cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity and Specificity of Cardiac Tissue Discrimination Using Fiber-Optics Confocal Microscopy

Disturbances of the cardiac conduction system constitute a major risk after surgical repair of complex cases of congenital heart disease. Intraoperative identification of the conduction system may reduce the incidence of these disturbances. We previously developed an approach to identify cardiac tissue types using fiber-optics confocal microscopy and extracellular fluorophores. Here, we applied this approach to investigate sensitivity and specificity of human and automated classification in discriminating images of atrial working myocardium and specialized tissue of the conduction system. Two-dimensional image sequences from atrial working myocardium and nodal tissue of isolated perfused rodent hearts were acquired using a fiber-optics confocal microscope (Leica FCM1000). We compared two methods for local application of extracellular fluorophores: topical via pipette and with a dye carrier. Eight blinded examiners evaluated 162 randomly selected images of atrial working myocardium (n = 81) and nodal tissue (n = 81). In addition, we evaluated the images using automated classification. Blinded examiners achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 99.2 ± 0.3% and 98.0 ± 0.7%, respectively, with the dye carrier method of dye application. Sensitivity and specificity was similar for dye application via a pipette (99.2 ± 0.3% and 94.0 ± 2.4%, respectively). Sensitivity and specificity for automated methods of tissue discrimination were similarly high. Human and automated classification achieved high sensitivity and specificity in discriminating atrial working myocardium and nodal tissue. We suggest that our findings facilitate clinical translation of fiber-optics confocal microscopy as an intraoperative imaging modality to reduce the incidence of conduction disturbances during surgical correction of congenital heart disease.
Surveillance analysis of influenza from 2009 to 2012 in Gansu province of China

Objective To study the epidemiologic characteristics of influenza in Gansu province of China from 2009to 2012. Methods Pharyngeal swab specimens of influenza-like illness(ILI)were collected from national surveillance hospitals in Gansu province.Fluorescence quantitative PCR was used to detect the virus nucleic acid and specimens were also inoculated on MDCK cell culture to obtain the influenza virus strains. Results From Jan 2009to Dec 2012,a total of 36 894specimens were collected and among which,8 059(21.84%)were detected ILI positive including 4 354subtype A(H1pdm N1),1 566subtype H3N2,92 subtype H1N1,1 656subtype B and 391untypable samples.A total of 1 149influenza virus strains were isolated from nucleic acid positive specimens obtained during years 2009to 2012,with a positive rate at 32.81%, 14.10%,7.83% and 19.67% for each respective year.The proportions of influenza virus infection by age groups of5,5-,15-,25-and ≥60were 13.87%,28.36%,32.33%,16.83% and 17.22%,respectively. Conclusions The predominant strain of influenza virus was subtype A for most winter seasons while subtype B for most spring seasons in Gansu province of China.
Placental abruption and fetal demise secondary to placental metastases from unknown primary: a case report.

BACKGROUND Although maternal malignancy is relatively common, maternal metastases to the products of conception remains a rare event. There is no available literature that describes the incidence of placental metastases as a cause of abruption and fetal death. importanc CASE We present an unusual case of placental abruption and disseminated intravascular coagulation leading to fetal demise secondary to placental metastases of unknown origin. CONCLUSION In our case placental abruption likely resulted from metastases to the intervillous space.
The IASLC lung cancer staging project proposal for the classification of lung cancers with multiple pulmonary sites of involvement: the first step toward finding optimal treatment.

Assessment of multifocal lung tumors and the distinction of synchronous primary tumors from intrapulmonary metastases represent an important problem as this decision significantly influences tumor staging and subsequent treatment strategies. Up to 8% of lung cancer patients present with two or more anatomically separate nodules. Yet, significant variability currently exists in treatments for these patients (1-4). Reasons for such ambiguity are that these patients represent a heterogeneous group of cohorts with marked difference in biological behaviors, survival, and recurrence pattern. Currently, no formal consensuses exist among clinicians in terms of staging, treatments, and follow-up.
Computational modeling of sodium-iodine secondary batteries

Abstract This paper develops a computational model and applies it to investigate the performance of a rechargeable battery that is comprised of a molten-sodium anode, a NASICON sodium-ion-conducting separator membrane, and a iodine-based cathode. The cathode compartment is comprised of a porous-carbon felt and an aqueous catholyte that supports an iodine redox process. The battery chemistry can be represented globally as 2Na+ + 2I− ⇌ 2Na + I2. The ion transport is represented in terms of a Nernst–Planck formulation that includes four mobile species within the catholyte, Na+, I−, I 3 − , and I2. The charge transfer chemistry is modeled using a Butler–Volmer formulation. The model considers solubility limits and the potential precipitation of NaI and I2. Parameter studies investigate the influences of charge and discharge rates, total elemental iodine loading, and effective conductivity of the carbon-felt cathode.
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area: A Historical Perspective

