cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
16S rRNA metagenome clustering and diversity estimation using locality sensitive hashing

Advances in biotechnology have changed the manner of characterizing large populations of microbial communities that are ubiquitous across several environments."Metagenome" sequencing involves decoding the DNA of organisms co-existing within ecosystems ranging from ocean, soil and human body. Several researchers are interested in metagenomics because it provides an insight into the complex biodiversity across several environments. Clinicians are using metagenomics to determine the role played by collection of microbial organisms within human body with respect to human health wellness and disease. We have developed an efficient and scalable, species richness estimation algorithm that uses locality sensitive hashing (LSH). Our algorithm achieves efficiency by approximating the pairwise sequence comparison operations using hashing and also incorporates matching of fixed-length, gapless subsequences criterion to improve the quality of sequence comparisons. We use LSH-based similarity function to cluster similar sequences and make individual groups, called operational taxonomic units (OTUs). We also compute different species diversity/richness metrics by utilizing OTU assignment results to further extend our analysis. The algorithm is evaluated on synthetic samples and eight targeted 16S rRNA metagenome samples taken from seawater. We compare the performance of our algorithm with several competing diversity estimation algorithms. We show the benefits of our approach with respect to computational runtime and meaningful OTU assignments. We also demonstrate practical significance of the developed algorithm by comparing bacterial diversity and structure across different skin locations. http://www.cs.gmu.edu/~mlbio/LSH-DIV
Effective Help for the Nursing Mother

The author reviews current practices and attitudes regarding breastfeeding, the physiology of lactation, and the role of the maternity nurse in assisting and educating the breastfeeding mother.
Giant necrotic pituitary apoplexy.

Abstract Apoplexy of the pituitary gland is a rare complication of pituitary adenomas, involving hemorrhage with or without necrosis within the tumor. This condition may be either asymptomatic or may present with severe headache, visual impairment, ophthalmoplegia, and pituitary failure. Transsphenoidal surgery is the treatment of choice, and early intervention is usually required to ensure reversal of visual impairment. Reports of pituitary apoplectic lesions exceeding 60.0 mm in diameter are very rare. A 39-year-old man with long-standing history of nasal congestion, decreased libido and infertility presented with a sudden onset of severe headache and diplopia. MRI of the head demonstrated a massive skull base lesion of 70.0 × 60.0 × 25.0 mm, compatible with a giant pituitary macroadenoma. The lesion failed to enhance after administration of a contrast agent, suggesting complete necrotic apoplexy. Urgent surgical decompression was performed, and the lesion was resected via a transnasal transsphenoidal approach. Pathological analysis revealed evidence of necrotic pituitary apoplexy. At the 2 month follow-up, the patient had near-complete to complete resolution of his visual impairment. To the authors’ knowledge, this report is unique as the patient demonstrated complete necrotic apoplexy and it underlines the diagnostic dilemma in such a case.
Using a reference tissue model with spatial constraint to quantify [11C]Pittsburgh compound B PET for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract Introduction: Reference tissue model (RTM) is a compartmental modeling approach that uses reference tissue time activity curve (TAC) as input for quantification of ligand–receptor dynamic PET without blood sampling. There are limitations in applying the RTM for kinetic analysis of PET studies using [ 11 C]Pittsburgh compound B ([ 11 C]PIB). For region of interest (ROI) based kinetic modeling, the low specific binding of [ 11 C]PIB in a target ROI can result in a high linear relationship between the output and input. This condition may result in amplification of errors in estimates using RTM. For pixel-wise quantification, due to the high noise level of pixel kinetics, the parametric images generated by RTM with conventional linear or nonlinear regression may be too noisy for use in clinical studies. Methods: We applied RTM with parameter coupling and a simultaneous fitting method as a spatial constraint for ROI kinetic analysis. Three RTMs with parameter coupling were derived from a classical compartment model with plasma input: an RTM of 4 parameters ( R 1 , k ′ 2R , k 4 , BP) (RTM4P); an RTM of 5 parameters ( R 1 , k 2R , NS, k 6 , BP) (RTM5P); and a simplified RTM (SRTM) of 3 parameters ( R 1 , k ′ 2R , BP) (RTM3P). The parameter sets [ k ′ 2R , k 4 ], [ k 2R , NS, k 6 ], and k ′ 2R are coupled among ROIs for RTM4P, RTM5P, and RTM3P, respectively. A linear regression with spatial constraint (LRSC) algorithm was applied to the SRTM for parametric imaging. Logan plots were used to estimate the distribution volume ratio (DVR) (= 1 + BP (binding potential)) in ROI and pixel levels. Ninety-minute [ 11 C]PIB dynamic PET was performed in 28 controls and 6 individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) on a GE Advance scanner. ROIs of cerebellum (reference tissue) and 15 other regions were defined on coregistered MRIs. Results: The coefficients of variation of DVR estimates from RTM3P obtained by the simultaneous fitting method were lower by 77–89% (in striatum, frontal, occipital, parietal, and cingulate cortex) as compared to that by conventional single ROI TAC fitting method. There were no significant differences in both TAC fitting and DVR estimates between the RTM3P and the RTM4P or RTM5P. The DVR in striatum, lateral temporal, frontal and cingulate cortex for MCI group was 25% to 38% higher compared to the control group ( p ≤ 0.05), even in this group of individuals with generally low PIB retention. The DVR images generated by the SRTM with LRSC algorithm had high linear correlations with those from the Logan plot ( R 2 = 0.99). Conclusion: In conclusion, the RTM3P with simultaneous fitting method is shown to be a robust compartmental modeling approach that may be useful in [ 11 C]PIB PET studies to detect early markers of Alzheimer's disease where specific ROIs have been hypothesized. In addition, the SRTM with LRSC algorithm may be useful in generating R 1 and DVR images for pixel-wise quantification of [ 11 C]PIB dynamic PET.
Solid-state anodization of aluminium, beryllium, and zirconium

