines both RNA-seq and SMRT transcript sequencing techniques. We found that 67.73% of multi-exon genes are alternatively spliced, which is consistent with the high transposable element content of the genome. One of the alternative splicing events we identified was a novel peritrophic matrix protein with two alternative splicing isoforms. Analysis of differential exon usage between resistant and susceptible colonies showed that in eCry3.1Ab-resistant western corn rootworm, expression of one isoform was significantly higher than in the susceptible colony, while no significant differences between colonies were observed with the other isoform. Conclusion Our results provide the first survey of alternative splicing in western corn rootworm and suggest that the observed alternatively spliced isoforms of peritrophic matrix protein may be associated with eCry3.1Ab resistance in western corn rootworm.
Immuno-Oncotherapeutic Approaches in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma has limited treatment options, but there has been extensive growth recently with cabozantinib, regorafenib, lenvatinib, nivolumab, atezolizumab, and bevacizumab, which are some of the treatments that have received FDA approval just over the last three years. Because HCC tumor microenvironment is potentially immunogenic and typically characterized by inflammation, immunotherapy has been proposed as a potential novel therapeutic approach, which has prompted studies in advanced HCC patients investigating various immune-therapeutic strategies such as CAR-T cell therapy, checkpoint inhibitors, and onco-vaccines. The anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors nivolumab and pembrolizumab have been FDA approved as a second line treatment in patients who progressed or are intolerant to Sorafenib. To build up on the success of PD-1 monotherapy, combinatorial regimens with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus VEGF targeted agents have shown positive results in various malignancies including HCC. The combination of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is the new addition to the HCC treatment armamentarium following a pivotal study that demonstrated an improvement in OS over frontline sorafenib. Other novel immune-based approaches and oncolytic viruses are in the early phases of clinical evaluation. These innovative approaches enhance the intensity of cancer-directed immune responses and will potentially impact the outlook of this aggressive disease.