From the point of view of the great flocks of migratory waterfowl which traverse North and South America every year, the Cheyenne Bottoms ecosystem is an essential stopover. For some, it is a wintering ground. Since the late Pliocene Era, Cheyenne Bottoms has provided refuge for the many species of ducks, geese, cranes, and terns; as well as mammals and reptiles who live off of large populations of migratory waterfowl. The prehistory of Cheyenne Bottoms provides insight into the geological development of the Central Plains region. The story of Cheyenne Bottoms since the arrival of the Euro-Americans reflects the attitudes of those who have partaken of its bounty, worked for the perpetuation of a dependable waterfowl habitat, as well as those who have worked toward its destruction.
Guaranteed bounds for traffic flow parameters estimation using mixed Lagrangian-Eulerian sensing

This article proposes a new method combining convex optimization and viability theory for estimating traffic flow conditions on highway segments. Traffic flow is modeled by a Hamilton-Jacobi equation. Using a Lax-Hopf formula, we formulate the necessary and sufficient conditions for a mixed boundary and internal conditions problem to be well posed. The well-posedness conditions result in a system of linear inequalities, which enables us to compute upper and lower bounds on traffic flow parameters as the solution to a linear program. We illustrate the capabilities of the method with a data assimilation problem for the estimation of the travel time function using Eulerian and Lagrangian measurements generated from Next Generation Simulation (NGSIM) traffic data.
Theoretical Studies of Elementary Hydrocarbon Species and Their Reactions

This is the final report of the theoretical studies of elementary hydrocarbon species and their reactions. Part A has a bibliography of publications supported by DOE from 2010 to 2016 and Part B goes into recent research highlights.
Managers at work: Helping new leaders succeed

(1998). Managers at Work: Helping New Leaders Succeed. Research-Technology Management: Vol. 41, No. 5, pp. 14-18.
Lesser Trochanter Osteoplasty for Ischiofemoral Impingement

Ischiofemoral impingement is a newly recognized cause of extra-articular hip pain, and is caused by contact between the lesser trochanter and ischium. Surgical intervention has been proven successful for patients with persistent pain and disability after failure of nonoperative management. This technique article provides a reliable method for endoscopic lesser trochanter osteoplasty using an anterior approach.
The Real Numbers, Regarded as an Ordered Field

We shall suppose that the set ℝ of all real numbers is given, with its binary operations + and •. The system [ℝ, +, •] forms a field. By this we mean that the following conditions hold.
Capillary condensation and capillary pressure of methane in carbon nanopores: Molecular Dynamics simulations of nanoconfinement effects

Abstract Two main groups of thought have emerged over the past decade to improve thermodynamic modeling of capillary condensation of nanoconfined fluids. One approach has been developed on the premise of using shifted critical parameters for the condensed phase to account for the wall-fluid interactions, while the other one considers a pressure difference across the interface between the condensed and the bulk phases. This pressure difference is the capillary pressure that exists across a curved meniscus formed in a capillary pore. For nanoconfinement, a modified Laplace equation has been utilized to calculate the capillary pressure to take into account the confinement effects that become more prominent as the pore size reduces. For small pores of a few nanometers in size, however, the impact of structural forces known as nanoconfinement effects, on the pressure of the confined phase becomes more significant. In this work, we studied the capillary pressure of methane at the capillary condensation point in graphite pores smaller than 7 nm, to verify whether the confined phase can experience a negative pressure at capillary condensation point and whether we can accurately predict this pressure from thermodynamic equations. For this purpose, we used Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the pressure of methane molecules confined in graphite pores of various sizes. Furthermore, normal and tangential pressures of methane in selected pore sizes were obtained during capillary condensation at constant pressure. Our results indicated that for small pores there is a critical size below which capillary condensation did not occur. For larger pores, on the other hand, capillary condensation could be identified with an abrupt drop in the pressure of the confined phase. The capillary pressure attained from the MD simulations were similar to the thermodynamic calculations provided the adsorbed phase was thick enough to screen out wall-fluid interactions.
Website Accessibility: U.S. Veterans Affairs Medical Centers as a Case Study:

The Internet is a critical eHealth/eGovernment information source, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs operates the United States’ largest integrated health care system. This case study use...
Psychosocial Aspects of the Therapeutic Process

Cognitive, conative, and coping skills are influenced by a multitude of factors. Most salient among these factors are cultural and psychosocial influences. The manner in which information is organized and processed is affected by these factors as well as the way that behavior is categorized and understood. The purpose of this chapter is to describe the potential impact of cultural, social, and psychological variables on the conceptualization of behavior, on the development of psychotherapeutic models of treatment, and on psychotherapeutic process. Three major premises will be advanced in this chapter.
Association, Cause and Causal Association: Means, Methods and Measures