Oxide films have been grown between aluminium and tin, beryllium and tin, and zirconium and tin. Growth rates were on the order of one atom layer per day and were calculated by measuring the decrease of electron tunnelling currents through the oxide layers. The barrier height, first jump distance, and number of active growth sites were calculated. A reason is suggested for the different growth rates observed for oxides grown in the presence and absence of water vapour.
Multiple Intensity Differentiation for 3-D Surface Reconstruction With Mono-Vision Infrared Proximity Array Sensor

3-D depth sensor technologies, as manifested in several consumers' electronics products, have potential for a technological breakthrough in various application areas such as industrial, medical, and outdoor vision system. Depth sensing of human body motions can promote intuitive gesture inputs for natural HMI (Human Machine Interface) as well as HRI (Human Robot Interaction) to the next level. In today's industry, the dominant trends in 3-D depth sensing are shifting from the traditional laser based scanning or TOF (Time of Flight) depth sensing to the intensity based Infrared 3-D depth mechanism. For example, Microsoft Kinect is a manifestation of such demands for more affordable and real time 3-D depth sensing. In this paper, we investigate currently available 3-D sensor technologies for comparison followed by the presentations of the results in novel mono-vision based 3-D surface sensing and visualization study. The novel method presented in this paper is to calculate the 3-D depth and the surface angle of an object at the same time. The proposed technology is to generate high quality 3-D surfaces with a pure intensity matrix from multiple light sources. The enabling technology is the multiple intensity differentiation method, which is the main focus of study in the paper.
Positioning of unknown flexible payloads for robotic arms using a wrist-mounted force/torque sensor

The problem of control design for robotic arms manipulating unknown flexible payloads is considered in this paper. A novel scheme utilizing a force/torque sensor at the wrist of the manipulator is utilized. This choice of sensor is adequate to glean information about payload vibrations without outfitting the payload with sensors and offers the additional advantage of furnishing a minimum phase system, thus simplifying the control design. A controller utilizing wrist torque feedback from the sensor is designed as a function of the system parameters. An adaptive scheme for online identification of these parameters and adaptation of controller parameters is discussed. The proposed scheme is generic in regard to the nature of the flexible payload, as is shown through simulation studies. The scheme is implemented on a single-link manipulator carrying an unknown flexible payload. Simulation and experimental results validate the fact that the adaptive control maintains a robust performance for high speed slewing and varying payloads. >
The Trajectory of Perpetrators' Trauma: Mnemonic Politics around the Asia-Pacific War in Japan

This study proposes a theoretical framework to understand how nations deal with collective memories of perpetration of severe human rights violations, which do not fit comfortably in any national master narrative but have become increasingly difficult to ignore. Building on studies of collective memory, the framework explicates how initial historical conditions of the nation, domestic social movements, and the degree of international pressures move the national discourse along two key dimensions – (1. acceptance of guilt and (2. international orientation of the discourse – which map out seven possible responses to collective trauma of perpetration. Through examination of the history of post-war Japan and content analyses of newspaper editorials and prime ministers' speeches from 1945 through 2004, the empirical analysis applies the framework to the Japanese case. The analysis reveals that arguments for apologies to Asian victims have gained ground due to the intensification of domestic social movements, international pressures from neighboring countries, and global human rights influence. It also shows that arguments that evade the ugly past have persisted because of the initial conditions immediately after 1945, overwhelming emphasis on Japanese victims in the ensuing decades, and recent appropriation of human rights language by proponents of the defensive arguments.
Mutant p53 and the response to chemotherapy and radiation

