cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Safety-Case Approach For Certifying Adaptive Systems

Adaptive systems—those that can change their behavior at runtime—pose new challenges for certification, and particularly for traditional, standards-based methods of certification such as DO-178B. These traditional methods are effective in conservative fields because they can establish a solid basis in experience and can incorporate the lessons learned from previous systems. They seem likely to prove less effective in fast-moving fields where innovation outstrips the pace at which experience can be incorporated into standards. Argument-based safety cases offer a plausible alternative basis for certification in these fast-moving fields. A safety case provides an explicit statement of safety claims, a body of evidence concerning the system, and an argument, based on the evidence, that the system satisfies its claims; standards-based methods, in contrast, specify only the evidence to be produced. A reasonable objection to safety cases is that many arguments—especially large, complex ones—can appear plausible, yet harbor flaws. There is a need for tools that can help analyze arguments. Some model-based design tools can do this, but generally operate at a far more detailed level of design than is appropriate for much of safety analysis. Some interactive theorem provers can do it, too, but they generally require notation and skills far removed from those found in aerospace and safety engineering. In this paper we argue that analysis tools based on recent advances in formal methods (SMT solvers, infinite bounded model checkers, and k-induction) can provide suitable modeling notations, effective analysis, and push button automation. We illustrate the approach with a simple example based on a self-checking pair. We further argue that monitors derived from a safety case provide a potentially certifiable means for entering an adaptive mode of behavior, and that monitors generated from a formally analyzed case can be “possibly perfect,” which is a property that allows a novel kind of reliability analysis.
The approach of the three reoperation methods for patients failed with ring extraction

Objective To compare three reoperation methods for patients failed with ring extraction. Methods There were 92 hospitalized patients failed to remove IUD, in whom 61 patients failed once, 26 patients failed twice and five patients failed for three times. The 92 patients were randomly divided into three groups: in group one(n=30) the IUD was removed out by hysteroscopy; in group two(n=32), the IUD was extracted by medium curved forceps; in group three (n=30), the IUD was removed out by ultrasonic imaging. Results In group one, the IUD ectopic in uterine serous membrane of one case was removed out by celioscopy. In group two, IUD failed by medium curved forceps in two cases were removed out by hysteroscopy, and IUD ectopic in uterine serous membrane in two cases were extracted by celioscopy. In group three, IUD ectopic in uterine serous membrane of one case was removed out by hystorosopy. All the other IUD were extracted successfully. The three groups had no significant difference in the postoperative infection rate and the acception of patients. But there was differences in the operative time, the volume of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding and hospital charges in three groups. Conclusions The use of hysteroscopy, medium curved forceps and ultrasonic imaging guidance have the clinical significance for the patients failed with ring extraction. We may select different operation method for different patients.
Effect of human semen on herpes-simplex virus-2

This study was designed to evaluate the suggestion of inhibition of infectivity of HSV-2 by seminal fluid by examining relationships between HSV-2 and components of human semen. Viral infectivity was quantitated by TCID50 measurements of CPE in comparing viral inoculated aliquots of whole semen, seminal fluid, and control (EMEM) medium during incubation at 0, 5, and 24 hours. Statistical analysis of data from 15 experiments revealed inhibition by seminal fluid during 5 hours of incubation. After 24 hours viral infectivity was maintained significantly higher with whole semen than with other treatments, suggesting favorable spermatozoal interaction. Electron microscopy revealed no intimate ultrastructural relationship between the virion and the spermatozoon.
PHOCOS: inferring multi-feature phenotypic crosstalk networks.

Motivation: Quantification of cellular changes to perturbations can provide a powerful approach to infer crosstalk among molecular components in biological networks. Existing crosstalk inference methods conduct network-structure learning based on a single phenotypic feature (e.g. abundance) of a biomarker. These approaches are insufficient for analyzing perturbation data that can contain information about multiple features (e.g. abundance, activity or localization) of each biomarker. Results: We propose a computational framework for inferring phenotypic crosstalk (PHOCOS) that is suitable for high-content microscopy or other modalities that capture multiple phenotypes per biomarker. PHOCOS uses a robust graph-learning paradigm to predict direct effects from potential indirect effects and identify errors owing to noise or missing links. The result is a multi-feature, sparse network that parsimoniously captures direct and strong interactions across phenotypic attributes of multiple biomarkers. We use simulated and biological data to demonstrate the ability of PHOCOS to recover multi-attribute crosstalk networks from cellular perturbation assays. Availability and implementation: PHOCOS is available in open source at https://github.com/AltschulerWu-Lab/PHOCOS Contact: ude.fscu@reluhcstla.nevets or ude.fscu@uw.inal
The HMW1 and HMW2 Adhesins Enhance the Ability of Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae To Colonize the Upper Respiratory Tract of Rhesus Macaques

Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) initiates infection by colonizing the upper respiratory tract and is a common cause of localized respiratory tract disease. Previous work has established that the NTHi HMW1 and HMW2 proteins are potent adhesins that mediate efficient in vitro adherence to cultured human respiratory epithelial cells. In this study, we used a rhesus macaque model to assess the contributions of HMW1 and HMW2 to in vivo colonization. In experiments involving inoculation of individual isogenic derivatives of NTHi strain 12, the parent strain expressing both HMW1 and HMW2 and the mutant strains expressing either HMW1 or HMW2 were able to colonize more frequently than the double mutant strain lacking HMW1 and HMW2. In competition experiments, the parent strain efficiently outcompeted the double mutant lacking HMW1 and HMW2. Colonization with strains expressing HMW2 resulted in development of antibody against HMW2 in a number of the animals, demonstrating that colonization can stimulate an antibody response. In conclusion, we have established that the HMW1 and HMW2 adhesins play a major role in facilitating colonization of the upper respiratory tract of rhesus macaques, in some cases associated with stimulation of an immune response.
Macroglossia – Not Always AL Amyloidosis

Abstract Abstract 5007 Introduction: Amyloidosis is characterized by extracellular deposition of abnormal insoluble fibrillar proteins. The two most frequent systemic amyloidoses are the light-chain (AL amyloidosis) and familial transthyretin (ATTR) forms. Clinical presentations often vary between the two types. Macroglossia is viewed as pathognomic of AL amyloidosis, and has not previously been described in patients with hereditary TTR amyloidosis. Here, we describe two cases of systemic amyloidosis with macroglossia in which immuno-electron microscopy diagnosed ATTR in one and AL in the other. Case Presentations: A 61 year old woman presented initially to her general internist with weight loss, difficulty swallowing, and tongue numbness. Her clinical exam revealed macroglossia and peripheral neuropathy. Tongue and axillary lymph node biopsies demonstrated amyloid deposits by Congo red staining. There was no evidence of renal, cardiac or other vital organ involvement. She had no evidence of a plasma cell dyscrasia with negative serum and urine immunofixation electrophoresis, normal serum free light chain concentration and ratio as well as polytypic plasma cells in the bone marrow. Immuno-electron microscopy using gold-labeled antibodies was performed on the tongue biopsy. The fibrils were immunoreactive with anti-TTR but not anti-kappa, anti-lambda, or anti-AA antibodies. DNA sequencing identified a known amyloidogenic T60A TTR mutation in exon 3 of chromosome 18, confirming the diagnosis of ATTR with amyloidotic polyneuropathy and macroglossia. The second case involved a 59 year old man with renal insufficiency. He complained of fatigue, weight loss, and tongue swelling. Physical examination was significant for macroglossia and submandibular gland enlargement. Tongue biopsy demonstrated amyloid deposits by Congo red staining. As in the previous case, markers of plasma cell dyscrasia with clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow, blood, and urine were absent. Immuno-electron microscopy of the tongue biopsy documented antibody reactivity to lambda light chain and not TTR, kappa light chain or AA proteins, confirming the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis. He subsequently underwent treatment with high dose intravenous melphalan followed by stem cell transplantation achieving a good clinical response sustained for 2 years to date. Discussion: While macroglossia is thought to be pathognomonic of AL amyloidosis, we report a case of macroglossia with fibrillar ATTR amyloid deposits diagnosed by immuno-electron microscopy. This is contrasted with a clinical presentation consistent with AL in which routine laboratory testing failed to identify evidence of a plasma cell dyscrasia. In both cases, electron microscopy demonstrated immunoreactivity for the fibrils of a single pathogenic protein. The first case was confirmed by DNA sequencing, and the second had a typical response to anti-plasma cell chemotherapy, in spite of the lack of identifiable markers of disease. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Aortic Root Dilatation in Mucopolysaccharidosis I–VII

The prevalence of aortic root dilatation (ARD) in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is not well documented. We investigated aortic root measurements in 34 MPS patients at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). The diagnosis, treatment status, age, gender, height, weight and aortic root parameters (aortic valve annulus (AVA), sinuses of Valsalva (SoV), and sinotubular junction (STJ)) were extracted by retrospective chart review and echocardiographic measurements. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and paired post-hoc t-tests were used to summarize the aortic dimensions. Exact binomial 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were constructed for ARD, defined as a z-score greater than 2 at the SoV. The patient age ranged from 3.4–25.9 years (mean 13.3 ± 6.1), the height from 0.87–1.62 meters (mean 1.24 ± 0.21), and the weight from 14.1–84.5 kg (mean 34.4 ± 18.0). The prevalence of dilation at the AVA was 41% (14/34; 95% CI: 25%–59%); at the SoV was 35% (12/34; 95% CI: 20%–54%); and at the STJ was 30% (9/30; 95% CI: 15%–49%). The highest prevalence of ARD was in MPS IVa (87.5%). There was no significant difference between mean z-scores of MPS patients who received treatment with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) vs. untreated MPS patients at the AVA (z = 1.9 ± 2.5 vs. z = 1.5 ± 2.4; p = 0.62), SoV (z = 1.2 ± 1.6 vs. z = 1.3 ± 2.2; p = 0.79), or STJ (z = 1.0 ± 1.8 vs. z = 1.2 ± 1.6; p = 0.83). The prevalence of ARD was 35% in our cohort of MPS I–VII patients. Thus, we recommend screening for ARD on a routine basis in this patient population.
Elucidating PI(4,5)P2 Aqueous Micelle Behavior and PI(4,5)P2 Cluster Formation in an Inner Leaflet Model Membrane