Abstract Philosophers debate the metaphysical concept of cause, but medical scientists should facilitate the more pragmatic evaluation of cause, encompassing the factors that make a difference to the occurrence of health events. The identification of causal factors rests on our ability to design, conduct, and analyze studies, ensuring that the putative factors contribute to cause. Thus, we must bring to bear design strategies and analytic methods that will help avoid spurious or non-causal associations, primarily resulting from bias, confounding or reverse causation. In this chapter we review past and current views of causal association and the biases employed to infer “cause” from scientific data. We mention briefly examples of modern methodological techniques (e.g., instrumental variables, Mendelian randomization) that help remove confusion when forming causal inferences. Determination of causal association implies an imperative for intervention, to modify disease occurrence. Those interventions may be molecular, personal or societal, to better the public health.
Dummy Constructs? Binomial Categorical Variables as Constructs: The Case of CEO duality

CEO duality describes the governance condition when a firm’s chief executive officer also holds the position of chairman of the board. Volumes of research have examined duality, yet definitive conc...
Dexamethasone implantation in birdshot chorioretinopathy - long-term outcome.

Purpose To evaluate the long-term efficacy of the 0.70 mg dexamethasone (DEX) intravitreal implant in patients with birdshot chorioretinopathy (BSCR). Methods Retrospective descriptive case series of BSCR patients treated with DEX implant (DEX implant 0.70 mg, DEX). Patients receiving treatment between September 2013 and November 2016 with a minimum follow-up (FU) of 12 months were included. The outcomes of primary interest were vision-related functioning, Snellen visual acuity, ocular inflammation status, presence or absence of vasculitis, change in central macular thickness, and development of glaucoma and/or cataract. Change in vision-related functioning was evaluated by comparing the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25. The outcomes were assessed at baseline, after DEX implant, at time of relapse, and at last FU. Results Three patients (six eyes) were included in the study and were followed for 1-3 years. They received 1-4 DEX implants OU. All patients demonstrated improvement in National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 scores. Mean Snellen visual acuity better than or equal to 20/40 was seen in three eyes at baseline and five eyes at last FU. At induction, all of the patients (six eyes) had active vitritis and two (four eyes) had retinal vasculitis. All three patients (six eyes) were quiet at last FU. One patient (two eyes) developed bilateral ocular hypertension requiring topical therapy and discontinuation of DEX implants. Two patients (three eyes) developed posterior subcapsular cataract during therapy. Two patients (four eyes) showed progression of disease while on DEX therapy. All patients were eventually transitioned to systemic immunosuppressive drug therapy. Conclusion BSCR patients receiving DEX implant experienced clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported visual function as well as ocular inflammation. However, patients in this study required repeat implantation and were unable to be maintained on DEX implant long term due to development of adverse effects or progression of disease. Eventually, it was necessary to transition to systemic immunosuppressive therapy in all patients.
Economics of Advanced Reactors and Fuel Cycles

Abstract Many dynamic factors influence nuclear reactor and fuel cycle economics. Policies affecting electricity pricing influence nuclear power revenues at a fundamental level. However, costs are also an important part of the equation. In current reactors and their associated fuel cycles, costs of construction capital as well as operation and maintenance increasingly dominate the economics of nuclear power. Advanced reactor designs and fuel cycle choices can impact these costs both positively and negatively. While fuel cycle advancements also impact fuel costs, this component has limited impact on the overall cost of nuclear electricity production. If advanced reactors can offer very high heats appropriate for industrial processing or can offer load following behavior, then they may become more feasible than the current fleet.
Detection of a Surface Detonated Nuclear Weapon Using a Photovoltaic Rich Distribution Grid

Detonation of a nuclear weapon differs significantly from traditional chemical blasts in a number of well documented ways. However, at time of detonation, it is not easy to detect which type of blast actually occurred. Conventional forensics rely on collection of measurement which are either not well suited for surface detonations or require a lot of processing time at which it may be too late to have an accurate sense of battle awareness or enact defense mechanisms. We propose a novel approach which uses the power output of solar PV panels with the thermal radiation produced from the explosion as a signature. We extend the methodology to determine the effect on the powerflow in a nearby distribution feeder circuit rich with PV panels in both the steady and dynamic states. Our simulations show that the blast causes a saturation in every PV inverter and causes a large rapid increase in voltage on the feeder. The voltage increase was discussed to be generally non-reproducible through natural operation.
Growing democratic citizenship competencies: Fostering social studies understandings through inquiry learning in the preschool garden

Abstract Essential skills and attitudes necessary for active citizenship need to be cultivated as early as prekindergarten. This exploratory study investigated if three and four-year olds could be actively engaged in social studies practices through inquiry learning in a school garden. Eleven children openly interacted and conducted personally-driven investigations on a daily basis in the school garden located on their playground over nine-months. Three interviews with children, teacher observation notes, and lesson plans were analyzed to discover whether NCSS preK-12 learning themes (2010) for the social studies curriculum could be correlated with garden inquiries. Three prevalent NCSS themes surfaced from data analysis with Civic Ideals and Practices, People, Places, and Environments, and Time, Continuity, and Change being most prevalent. Results imply that working in a school garden through inquiry learning can foster the development of democratic competencies and thus, could be used to design C3 lessons for preschoolers in the garden.
A data-driven approach to model calibration for nonlinear dynamical systems