In addition to playing roles in the genesis and progression of cancer, mutant p53 also appears to play a significant role in the response to cancer therapy. In response to chemotherapy and radiation, two mainstays of cancer treatment, most cancer cells harboring p53 mutations show a reduced sensitivity compared to cells lacking p53 or those with wild type p53. However, there are also many instances where mutant p53 has shown no effect or enhances cellular sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation. Similar to the in vitro cellular studies, the majority of clinical studies show a correlation between the presence of mutant p53 in patient tumors and adverse outcomes following treatment with chemotherapy agents or radiation in comparison to tumors with wild-type p53. However, it still remains unclear whether the presence of mutant p53 in tumors can serve as a reliable prognostic factor and aid in treatment planning. Thus, as genomic analysis of patient tumors becomes more cost effective, the role of mutant p53 in tumor responses from cancer therapy ultimately needs to be addressed. This chapter will discuss current mechanisms of how p53 mutations affect cellular responses to chemotherapy and radiation and discuss patient outcomes based on p53 status.
GeoFORCE: Inspiring the geoscientists of tomorrow through field experiences

Abstract In line with SEG's mission of connecting and inspiring the people and science of geophysics, GeoFORCE Texas has provided a field-camp experience for more than 1500 high school students since the inaugural field experience in 2005. GeoFORCE Texas can be described as a collective-impact initiative, the mission of which is to increase the number of students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees in college and moving into the future high-tech workforce, with an emphasis on degrees and careers in the geosciences. A collective impact is described as “the commitment of a group of important actors from different sectors to a common agenda for solving a specific social problem.” The important actors in GeoFORCE are corporations, foundations, targeted independent school districts, state and federal government agencies, and a university school of geosciences.
Cellular Blue Nevus

The so-called cellular blue nevus is a form of blue nevus which is mostly composed of ovoid, pale, scarcely pigmented, non-dendritic cells, while usually having at least a few dendritic, heavily pigmented melanocytes of the “common” form. These pale ovoid cells have a distinct inclination to aggregate in tightly packed round to oval nests. The term “cellular” reflects the high cellular density of the lesion. As noted in the section on common blue nevus, the dichotomy between “common” and “cellular” blue nevus is an oversimplification but one that avoids the bewildering array of terms that more precise designations arise, as it somewhat correlates with clinical findings.
Unique marine derived cyanobacterial biosynthetic genes for chemical diversity

Cyanobacteria are a prolific source of structurally unique and biologically active natural products that derive from intriguing biochemical pathways. Advancements in genome sequencing have accelerated the identification of unique modular biosynthetic gene clusters in cyanobacteria and reveal a wealth of unusual enzymatic reactions involved in their construction. This article examines several interesting mechanistic transformations involved in cyanobacterial secondary metabolite biosynthesis with a particular focus on marine derived modular polyketide synthases (PKS), nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and combinations thereof to form hybrid natural products. Further, we focus on the cyanobacterial genus Moorea and the co-evolution of its enzyme cassettes that create metabolic diversity. Progress in the development of heterologous expression systems for cyanobacterial gene clusters along with chemoenzymatic synthesis makes it possible to create new analogs. Additionally, phylum-wide genome sequencing projects have enhanced the discovery rate of new natural products and their distinctive enzymatic reactions. Summarizing, cyanobacterial biosynthetic gene clusters encode for a large toolbox of novel enzymes that catalyze unique chemical reactions, some of which may be useful in synthetic biology.
Ricci flow on Kähler manifolds

Abstract In this Note, we announce the result that if M is a Kahler–Einstein manifold with positive scalar curvature, if the initial metric has nonnegative bisectional curvature, and the curvature is positive somewhere, then the Kahler–Ricci flow converges to a Kahler–Einstein metric with constant bisectional curvature.
Watch Over Me©: Therapeutic Conversations in Advanced Dementia

“Watch over me” is a framework and strategies that clinicians can use in providing practical support and counseling to patients with dementia and their families. This framework is intended to address the needs and experiences of simultaneous trajectories of illness experienced by people with dementia and their family caregivers. These experiences can be described through the stages of dementia for the person with the disease and corresponding stages in the family’s journey. Each individual’s and family’s experiences are unique, yet these intentionally simplified schemas provide a context through which to address predictable problems and decisions regarding matters of physical health, living situation and caregiver needs and well being. Watch Over Me builds on trust between each patient and his or her caregivers, including the person’s chosen proxy decision-makers. It also builds on and fosters trust between a patient and family and the patient’s doctor. Watch Over Me brings the trusting, covenantal values within loving relationships into the processes of planning and caring. This approach complements and balances the contractual values that are protective or defensive and are embedded in medical ethics and advance directives. Communication with patients and families living with dementia is sometimes difficult and may be uncomfortable for physicians and other professional health care providers, yet it is always valued by patients and families and very often helpful in clarifying people’s perspective and priorities, thereby informing current plans of care. This presentation will offer practical therapeutic communication strategies to facilitate advance care planning conversations with patients and families as a person with dementia progresses to advanced
Compression Molding for Thin PoP Top Packages