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] is an important component of the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane (PM) in eukaryotic cells. In model membranes, others have found that PI(4,5)P2 can form segregated clusters at high non-physiological concentrations. How PI(4,5)P2 behaves in membranes with inner leaflet compositions (i.e. PE/PS/PI/Chol) at physiological concentrations of 1-2 mol% is not known. We used several PI(4,5)P2 species, including brain-PI(4,5)P2 and the acyl-chain fluorescently labeled TopFluor-PI(4,5)P2 in fluorometric and microscopic assays. To better understand the behavior of this unusual phospholipid, we studied the partitioning of PI(4,5)P2 between an aqueous environment and membrane bilayers. In the absence of other lipids, PI(4,5)P2 forms micelles spontaneously at 1-2μM at pH = 7.2, detected by light scattering. In the presence of approximately 300-500 μM total lipids, PI(4,5)P2 incorporates efficiently into bilayers within minutes and does not partition out of bilayers after hours. Partitioning of brain-PI(4,5)P2 from solution into bilayer favors liquid-disordered compared to liquid-ordered membranes. Next, we found that TopFluor-PI(4,5)P2 is highly quenched in inner leaflet model membranes below 0.2%, suggesting strong clustering. In stark contrast, TopFluor labeled PE, PC and PS exhibited no quenching at these concentrations. We are currently studying whether other lipids, such as PI, or acyl chain composition or cholesterol concentration, influence PI(4,5)P2 clustering behavior. We are also studying the effects of PI(4,5)P2 clustering on cellular peripheral proteins and how these PI(4,5)P2-specific binding partners influence PI(4,5)P2 behaviors. For example, does protein binding promote or disrupt PI(4,5)P2 clustering? These findings may be important for understanding key functions of PI(4,5)P2 in cellular biology and virus research.
Perioperative Fluid Management for Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery

Fluid therapy is fundamental to the perioperative care of the HPB surgical patient, but the best fluid strategy remains unclear. Fluid management strategies have undergone several shifts over the past 50 years. More recently, there is arguably a shift toward avoiding anesthesia-related harm after surgery such as prescribing individualized goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT).
Effect of CD4 Count on Treatment Toxicity and Tumor Recurrence in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients With Anal Cancer.

PURPOSE:To study the effects of immunosuppression on treatment toxicity, long-term cancer recurrence risk, and survival among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive anal cancer patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS:From a nationwide retrospective cohort of veterans with anal cancer we identified 142 HIV-positive patients with stage I-III disease, diagnosed between 2000 and 2015 and treated with definitive-intent chemotherapy and radiation. We used regression models to study the impact of pretreatment CD4 counts and longitudinal posttreatment CD4 counts on outcomes including acute toxicity, long-term ostomy rates, cancer recurrence, cancer-specific survival, and overall survival. All models were adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS:The median pretreatment CD4 count was 375 cells/mm3, which dropped to 157 cells/mm3 after treatment. Each 100-cell/mm3 decrease in pretreatment CD4 count was associated with an increased risk of acute hematologic toxicity (odds ratio 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.42, P=.04) and hospitalization for hematologic toxicity (odds ratio 1.24, 95% CI 1.00-1.54, P=.049) but not gastrointestinal toxicity, tumor recurrence, or cancer-specific mortality (P>.05). Each 100-cells/mm3 decrease in posttreatment CD4 count increased the risk of recurrence by 54% (hazard ratio 1.54, 95% CI 1.09-2.17, P=.01) and cancer mortality by 46% at a trend level (hazard ratio 1.46, 95% CI 0.99-2.14, P=.06). Neither pre- nor posttreatment CD4 count influenced long-term ostomy rates or overall survival (all P>.05). CONCLUSIONS:Lower pretreatment CD4 counts were associated with acute hematologic toxicity, and lower posttreatment CD4 count levels were associated with an increased risk of tumor recurrence. These results suggest that immune surveillance may play an important role in long-term disease control in anal cancer.
A quantification method for peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) using gas chromatography (GC) with a non-radioactive pulsed discharge detector (PDD)