A data-driven approach to model calibration is developed to accurately obtain the input parameters for nonlinear dynamical systems. The paper focuses on the convergence properties of the proposed method, which play a significant role in understanding the validity and usefulness of any data-driven model. The input parameters of nonlinear dynamical systems are optimized to a reference solution, which can be experimental data or results from a high-fidelity computer simulation, using the Wasserstein metric and a phase-space representation of a set of time-dependent signals. Test cases shown in this paper include the Lorenz system and the discharge plasma of a Hall effect thruster to characterize the numerical uncertainties of the proposed data-driven approach, given a constructed reference solution. Distinct wells in the cost function, the Wasserstein metric, are obtained relative to the reference solution, illustrating the applicability of the proposed method to dynamical problems. The numerical uncertainties associated with the phase-space portrait and sampling time are discussed.
Determination of the embryonic origin of the mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve in birds

The precise site of origin and the cells of origin of the mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve in birds have been studied by the method of growing embryonic fore-, mid- and hind brain grafts inside a millipore filter chamber filled with amniotic fluid, upon a host chorioallantoic membrane, and by the method of transplantation of cranial neural crest of the mesencephalon between quail embryo-donors and duck embryo-hosts. The growth and differentiation of grafts grown in the chambers resemble very closesly those of normal embryos at corresponding stages of development. Data obtained from a total of 42 grafts representative of the three species of birds used in this study, show that the cells of the mesencephalic nucleus are present only in grafts of embryonic midbrain and totally absent in forebrain and hindbrain grafts. The presence of cells of the mesencephalic nucleus in midbrain grafts suggests that these neurons arise chiefly from the developing mesencephalon. Histological examination of such grafts has shown that these neurons are observed in the leptomeningeal tissue overlying the midbrain region and extend into the various laminae of the optic tecta. A progressive increase in the size of the cells from an immature state confined to the mesodermal tissue to fully mature neurons in the stratum griseum periventriculare of the Optic tectum is observed. This is also indicative of a downward migration of these cells. In a few embryonic midbrain grafts mature cells clearly identifiable as belonging to the mesencephalic nucleus are observed in the leptomeningeal tissue and outside of the external limiting membrane of the neural tube. These appear to be neurons which had failed to migrate. The resemblance of these latter neurons to those in the stratum griseum periventriculare of the optic tectum lend further support to the hypothesis that the neurons of the mesencephalic nucleus are derived from neural crest of the developing mesencephalon in birds. In interspecific transplantation experiments of cranial neural crest of the mesencephalon, the quail cells occur in the form of clusters and appear to migrate towards the ventricular surface independent of the migration of the cells of the tectum which takes place simultaneously. Three stages in the development of the grafted neural crest material of the quail are observed based on the perikaryal diameter of the cells, and the accumulation of Nissl material in the cytoplasm. The smallest cells are located more superficially near the pial surface, and the larger mature neurons are observed in the stratum griseum periventriculare of the optic tectum. All the layers of the optic tectum including the neuroepithelium on the experimental side are comprised entirely of duck cells. The data presented in this study provide direct evidence that the precursor neurons of the mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve are derivatives of the cranial neural crest of the mesencephalon, and that the layers of the optic tectum are formed through the proliferative activity in the neuroepithelium.
Validation of the gem5 Simulator for x86 Architectures

gem5 has been extensively used in computer architecture simulations and in the evaluation of new architectures for HPC (high performance computing) systems. Previous work has validated gem5 against ARM platforms. However, gem5 still shows high inaccuracy when modeling Intel’s x86 based processors. In this work, we focus on the simulation of a single node high performance system and study the sources of inaccuracies of gem5. Then we validate gem5 simulator against an Intel processor, Core-i7 (Haswell microarchitecture). We configured gem5 as close as possible to match Core-i7 Haswell microarchitecture configurations and made changes to the simulator to add some features, modified existing code, and tuned built-in configurations. As a result, we validated the simulator by fixing many sources of errors to match real hardware results with less than 6% mean error rate for different control, memory, dependency and execution microbenchmarks.
Large-N bill positions data from MapLight.org: What can we learn from interest groups’ publicly observable legislative positions?