The package on package (PoP) has become the preferred method for vertical stacking of logic processors and memory in mobile applications. The industry is constantly working toward reducing the total stack height, and current road maps point toward a total stack Z-height of 1mm. One approach to reduce the package height is to reduce the mold cap thickness as well as reduce the mold cap clearance (the distance between the top silicon die to the mold top). In this study, we used the compression molding for manufacturing top PoP packages with 200μm, 250μm, 300μm, and 350μm mold cap and with sub-100μm mold cap clearance. As part of the mold material selection, two different form factors, granular and powder form, of the mold compound were used for the compression mold process. The key objective for this study is to investigate compression mold process and to study its effect on the package integrity. The major challenge for PoP stack up is the package warpage at reflow temperatures. All the PoP packages must m...
A Multiparameter Automated Hematology Analyzer: The Technicon H-6000

The performance of the Technicon H-6000 was evaluated in the computerized, high-volume hematology laboratory at M.D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute, Houston, Tex, and compared with that of reference instrumentation used for routine patient care. The within-run precision, linearity, and lack of carryover was excellent, and the day-to-day precision was satisfactory for the entire range of tested parameters (WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, RDW, and PLT). Coefficients of correlation for these parameters were 0.98 or greater, with the exception of the MCV (r = 0.93). Special emphasis was placed on the correlation study of WBCs and PLTs at low ranges. Correlationwas very good (r = 0.98) for WBC counts below 4.0×103/μL (4.0×109/L) but poor (r = 0.52) for PLT counts less than 50×103/μL (50×109/L). These findings prompted a program change in the analytical algorithm for PLT counts by Technicon Instruments Corp. After this change, an excellent correlation coefficient (r = 0.91) was demonstrated for PLT counts in the low range.
Rôle of omentum of rabbits, dogs and guinea-pigs in antibody production

It has been determined that certain organs and tissues are involved in the production of antibodies in response to intraperitoneal injection of various antigens. The main methods of attack have been the removal of organs and the inhibition or destruction of their function through the use of different physical and chemical agents, before and after the introduction of the antigenic substances. The omentum has great phagocytic power, but it remains to determine whether it also takes part with the spleen, bone marrow, and other organs in the development of antibodies. Because of its accessibility and because it permits morphologic study of the interaction between its different cell types and intraperitoneally introduced antigens, the omentum offers a field for the examination of such relations as may exist, if any, between a local defensive reaction such as expressed by phagocytosis and a more general protective reaction evidenced by the formation of diffusible antibodies.
Ending domestic violence is everyone's responsibility: an integrated approach to domestic violence treatment.

According to the American Medical Association diagnostic and treatment guidelines, "...silence, disregard or disinterest convey tacit approval of domestic violence." Stopping domestic violence requires a coordinated community response in which health care providers, criminal justice systems, and social service agencies join forces to confront the violence. Nurses must be part of this coordinated response by becoming knowledgeable about the dynamics of domestic violence and the ways to recognize it. Topics include a medical and legal overview, gender involvement, solution approaches and program examples, outcomes, and implications for nurses.
Incidence of shoulder dislocations and the rate of recurrent instability in soldiers

AB Purpose: Shoulder dislocations present a potentially debilitating injury for soldiers and other groups of physically active adults. The purpose of this study was to determine the 10-yr incidence rate of shoulder dislocations in soldiers, the percentage with recurrent instability, and risk factors for these injuries. Methods: This retrospective cohort study used medical encounter data from U.S. Army soldiers to calculate the 10-yr incidence rate for shoulder dislocations and the percentage of chronic or recurrent injuries >3 months and <=2 yr after the initial diagnosis. A Cox proportional hazards model was constructed using demographic variables (age, race, education level, marital status, and sex) to determine incidence rate ratios for risk factors related to shoulder dislocation. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratio for risk factors for recurrent injury, including concurrent diagnoses (brachial plexus or peripheral nerve injuries and fractures of the scapula or proximal humerus). Results: There were 15,426 incident shoulder dislocations, with a 10-yr incidence rate of 3.13 per 1000 person-year. Soldiers <=40 yr old showed greater risk for injury compared with those older than 40 yr. The incidence rate ratio for males compared with females was 1.64, 95% confidence interval = 1.55-1.74. Recurrent injury occurred in 28.7% of cases. Concurrent axillary nerve injury (odds ratio = 3.64, 95% confidence interval = 1.56-8.46) and age <=35 yr were associated with greater risk of recurrence. Conclusion: Within the active duty U.S. Army, men and younger individuals showed greater risk for shoulder dislocations. Over one-quarter of incident cases became recurrent. Axillary nerve injuries and younger age increased the odds of recurrent injury. (C) 2016 American College of Sports Medicine
Cooperative Internet Access Using Helper Nodes and Opportunistic Scheduling