Abstract In this study, we developed a method for continuous PAN measurements by gas chromatography (GC) with a non-radioactive pulsed discharge detector (PDD). Operational parameters were optimized based on the ratio of peak height over baseline noise (P/N ratio). The GC/PDD system was compared with a traditional radioactive electron-capture detector (ECD). In the lab, the method detection limit (MDL) of the new GC/PDD method (9 pptv) was lower than the radioactive GC/ECD method (15 pptv), demonstrating its excellent potential. The MDL of GC/PDD in the field campaign at the Mt. Bachelor Observatory (MBO) was 23 pptv, higher than in the lab. This was caused in part by the decreased slope of the calibration curve resulting from the low air pressure level at MBO. However, the MDL level of GC/PDD at MBO is still low enough for accurate PAN measurements, although special attention should be paid to its application at high-elevation sites. Observations of PAN were conducted at MBO in the summer of 2016 with the GC/PDD system, and provided more evidence of the performance of the system. PAN was found to be highly correlated with CO. The promising performance of GC/PDD which does not require a radioactive source makes it a useful approach for accurate PAN measurements in the field.
Commuting to educational opportunity? School choice effects of mass transit expansion in Mexico City

Abstract School choice policies aim to increase educational access by weakening the link between a student’s residence and his choice set, but long commutes and other barriers may constrain families from selecting otherwise-desirable schools. Leveraging a mass transit expansion in Mexico City’s suburbs as a natural experiment, we find that a new train raised demand for elite and more distant schools, but only among high-achieving students with highly-educated parents. These students were also more likely to be assigned to elite and more distant schools under the test-based assignment mechanism. In contrast, we find little effect on the choices or assignments of low-achievers or those with lower-education parents. These results highlight the complementarities between transit access and school choice as well as the potential limitations of choice policies in large urban areas.
Infectious Causes of Diarrhea in the Differential Diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The infectious causes of enteritis and colitis are numerous. However, the actual clinical differential diagnosis with either ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease is usually not a significant problem, except, of course, in two circumstances: (1) acute onset of diarrhea with or without rectal bleeding, and (2) patients who have AIDS, are immunocompromised, or are male homosexuals. However, if one bears in mind that rectal bleeding and mucosal abnormalities which are diffuse and uniform are the hallmark of ulcerative colitis, that Crohn's disease has perianal and external manifestations as its significant clinical hallmark, and both diseases tend to be chronic and recurrent, the clinical distinction can usually be made. However, it is important to recognize that there is an increasing awareness of intestinal infections, partly as a result of study of male homosexuals or patients with AIDS, as well as increased recognition of other infectious causes of diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea, that associated with C. difficile, and that found with infection due to Campylobacter. As is usually the case in clinical medicine, however, careful and accurate history, attention to detail on physical and sigmoidoscopic examination, and laboratory (usually stool culture) data will lead to the appropriate diagnosis.
Home Range and Habitat Use of Female White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan

Because knowledge of home range dynamics and habitat selection is lacking for whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan, we radiomarked 89 female deer and studied these aspects of their biology during 2005–2008. Mean (± SE) size of annual home ranges and core areas (n = 89) were 2.3 ± 0.1 km2 and 0.5 ± 0.2 km2, respectively, and somewhat smaller than in other northern deer populations. Mean home-range and core-area sizes for the springsummer period (n = 87) were 1.9 ± 0.1 km2 and 0.4 ± 0.1 km2, respectively. Mean home-range and core-area sizes for the fall-winter period (n = 29) were 2.1 ± 0.2 km2 and 0.5 ± 0.1 km2, respectively. Neither home-range nor core-area sizes differed seasonally (P > 0.135), and seasonal home ranges were comparable in size to other northern deer populations. Cover-type use did not differ seasonally between home ranges and core areas (P = 0.752). Most deer resided in the same general area year-round and had overlapping seasonal home ranges and core areas. We conclude that stability observed in seasonal home ranges and habitat selection were influenced by relatively warm winter conditions during our study.
Immunohistochemistry as an Aid in the Diagnosis of Hirschsprung’s Disease

The interpretation of rectal suction mucosal biopsies taken for the purpose of ruling out Hirschsprung's disease (HD) can be especially difficult in neonatal patients because of ganglion cell (GC) immaturity. Acetylcholinesterase histochemistry on frozen sections can be helpful but requires experience and may be complicated by excessive mucosal hemorrhage. The authors retrospectively have studied 27 patients, including 11 patients with HD, on whom conventionally fixed and embedded tissue was available, using an immunoperoxidase system directed against neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and S100 protein. NSE immunostaining produced intense staining of GC perikarya, greatly facilitating recognition of small immature forms. S100 immunostaining also highlighted GC as prominent negative stained cells surrounded by the positivity of Schwann cells. Both stains were helpful in demonstrating the overall pattern of microinnervation and its relationship to possible GC. The authors conclude that NSE and S100 immunostaining may facilitate interpretation of rectal mucosal biopsies when Hirschsprung's disease is being considered as a possibility.
EXPRESSION OF α ISOFORMS OF THE Na-K-ATPase IN THE DEVELOPING KIDNEY. † 2130