The transparency organization MapLight records instances of organizations taking positions for and against legislation in Congress. The dataset comprises some 130,000 such positions taken on thousands of bills between the 109th and 115th Congresses (2005–2018). The depth and breadth of these data potentially give them wide applicability for answering questions about interest group behavior and influence as well as legislative politics more broadly. However, the coverage and content of the data are affected by aspects of MapLight’s research process. This article introduces the MapLight dataset and its potential uses, examines issues related to sampling and other aspects of MapLight’s research process, and explains how scholars can address these to make appropriate use of the data.
Analytical periodic motions in a discontinuous system with a switching hyperbola

In this paper, studied are periodic motions in a discontinuous system with three vector fields switching through two branches of a hyperbola. The switchability conditions of flows at the discontinuous boundaries are presented through G-functions. Such conditions are presented for passable motions and grazing motions at the boundary with sliding motions on the boundary. With such analytical conditions, periodic motions with specific mapping structures are analytically predicted, and the corresponding stability and bifurcations are presented through eigenvalue analysis. Numerical illustrations of periodic motions are carried out, and the corresponding G-functions are presented for illustration of motion switchability at the hyperbolic boundaries. The discontinuity of periodic motions is shown in phase trajectories. This study tells the complex motions can be obtained through a few individual systems with arbitrary switching boundaries, and the corresponding discontinuous dynamics can be discussed for dynamical system design and control.
Smaller Volume in Left-Lateralized Brain Structures Correlates with Greater Experience of Negative Non-target Emotions in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Subjective emotional experience that is congruent with a given situation (i.e., target emotions) is critical for human survival (e.g., feeling disgusted in response to contaminated food motivates withdrawal behaviors). Neurodegenerative diseases including frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease affect brain regions critical for cognitive and emotional functioning, resulting in increased experience of emotions incongruent with the situation (i.e., non-target emotions, such as feeling happy when seeing someone grieving). We examined neuroanatomical correlates of subjective experience of non-target emotions in 147 patients with neurodegenerative diseases and 26 healthy individuals. Participants watched three films intended to elicit particular target emotions and rated their experience of negative and positive target and non-target emotions after watching each film. We found that smaller volume in left hemisphere regions (e.g., caudate, putamen, and dorsal anterior insula) was associated with greater experience of negative non-target emotions. Follow-up analyses confirmed that these effects were left-lateralized. No correlates emerged for positive non-target emotions. These findings suggest that volume loss in left-hemisphere regions produces a more diffuse, incongruent experience of non-target emotions. These findings provide a potential neuroanatomical basis for understanding how subjective emotional experience is constructed in the brain and how this can be disrupted in neurodegenerative disease.
Associations between gestational weight gain and preterm birth in Puerto Rico.

Preterm birth (PTB; gestational age < 37 weeks) is the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Low and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) have been previously cited as risk factors for PTB, however the magnitude of association varies across populations. No studies have examined low and excessive GWG as modifiable risk factors for PTB in Puerto Rico, an area with inexplicably high PTB rates. To examine the relationship between GWG and PTB, we conducted a retrospective analysis using birth certificate data files from the Puerto Rico Department of Health from 2005 to 2012. GWG was standardized to a 40-week gestational duration and was categorized into low, adequate, or excessive for each category of pre-pregnancy body mass index using American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines. Logistic regression was used to determine the crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between GWG and PTB. There were 320,695 births included in this analysis; 40.6% with high GWG and 27.3% with low GWG. A greater percentage of women with low GWG were less than 20 years of age, had less than a high school education, and were underweight compared to women with adequate and excessive GWG. Women with low compared to adequate GWG had increased odds of PTB (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.30–1.37). However, excessive compared to adequate GWG was not associated with PTB (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.97–1.02). Among women in Puerto Rico, low GWG was associated with increased odds of PTB. With the exception of obesity, these associations persisted within all strata of pre-pregnancy body mass index, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy. Future research should examine other factors that may contribute to GWG, such as dietary nutrients, and explore pathways through which GWG may be contributing to PTB.
Tackling Gender and Racial Bias in Academic Emergency Medicine: The Perceived Role of Implicit Bias in Faculty Development

Background Gender and racial disparities in academic medicine have recently garnered much attention. Implicit Association Tests (IATs) offer a validated means of evaluating unconscious associations and preferences. This study examines the perceived role of implicit bias in faculty development in academic emergency medicine (EM). Methods EM faculty at a large urban academic medical center were invited to independently participate in a self-reflection assessment in preparation for a faculty retreat session discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants completed two IATs designed to examine gender associations (gender IAT) and race preferences (race IAT) followed by a short anonymous survey where IAT scores were recorded. The survey also captured demographic information and perceptions about the impact of gender and racial biases in faculty development. Results Forty faculty members (66%) completed the survey; 70% were male and 80% white. The majority (59%) reported gender IAT results indicating automatic male-sciences and female-liberal arts associations. Nearly half (45%) reported race IAT results indicating an automatic preference for white people. More than 70% of males reported that faculty recruitment, development, and promotion decisions were 'never' or 'seldom' affected by gender bias, while more than 80% reported racial bias 'never' or 'seldom' affects these decisions. Female faculty more frequently perceived adverse effects of unconscious gender and race biases. Conclusion Our group of academic physicians reported IAT results showing different levels of implicit bias compared to the general population. Female faculty may be both more aware of and more susceptible to the adverse effects of unconscious biases. Further study is needed to determine both the extent to which unconscious biases affect the academic workplace, as well as ways in which such unintentional forms of discrimination can be eliminated. Unconscious biases are not unique to EM. Intentional efforts to increase self-awareness of these 'blind spots' may help mitigate their impact and foster a more diverse and inclusive healthcare environment.
Progerin-Expressing Endothelial Cells are Unable to Adapt to Shear Stress