Having ubiquitous access to the Internet is becoming a necessity of life. Furthermore, we are witnessing a rapid increase in the amount of data requested by mobile users. Cooperative Internet access is a promising approach for addressing these demands, which gives the mobile devices the opportunity to receive help from other mobile devices in order to access the Internet. The helpers can download the data requested by the other users, called clients, through their cellular connections. Then, they transmit the downloaded data to the clients using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections. In this paper, we consider the problem of how to share the resources of helpers among a set of clients that request their assistance. Opportunistic scheduling is an effective method that uses the dynamic channel conditions to elevate the systems’ overall utilities. We propose an opportunistic scheduling algorithm in order to efficiently use the helper nodes and share them among the clients fairly. We propose a rate control and scheduling method in the case of using only Wi-Fi connections. We also propose a solution for the case of using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth at the same time. Through simulation results, we show the effectiveness of our cooperative downloading methods.
Unusual dynamics of ring probes in linear matrices

We perform Monte Carlo simulations of ring and linear polymers in linear matrices, and investigate the diffusivity of the probes. As the matrix chain length Nm is increased from 10 to 300 monomers, the diffusivity Dl of a linear probe (Nl = 300) decreases monotonically, while that of a ring probe Dr varies non-monotonically, with a peak around Nm≈30−75. We perform additional simulations with a single probe molecule ( Nr=Nl=150) in a linear matrix ( Nm=10−150). The non-monotonicity in Dr persists even after ring–ring interactions are eliminated. Topology dependent differences in the short-time dynamics of the probes are observed; unlike linear probes, mean-squared displacements of ring probes depend on Nm. Primitive path analysis suggests that the difference in dynamics originates from differences in entanglement structure. For linear probes, the degree of entanglement is independent of Nm. For ring probes, we observe two regimes: when Nm is small, the number of threadings decreases as Nm increases, eventually transitioning to a plateau. In the small Nm regime, the change in the degree of entanglement offsets the change in the mobility of the matrix chains, leading to a non-monotonic variation in Dr. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016
The Exhibition Catalogue Awards for 1993

Fifty-two catalogs were submitted for the 1993 Katharine Kyes Leab and Daniel J. Leab American Book Prices Current Exhibition Catalogue Awards. The overall high quality of the field is attested by the selection of four catalogs to receive Honorable Mention in addition to the three winning catalogs. A special award of merit was also given to the University of Chicago for its intelligently conceived and handsomely designed series of catalogs celebrating the history of the university. Catalogs published between September 1, 1991, and August 31, 1992, were eligible, and naturally the Columbus Quincentenary was the focus of major exhibitions and . . .
Dynamic structural flexibility of Fe-MOF-5 evidenced by 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy

Temperature-dependent 57Fe Mossbauer spectra were collected on FexZn4−x(1,4-benzenedicarboxylate)3 (Fe-MOF-5). When measured under an Ar atmosphere, the data at higher temperatures reveal thermal population of the lowest-lying electronic excited state, as expected for low symmetry tetrahedral ferrous ions. In the presence of N2, however, the temperature dependence becomes exaggerated and the spectra cannot be fitted to a single species. A fluctuating electric field gradient at the Fe nuclei best explains these data and suggests dynamic structural distortions induced by weak interactions with N2. This direct evidence of dynamic behaviour at MOF open metal sites is relevant for the use of MOF SBUs in catalysis, gas separation, and other applications that invoke similar phenomena.
Telemedicine to Promote Patient Safety: Use of Phone-Based Interactive Voice-Response System to Reduce Adverse Safety Events in Pre-dialysis CKD

CKD patients have several features conferring on them a high risk of adverse safety events, which are defined as incidents with unintended harm related to processes of care or medications. These characteristics include impaired kidney function, polypharmacy, and frequent health system encounters. The consequences of such events in CKD can include new or prolonged hospitalization, accelerated kidney function loss, acute kidney injury, ESRD, and death. Health information technology administered via telemedicine presents opportunities for CKD patients to remotely communicate safety-related findings to providers for the purpose of improving their care. However, many CKD patients have limitations that hinder their use of telemedicine and access to the broad capabilities of health information technology. In this review, we summarize previous assessments of the pre-dialysis CKD populations' proficiency in using telemedicine modalities and describe the use of interactive voice-response system to gauge the safety phenotype of the CKD patient. We discuss the potential for expanded interactive voice-response system use in CKD to address the safety threats inherent to this population.
Sexual Dysfunction in Urethral Reconstruction: A Review of the Literature.