The immature kidney has severe functional limitations in regulating sodium and potassium homeostasis. Both sodium reabsorption and potassium secretion in the kidney are mediated by the enzyme Na-K-ATPase. This enzyme is a heterodimer consisting of one α subunit (α1,α2, orα3) and one β (β1 or β2) subunit; the sodium affinity may differ between the α isoforms. Some organs, such as the heart, have been shown to exhibit a developmental switch from one isoform pattern to another during maturation. We investigated the possibility that a similar isoform switch occurs during renal maturation. Total RNA was isolated from fetal (20 days gestation, N=3) and adult (N=6) rabbit cortex. Specific mRNA species were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), performed with primers specific for the three different α isoforms. Each isoform yielded a size specific product on agarose gel. GAPDH mRNA was measured simultaneously as a positive control. The polymerase chain reaction was performed in several animals from each group. All adult kidneys exhibited both α1 and α3 mRNA. In contrast, α1 mRNA was not detected in any of the fetal kidneys while α 3 mRNA was present in all of them. In conclusion, the Na-K-ATPase α isoforms appear to be developmentally regulated in the kidney. The different isoform pattern may explain some of the transport characteristics of the immature renal tubules.
A Cinema of Vengeance: Vietnam Veterans, Traumatic Recovery, and Historical Revisionism in 1980s Hollywood

Since the Vietnam War, trauma as both theme and trope has become integral to the popular representation of combat veterans and, as a result, to American culture’s understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, narrative portrayals of combat-induced trauma have often also been employed to more overtly political ends. The 1980s, especially, were dominated by hypermasculinist revenge fantasies—such as the Rambo and Missing in Action film trilogies—that equated the veteran’s recovery from trauma with the post-Vietnam renewal of American militarism. In such narratives, the existential crisis posed by the figure of the traumatized veteran is ultimately resolved by the vengeful repudiation and revision of objective historical truth. This thematic is particularly exemplified in the Rambo trilogy and in Tony Scott’s Top Gun, an emblematic film in which white male veteran experience is rendered normative by veterans who teach non-veterans—and, thus, the audience—about combat-induced trauma and how properly to contend with it. Essential to the messages of this cinema of vengeance are the films’ concerted dismantling of the history of the Vietnam War, one that casts these films in the role of justifying the persistence of American military expansionism throughout the world.
Model-based Analysis and Control of SCR Using NO x Sensor Measurements

Model-based closed-loop SCR controls are critical for urea-based SCR system to meet stringent NOx emission standards. Lack of full understanding of limit of SCR NOx reduction capability can lead to too conservative or too aggressive reference design. In this study, a model-based approach was proposed to analyze the maximum modified NOx conversion efficiency that can potentially be achieved by a SCR system for a given exhaust condition. In addition, a model-based approach was proposed to evaluate the performance of production SCR system based on the NO x sensor measurement and the maximum modified NO x conversion efficiency. A sliding mode controller was developed for tracking the desired reference. The performance of sliding mode control was assessed in a real-time manner using the proposed approach. Simulation results over US06 cycle demonstrate that the proposed approach can be utilized to appropriately interpret the tracking error between the actual control variable and reference. In addition, with the full understanding of limit of SCR DeNOx capability, this proposed approach can be applied to improve control reference design and thus improve the SCR performance.
Mechanism of metal ion-induced activation of a two-component sensor kinase

Two-component systems are essential for bacteria to sense, respond, and adapt to changing environments, such as elevation of Cu(I)/Ag(I) ions in the periplasm. In Escherichia coli, the CusS-CusR two-component system upregulates the cusCFBA genes under increased periplasmic Cu(I)/Ag(I) concentrations to help maintain metal ion homeostasis. The CusS histidine kinase is a homodimeric integral membrane protein that binds to periplasmic Cu(I)/Ag(I) and transduces a signal to its cytoplasmic kinase domain. However, the mechanism of how metal binding in the periplasm activates autophosphorylation in the cytoplasm is unknown. Here, we report that only one of the two metal ion binding sites in CusS enhances dimerization of the sensor domain. Utilizing nanodisc technology to study full-length CusS, we show that metal-induced dimerization in the sensor domain triggers kinase activity in the cytoplasmic domain. We also investigated autophosphorylation in the cytoplasmic domain of CusS and phosphotransfer between CusS and CusR. In vitro analyses show that CusS autophosphorylates its conserved H271 residue at the N1 position of the histidine imidazole. The phosphoryl group is removed by the response regulator CusR in a reaction that requires a conserved aspartate at position 51. Functional analyses in vivo of CusS and CusR variants with mutations in the autophosphorylation or phosphoacceptor residues suggest that the phosphotransfer event is essential for metal resistance in E. coli. Biochemical analysis shows that the CusS dimer autophosphorylates using a cis mechanism. Our results support a signal transduction model in which rotation and bending movements in the cytoplasmic domain maintain the mode of autophosphorylation.
Integrating Cultural Humility into Public Services Librarianship

To provide the best possible service, we must start with ourselves first. Cultural humility is complex and involves critically engaging with our biases. Integrating cultural humility into anything ...
Spinal cord stimulator failure: Migration of a thoracic epidural paddle to the cervical spine.