Abstract Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is a rare premature aging disease caused by a single-point mutation in the lamin A gene, resulting in a truncated and farnesylated form of lamin A. This mutant lamin A protein, known as progerin, accumulates at the periphery of the nuclear lamina, resulting in both an abnormal nuclear morphology and nuclear stiffening. HGPS patients experience rapid onset of atherosclerosis, with death from heart attack or stroke as teenagers. Progerin expression has been shown to cause dysfunction in both vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells (ECs). In this study we examined how progerin-expressing ECs adapt to fluid shear stress, the principal mechanical force from blood flow. We compared the response to shear stress for progerin-expressing, wild-type lamin A overexpressing, and control ECs to physiological levels of fluid shear stress. Additionally, we also knocked down ZMPSTE24 in ECs, which results in increased farnesylation of lamin A and similar phenotypes to HGPS. Our results showed that ECs either expressing progerin or with ZMPSTE24 knockdown were unable to adapt to shear stress, experiencing significant cell loss at a longer duration of exposure to shear stress (3 days). ECs overexpressing wild-type lamin A also exhibited similar impairments in adaptation to shear stress, including similar levels of cell loss. Quantification of nuclear morphology showed that progerin-expressing ECs had similar nuclear abnormalities in both static and shear conditions. Treatment of progerin-expressing cells and ZMPSTE24 KD cells with lonafarnib and methystat, drugs previously shown to improve HGPS nuclear morphology, resulted in improvements in adaptation to shear stress. Additionally, pre-alignment of cells to shear stress prior to progerin-expression prevented cell loss. Our results demonstrate that changes in nuclear lamins can affect the ability of EC to properly adapt to shear stress.
Bentham on Presumed Offences

In the Principles of the Penal Code, Jeremy Bentham described offences that he labelled presumed or evidentiary. The conduct penalized under such offences is punished not because it is intrinsically wrong, but because it probabilistically indicates the presence of an intrinsic wrong. Bentham was sceptical of the need to create offences, but grudgingly accepted their value in light of deficiencies in procedure and the judiciary. These days the scepticism is even greater, with courts and commentators in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and elsewhere believing that such ‘proxy’ offences deny a defendant the right to establish that he did not engage in the conduct that the presumed offence probabilistically but not necessarily indicates. On closer analysis, however, such scepticism appears unjustified. Almost all offences, and indeed almost all legal rules, are premised on a probabilistic relationship between the behaviour the rule encompasses and the behaviour that is the rule-maker's real concern. Presumed offences may make this relationship especially obvious, but it is a relationship that exists whenever the law operates by the use of rules.
Multispectral near-IR reflectance imaging of simulated early occlusal lesions: Variation of lesion contrast with lesion depth and severity

Background and Objectives Early demineralization appears with high contrast at near-IR wavelengths due to a 10- to 20-fold difference in the magnitude of light scattering between sound and demineralized enamel. Water absorption in the near-IR has a significant effect on the lesion contrast and the highest contrast has been measured in spectral regions with higher water absorption. The purpose of this study was to determine how the lesion contrast changes with lesion severity and depth for different spectral regions in the near-IR and compare that range of contrast with visible reflectance and fluorescence. Materials and Methods Forty-four human molars were used in this in vitro study. Teeth were painted with an acid-resistant varnish, leaving a 4 mm × 4 mm window on the occlusal surface of each tooth exposed for demineralization. Artificial lesions were produced in the unprotected windows after 12–48 hours exposure to a demineralizing solution at pH 4.5. Near-IR reflectance images were acquired over several near-IR spectral distributions, visible light reflectance, and fluorescence with 405-nm excitation and detection at wavelengths >500-nm. Crossed polarizers were used for reflectance measurements to reduce interference from specular reflectance. Cross polarization optical coherence tomography (CP-OCT) was used to non-destructively assess the depth and severity of demineralization in each sample window. Matching two-dimensional CP-OCT images of the lesion depth and integrated reflectivity were compared with the reflectance and fluorescence images to determine how accurately the variation in the lesion contrast represents the variation in the lesion severity. Results Artificial lesions appear more uniform on tooth surfaces exposed to an acid challenge at visible wavelengths than they do in the near-IR. Measurements of the lesion depth and severity using CP-OCT show that the lesion severity varies markedly across the sample windows and that the lesion contrast in the visible does not accurately reflect the large variation in the lesion severity. Reflectance measurements at certain near-IR wavelengths more accurately reflect variation in the depth and severity of the lesions. Conclusion The results of the study suggest that near-IR reflectance measurements at longer wavelengths coincident with higher water absorption are better suited for imaging early caries lesions. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:203–215, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The political economy of a racist housing market