Abstract Introduction Urethral stricture disease accounts for 5,000 hospitalizations and 1.5 million office visits per year. Urethral reconstruction has become more commonplace with the recognition of the poor long-term success of the endoscopic management of stricture disease. Sexual dysfunction related to the surgical management of urethral strictures is an under-recognized sequela. Aim To characterize and elucidate the various factors that contribute to sexual dysfunction after urethroplasty and hypospadias reconstruction to improve surgical decision making and patient counseling. Methods A Medline PubMed search was used to identify articles of interest related to sexual dysfunction and urethral stricture disease. The following were included in the search for articles of interest: “urethroplasty and sexual dysfunction,” “urethral stricture and erectile dysfunction,” “urethroplasty and ejaculatory dysfunction,” and “sexual function and hypospadias.” Main Outcome Measure Rates and types of sexual dysfunction after urethral reconstructive surgery. Results Urethral reconstructive surgery has the potential to affect many domains of sexual function and thus negatively affect quality of life for patients with urethral stricture disease and hypospadias. These domains include erectile function, ejaculatory function, penile shortening, penile curvature, and altered penile sensation. The etiology, location, length and type of urethral stricture, and importantly the reconstructive technique have different repercussions on sexual function. Conclusion Sexual dysfunction after urethral reconstruction is underappreciated and has a significant consequence on quality of life. Thus, it is important to recognize these sequelae and counsel patients accordingly. Benson CR, Hoang L, Clavell-Hernandez J, Wang R. Sexual Dysfunction in Urethral Reconstruction: A Review of the Literature. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:492–503.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and metabolism of acepromazine following intravenous, oral, and sublingual administration to exercised Thoroughbred horses.

Acepromazine is a tranquilizer used commonly in equine medicine. This study describes serum and urine concentrations and the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of acepromazine following intravenous, oral, and sublingual (SL) administration. Fifteen exercised adult Thoroughbred horses received a single intravenous, oral, and SL dose of 0.09 mg/kg of acepromazine. Blood and urine samples were collected at time 0 and at various times for up to 72 hr and analyzed for acepromazine and its two major metabolites (2-(1-hydroxyethyl) promazine and 2-(1-hydroxyethyl) promazine sulfoxide) using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Acepromazine was also incubated in vitro with whole equine blood and serum concentrations of the parent drug and metabolites determined. Acepromazine was quantitated for 24 hr following intravenous administration and 72 hr following oral and SL administration. Results of in vitro incubations with whole blood suggest additional metabolism by RBCs. The mean ± SEM elimination half-life was 5.16 ± 0.450, 8.58 ± 2.23, and 6.70 ± 2.62 hr following intravenous, oral, and SL administration, respectively. No adverse effects were noted and horses appeared sedate as noted by a decrease in chin-to-ground distance within 5 (i.v.) or 15 (p.o. and SL) minutes postadministration. The duration of sedation lasted 2 hr. Changes in heart rate were minimal.
Gastrointestinal Complications and Their Management After Adult Cardiac Surgery

Gastrointestinal complications (GICs) following cardiac surgery are often severe and contribute to substantial morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of GICs remains difficult because symptoms and signs are often subtle, or nonspecific, and this commonly leads to delay in definitive diagnosis and treatment. Preventive strategies, coupled with early recognition and aggressive management, provide the foundation of the general clinical approach to addressing these complications. Overall, a high index of clinical suspicion and a low threshold for investigation and definitive management are recommended in patients with nonroutine clinical progress after cardiac surgery. It is imperative that all clinicians who care for postoperative cardiac surgical patients be familiar with the full spectrum of potential GICs in this patient population, as well as the general therapeutic approaches to these complications.
Developing a workflow approach for mining online social media data

Customers' conversations on social media could shed light into their experience, opinions, feelings, and concerns. To gain valuable knowledge about customers, it becomes increasingly important for businesses to collect, monitor, analyze, summarize, and visualize user-generated data on social media. However, analyzing social media data is challenging due to the vast increase of social media data. In this paper, we present a workflow approach of using established natural language preprocessing, text mining and sentiment analysis techniques to analyze social media data. Then we conducted two experiments to verify the effectiveness of our workflow approach by mining online movie reviews. The results show that our workflow approach is effective in analyzing social media data.
Migration in Population Analysis

Migration contributes with fertility and mortality to the demographic bal-ancing equation [expression (1.5)] $${}_\omega N_0^{\left( {t + n} \right)} = {}_\omega N_0^{\left( t \right)} + {}_\omega B_0^{\left( {t,t + n} \right)} - {}_\omega D_0^{\left( {t,t + n} \right)} + {}_\omega I_0^{\left( {t,t + n} \right)} - {}_\omega E_0^{\left( {t,t + n} \right)}$$ (9.1) where ω N 0 represents total population, ω B 0 represents births, ω D 0 represents deaths, and ω I 0 and ω E 0 are in-migration and out-migration, respectively. [The difference ω I 0 — ω E 0 is net in-migration, introduced as ω F 0 in (8.1).] The interval width (0, ω) is taken to represent the whole of life. The superscripts designate that the population size is estimated at t and t + n; and that births, deaths, and migrants are estimated for the interval (t, t + n).
Estimation of Optimal Productivity in Labor-Intensive Construction Operations: Advanced Study

AbstractThe traditional practice of comparing actual productivity versus historical productivity only provides relative efficiency data rather than absolute efficiency data. Innovatively, a two-pro...
Ablation of TRPV1 Elevates Nocturnal Blood Pressure in Western Diet-fed Mice