Background Spinal cord stimulators successfully treat a number of pain syndromes but carry a risk of hardware complications. Here, we present a case of cranial migration of a thoracic epidural paddle to the cervical spine. Case Description A 53-year-old male underwent uncomplicated spinal cord stimulator placement at the T10- T11 with initially favorable results. However, postoperatively, he complained of paresthesias in his arms. An X-ray demonstrated cranial migration of the thoracic epidural paddle to the cervical spine. The stimulator/new paddle was placed again at the T10-T11 level, but the leads were now secured to the caudal lamina utilizing a cranial plating system. The patient subsequently did well without further sequelae. Conclusions A thoracic epidural paddle (T10-T11) migrated postoperatively into the cervical spine. It was subsequently removed and replaced into the thoracic region, but the leads were now secured in place with a novel caudal lamina/cranial plating system.
Flow-induced mechanotransduction in skeletal cells

Human body is subject to many and variegated mechanical stimuli, actuated in different ranges of force, frequency, and duration. The process through which cells “feel” forces and convert them into biochemical cascades is called mechanotransduction. In this review, the effects of fluid shear stress on bone cells will be presented. After an introduction to present the major players in bone system, we describe the mechanoreceptors in bone tissue that can feel and process fluid flow. In the second part of the review, we present an overview of the biological processes and biochemical cascades initiated by fluid shear stress in bone cells.
Projected Cost-Effectiveness for 2 Gene-Drug Pairs Using a Multigene Panel for Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Abstract Background For patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, gene-drug associations exist relevant to first-line treatment options–antiplatelet agent, clopidogrel, and pain medication, tramadol. Knowledge of genotype information may allow for avoidance of adverse drug events during critical clinical windows. Objective This evaluation estimated cost-effectiveness associated with a multi-gene panel pre-emptively testing two genes providing CYP2C19 genotype-guided strategy for antiplatelet therapy, with CYP2D6 genotype-guided pain management, compared to single gene test for CYP2C19 with random assignment for pain treatment, and to no testing (empiric clopidogrel with random assignment for pain treatment). Methods Decision analysis modeling was used to project costs from a payer perspective and patient quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) from the three strategies. The model captured composite risks of major adverse cardiovascular events and pain therapy-related adverse drug events and associated utility estimates. We conducted sensitivity analyses to assess influential input parameters. Results Over 15 months, multi-gene testing was least costly and yielded more QALYs compared to both single gene and no testing; total incremental costs were $1646 lower with incremental gains of 0.04 QALYs for multi-gene compared with single gene and $11 368 lower with 0.17 QALY gains compared to no test. Base case analyses revealed multi gene was dominant compared to both single gene and no test, as it demonstrated cost savings with increased QALYs. Conclusions For these patients, a multi-gene-guided strategy yields a favorable incremental cost-effectiveness ratio compared to the other two treatment strategies. Pre-emptively ascertaining additional gene-drug pair information can inform clinical and economic decision-making at the point of care.
Rotary Chop: A New Technique for Teaching Chop and Tackling Mature Cataracts.

Here we describe a new cataract chop technique that is most valuable for two groups of ophthalmologists: (1) experienced surgeons encountering challenging nuclear fragmentation due to mature cataracts or zonulopathies, and (2) inexperienced surgeons wishing to develop skills necessary for chopping techniques. We have termed this new method “rotary chop,” since the partial thickness pilot holes created by the phacoemulsification (phaco) tip around the periphery of the nucleus produce a rotary phone dial appearance on the surface of the cataract. By creating these pilot holes, the surgeon is able to easily place the chopper deep into the body of the nucleus, avoiding the need to apply vertical piercing force to the nucleus. The patient in the technical video had a 4+ nuclear sclerosis cataract. The preoperative vision in this eye was counting fingers at 2 feet with no improvement with refraction. On postoperative day 1, visual acuity had improved to 20/80 . By postoperative week 1, best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20 (20/25-2 uncorrected). This method avoids unnecessary zonular stress. Additionally, inexperienced surgeons using this technique during routine cataract surgery are able to quickly master the movements necessary for both vertical and horizontal chop in a safer environment.
The progress of continuous blood purification technology in the treatment of sepsis

The incidence of sepsis increased year by year. A number of methods are proposed at home and abroad for the treatment of sepsis, and continuous blood purification therapy has become a hot issue. The treatment of sepsis has been well studied in different ways, especially in function and mechanism of continuous blood purification. The available data was reviewed in this paper. Key words: Sepsis; Continuous blood purification; Children
Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in colorectal cancer: a systematic review.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major process in tumor metastasis development. This systematic review aims to descri...
Right Ventricular Dysfunction and Short‐Term Outcomes Following Left‐Sided Valvular Surgery: An Echocardiographic Study