Abstract While much empirical research indicates that blacks pay higher prices than whites for housing, models that generate this result have not been given a convincing theoretical structure. To remedy this deficiency, the paper develops two different models in which racial market segmentation is possible. The first considers a cartel controlling a white neighborhood threatened by black entry; the second considers the effort of a suburban government to exclude blacks. After developing these models, we contrast the conditions under which private collusion and public coercion generate exclusionary policies that restrict the supply of housing to minority groups.
EFFECTS OF ACETYLSTROPHANTHIDIN ON CORONARY VASCULAR RESISTANCE AND MYOCARDIAL OXYGEN CONSUMPTION.

The effects of acetylstrophanthidin on coronary circulation were studied in 31 dogs. Coronary blood flow was measured in empty beating hearts or in fibrillating hearts by collecting coronary venous return during perfusion of the systemic circulation (cardiopul-monary bypass). In 14 animals with ventricular fibrillation, acetylstrophanthidin caused an initial coronary constriction and fall in coronary blood flow. This was followed, after approximately 10 minutes, by a significant drop in resistance and a rise in coronary blood flow which persisted for the remainder of the experiment. Associated with the increase of blood flow was an increase of myocardial oxygen consumption. This effect was not abolished by ganglionic blockade, cardiac denervation or bilateral adrenalectomy. In nine dogs with beating but empty hearts, after the initial constriction of the coronary vessels, there was only a small change in coronary blood flow and resistance, although myocardial oxygen consumption was increased. The lack of ...
Synthesis and electrochemical study of the first tetrazolate hexanuclear rhenium cluster complex.

The linkage isomers [Re6Se8(PEt3)5(1,5-MeN4C)]+ and [Re6Se8(PEt3)5(2,5-MeN4C)]+ were generated upon reaction of tetrabutylammonium azide with the corresponding acetonitrile complex, [Re6Se8(PEt3)5(NCCH3)]2+; these are the first (tetrazolato)rhenium complexes reported to date.
Stochastic photon transport model in multilayer skin tissue: using reflectance spectroscopy measurements to model normal and bruised skins

We have developed a stochastic photon transport model in multilayer skin tissue in an effort to study normal and bruised skins. The model uses a detailed seven layer skin approximation allowing more biologically relevant input than previous models using one or three layers. Our model is improved with clinically obtained reactance spectra in an effort to develop time correlations of chromophore concentrations in developing bruises. This combination of modeling and spectroscopic measurements provides a new tool for detailed, non-invasive studies of human skin tissue.
Identification and Characterization of Two Novel RNA Editing Sites in grin1b Transcripts of Embryonic Danio rerio

Discovering RNA editing sites in model organisms provides an insight into their adaptations in addition to finding potential sites for the regulation of neural activity and the basis of integrated models of metazoan editing with a variety of applications, including potential clinical treatments of neural dysregulation. The zebrafish, Danio rerio, is an important vertebrate model system. We focused on the grin1b gene of zebrafish due to its important function in the nervous tissue as a glutamate receptor. Using a comparative sequence-based approach, we located possible RNA editing events within the grin1b transcript. Surprisingly, sequence analysis also revealed a new editing site which was not predicted by the comparative approach. We here report the discovery of two novel RNA editing events in grin1b transcripts of embryonic zebrafish. The frequency of these editing events and their locations within the grin1b transcript are also described.
CMOS folding A/D converters with current-mode interpolation

A CMOS folding and interpolating A/D conversion architecture fully compatible with standard digital CMOS technology is described. Fully-differential, continuous-time, current-mode, open-loop analog circuitry is used to achieve high speed. Results from 125 Ms/s 8-b and 150 Ms/s 6-b prototypes implemented in a digital 1 /spl mu/m n-well CMOS process are presented. The 8-b (6-b) converter occupies 4 mm/sup 2/ (2 mm/sup 2/) and dissipates 225 mW (55 mW) from a single 5 V power supply.
Discrete-symmetry breaking and novel critical phenomena in an antiferromagnetic planar (XY) model in two dimensions

Landau-Ginzburg-Wilson symmetry analyses and Monte Carlo calculations for the classical antiferromagnetic planar ($\mathrm{XY}$) model on a triangular lattice reveal a wealth of interesting critical phenomena. From this simple model arise a zero-field transition to a state of long-range order, a new mechanism for spin disordering, and a critical point associated with a possible new universality class.
Excitation of heavy nuclei by fast nucleons

Abstract Nuclear reactions induced by fast nucleons are studied on the basis of a classical model. A formula is obtained to calculate the energy spectrum of all nucleons emitted, taking account of the successive collisions between the incident nucleon and the nucleons in the target nucleus. The result is compared with the energy spectrum predicted by the statistical theory. Calculated energy spectra and cross sections are found to be in fair agreement with the experimental results.
Effects of capsaicin on reproductive function in the female rat: Role of peptide-containing primary afferent nerves innervating the uterine cervix in the neuroendocrine copulatory response

Nerves immunoreactive for the peptides substance P, neurokinin A, calcitonin gene-related peptide or cholecystokinin-octapeptide innervate the uterine cervix in the rat. Nerve terminals are associated with the myometrial and vascular smooth muscle and are distributed throughout the endocervix. These nerves degenerate following neonatal capsaicin treatment indicating that they are small-diameter, unmyelinated, C-type primary afferent nerves. Adult female rats, treated with capsaicin as neonates, exhibit decreased fertility following mating and diminished sensitivity to the induction of pseudopregnancy following copulomimetic electrical stimulation of the cervix. The results also demonstrate that hypothalamo-adenohypophyseal-ovarian interactions, corpus luteum progesterone secretion and uterine sensitivity to progesterone are normal in capsaicin-treated rats. Taken together, these data suggest that the reproductive dysfunction observed in capsaicin-treated rats is due to destruction of the afferent limb of the neuroendocrine copulatory response that facilitates the luteal progesterone secretion necessary to support pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. Thus, it is concluded that the afferent limb of this neuroendocrine response in the rat consists primarily of unmyelinated, peptide-containing, C-type primary afferent nerves.
The Mouse Homologue of the Human Transcription Factor C1 (Host Cell Factor) CONSERVATION OF FORMS AND FUNCTION

The assembly of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) α/IE gene enhancer complex is determined by the interactions of the Oct-1 POU domain protein, the viral αTIF (α-trans-induction factor, VP16, ICP25, VMW65), and the C1 factor (host cell factor, HCF). A unique transcription factor, C1 consists of a family of polypeptides derived from a common precursor by site-specific proteolytic processing. To analyze the role of this factor in the determination of HSV lytic-latent infection, cDNAs and genomic DNAs encoding the mouse homologue have been isolated. This factor is nearly identical to the human protein, contains multiple consensus proteolytic processing sites, and functions efficiently in the assembly of a specific HSV enhancer complex. Interestingly, the differential expression of the C1 factors in both human and mouse tissues may be important for the determination of HSV tissue tropism in these two organisms.
Soil faunal vs. fertilization effects on plant nutrition: results of a biocide experiment

Intact cores of agricultural soil planted with Sorghum bicolor were treated with selective biocides or combinations of biocides to manipulate soil organisms. Half the replicates of each biocide treatment were also given N fertilizer. The plants were maintained in a greenhouse, where growth and nutrient content and soil-organism populations were monitored over 16 weeks. The plants responded strongly to fertilization, but showed weak and variable responses to the biocides, even though biocide treatments aimed at animal taxa effectively reduced their target groups. There were no strong interactions between faunal manipulations and fertilization, implying that there was little compensatory function of fauna in the absence of fertilizer. Conditions under which soil fauna are important in making mineral nutrients available to plants in the field need further investigation.
Specific Heat Anomaly of Ferroelectric Cadmium Niobate at the Curie Temperature

The anomalous specific heat of ferroelectric ${\mathrm{Cd}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Nb}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ has been measured in the region of its Curie temperature, ${T}_{c}=193\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$K, using a vacuum adiabatic calorimeter. The values of the transition energy and the transition entropy change are 18\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2 cal/mole and 0.09\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01 cal/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K-mole, respectively. A comparison between the experimental values of the transition entropy change, the spontaneous polarization, and the Curie constant is made.
Graser with recoil

Abstract The role of the Mossbauer Effect in the gamma-ray laser is frequently portrayed as being based solely on the capacity for recoilless emission and absorption of radiation. This role is reexamined. The possibility of a graser allowing recoil is then discussed.
Capturing and sharing memories in a virtual world

Virtual worlds (VWs) such as Second Life® (SL) contain a rich social culture where people engage in a multitude of experiences much like real life. With this comes the need to capture and share memories with others. To understand what tools people use to accomplish this and what limitations they may face, we conducted interviews with participants in SL. Our results identify two clusters of users - Casuals and Lifers - who differed in the ways in which they captured and shared memories. Here we describe the use of photos, landmarks, friend lists, and conversation logs. We also show how a lack of real life physical and social constraints in the VW affects user routines, and, in some cases, how it does not. This suggests design directions for memory tools in the VW and also real life that break the bounds of current everyday practice.