Background: This study tested the hypothesis that genetically ablation of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) exacerbates impairment of baroreflex in mice fed a western diet (WD) and leads to distinct diurnal and nocturnal blood pressure patterns. Methods: TRPV1 gene knockout (TRPV1-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice were given a WD or normal diet (CON) for 4 months. Results: Capsaicin, a selective TRPV1 agonist, increased ipsilateral afferent renal nerve activity in WT but not TRPV1-/- mice. The sensitivity of renal sympathetic nerve activity and heart rate responses to baroreflex were reduced in TRPV1-/--CON and WT-WD and further decreased in TRPV1-/--WD compared to the WT-CON group. Urinary norepinephrine and serum insulin and leptin at day and night were increased in WT-WD and TRPV1-/--WD, with further elevation at night in TRPV1-/--WD. WD intake increased leptin, IL-6, and TNF-α in adipose tissue, and TNF-α antagonist III, R-7050, decreased leptin in TRPV1-/--WD. The urinary albumin level was higher in TRPV1-/--WD than WT-WD. Blood pressure was not dif-ferent during daytime among all groups, but increased at night in the TRPV1-/--WD group compared with other groups. Conclusions: TRPV1 ablation leads to elevated nocturnal but not diurnal blood pressure, which is probably attributed to fur-ther enhancement of sympathetic drives at night.
An evaluation of pupillary light response models for 2D screens and VR HMDs

Pupil diameter changes have been shown to be indicative of user engagement and cognitive load for various tasks and environments. However, it is still not the preferred physiological measure for applied settings. This reluctance to leverage the pupil as an index of user engagement stems from the problem that in scenarios where scene brightness cannot be controlled, the pupil light response confounds the cognitive-emotional response. What if we could predict the light response of an individual's pupil, thus creating the opportunity to factor it out of the measurement? In this work, we lay the groundwork for this research by evaluating three models of pupillary light response in 2D, and in a virtual reality (VR) environment. Our results show that either a linear or an exponential model can be fit to an individual participant with an easy-to-use calibration procedure. This work opens several new research directions in VR relating to performance analysis and inspires the use of eye tracking beyond gaze as a pointer and foveated rendering.
Video-Delivered Relaxation Intervention Reduces Late-Life Anxiety: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Objective The study's aim was to demonstrate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 4-week video-delivered relaxation program called Breathing, Relaxation, and Education for Anxiety Treatment in the Home Environment (BREATHE) for reducing anxiety and increasing activity engagement in older adults with anxiety disorders. Methods This was an 8-week pilot randomized controlled trial performed as outpatient and self-directed learning at home among 40 community-dwelling adults aged 60years or older who met criteria for an anxiety disorder (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, or anxiety disorder unspecified). The study looked at the BREATHE intervention compared with a wait list control condition. The primary outcome measure was anxiety symptoms (Geriatric Anxiety Scale). Secondary outcomes included activity engagement (modified Activity Card Sort), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire), and somatic symptoms (Somatic Symptom Scale). Results In linear mixed-effects models, findings indicated a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms. There was no significant effect of group on activity engagement. Results also showed significant reductions in depressive and somatic symptoms associated with the BREATHE intervention compared with wait list. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate feasibility and preliminary efficacy for this brief video-delivered relaxation intervention and suggest that older adults can benefit from technology-delivered interventions with minimal provider contact. Although activity engagement did not improve, lessons learned suggest that targeted coaching around activity goals may help target this outcome.
Complex Problem Solving

Complex problem solving is one of the faculties that make humans unique. The ability to solve unfamiliar complex problems has led not only to our survival as a species but also to the technological advances we enjoy today. Even though problem solving is such an important part of our everyday lives, we still know relatively little about how we actually perform this task let alone the neural architecture that supports this processing. This article provides an overview of our current understanding of the neural bases of complex problem solving.
E-012 Treatment of iatrogenic carotid artery pseudoaneurysm with multiple pipeline embolization devices

Introduction/purpose Iatrogenic internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm formation is a rare surgical complication that can be treated with either reconstructive or deconstructive techniques. More recently, endovascular flow diversion has been used successfully for treatment of intracranial blister aneurysms. We report a case of persistent and enlarging traumatic pseudoaneurysm opacification after initial flow diversion without a deconstructive option. This presents a unique challenge to the neurointerventionalist. Materials and methods The electronic medical record and radiologic electronic database were utilized to review patient imaging and obtain relevant de-identified images. Pubmed was utilized to perform a literature review. Results 62-year-old patient with iatrogenic internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm after transphenoidal macroadenoma resection was successfully treated with eleven pipeline embolization devices. Persistent enlargement of the pseudoaneurysm was noted during initial pipeline placement. Thus, we placed several overlapping PEDs. However, the pseudoaneurysm continued to enlarge with brisk inflow. The hypoplastic ACOM precluded any deconstructive option. Additionally, because of tortuous anatomy and pseudoaneurysm location in the carotid siphon, a covered stent was not an option. Therefore, we continued to place overlapping PEDs until arterial inflow and pseudoaneurysm size decreased. Follow-up exams at three months and one year demonstrated complete aneurysm occlusion. Intimal irregularly and intra-device contrast layering at the three-month post-procedure angiogram was treated with continued dual-antiplatelet therapy and had completely resolved at the one-year angiogram. Conclusion Iatrogenic internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysms can be successfully treated with multiple overlapping Pipeline Embolization Devices with good radiologic and clinical outcomes. Disclosures C. Green: None. A. Ferrell: None. P. Brown: None. P. Kvamme: None.
SustainabiliIT: Maximizing Surplus Equipment Viability with Community Engagement