Background The prognostic value of echocardiographic evaluation of right ventricular (RV) function in patients undergoing left-sided valvular surgery has not been well described. The objective of this study is to determine the role of broad echocardiographic assessment of RV function in predicting short-term outcomes after valvular surgery. Methods and Results Preoperative echocardiographic data, perioperative adverse outcomes, and 30-day mortality were analyzed in patients who underwent left-sided valvular surgery from 2006 to 2014. Echocardiographic parameters used to evaluate RV function include RV fractional area change, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, systolic movement of the RV lateral wall using tissue Doppler imaging (S'), RV myocardial performance index, and RV dP/dt. Subjects with at least 3 abnormal parameters out of the 5 aforementioned indices were defined as having significant RV dysfunction. The study included 269 patients with valvular surgery (average age: 67±15, 60.6% male, 148 aortic, and 121 mitral). RV dysfunction was found in 53 (19.7%) patients; 30-day mortality occurred in 20 patients (7.5%). Compared with normal RV function, patients with RV dysfunction had higher 30-day mortality (22.6% versus 3.8%; P=0.01) and were at risk for developing multisystem failure/shock (13.2% versus 3.2%; P=0.01). Multivariate analyses showed that preexisting RV dysfunction was the strongest predictor of increased 30-day mortality (odds ratio: 3.5; 95% CI, 1.1-11.1; P<0.05). Conclusions Preoperative RV dysfunction identified by comprehensive echocardiographic assessment is a strong predictor of adverse outcomes following left-sided valvular surgery.
Calcinosis cutis in a renal transplant patient

Calcinosis cutis is an unusual disorder characterised by calcium-phosphate deposition into cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues. There are five subtypes: dystrophic, metastatic, idiopathic, iatrogenic and calciphylaxis. Our objective was to report a patient with a history of haemodialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who developed metastatic calcinosis cutis, which is usually associated with abnormalities of calcium-phosphate metabolism in renal failure. In our patient, the serum calcium and phosphate levels were normal. Additionally, we describe the diagnostic approach and the difficulties involved in the management of calcinosis cutis in patients with haemodialysis-dependent ESRD.
The impact of language brokering frequency and psychological health on academic motivation and learning strategies of university students in the United States

Previous research studying language brokers (i.e. children/adolescents who translate for family members) has indicated some positive correlations between frequent language brokering and gains in co...
Applications of high-resolution clone tracking technologies in cancer

Abstract Tumors are comprised of dynamic, heterogenous cell populations characterized by numerous genetic and nongenetic alterations that accumulate and change with disease progression and treatment. Retrospective analyses of tumor evolution have relied on the measurement of genetic markers (such as copy number variants) to infer clonal dynamics. However, these approaches neglect the critical contributions of nongenetic drivers of disease. Techniques that harness the power of prospective clone tracking via heritable barcode tags provide an alternative strategy. In this review, we discuss methods for high-resolution, quantitative clone tracking, including recent advancements to pair barcode-specific functionality with scRNA-seq, clonal cell isolation, and in situ hybridization and imaging. We discuss these approaches in the context of cancer cell heterogeneity and treatment resistance.
A Lot of People Did Not Want This to Happen: Analyzing the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s Brand Identity During COVID

Using three highly visible promotional videos from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), we perform a critical examination of the UFC’s branding during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first is a recorded endorsement from President Donald Trump, the second introduces the origin of an international pay-per-view series called “Fight Island” and the third is an end of year retrospective of the UFC’s performance in 2020. Employing content analysis grounded in brand psychology and narrative persuasion, we deconstruct the visual communication and story-based elements within this advertising to reveal how the company has adopted an identity of heroic dominance and defiance. This persona is built from a cognitively biased and framed suggestive notion which the UFC uses to market themselves as the lone organization fearless enough to “conquer” COVID-19 through the continuation of live events and overcoming obstacles posed by government regulation and media criticism. Ultimately, we find three dominant narratives actively established from this identity and heavily employed in their subsequent branded content: “Sport Must Go On,” “Unstoppable Force,” and “World Gone Crazy.” We conclude by arguing that the UFC’s branding reifies the tenuous social and political position the young sport occupies by marketing the combat sports company as different than other mainstream sport leagues, through repeated celebration of the Dana White (President of the UFC) as a heroic figure, by their disavowal of caution in the face of a pandemic, and in portrayal of the mainstream media as a jealous enemy.
SEASONAL LOAD LIMIT DETERMINED BY THE CRITERION OF UNIFORM FAILURE RATE

Efficient performance of our highway system requires rational optimization of its use within the constraints of the adopted strategy. During the spring-thaw season in the northern part of the United States many highway agencies reduce the maximum load limits on some roads in an attempt to preserve the pavement serviceability. The selection of such a reduced load limit is not well defined now. A rational method has been developed that suggests that the load limit should be reduced in such a way to maintain a uniform rate of pavement deterioration throughout the year. The method considers various types of pavement failure such as fatigue cracking, rutting, and roughness and combines them by using the AASHO serviceability index. If the properties of the pavement materials are determined, mechanistic approaches can be used to predict the failure trend and to adjust the axle load limit to maintain the uniformity of this trend. A computer program LOADLMT has been developed in order to determine the optimum seasonal axle load limit on flexible pavements under various conditions. The use of the method was verified on a typical road under typical traffic distribution, material properties, and environmental conditions. The adoption of a seasonal load limit determined by this method indicates a large extension of the useful life of the road. The concept of this method is compared with other criteria currently used.
Polyribosme metabolism in bacteriophage T4 infected Escherichia coli. Isolation and characterization of two classes of polyribosomes.

Abstract Polysome metabolism has been studied in bacteriophage T4 infected Escherichia coli. Our results suggest that ribosomes can be found in three fractions: 1) cytoplasmic (“C”) ribosomes (55% of the total cell ribosomes), which are released upon cell breakage. 2) DNA-bound (“D”) ribosomes (30% of the total cell ribosomes), which are released from the cellular membrane fraction by deoxyribonuclease. 3) membranebound (“M”) ribosomes (15% of the total cell ribosomes), which remain firmly bound to the cellular membrane component after deoxyribonuclease treatment. Polysomes of the “D” fraction appear to be in the simultaneous processes of transcription and translation, and apparently are precursors of those polysomes found in the cytoplasm. In addition, 80% of the newly transcribed mRNA is associated with ribosomes or ribosomal subunits, and only 20% of the total mRNA is not participating in some aspect of protein synthesis. A portion of the mRNA in the “D” fraction (approximately 100 nucleotides per transcript) is hybridized to DNA.
Critical Ethnography: Method, Ethics, and Performance

Acknowledgments 1. Introduction to Critical Ethnography: Theory and Method Positionality and Shades of Ethnography Dialogue and the Other The Method and Theory Nexus Summary Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 2. Methods: "Do I Really Need a Method?" A Method ... or Deep Hanging-Out "Who Am I?" Starting Where You Are "Who Else Has Written About My Topic?" Being a Part of an Interpretive Community The Power of Purpose: Bracketing Your Subject Preparing for the Field: The Research Design and Lay Summary Interviewing and Field Techniques Formulating Questions Extra Tips for Formulating Questions Attributes of the Interviewer and Building Rapport Coding and Logging Data Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 3. Three Stories: Case Studies in Critical Ethnography Case One: Local Activism in West Africa Case Two: Secrets of Sexuality and Personal Narrative Case Three: Community Theatre Conflicts and Organization Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 4. Ethics Defining Ethics Critical Ethnography and the Ethics of Reason, the Greater Good, and the Other Maria Lugones: Contemporary Ethics, Ethnography, and Loving Perception Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 5. Methods and Ethics Codes of Ethics for Fieldwork Extending the Codes Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 6. Methods and Application: Three Case Studies in Ethical Dilemmas Case One: Local Activism in West Africa Case Two: Secrets of Sexuality and Personal Narrative Case Three: Community Theatre Conflicts and Organization Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 7. Performance Ethnography Foundational Concepts in Performance and Social Theory The Performance Interventions of Dwight Conquergood Staging Ethnography and the Performance of Possibilities Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 8. It's Time to Write: Writing as Performance Getting Started: In Search of the Muse The Anxiety of Writing: Wild Mind and Monkey Mind Writing as Performance and Performance as Writing Warm-Ups Suggested Readings 9. The Case Studies Case One: Staging Cultural Performance Case Two: Oral History and Performance Case Three: The Fieldwork of Social Drama and Communitas Warm-Ups Suggested Readings References Index About the Author
Generalized Convex Disjunctive Programming: Nonlinear Convex Hull Relaxation

Generalized Disjunctive Programming (GDP) has been introduced recently as an alternative to mixed-integer programming for representing discrete/continuous optimization problems. The basic idea of GDP consists of representing these problems in terms of sets of disjunctions in the continuous space, and logic propositions in terms of Boolean variables. In this paper we consider GDP problems involving convex nonlinear inequalities in the disjunctions. Based on the work by Stubbs and Mehrotra [21] and Ceria and Soares [6], we propose a convex nonlinear relaxation of the nonlinear convex GDP problem that relies on the convex hull of each of the disjunctions that is obtained by variable disaggregation and reformulation of the inequalities. The proposed nonlinear relaxation is used to formulate the GDP problem as a Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) problem that is shown to be tighter than the conventional “big-M” formulation. A disjunctive branch and bound method is also presented, and numerical results are given for a set of test problems.
Clustered metabolic pathway genes in filamentous fungi

Publisher Summary This chapter provides information on the earlier described “dispensable” pathways, along with several additional fungal metabolic pathways. The chapter divides these pathways into three categories : (1) nutrient utilization pathways such as nitrogen and carbon utilization or utilization of proline or quinate, (2) secondary metabolite pathways including antibiotics, mycotoxins, etc., and (3) host-specific toxin biosynthetic pathways. Clustering of genes can be defined as a group of two or more genes demonstrating a close linkage in the genome that contributes to a common metabolic or developmental pathway. This phenomenon is more commonly observed in prokaryotes. Preliminary evidence of clustering of genes for some metabolic pathways in A. nidulans was subsequently reported, without complete characterization of specific pathways. Research tools such as sequencing of fungal genomes, phylogenetic studies, and proteomics will enable mycologists to rapidly decipher the biological need or significance of metabolic pathway gene clusters in filamentous fungi.