There is a problem with surplus property on campus: From the “owner's” perspective, it takes more time and effort to get rid of it than it is worth. Yet, what is worth zero or negative value to one department is worth something to another. Although our central Property Services group manages surplus property at end-of-life, something else was needed to manage assets that still had use… to someone. In addition to maximizing the use of campus surplus property, we wanted to demonstrate a commitment to compliance and sustainability, improve space utilization and increase cost avoidance and revenue.In 2017, the Buff Surplus web tool was launched to facilitate the exchange, sale and re-use of surplus property between campus departments. Nearly two years later, the tool still struggles to gain traction. Learn how one university has attempted to solve this community problem through a community-driven process, why it still struggles and what we are doing to drive toward success.
Irradiance, Photofrin® Dose and Initial Tumor Volume are Key Predictors of Response to Interstitial Photodynamic Therapy of Locally Advanced Cancers in Translational Models.

The objective of the present study was to develop a predictive model for Photofrin® -mediated interstitial photodynamic therapy (I-PDT) of locally advanced tumors. Our finite element method was used to simulate 630-nm intratumoral irradiance and fluence for C3H mice and New Zealand White rabbits bearing large squamous cell carcinomas. Animals were treated with light only or I-PDT using the same light settings. I-PDT was administered with Photofrin® at 5.0 or 6.6 mg kg-1 , 24 h drug-light interval. The simulated threshold fluence was fixed at 45 J cm-2 while the simulated threshold irradiance varied, intratumorally. No cures were obtained in the mice treated with a threshold irradiance of 5.4 mW cm-2 . However, 20-90% of the mice were cured when the threshold irradiances were ≥8.6 mW cm-2 . In the rabbits treated with I-PDT, 13 of the 14 VX2 tumors showed either local control or were cured when threshold irradiances were ≥15.3 mW cm-2 and fluence was 45 J cm-2 . No tumor growth delay was observed in VX2 treated with light only (n = 3). In the mouse studies, there was a high probability (92.7%) of predicting cure when the initial tumor volume was below the median (493.9 mm3 ) and I-PDT was administered with a threshold intratumoral irradiance ≥8.6 mW cm-2 .
Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis in an 8‐year old treated for neuroblastoma

Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE), which is primarily diagnosed in adults, is a progressive lung pathology associated with significant morbidity and mortality. PPFE is characterized by pleural and subpleural parenchymal disease causing dyspnea, cough, and recurrent pneumothoraces. PPFE can be precipitated by autoimmune disorders, recurrent respiratory infections, chemotherapy, and transplant. We describe the youngest recorded patient to develop PPFE, whose symptoms began several years after treatment for neuroblastoma. Her symptoms were initially mistaken for worsening asthma, and multiple comorbidities developed during the prolonged time to recognition of PPFE and she progressed to fatal lung disease before potentially curative lung transplantation could occur.
PDGFR-A is a therapeutic target in alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma

3750 Progression and metastasis of solid tumors is a principal cause of death for cancer patients. The childhood muscle cancer alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is a classic example. A gap in understanding the disease-specific mechanisms of progression underlies the dismal outcome for patients with advanced alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Our initial studies of rhabdomyosarcoma gene expression amongst patients enrolled in a national clinical trial suggest that the platelet-derived growth factor receptor A (PDGFR-A) may be a mediator of disease progression and metastasis. In our studies PDGFR-A has been found to be a transcriptional target of Pax3:Fkhr, the translocation-mediated fusion gene found in the majority of alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas. We hypothesize that PDGFR-A signaling pathways play a prominent role in progression and metastasis of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. To test this hypothesis, we have generated conditional mouse tumor models that authentically recapitulate the primary mutations and the metastatic progression of alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas in humans. We found that PDGFR-A and its downstream effecters, MAPK and Akt, were highly activated in both primary and metastasized tumor. We also confirmed that PDGFR-A, MAPK and Akt were activated in mouse and human alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cell cultures, and that cell proliferation was inhibited by PDGFR-A specific siRNA. To determine the pathophysiological impact of PDGFR-A blockade for rhabdomyosarcoma in vivo, we treated the receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, Imatinib, or PDGFR-A blocking antibody, which significantly inhibit tumor growth. These results establish proof-of-principal for PDGFR-A as a therapeutic target in childhood alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas.